Audio gear maker Samson today released its latest digital recorder, the Zoom R16. The recorder offers 16-track playback and simultaneous recording of up to eight tracks, using Secure Digital (SD) memory.

Samson representatives are promoting the Zoom R16 as “three production tools in one device“: a multi-track recorder, an audio interface and a control surface. The R16 runs on six AA batteries. Recording onto SD memory allows for up to 32 GBs of audio files, and lightens the weight of the recorder. The R16 connects to the user’s computer via USB, and comes bundled with Cubase LE audio software.

“We have learned a great deal from the success of our H2 and H4n as well as HD8 and HD16, our past multi-track recorders,” says Masa Iijima, CEO of Zoom Corporation. “With the R16 we have brought the most important capabilities from each of these product lines into our design to make a unique and versatile music production solution.”

Product features include:

• Digital recorder with 16-track playback and 8-track simultaneous recording  utilizing SD memory
• 16/24-bit/44.1kHz linear PCM recording in WAV format
• Built-in stereo condenser microphones
• Included 1GB SD card and with support for up to 32GB SDHC
• Allows simultaneous recording on up to 8 tracks
• Battery operation for remote recording
• USB power for audio interface and control surface operation
• 8 mic inputs / 2 outputs (8 x 2)
• 8 combination XLR-1/4-inch inputs
• High-definition 24-bit/96kHz recording capability using digital audio software
• 100+ built-in studio effects coming from advanced DSP which can additionally be used as outboard effects
• Hi-Z input for direct connection of guitar or bass
• Included preamp with phantom power on two channels
• Mackie control emulation via USB for popular DAW software including Cubase, Logic, Digital Performer and more
• Amazing guitar amp and effects models
• Professional quality mastering effects including multi-band compressor, normalizer and more
• Operates as USB storage device for quick data transfer
• Connect two R16s via USB for synchronized operation and 16 tracks of simultaneous recording
• Undo/Redo functions
• Comes with Steinberg Cubase LE 4
• Supports Windows XP/Vista, Mac operating systems

Finally, the R16 can be connected with a second R16 unit via USB; one can be designated to function as the USB master and the other as the USB slave, allowing synchronized transport operation and recording on 16 tracks simultaneously.

The Zoom R16 will be available in stores “in the next few weeks,” according to a company representative, and will retail for $399.