If you’re looking for the best digital multitrack recorder, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind.
First, consider the type of recorder you need. There are stand-alone recorders, computer-based recorders, and portable recorders. Stand-alone recorders are the most expensive, but they’re also the most versatile. Computer-based recorders are less expensive, but they’re not as portable. Portable recorders are the least expensive, but they’re also the least versatile.
Next, consider the features you need. Do you need built-in effects? Do you need a metronome? Do you need a USB interface? The more features you need, the more expensive the recorder will be.
Finally, consider your budget. Multitrack recorders can range in price from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars. If you’re on a tight budget, you’ll want to look for a recorder that has the features you need without breaking the bank.
Best Digital Multitrack Recorders: Editor Recommended
Our Editor’s Best Digital Multitrack Recorders Reviews
Bestseller No. 1
Zoom R12 Multi-Track Portable Recorder for Musicians, with 2 XLR/TRS Combo Inputs, 8 Tracks, Touchscreen, Onboard Editing, Effects, Drum Loops, Battery Powered, USB Audio Interface
- TWO MICS IN, TWO HEADPHONES OUT — THAT SIMPLE – Plug in two USB mics and get started instantly, making the P2 the simplest way to record a two-person podcast anywhere without complicated setup.
- BRING IN A REMOTE GUEST WITHOUT THE ECHO – Connect your phone or computer to bring in a call-in guest, with built-in Mix-Minus automatically eliminating echo and feedback for a professional interview experience.
- AI NOISE REDUCTION SO YOUR VOICE STAYS FRONT – AI Noise Reduction, tone shaping, compressor, and de-esser keep your voice front and center without any post-production work.
- RECORD YOUR PODCAST AND STREAM AT THE SAME TIME – Go live to your smartphone or computer while saving individual tracks to SD card for full control in post-production.
- RUNS ON BATTERIES WHEREVER YOU RECORD – Up to 4 hours on 4 AA batteries, plus USB bus power and AC adapter support, so you can record a great podcast from anywhere.
Bestseller No. 2
Zoom R4 Multi-Track Recorder for Musicians with 2 XLR/TRS Combo Inputs, 32-Bit Float, Stereo Bouncing Built-In Microphone, Effects, Rhythms, Battery Powered, USB Audio Interface
- RECORD, LAYER, BOUNCE, REPEAT – Capture up to 4 tracks, mix and bounce to a dedicated bounce track to free up channels and keep adding layers, with undo if you want to go back.
- CLIP-FREE AUDIO WITHOUT TOUCHING THE GAIN – No clipping, no gain adjustments needed, just plug in and record with confidence whether you're tracking vocals, instruments, or ideas on the fly.
- XLR/TS COMBO INPUTS FOR ANY SOURCE – XLR/TS combo inputs with Zoom preamps let you connect microphones, instruments, keyboards, and more for versatile recording in any setup.
- EIGHTY-PLUS DRUM PATTERNS TO JAM WITH – A built-in rhythm section with over 80 patterns across rock, hip hop, funk, metal, and more keeps your sessions inspired and your timing tight.
- INTERFACE, RECORDER, AND BATTERY DEVICE IN ONE – Functions as a 32-bit float 2-in/2-out USB audio interface for computer or smartphone, and runs on 4 AA batteries or USB-C for total flexibility.
Bestseller No. 3
Boss BR-600 Digital Multitrack Recorder
- 8 simultaneous playback tracks, 64 V-Tracks
- CompactFlash memory card slot for recording media; 128MB card included
- Powerful guitar and effects processor, including vocal FX and pitch corrector
- Built-in drum machine with velocity-sensitive pads
- Built-in stereo microphone and battery power to record anywhere
Bestseller No. 4
Roland BR-80 Portable Digital Recorder
- Three modes: MTR (multi-track recorder), eBand, and Live Recorder.Records directly to SD/SDHC memory card (up to 32 GB).High-quality stereo condenser microphone built in for instant audio capture.64 V-Tracks and eight simultaneous playback tracks
- eBand function for phrase training and play-along tracks.Huge library of built-in backing and rhythm patterns
- World-class COSM amps and effects onboard.Use as a USB audio interface with built-in effects.SONAR X1 LE software included
Bestseller No. 5
Zoom R20 Multi-Track Tabletop Recorder with Touchscreen, 16 Tracks, 6 XLR Inputs, 2 XLR/TRS Combo Inputs, Onboard Editing, Effects, Drum Loops, USB Audio Interface
- RECORD WITHOUT A COMPUTER – DAW-style touchscreen interface lets you record, edit, and mix directly on the device with an intuitive, hands-on workflow
- CAPTURE FULL PROJECTS WITH MULTI-TRACK RECORDING – Record up to 16 tracks (8 simultaneously) with multiple XLR and combo inputs, perfect for music production and demos
- EDIT YOUR TRACKS WITH SIMPLE TOUCH CONTROLS – Drag, drop, swipe, and pinch to arrange and edit audio quickly without needing external software
- SHAPE YOUR SOUND WITH BUILT-IN EFFECTS – Apply EQ, compression, and more to polish your recordings and create a professional mix
- CREATE & PRACTICE WITH BUILT-IN RHYTHMS & SOUNDS – 150 rhythm patterns and an onboard synth with 18 sounds help you build ideas and complete songs
Bestseller No. 6
Zoom LiveTrak L12next Digital Mixer & Multitrack Recorder for Musicians, 12-Channels, 32-Bit Float Master, 14-Track Recording at 96 kHz, Effects, Audio Interface, Scenes, and Personal Monitoring
- DIGITAL MIXER MEETS MULTITRACK RECORDER – Combines the flexibility of a live digital mixer with the power of a multi-track recorder, capturing every performance with professional quality.
- STUDIO-GRADE PREAMPS WITH +70DB GAIN – High-gain (+70 dB), low-noise (-128 dBu EIN) preamps with Hi-Z, PAD, and +48V phantom power deliver clean, detailed audio from any source.
- FOURTEEN TRACKS AT 96KHZ, MIXED IN 32-BIT FLOAT – Record up to 14 tracks at 24-bit/96kHz, then mix down in pristine 32-bit float for clip-free results every time.
- PHYSICAL FADERS FOR HANDS-ON LIVE CONTROL – 60mm faders and three multi-function encoder knobs per channel for hands-on control of gain, EQ, compression, and panning without menu diving.
- GO WIRELESS WITH THE L12NEXT CONTROL APP – Adjust mixes wirelessly with the L12next Control App (BTA-1 adapter required) or connect a footswitch for effect mute, punch-in/out, and playback control.
Bestseller No. 7
Zoom LiveTrak L-12 Mixer/Multitrack Recorder for Musicians and Podcasters, 12-Input/14-Channel, 5 Powered Headphone Outputs, USB Audio Interface
- FOURTEEN TRACKS AT 24-BIT/96KHZ – Records up to 14 tracks simultaneously at 24-bit/96kHz directly to SD card, delivering studio-quality audio for live performances, rehearsals, and podcasts.
- FIVE SEPARATE MONITOR MIXES FOR YOUR WHOLE BAND – Provides five individual monitor mixes with dedicated headphone outputs, giving every performer on stage their own personalized mix for a better performance experience.
- -128DBU EIN WITH 16 ONBOARD EFFECTS – Features -128dBu EIN preamps with up to +60dB of gain and 16 onboard effects, ensuring clean, powerful signal handling for even the most demanding microphones.
- PLUG INTO YOUR DAW OR GO LIVE OVER USB – Connects directly to your computer for recording or live streaming, with class-compliant mode for seamless iOS compatibility without the need for additional drivers.
- BATTERY POWER WHEN YOU LEAVE THE STUDIO – Compact enough to take anywhere, the L-12 can be powered by batteries for on-the-go recording sessions, making it the ideal mixer for mobile musicians and podcasters.
Bestseller No. 8
TASCAM DP-03SD Digital Portastudio 8-Track Recorder
- A digital recorder perfect for getting into TASCAM's famed PORTASTUDIO system of making recording simple and affordable
- Features a simple body and intuitive operation, like a cassette MTR, but with 8-track recording and 2-channel simultaneous input
- The XLR terminal supports condenser microphones while the TRS phone terminals enable guitar and keyboard connections.Frequency response:20Hz to 20kHz (+1/–3dB, INPUT (MIC/LINE) to LINE OUT)
- Equipped with two high-quality stereo condenser microphones for on-demand recording anytime, anywhere
- Create professionally-mastered audio with the DP-03SD alone through onboard mastering effects and editing functions
Bestseller No. 9
Boss BR1200CD Digital Multitrack Recorder
- 12 Tracks simultaneous playback. 192 V Tracks.
- 80GB HD for up to 120 hours of data. 2 XLR Ins.
- 48v Phantom Power. CD Burner. Mastering Tools.
- USB port. WAV Export. Onboard drum machine.
- COSM mic/guitar/bass effects. Vocal toolbox.
Bestseller No. 10
Tascam Model 12 All-in-One 12-track Digital Multitrack Mixing and Recording Studio, Mixer, USB Audio Interface and DAW Controller
- 12 in / 10 Out USB Audio Interface for DAW Connectivity
- Click Output with TAP TEMPO
- Onboard MIDI Functionality
- 1-knob compressor and 3 band EQ installed on all input modules
- Dual headphone output with individual volume and source selection
What else you should know about the best digital multitrack recorders
What are the best digital multitrack recorders for recording music?
There are a few different digital multitrack recorders that are great for recording music. Some of our favorites include the Zoom R16, the Tascam DP-24SD, and the Yamaha AW16G.
What are the best digital multitrack recorders for live sound recording?
Some of the best digital multitrack recorders for live sound recording include the Yamaha 01V96i, the Mackie Onyx 1640i, the Presonus StudioLive 16.4.2, and the RME Fireface 800.
What are the best digital multitrack recorders for podcasting?
There are several good digital multitrack recorders that are well suited for podcasting, including the Zoom H4n, the Tascam DR-40, and the Sony PCM-D100. All of these recorders offer high-quality audio recording, making them ideal for podcasting.
What are the best digital multitrack recorders for field recording?
There are many digital multitrack recorders that are great for field recording. Some of our favorites include the Tascam DR-680, the Zoom F8, and the Sound Devices MixPre-10T.
What are the best digital multitrack recorders for sound design?
The best digital multitrack recorders for sound design include the Tascam DR-100mkIII, the Zoom H6, and the Roland R-88.
Conclusion
On the market, there are numerous best digital multitrack recorders. Hopefully, the list of the top ten best digital multitrack recorders will save you time researching and deciding on the best one for you.