Zoom H3-VR 360° Ambisonic Audio Recorder

The Zoom H3-VR is a compact portable recorder designed to capture immersive 360-degree sound for VR video, spatial-audio projects, music, livestreaming, and location recording. Its integrated tetrahedral microphone array records the sound field around the device rather than just a conventional left-and-right image. This makes it a practical solution when audio needs to match the perspective of a 360-degree camera or virtual environment.

Built-in processing lets the H3-VR record Ambisonics A-format, Ambisonics B-format in FuMa or AmbiX, stereo, or binaural audio. It can encode Ambisonics B-format directly in the recorder, reducing the need to perform basic A-to-B conversion on a computer. Binaural recording and monitoring provide a headphone-oriented spatial presentation, while standard stereo is available for conventional speaker playback.

Four matched unidirectional condenser capsules form the H3-VR's built-in Ambisonic microphone. The recorder supports up to 24-bit/96 kHz WAV recording for Ambisonics and stereo modes, with a maximum sound-pressure input of 120 dB SPL. Adjustable mic gain, low-cut filtering, and a configurable limiter help manage changing field-recording conditions.

A built-in 6-axis motion sensor supports automatic mic-position detection so the recorder can identify upright, upside-down, and horizontal orientations before recording. This helps preserve the intended directional relationship between captured sound and video. The compact conical body is made to remain unobtrusive when mounted near a camera or placed within a recording scene.

The H3-VR records to microSD-family media and can also work as a USB audio interface or card reader. Its line output and headphone output support monitoring and connection to other equipment, while its optional BTA-1 Bluetooth adapter enables iOS remote control through the H3 Control app. It can operate from two AA batteries, USB bus power, or the optional Zoom AD-17 AC adapter for flexible field and desktop use.

Key Features

• Four-Capsule Ambisonic Microphone: Captures a full 360-degree sound field with matched condenser capsules.
• Onboard A-to-B Encoding: Creates FuMa or AmbiX Ambisonics B-format files without a computer.
• Multiple Recording Modes: Supports Ambisonics A, Ambisonics B, stereo, and binaural WAV recording.
• 6-Axis Motion Sensor: Detects recorder orientation to help maintain correct audio directionality.
• USB Audio Interface: Connects to computers or iOS devices for recording, streaming, and conferencing.
• Field-Friendly Power: Runs on two AA batteries, USB bus power, or an optional adapter.

Design & Installation

The H3-VR uses a compact, conical handheld-recorder design with its four microphone capsules arranged for Ambisonic capture. A 1.25-inch monochrome LCD provides recording and status information, while dedicated physical controls include a mic-gain dial, transport controls, output-volume control, and a hold function. Its main-unit weight is 120 g, making it suitable for lightweight camera and field-recording rigs.

For recording, install a Class 4 or higher microSD, microSDHC, or microSDXC card and select the needed recording mode and sample rate. Use the bottom tripod mounting threads or the included dual mounting bracket to position the recorder near a compatible camera or on a stand; keep the recorder orientation consistent with its Mic Position setting. Connect headphones to PHONE OUT for monitoring, use LINE OUT when feeding another device, or connect microUSB for card-reader, USB-interface, bus-power, or optional AD-17 adapter operation.