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Zoom H3-VR Handy Audio Recorder with Built-In Ambisonics Mic Array

BH #ZOH3VR • MFR #H3VR
 12 reviews
Zoom H3-VR Handy Audio Recorder with Built-In Ambisonics Mic Array
Key Features
  • For Video, Audio, VR & AR Production
  • Ambisonics, Binaural & Stereo Modes
  • Export to 5.1 Surround via Computer
  • Ambisonics Array with Four Microphones
The Zoom H3-VR Handy Audio Recorder is a compact audio recorder with a built-in Ambisonics mic array offering flexible 360° audio capture as well as integrated Ambisonics A-to-B conversion, eliminating the need for external processing. The device goes well beyond VR applications, and is additionally geared towards sound recordists, audio engineers, and content creators in music, audio-for-video, game audio, and AR production.

It features an Ambisonics mic array with four microphone capsules, which can be utilized to record in Ambisonics, stereo binaural, or standard stereo modes, making it well suited for detailed reproduction of studio-based instrument ensembles and solo performances, audiences, sound effects, EFP, and more. The H3-VR supports full-sphere surround sound recording at up to 24-bit / 96 kHz, as well as real-time stereo/binaural monitoring and onboard Ambisonics A-to-B conversion, eliminating the need for additional processing with a computer in post. You can even export your Ambisonics recordings as stereo, binaural, or 5.1 audio files using the free Zoom Ambisonics Player software (downloadable to a Mac or Windows computer).
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$249.99
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Zoom H3-VR Overview

  • 1Description
  • 2Music Recording Applications in Stereo or 3D Sound:
  • 3Sound for Film
  • 4Sound for VR
  • 5Live Streaming Audio
  • 6Versatile Playback, Decode, and Export Functions
  • 7Easy Controls
  • 8Precise Audio Quality
  • 9Multiple Powering Methods

The Zoom H3-VR Handy Audio Recorder is a compact audio recorder with a built-in Ambisonics mic array offering flexible 360° audio capture as well as integrated Ambisonics A-to-B conversion, eliminating the need for external processing. The device goes well beyond VR applications, and is additionally geared towards sound recordists, audio engineers, and content creators in music, audio-for-video, game audio, and AR production.

It features an Ambisonics mic array with four microphone capsules, which can be utilized to record in Ambisonics, stereo binaural, or standard stereo modes, making it well suited for detailed reproduction of studio-based instrument ensembles and solo performances, audiences, sound effects, EFP, and more. The H3-VR supports full-sphere surround sound recording at up to 24-bit / 96 kHz, as well as real-time stereo/binaural monitoring and onboard Ambisonics A-to-B conversion, eliminating the need for additional processing with a computer in post. You can even export your Ambisonics recordings as stereo, binaural, or 5.1 audio files using the free Zoom Ambisonics Player software (downloadable to a Mac or Windows computer).

The unified single-knob gain control, LCD screen, and transport/menu buttons deliver easy and efficient device configuration and operation. Remote access to transport controls, levels, and metadata is possible via the iOS H3-VR Control app and optional BTA-1 Bluetooth adapter. An integrated 6-axis motion sensor is utilized to provide automatic detection of the microphone position, which ensures proper audio-to-video orientation alignment and simple angle leveling. Dual 3.5mm outputs with independent level control enable simultaneous connection to headphones and a camera. Record to a microSD/microSDHC/microSDXC card (available separately), or stream audio via USB to a computer or iOS device. The built-in slate function can be used to verbally mark takes and manually align audio and video files.

The H3-VR supports powering via two AA batteries or a USB connection, and its power LED also serves as a clip indicator. A 1/4"-20 threaded hole on the bottom of the H3-VR accommodates attachment to a standard camera tripod. At less than 5" tall and 3" wide, this recorder is visually discreet and unobtrusive. It is supplied with a foam windscreen and a dual mount adapter.

Music Recording Applications in Stereo or 3D Sound:
Accurately capture rehearsals, ensembles, and solo performances in recording studios and concert halls; you can spice up your stereo recordings with the binaural mode that tracks at up to 24-bit / 48 kHz to enhance 2D productions with spatially accurate imaging compatible with standard headphones
Sound for Film
Record dynamic Foley, sound effects, and ambience for film, television, and video game projects for Dolby Atmos Surround Sound as well as 5.1 Surround processing with the included Mac/PC software
Sound for VR
Record true 360° Ambisonic audio for immersive VR (virtual reality) and AR (augmented reality) in four channels at up to 24-bit / 96 kHz resolution for detailed 360° audio
Live Streaming Audio
USB 2.0 audio interface mode supports live streaming and recording via USB Micro-B connection
Versatile Playback, Decode, and Export Functions
Onboard decoder automatically converts the raw Ambisonics A audio to VR-ready Ambisonics B audio, so it can easily be paired with your 360-video
Export Ambisonics recordings as 5.1 surround files via free Zoom Ambisonics Player software for Mac and Windows
6-axis motion sensor provides automatic detection of mic position, enabling the audio and video orientations to stay aligned from scene to scene regardless of mic placement
Integrated Ambisonics playback allows you to rotate the H3-VR to simulate spatial audio while listening
Supports real-time headphone monitoring in stereo binaural or simulated 360° mode
Separate 3.5mm headphone and line outputs with independent volume adjustment allow simultaneous connection to your headphones and camera
Easy Controls
Onboard LCD screen displays direction of microphone orientation to suit the position of the H3-VR
Straightforward buttons include home, play/pause, forward, back, and menu
Hold function locks the H3-VR's settings while recording
Simultaneously adjust gain for all mic capsules via a single knob
H3 Control App allows remote access to transport controls, levels, and metadata notes via your iOS device and optional Zoom BTA-1 Bluetooth adapter, allowing you to control the device in real time without being in the shot—an important consideration for VR audio capture
Included mounting bracket allows you to mount the H3-VR to your VR camera
Precise Audio Quality
Sample rate stability is achieved through the use of an accurate internal clock (only 0.5 ppm variance)
Built-in limiter ensures clean recordings by inhibiting clipping
Control low frequencies and attenuate rumble with the adjustable high-pass filter
Multiple Powering Methods
Two AA lithium batteries will power the H3-VR for up to 24 hours
Two AA NiMH batteries will power the H3-VR for up to 11.5 hours
Alternatively power the H3-VR via a USB battery pack, 5 VDC USB connection, or compatible AC adapter
UPC: 884354019969

Zoom H3-VR Specs

Portable Recorder
Number of Tracks
4
Maximum Sampling Rate
96 kHz / 24-Bit
Microphone
Built-In Cardioid Condenser 4-Mic Array
Built-In Speaker
No
Display
Monochrome LCD
Memory Card Support
microSD, microSDHC, microSDXC (Up to 512 GB)
Recording
Audio File Formats
Ambisonics A, Ambisonics B (FuMa/AmbiX), BWF, WAV, iXML
Sample Rates
44.1 / 48 / 96 kHz (Ambisonics)
44.1 / 48 / 96 kHz (Stereo)
44.1 / 48 kHz (Binaural)
Bit Depth
16 / 24-Bit
Timecode Support
No
Clock Accuracy
0.5 ppm
Connectivity
Analog I/O
2 x 1/8" / 3.5 mm TRS Output
System Connection
1 x Micro-USB (2.0)
Performance
Gain/Trim Range
Mic Inputs:
+18 to +48 dB
Max Output Level
Line Outputs:
-10 dBu
Headphone Output Power
20 mW per Channel into 32 Ohms
Microphone Max SPL
120 dB
Power
Power Options
Batteries, USB Bus Power, AC/DC Power Adapter
Battery Type
2 x AA
Approximate Battery Life
FuMa 48 kHz/24-Bit:
11.5 Hours (Alkaline)
11.5 Hours (NiMH)
24 Hours (Lithium)
AC/DC Power Adapter
5 VDC at 1 A (Not Included)
Physical
Mounting Options
1/4"-20 Female
Dimensions
3 x 3.1 x 4.8" / 76 x 78 x 123 mm
Weight
4.2 oz / 120 g
Packaging Info
Package Weight
1.05 lb
Box Dimensions (LxWxH)
8.95 x 6.45 x 3.8"

Zoom H3-VR Reviews

It works!

By Nicolas
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2022-07-21

I just wanted to record dialogue of a bunch of people around a table. It might sound even better if they were closer but it has an impressive reach and sounds more than good enough more my purposes and budget right now. Also love that it can pickup in 360, but record in binaural/stereo! Not even trying to do ambisonics at all.

Audio profesional a excelente precio

By Rob
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2020-05-29

Lo uso como micro para documentales, el sonido binaural marca la diferencia en grabaciones documentales.

Excellent 360 Audio

By Vince
Rated 4 out of 5
Date: 2019-07-15

The recorder is straightforward to use though it has plenty of features that you might want to take some time experimenting with it. Sound quality is excellent.

A perfect package

By Brandon
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2019-03-26

Getting into ambisonic audio a couple years back, I would rent the Sennheiser and Zoom F8 for shoots. I dreamed of something like the H3-VR for a long time. Sure, the sound quality isnt as good as the former setup, but the convenience makes up for it. This is a perfect package for most shoots.

Easy to use

By Philipp
Rated 4 out of 5
Date: 2019-03-13

Easy to use. Would be good to have a tool to somehow convert to Dolby Atmos (only exports 5.1).  And some capabilities to modify the distance/positions of individual sounds.

Amazing audio tool for 360 audio - get one and start playing

By Michael
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2019-01-28

Zoom are entering a much need space in HD 360 Audio sourcing and ambisonics..

Always wanted to experiment, should have gotten sooner.

By Martin
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2021-10-15

I have a K2 Pro VR camera and always wanted to experiment with ambisonic audio but never jumped on the bandwagon due to all the options out there and quite frankly laziness to learn a new process. Boy was I wrong, the learning curve with this is so simply, specially if you use Premiere Pro that I felt ashamed I had put it off for so long. That is of course without saying just how much immersion the audio from this thing adds to your VR production. Must have.

Small and Compact, Affordable Binaural Recorder

By Andie
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2021-01-25

The unit is tiny and can easily be thrown in a backpack. Works as expected and it's inexpensive. The unit is made is plastic so not sure how durable but for the price its great. I haven't tested how weatherproof it is. I'll probably find out later this year.

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YOUR RECENTLY VIEWED ITEMS

Can the recording be separate into 4 independent ...

Can the recording be separate into 4 independent tracks?
Asked by: Edward
Yes, this can be done easily in post-production.
Answered by: Zoom Customer Support
Date published: 2019-08-16

Is it possible separate recording into 4 ...

Is it possible separate recording into 4 different tracks?
Asked by: Edward
Yes you can separate them in your DAW
Answered by: Marty
Date published: 2019-06-11

Is it possible to record by connecting USB Power ...

Is it possible to record by connecting USB Power Bank to Zoom H3-VR?
Asked by: seunghee
YES
Answered by: Yang
Date published: 2020-05-18

What are the lowest and highest HZ it can pick ...

What are the lowest and highest HZ it can pick up?
Asked by: Anthony
Zoom does not provide the frequency response range for their recorders but the mic should handle the frequency range of 20 Hz to 20 kHz.
Answered by: Lisa
Date published: 2022-03-03

What wind protection kit will fit this? I would ...

What wind protection kit will fit this? I would prefer a foam cover and then a fluffy
Asked by: Garth
The zoom H3-VR comes in the box with a foam wind screen already included, if you are looking for a furry windscreen to help with wind noise the one in the link bellow is adjustable and it's the best fitting one from all the furry windscreens I've tried with this recorder. https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1061957-REG/zoom_zwsu1_wsu_1_universal_hairy.html
Answered by: leticia
Date published: 2022-12-15

can you record or use this as a mic for video ...

can you record or use this as a mic for video meetings?
Asked by: Taylor
Of course, even you aren't doing ambisonic 1st order recording, you can still use all 4 channels independently, and when you play it back you can use the build-in binaural converter and listen via 3.5mm output.
Answered by: Yang
Date published: 2020-12-09

What’s the workflow like to convert to Dolby ...

What’s the workflow like to convert to Dolby Atmos?
Asked by: Philipp
It’s a 1st order ambisonic recording. It’s common to decode the recording into 5.1 or 7.1 easily with many software options. I use Harpex. You can get creative and expand it to more than 7 channels. I like to get 11.1 out of content if it is appropriate, but you’ll need to be creative and experimental with the tools. Once you have the channels you want then just put into your normal mix workflow. There’s no such thing as “converting to atoms” You either have atmos software and a session to mix it for, or... you don’t. Hope that helps.
Answered by: Anonymous
Date published: 2022-06-30

What shock mount (or alternative) option would ...

What shock mount (or alternative) option would you recommend to use this as a handheld mic for location sound recording?
Asked by: Edwin
Here's a compatible shockmount B&H # RY41119 , and here's a recommend pistol grip for handheld use B&H # AUGRIP.
Answered by: Daniel
Date published: 2022-12-15
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