Zoom M3 MicTrak On-Camera Shotgun Microphone Recorder

The Zoom M3 MicTrak is an on-camera shotgun microphone with an integrated recorder for video production, interviews, documentary work, and location sound. It records directly to a microSD card while also providing a 3.5 mm line output for sending audio to a compatible camera. This lets creators capture a dedicated audio recording while maintaining a camera reference track for synchronization.

Its mid-side microphone design supports focused mono capture as well as adjustable stereo recording. Mono mode is suited to isolating a source such as dialogue, while 90-degree and 120-degree modes provide progressively wider stereo pickup. A low-cut function is also available to help reduce low-frequency wind and pop noise.

The M3 records 48 kHz, 32-bit float WAV files using dual A/D converter circuits. This design removes the need for conventional input-gain adjustment and preserves latitude for level correction during post-production. The built-in mid microphone has supercardioid directionality, while the side microphone is bidirectional for stereo capture.

Along with the standard stereo recording, the M3 saves an M/S RAW file to the microSD card. The separate mid and side signals can be used with Zoom M3 Edit & Play software to refine stereo width after recording. The software can also play recordings, adjust volume, normalize files, and export stereo WAV files.

For camera rigs, the included shock mount is designed to reduce transmitted handling vibration and attaches through a camera shoe mount. The M3 can also operate as a USB microphone or 2-in/2-out USB audio device at 48 kHz/24-bit. It can run from two AA batteries, USB bus power, a compatible 5 V portable battery, or the optional Zoom AD-17 power adapter.

Key Features

• 32-Bit Float Recording: Captures 48 kHz WAV audio without conventional gain adjustment.
• Mid-Side Microphone System: Combines a focused mid mic with a bidirectional side mic.
• Selectable Pickup Width: Choose mono, 90-degree stereo, or 120-degree stereo capture.
• M/S RAW Backup: Saves separate mid and side signals for post-production adjustment.
• Camera Safety Output: Sends audio to a camera through the 3.5 mm line output.
• USB Microphone Mode: Connects by USB-C for computer or mobile-device audio use.

Design & Installation

The M3 combines a built-in mid-side shotgun microphone, recorder, controls, microSD card slot, USB-C port, line output, and headphone output in a compact camera-oriented format. Its included shock mount is intended to help isolate the microphone from handling vibration transferred through the camera rig. Power and recording status are indicated by onboard LEDs.

Mount the included shock mount to a compatible camera shoe, fit the M3, and connect the included stereo mini cable from LINE OUT to the camera audio input when a camera reference track is desired. Insert a supported microSDHC or microSDXC card for standalone recording, and use headphones at the 3.5 mm PHONE OUT jack to monitor audio. For USB use, connect a data-capable USB-C cable to a PC, Mac, iOS, or Android device.