1. Product Overview
The Zoom BTA-1 Bluetooth Adapter is designed to enhance the functionality of select Zoom devices by enabling wireless control via a dedicated mobile application. This compact adapter provides remote operation capabilities, offering greater flexibility in various recording environments.
Key features include:
- Wireless Control: Seamless remote operation for compatible Zoom devices from up to 32.8 feet.
- Mobile App Compatibility: Control recording, adjust levels, and fine-tune settings via iOS and select Android apps.
- Timecode Synchronization: Facilitates precise audio and video syncing with compatible Zoom products and the Atomos wireless timecode system (sold separately).
- Handy Guitar Lab Integration: Wirelessly control Zoom guitar pedals via the Handy Guitar Lab app on iPhone or iPad.
- LiveTrak Series Control: Enables iPad control for complete mixing and individual monitor mixes for performers.
2. Compatibility
The Zoom BTA-1 Bluetooth Adapter is compatible with the following Zoom devices:
- Zoom H3-VR Handy Recorder
- Zoom L-20 LiveTrak Mixer
- Zoom L-20R LiveTrak Mixer
- Zoom Q8n-4K Handy Video Recorder
- Zoom F6 Field Recorder
- Zoom F3 Field Recorder (for app control)
- Zoom F8 Field Recorder (for app control)
For mobile app control, the BTA-1 supports iOS devices and select Android models (e.g., F3 and Q8n-4k).
3. Setup
3.1 Installing the BTA-1 Adapter
To begin, insert the BTA-1 Bluetooth Adapter into the designated port on your compatible Zoom device. Ensure it is securely seated.
Figure 1: The compact Zoom BTA-1 Bluetooth Adapter.
3.2 Downloading the Control App
Download the appropriate control application for your Zoom device from your mobile device's app store (e.g., "F3 Control" for Zoom F3, "H8 Control" for Zoom H8, etc.).
3.3 Pairing with Your Mobile Device
- Power on your Zoom device with the BTA-1 adapter installed.
- On your Zoom device, navigate to the Bluetooth settings and select the control function (e.g., "F3 Control"). The device will begin searching for a Bluetooth connection.
- Open the downloaded control app on your mobile device. The app will display a list of available Bluetooth devices.
- Select your Zoom device from the list to initiate the connection. A blue LED on the BTA-1 will indicate a successful connection.
Figure 2: The Zoom BTA-1 adapter connected to a Zoom H3-VR, with control via a smartphone application.
4. Operating the BTA-1 with the Control App
Once connected, the mobile app provides a comprehensive interface for controlling your Zoom device. The specific features may vary slightly depending on your Zoom model and the app version.
4.1 Main Interface Overview
- Battery Status: Monitor the battery level of your Zoom device.
- Record Time/SD Card Status: View remaining record time and SD card information.
- File Naming & Format: Customize file names and select recording formats (e.g., 48kHz/32bit Float).
- Track Arming: Individually arm or disarm recording tracks.
- Input Settings: Adjust source (Mic, Line), Phantom Voltage (+48V), High Pass Filter (HPF), Invert Phase, and Input Delay.
- Line Out Control: Adjust the output level when connected to external devices like cameras.
- Headphone Monitoring: Control the volume of the headphone output for real-time monitoring.
- Transport Controls: Play, pause, stop, and record directly from the app.
- Safety Lock: Lock controls on the app to prevent accidental changes during recording.
- Sound Marker: Send a signal (e.g., a beep) to your camera for easier post-production syncing.
4.2 Recording Settings
Access the recording menu to configure advanced settings:
- Rec File Name: Choose between date-based naming or user-defined names.
- Sample Rate: Adjust the audio sample rate (e.g., 48kHz).
- File Format: Select mono or stereo recording.
- Pre Rec: Activate pre-recording to capture audio a few seconds before hitting the record button.
- Sound Marker: Enable or disable sound markers.
4.3 File Management
The app's "Finder" function allows you to browse recordings on the SD card, view file details (path, length, format, date, time), and play them back.
5. Maintenance
To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Zoom BTA-1 Bluetooth Adapter, follow these maintenance guidelines:
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the adapter. Avoid liquid cleaners or solvents.
- Storage: Store the adapter in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Handling: Handle the adapter carefully to prevent physical damage. Avoid dropping it or exposing it to excessive force.
- Connectivity: Ensure the adapter is properly inserted into the Zoom device's port to prevent loose connections or damage to the pins.
6. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your Zoom BTA-1 Bluetooth Adapter, refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:
- Adapter Not Connecting:
- Ensure the BTA-1 is fully inserted into the Zoom device.
- Verify Bluetooth is enabled on both your Zoom device and mobile device.
- Check that you have downloaded the correct control app for your specific Zoom model.
- Restart both your Zoom device and mobile device, then attempt to pair again.
- Confirm your mobile device's operating system is compatible with the app.
- App Not Responding:
- Close and reopen the control app.
- Ensure your mobile device's Bluetooth connection is stable.
- Check for app updates in your mobile device's app store.
- Intermittent Connection:
- Reduce the distance between your Zoom device and mobile device. The effective range is up to 32.8 feet (10 meters).
- Minimize obstructions (walls, large objects) between the devices.
- Avoid areas with high Wi-Fi or other wireless interference.
7. Specifications
| Product Dimensions | 4.75 x 2.35 x 0.55 inches |
| Item Weight | 0.64 ounces (0.04 Pounds) |
| Model Number | ZBTA1_AG2-1 |
| Brand | Zoom |
| Manufacturer | Zoom |
| Color | Black |
| Compatible Devices | Audio Recorder, Guitar, Mixer, Smartphone, Video Camera |
8. Warranty and Support
Information regarding the product warranty and customer support for the Zoom BTA-1 Bluetooth Adapter is not provided within this manual. Please refer to the official Zoom website or the documentation included with your purchase for detailed warranty terms, registration, and support contact information.
For further assistance, you may visit the Zoom Store on Amazon.
9. Official Product Videos
No official seller-provided videos for the Zoom BTA-1 Bluetooth Adapter were available in the provided data. Please refer to the manufacturer's website for any available video resources.
