Capturing professional 360-degree audio for virtual reality content has never been more streamlined than with the Zoom H3-VR virtual reality audio recorder. This all-in-one solution combines a built-in Ambisonic microphone, recorder, and decoder to put complete spatial audio production capabilities directly in your hands. Previously, VR audio production required multiple pieces of equipment including a dedicated Ambisonic mic, separate recorder, and computer for encoding audio from raw Ambisonics A format to VR-ready Ambisonics B format. The H3-VR eliminates this complexity by handling all encoding and decoding onboard, streamlining your workflow while saving both time and money.
The H3-VR’s 4-capsule Ambisonic microphone captures precise 360-degree VR audio recordings at resolutions up to 24 bit/96 kHz, with the onboard decoder allowing direct export of Ambisonics B-format files without requiring computer connection. Beyond VR applications, the unit records stereo binaural WAV files up to 24 bit/48 kHz, providing hyper-realistic spatial recordings that enhance 2D productions with immersive 3D audio. Standard stereo recording is also available for traditional speaker playback applications.
Smart features like Auto Mic Position and Level Detection simplify setup by automatically calibrating the H3-VR regardless of positioning - upright, upside down, endfire or endfire inverted - ensuring your audio and video remain properly aligned for post-production. The H3 Control App provides remote access to transport controls, level settings, and metadata notes from your iOS device, making it easier to stay out of frame during 360-degree video shoots. The included ZOOM Ambisonics Player software streamlines post-production by converting Ambisonics files to various formats including Stereo, Binaural, and 5.1ch surround, while also enabling live streaming of 360-degree events and conversion to properly aligned surround files for standard video editors.
- 4 built-in mics 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 output and line output
- Slate tone
- Extensive metadata
- Auto Mic Position Detection using 6-axis gyroscope (upfront, end fire,
- upside-down, end fire inverted)
- Level Function to ensure precise angle placement
- Wireless iOS remote control available through the BTA-1 Bluetooth adapter
- Onboard Ambisonics playback with audio rotation
- Accurate internal clock with .5ppm 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 (over 11 hours of operation) or USB bus power
- Records to SD card up to 512GB



