360-Audio Recording (plus 3D Stereo and Stereo Audio)
The 4-mic capsules Ambisonic mic captures 360 degree audio in quality up to 24 bit / 96kHz, and is protected by a typically “Zoom-looking” aluminum roll cage. Zoom has leveraged this mic to work for a variety of audio recording applications

In addition to capturing VR Ambisonic audio, it is also able to record binaural 3D stereo, for enhancing 2D video productions with engrossing 3D audio. Of course, it can also be used to record standard stereo for cases where you don’t have another digital recorder available, or don’t want to take another piece of equipment with you.

In-Device Audio Conversion
Previously available Ambisonic mics required audio to be exported to a computer for post-production processing into a VR-ready format (Ambisonic A to Ambisonic B).

One of the most efficient features of this new Zoom recorder is the ability to do all the encoding and decoding of your Ambisonic files right in the H3-VR. No additional computers or file exporting is necessary before you pair your audio with 360-video.

Efficient, Effective Design
The H3-VR has an immediately recognizable, conical shape. In addition to looking like a space capsule from the future, this conical shape serves the important function of allowing the mic to stay out of your shots. A tripod mounting screw on the bottom of the recorder even makes it easy to mount upside down, underneath your 360-video rig.

Of course, when it comes to 360-audio the orientation of your mic needs to be carefully monitored to ensure that there are no miscalibrations when synced up in post. For that reason, Zoom has integrated auto mic positioning and level detection, so the recorder knows where its orientated in space. These systems automatically calibrate your audio to ensure it is always correctly aligned for post.

In a delightfully detail-oriented touch, the position detectors know when you’ve mounted the recorder upside down and will automatically re-orient the LCD screen readout to be right-way up – saving you the trouble of having to crane your neck around.

3D Headphone Monitoring
We’re all familiar with the importance of being able to monitor your audio while you record. Ensuring the quality of your audio in 360-audio recordings presents unique challenges not present in 2D audio recording. Fortunately, H3-VR takes audio monitoring to the next dimension.

The onboard ambisonics playback allows you to simulate spatial audio by rotating the audio while you listen, so there is no guesswork involved in the recording process.

Convenience and Flexibility
The H3-VR incorporates a plethora of other helpful features for making recording sessions easier.

An optional Bluetooth adapter add-on (the BTA-1), allows remote activation of the recorder through the H3-VR control app. You can stay safely out of the video when you’re ready to record, and even remotely operate the transport controls, adjust levels or enter metadata notes. It’s important to note that the app is only available for iOS devices.

Multiple power options are available – functioning for over 11 hours on just two AA batteries, but also able to work off of portable USB powerpacks, or via an AC adapter for even longer shoots.

The H3-VR also work for live streaming, video conferencing, direct recording and more. The audio interface mode lets the H3-VR work as a USB 360 mic for your computer, or as a stereo mic for your iOS device.