Is the Zoom PodTrak P2 Worth the Upgrade?
Zoom makes some great stuff. I use their F3 field recorder as a backup for everything I do in the studio as well as my main mobile recorder and the PodTrak P4 is is go-to interface/recorder for many podcasters.
You want reliable, portable audio that removes friction from recording so you can focus on the conversation. From my experience, Zoom gear does this.
But is the Zoom PodTrak P2 worth the hype?
What it’s got …
The Zoom PodTrak P2 offers two USB mic inputs, two headphone outputs, AI Noise Reduction, and built-in mix-minus so remote guests sound clean without complex routing. This is nice if you regularly record with a co-host, interview remote guests, or capture audio on the go.
But if you already have a recorder or interface, are comfortable editing audio in post, or use XLR mics, it’s probably not worth the investment.
TL;DR
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ – Ease of Use: Simple controls, direct-to-SD recording, and mix-minus mean you can get up and running quickly.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ – Audio Quality: Clean captures with AI Noise Reduction option and onboard tone/compression effects that polish speech in noisy environments.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ – Portability: Compact, battery-powered design and light weight make it easy to take the P2 to on-location recordings.
Remote Guest & Connectivity: Two USB mic inputs, two headphone outputs, and phone/computer integration streamline interviews and remote calls.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
✅ Makes remote interviews sound local with mix-minus
✅ Minimal setup — plug in mics or a phone and start recording
✅ AI noise filtering saves editing time and improves clarity (although you’ll get more flexibility and control by doing this in post-production)
✅ Small and battery-friendly for mobile recording
Cons:
❌ Only two local mic inputs — not ideal for larger panels
❌ Smaller control surface can feel limited if you prefer hands-on mixing
❌ Screen and menus are compact, so some settings take a moment to find
Return on Investment
The biggest return on investment will be for streamers. Clean audio and simple remote call handling reduce editing and retakes, so your episodes come together fast and sound professional.
Emotional Benefits
Fewer tech headaches, clearer sound, and smoother remote conversations than many entry-level interfaces. You can focus on the conversation or story instead of worrying about whether the audio will hold up.
Practicality
The P2 works well for live streams. It runs on batteries or USB power, records straight to an SD card, and doubles as an interface for phones and computers. It’s nice for when you need reliable audio but don’t want to bring a full studio.
Key Benefits
Two USB mic inputs and two headphone outputs for easy co-hosting
Mix-minus that prevents echo on remote calls
AI Noise Reduction reduces background noise automatically
Records to SD card or works as a USB interface for devices
Compact, portable design that’s easy to take anywhere
FAQ
Is the Zoom PodTrak P2 Worth the Upgrade?
Probably not worth buying if you already have a similar recorder/interface, but if you need to get in the game on a limited budget, it’s not bad for co-hosted podcasts, interviews, or mobile recording where simplicity and reliability matter.
The unit combines easy routing, portable power options and features like AI Noise Reduction and an automatic mix-minus to keep remote calls clean, so you get fewer technical headaches when recording outside a studio.
If you already own a multi-channel XLR interface or a mixer that meets your recording and connectivity needs, skip it. But, if you value portability, fast setup, and integrated tools for remote guests, the P2 is a clear convenience upgrade.
Will the PodTrak P2 Improve My Audio Quality Compared To My Current Setup?
Probably not.
The P2 can improve the perceived clarity of your recordings, especially if you record with USB mics or in noisy environments, because its processing and workflow reduce background noise and streamline signal routing.
It won’t replace the importance of a good microphone and room treatment, so you still want to use a quality mic and check your gain staging before you record.
How Easy is it to Use for Remote Guests and On-The-Go Recording?
You’ll find the P2 straightforward for remote guests and mobile sessions because the mix-minus is handled automatically and connecting a phone or computer for callers is designed to be quick.
Two headphone outputs let each participant monitor independently so you can maintain good levels and communication during the session, and battery plus USB power options let you record where external power isn’t available.
The Wrap-up
The Zoom PodTrak P2 is a focused tool for entry-level podcasters who need portable, professional-sounding recordings without complex setups. You get reliable mix-minus, phone/computer integration for remote guests, and AI Noise Reduction that helps voices remain clear in imperfect environments.
It is not the tool for somebody who already has a working setup or needs pro-level gear for radio or television broadcast.
If you frequently record co-hosted shows, on-location interviews, or sync audio to video from a phone, the P2 is a practical upgrade that simplifies your process and improves final audio quality.
Personally, I’ll stick with the F3 field recorder and take care of compression and noise reduction in post-production.
