Two-track XLR Field Recorder with 32-bit float recording
When you're working in the field or on set, sound levels can fluctuate often and quickly. The F3 allows you to adapt to your scene without having to set the gain or worry about clipping. In post, you'll be able to work with your capture, regardless of extremely low or high levels.
Small Design, Big Sound
With 32-bit float recording, the F3 effortlessly captures the quietest raindrops and the loudest explosions. Its small footprint allows for this recorder to be placed anywhere, as you capture and monitor up to 192 kHz of high-quality audio.
Focus on the Scene
When you're working in the field or on set, sound levels can fluctuate often and quickly. The F3 allows you to adapt to your scene without having to set the gain or worry about clipping. In post, you'll be able to work with your capture, regardless of extremely low or high levels.
Award-Winning Audio
Featuring the same dual A/D converters and low-noise preamps found throughout the F-Series, the F3 guarantees high-quality recordings in any setting or situation.
Battle Tested
With a standard tripod mount and durable side bars included, the F3 is built for placement in a variety of environments. Its sturdy build ensures that you can mount it on your gear or hide it in your scene.
WAV Watching
Monitor your recordings with seamless accuracy as the F3 displays your audio as real-time waveforms.
Caractéristiques
2-channel / 2-track field audio recorder
Featuring 32-bit float recording and dual AD converters for full dynamic range and clip-free audio capture
2 discrete inputs with locking XLR connectors
Input signals can be monitored with real time waveform display on LCD
Compact and Durable (can be attached to boom mic with Velcro)
High quality mic preamps provide a super-low noise floor ('127 dBu EIN)
Record up to 192 kHz sampling/32-bit float WAV format, mono or stereo files
Stereo >" Phone/Line Output jack with dedicated Volume control
Records directly to microSDHC and microSDXC cards up to 1TB
Wireless iOS/Android remote control available through optional BTA-1 Bluetooth adapter (Android version to be released in Spring 2022)
Use as 2-in/ 2-out, up to 24-bit/ 96 kHz USB audio interface (Available in 32-bit float/ 96 kHz with a firmware update in Spring 2022.)
Over 8 hours of operation with two AA alkaline batteries
Runs on only 2 standard AA batteries or AC adapter (AD-17) or USB battery pack
Wireless timecode synchronization (Optional BTA-1 Bluetooth adapter and UltraSync Blue device by Timecode Systems are required.)
Spécifications
General Specifications:
2-channel/2-track portable field audio recorder
32-bit float recording with dual A/D converters for full dynamic range and clip-free audio capture
Two discrete inputs with locking XLR connectors
High-quality mic preamps with an ultra-low noise floor ('127 dBu EIN)
Real-time waveform display on 1.54" monochrome LCD
Compact and durable design with metal casing and locking XLR connectors
Records directly to microSDHC and microSDXC cards up to 1 TB
Functions as a 2-in/2-out USB audio interface (up to 32-bit float / 96 kHz)
Wireless iOS/Android remote control available through optional BTA-1 Bluetooth adapter
Wireless timecode synchronization with optional BTA-1 Bluetooth adapter and UltraSync Blue device
Recording Specifications:
Sampling rates: 44.1/48/88.2/96/192 kHz
Bit depth: 32-bit float
File formats: Mono or stereo WAV files
Input/Output Specifications:
Analog inputs: 2 x XLR 3-pin female balanced line/mic inputs (lockable)
Analog output: 1 x 3.5 mm stereo mini unbalanced line output
Headphone output: 1 x 3.5 mm stereo mini unbalanced output
USB: 1 x USB Type-C (I/O, USB 2.0)
Power Specifications:
Power options: 2x AA batteries, Zoom AD-17 AC adapter, or USB power supply
Battery life: Over 8 hours with two alkaline AA batteries (phantom power off)
I really like this device. The 32-bit float recording is a game changer. Last week I was recording a waterfall in the BC interior. One of my mics was boomed towards the base of it and the levels were spiking like crazy but upon playback I had zero clipping. Lire plus
Amaze balls. Also had a second lav (2nd channel) for documentation and description going and it was able to totally pick up my voice despite the fact that I couldn't physically hear myself talk next to the water. Very cool. Really soft sounds can be raised in post to an almost eerie degree and so far I haven't been able to record anything loud enough to cause distortion.
Of course nothing is perfect and my big complaint is?. It's a PITA to attach to anything. I have tried Velcro straps, rubber gear ties, and old molle straps but nothing is perfect. I don't want to use a bag because I like the small size and I already carry enough stuff. It does fit well in the breast pocket of my vest so it will be fine in winter but during the summer it's a bit annoying.
The other thing I like is the speed of the processor. Unlike other recorders {cough Zoom F6} this sucker fires up quickly. Love that. Battery life is ok but I always carry spares and if need be I can use a USB-C power pack.
Overall I am very happy and would absolutely recommend it. At the price point it's significantly less expensive than a Sound Devices Mix-Pre and imho the quality is just as good. If you need more inputs you can go to the F8 but for me two is perfect. A big win.