ZOOM H3-VR Virtual Reality Audio Recorder

The ZOOM H3-VR Virtual Reality Audio Recorder is a complete solution for capturing and processing spatial audio for VR, AR, and mixed-reality content. In the past, capturing VR audio required a dedicated Ambisonic mic, separate recorder, and a computer for encoding the audio from raw Ambisonics A format to VR-ready Ambisonics B format. The H3-VR features an integrated Ambisonic mic, recorder, and decoder, combining all the elements needed to capture precise, 360° VR audio recordings up to 24 bit/96 kHz without ever connecting to a computer (the onboard decoder allows you to export Ambisonics B-format files directly). 

Binaural 3D Stereo 

The H3-VR also records stereo binaural WAV files up to 24 bit/48 kHz. Stereo binaural provides a hyper-realistic spatial recording that enhances 2D productions with 3D audio. The H3-VR also offers standard stereo recording for playback through speakers rather than headphones. 

5.1 Channel Surround for Video

The free to download ZOOM Ambisonics Player software can easily convert Ambisonics audio to a 5.1ch surround file that is pre-aligned to the proper speakers, and exported to your video or audio editor for syncing with standard video. 

360° Live Streaming 

The H3-VR also enables the user to live stream events in 360° for an optimal listening experience. Ideal for video conferencing, direct recording and more, the H3-VR's audio interface mode turns it into a USB 360° microphone for your computer, or a stereo mic for your iOS device.

6-Axis Motion Sensor 

Auto Mic Position and Level Detection make placing the H3-VR simple. Whether positioned upright, upside down, endfire or endfire inverted, the H3-VR automatically calibrates to align your audio and video for post-production. 

Monitoring & Playback 

Monitor your audio live in stereo binaural, or use the H3-VR's onboard Ambisonics Decoding to simulate your recorded 360° experience during playback. 

Remote Control 

Keeping recording equipment out of the shot can be difficult when capturing 360° video, which is why the H3 Control App lets you remotely access transport controls, level settings, and metadata notes right from your iOS device (with an optional BTA-1 Adapter; sold separately).

Simplified Post-Production

The H3-VR's companion ZOOM Ambisonics Player software takes the work out of post-production by easily converting your Ambisonics files to Stereo, Binaural, 5.1ch surround and more. Play, trim, re-orientate and export your audio files in minutes.

Output Volume Controls 

The H3-VR features line out volume control that lets you adjust the output volume to a DSLR camera, additional headphones, or other device. A dedicated headphone jack enables stereo binaural monitoring while recording. The H3-VR fits right in with your existing gear, featuring a dedicated 3.5mm line out for a wide range of 360 cameras or other external devices.

Dynamic Display

A directionally-responsive LCD screen provides a bright, clear display even when upside-down.

Transport Controls 

The Home, Play/Pause, Forward, Reverse and Menu buttons are positioned for quick access. Lock your settings on the H3-VR while recording using the unit's Hold function.

Precise Internal Clock 

The H3-VR's highly accurate internal clock with 0.5 ppm discrepancy reduces audio/visual drift. 

Slate Tone/Sound Marker 

Using the slate tone enables you to easily calibrate the H3-VR and camera audio levels. Use the sound marker to output a tone when recording starts to make syncing audio and video easy. 

Integrated Limiter

The H3-VR's advanced onboard limiter offers distortion-free signal at high volumes.

Low Cut Filter

The H3-VR's adjustable low cut filter removes unwanted low-end frequencies.

Input Volume Gain 

With the single-knob gain control, you can easily adjust the gains of all four mic capsules simultaneously for accurate, balanced 360° audio.

Power Options

Two AA batteries can power the H3-VR for over 11 hours. For longer shoots, the H3-VR can also use portable USB batteries or be plugged in via an AC adapter (not included). 

Lightweight & Portable Design 

Weighing less than 0.26 lb (120 g), the H3-VR is the ideal Ambisonics recorder for highly mobile productions. SD card recording (up to 512GB) eliminates the need for external gear. 

Features:

• (4) integrated microphones arranged in an Ambisonic array
• Full-sphere surround sound recording
• Single-knob gain control of all input levels
• Onboard Ambisonics A to B decoding
• Three recording modes: Ambisonics, Stereo Binaural, or Standard Stereo
• Record up to 24bit/96kHz
• Stereo binaural monitoring of Ambisonics signal
• Headphone & line output
• Slate tone
• Extensive metadata
• Auto Mic Position Detection using 6-axis gyroscope (upfront, endfire,
• upside-down, endfire inverted)
• Level Function to ensure precise angle placement
• Wireless iOS remote control available via the optional BTA-1 Bluetooth Adapter (not included)
• Onboard Ambisonics playback with audio rotation
• Accurate internal clock with 0.5 ppm discrepancy
• USB 2.0 Audio Interface Mode
• Zoom PC/Mac post-production software to play, change a direction, and convert
• to binaural, stereo,and 5.1ch surround file
• Powered by (2) AA batteries or USB bus power
• Records to SD card up to 512GB

Recording Formats: 

• Ambisonics A, Ambisonics B (FuMa/AmbiX):
  • WAV 4ch poly (supports BWF and iXML): 44.1 kHz/16-bit, 44.1 kHz/24-bit, 48 kHz/16-bit, 48 kHz/24-bit, 96 kHz/16-bit, 96 kHz/24-bit
• Stereo:
  • WAV stereo (supports BWF and iXML): 44.1 kHz/16-bit, 44.1 kHz/24-bit, 48kHz/16-bit, 48 kHz/24-bit, 96 kHz/16-bit, 96 kHz/24-bit
• Binaural:
  • WAV stereo (supports BWF and iXML): 44.1 kHz/16-bit, 44.1 kHz/24-bit, 48kHz/16-bit, 48 kHz/24-bit