5 reasons the ZOOM M3 MicTrak will be THE last on-camera mic YOU ever buy... almost...

[@user-nu8bf3bf9m]

How's the replacement one? Can we expect follow-up video on Zoom M3? I'd love to watch/hear your opinion on M3 especially if the notorious RF issue got better or even got completely fixed.

[@skakdosmer]

Two days ago I ordered the AT8024. I didn't know about the Zoom M3, but... I already own one cheap (much cheaper!) on-camera mic that has decent audio quality, is switchable between mono and (m/s) stereo, is all plastic and has no radio shielding, so the M3 doesn't tempt me much. Mine is the Nonsha NA-Q7 that probably isn't made anymore. The lack of shielding doesn't mean that it picks up Radio Moscow, as my 10m cables did back in the eighties, but that it picks up a constant 50 hz hum from the A/C in my house - especially when I'm near a lamp. (No, not 60 hz - I live in Europe). So really it's only usable outdoors. It was only about $60, so I wasn't surprised. By the way, I also own the Sennheiser MKE 440 which has the directional stereo that I'm looking for in a camera microphone. It's very good in many ways, but the tiny diaphragms make the sound a little thin. By the way, I know 32 bit is all the rage, but I haven't yet ruined any take by clipping, so I don't feel a need.

[@ScarboroughTourist]

What you're saying is the 32 bit float recording device is doing its job very well, but it records the dynamic range that's given to it. It depends upon the devices/microphones hardware delivering the input. Garbage in garbage out. It does do the sound man out of a job essentially or maybe they're needed to select equipment.

[@GroupIII]

Wayne, I'm a believer of Float 32bit technologies. I really like my zoom F2. I have triple. back up sounds, one to F2, one to main cam and third to action cam. I use the waveforms on cams to match or sync the F2 waveforms and will only use the F2 sound. I think the F2 with the Sennheiser lav blocks all the crazy sounds out in the field. I'm so spoiled on it, that I still use that workflow at my home recordings. Yes there are lots of prep with different checklists to make sure I have back up recordings but it's only part of my maturity learning to be a videographer. Your video is great but now I have to start counting my pennies to buy it. Good weekend!

[@WayneRECs]

Hey Nestor! Thanks for your comment! I think your F2 set up sounds great and is a much more discreet recording solution. Generally, editing software is pretty good at matching the sync of different recorded waveforms, but outputting the same to all sources makes it potentially more accurate (though you end up relying on a single piece of equipment).

[@tsunarun]

The review is 👍👍 What do you think about this one and the comica mv 40 for short films ? Thanks a lot

[@3yebeams]

Looking at this months after you made it. Great points rarely made by youtube content creators, especially masking "dirty noise" with a music soundtrack. I've seen several of your vids now on mics and I'm impressed by how you don't do this. The M3 looks worth exploring - not convinced by the DJI Mic 2 though especially the wireless aspect.

[@dominicpclarke]

I would probably use this and keep a back-up audio device for the bigger jobs just in case.

[@WayneRECs]

The M3 is a great no frills recorder! While I have a number of other devices, what I end up doing is sending an output to my camera (and just use that as my main audio) and use the internal recording as a backup.

[@ViciousXUSMC]

Something I might pick up on sale for sure just as a convenience product for a quick shoot where everything is all in one.

[@WayneRECs]

It's actually been super convenient to be able to have an all in one device that you can just hit record when there isn't time for a sound check.

[@jer3006]

Wayne, I had to laugh when you applauded the M3 Mic Trk for light weight, then booed it for being plastic- but then you covered that seemingly contradictory gotcha. And I get it. Still, it is funny. What I really like is your last couple of sentences, RE, who is it for. I think you nailed it there, and I think you were talking about me. I don't mind plastic generally as I'm careful with equipment and no longer climbing mountains or forging rivers. Yeah, but I do have the Zoom F3 so I can get along without the M3 and you showed us some mics to direct-connect to the F3. Also, if I want to call it an on-camera recorder I can just pull out the velcro strips. 🤣🤣Thanks for another outstanding and thorough sound equipment review!

[@WayneRECs]

lol Jer! The M3 sounds good and would be a great fit for certain people's needs despite it's shortcomings. I think at the end of the day, if a user is ok with the M3 being what it is (plastic) and it fits their recording needs, then it's all good! As much as I wanted it to be, it's just not the end all be all microphone.

[@uncle-english]

I have Zoom H5 and P4, and both of them do terribly regarding RF interference shielding. You almost made me buy M3, but now I have to think twice.

[@IdeaStudioBKK]

Great review. The features of this mic look great, but the RF interference would be a deal breaker for me, living in Bangkok and doing most of my filming in the city it just would not be practical as even more expensive mics suffer from interference here. Even at my studio, which is on the outer edge of the city it can be an issue (but I am not so far that I have foxes in my yard). But normally Zoom makes some fantastic products, I have used many of their recorders over the years and they always delivered and were rock solid. My old H6 traveled all over the world with me and never skipped a beat.

[@WayneRECs]

Ha, a city like Bangkok would definitely be challenging! I agree, Zoom's Handy recorders have been reliable mainstays. The MicTrak line as a whole feels a little rushed. Hopefully they have a 2nd generation that addresses some of these issues.

[@IdeaStudioBKK]

@@WayneRECs I have used the F3 and F6, they are both super solid. I have not had the chance to try the MicTrak yet, but My friend just brought one back from the states so I will def give his a spin.

[@skmkenny]

Can you please compare this to the vm40?

[@WildlifeShortMovies-jq9si]

If you power the zoom m3 with a USB C long chord that works as an antenna and you will pick up RF noise! If you power the m3 through internal batteries and not through USB C cable while recording then there will be no RF noise.

[@Chrstphr03]

From my knowhow, that was fixed in the updated version. Haven't experienced that issue. Anyone else?

[@StaticCamperVan]

Very good review. The mic isn't compatible with my equipment. But it does have some great features.

[@WayneRECs]

Thanks for the kind comment! The M3 is great in concept but just ok in execution. Despite that, I still enjoy using it for my videos, but I suspect not everyone will!

[@WeiHoung]

I've been on the fence with this one and ended up playing around with my F3 to have it sit on top of my a7siii with a pencil condenser mic. If I line out into the camera I can record both on the F3 and the camera at the same time. I suspect you rigged something like that as well before the M3 came out... lol. Yes it's heavier... but it's a tank compared to the plastic. I might still get it just because of all the cool functions and the weight... but we'll see... (I ended up getting a Cajon instead as my most recent audio related purchase 🤣) Good to see you back with a follow up to your last M3 video. 😁👍

[@WayneRECs]

Hey Wei! From my experience, the M3 performs well in certain use applications (and yes, it's nice to not worry about losing my F3 rig off a cold shoe mount). Like I mentioned, the M3 build isn't a deal breaker for me, but could pose issues depending on the environment of use. Still, at only $200, it does have some cool features and produces a clean sound. That being said, I'd still gladly pay ~$300 if the construction was more robust!

[@PowerheadProductions]

Good stuff thank you, but this is not the only option if you wanted a mic that can do stereo and mono. I use the Azden SMX-30V and it can even fully mix the 2 options in-mic in real-time, but that post mixing feature is slick if you remember to record in the M3.

[@WayneRECs]

Thanks for mentioning the Azden SMX-30V! From what I've seen, it's a great shotgun/xy option! I think the advantage the M3 has is the built-in 32-bit float recorder but it's nice to know there are other options out there!

[@PowerheadProductions]

@@WayneRECs Yeah if I had to pick between them today I would probably go with the M3 for the features and the price alone, although the build quality is a concern for what we do. When I ordered the Azden a year ago it was the best option at the time for us, and has worked great as a motorsports video mic that allows me to hone in on a single vehicle or capture the wider area when at an event. Thanks again for the info, always look forward to your content although it tends to focus more on spoken dialogue than louder outdoor content that we tend to shoot. I'd love to hear your thoughts on recording loud sounds, like mic'ing up a car or motorcycle.

[@WayneRECs]

@@PowerheadProductions This is where 32-bit float recording would really shine. As long as the mic(s) used have a high SPL rating, you wouldn't have to worry about louder sounds clipping at the recorder. In fact, the M3 would probably be a good option as by default, it records a 32-bit float wav file of however you have the mic set up as (mono,90 or 120 stereo) and it also generates a Raw audio file (which is what is used in post to make the stereo width adjustments). But what this really means is that you could have both a focused/mono recording AND export the same file as a stereo file, basically giving you both options in a single recording session.

[@PowerheadProductions]

@@WayneRECs Yeah for sure, and I am using a Tascam X8 32-bit float recorder and a couple of Shure SM58 mics to handle the SPL mounted to the back bumper getting great results so far. I'm wanting to get more of the subtle touches like tire sounds/squeal, intake growl, etc and trying to figure out the ultimate setup on a reasonable budget. Smaller or wireless setups more suited to recording motorcycles is a direction I'm researching as well. The DJI wireless mics I have seem a bit too hot for motorcycle work. Not much content out there for this type of stuff, it's usually either "you can use your earbuds to get engine bay audio" too low budget, or "Use this $400 lav mic". $$$$ I like your everyday content creator focus.

[@WayneRECs]

Have you looked at the Instamic Pro Plus? It's a small self contained mic/audio recorder that records in 32-bit float. I've heard good things about them (and they are small, discreet and waterproof for unique mountings) but I've yet to get my hands on one.

[@JeffBourke]

Being stereo is a deal breaker. Edit: okay you can make it mono so all good. It rocks again haha

[@MoarenaZ]

Thanks for the video, it helps me, in addition with the FocusPulling video (he find high RF interferference) and the comments of the plastic materials and fragile build of the M3 to choose for me (record shoot and go videos with de Sony Fx30) the F3 with the deity mic that you also compare in another video (I have already the F3). Saludos

[@jannbautista4480]

Zoom and Plastic, name a more iconic duo -__- I've bought multiple Zoom products in the past, and as much as I commend them for making devices with very useful features that can be applied to various use cases, the build quality of alot of their products (mostly outside their handy recorders) are just not up to par as "pro-sumer" gear. The idea behind each product is sooo good on paper, but once you have it in your hands, you can't help but be disappointed. (e.g. L-8 mixer, U-series audio interface, Podtrak etc.)

[@WayneRECs]

Hey Jann! Lol, I couldn't agree more! Aside from the Handy recorders which feel like their bread & butter, there are so many great concepts that fall short upon product release. I had high hopes for the M3 and while I do enjoy using it, there are a few tweaks that Zoom could have implemented in the design that would have improved the mic 10x fold.

[@dwaynepedals]

Thanks for this! I'm curious how this will work with the new iPhone 15 Pro/Pro Max with the USB-C instead of lightning port. I've experienced hissing with my old MKE400 and looking to get rid of that.

[@WillianMaier]

Thanks, Wayne! Another great review. The plastic body really is a sin on this device

[@WayneRECs]

Agreed! Even strategic areas of reinforcement with a more durable material could go a long way!

[@zevstarr-tambor7084]

thinking about mounting that on the end of a boom pole, to record dialogue for an indie short film - on location - what do you think? Strong option?

[@WayneRECs]

Hmmm, that's tricky... In theory it could be a good idea, but practically, there are a few things to consider. First, you would be putting the whole recording set up out of reach of your boom operator. While in most cases, it would be ok to just turn it on and start recording, most likely, you'll still want to monitor the audio with headphones so that the boom op can hear what is being recorded. That means running a headphone extension cable down your pole. Depending on your boom pole and/or your operators level of experience, you may want to consider an additional shockmount and/or one that is more robust than the one that's included with the M3. While the 32-bit floating point recording can be manipulated in post, any handling noise transmitted will be recorded as well. I think if it's a static shot with a single actor who doesn't move much, the M3 could be ok. But if your boom op has to do a lot of movement with multiple actors they may be better alternatives using a Zoom F3 recorder and a separate shotgun mic. However, if you have budget constraints, you could get this mic to work for your intended use, but to get the best sound, you and/or your op would need to know the limitations. I'm not a boom op, but if you want additional resources, check out Allen Williams channel Sound Speeds. He's a pro boom op and has lots of insight into tips and best practices.

[@nictheartist]

What about if you have two actors who are mainly static in a small room, with medium close-ups and full close-ups, would that work, possibly even on top of, say, a GH5?

[@georgeewart52]

Thank you for the excellent balanced review. I'm concerned about the rf interference. I've been looking at the Rode Stereo VideoMic X. Which would sound better, the Zoom or Rode? I take videos of trains and had used a Sennheiser MKE 200 but unfortunately it picks up interference from the overhead wires above the railway tracks so is next to useless. I could be better off with the Rode VideoMic X and it's metal construction.

[@WayneRECs]

Hey George! This is a tough one... ZOOM has addressed the RF issue with the M3 launch batch by recalling certain affected units and sending replacements. So far I haven't had any issues but I haven't been able to thoroughly test my replacement unit and from past experience, I really only heard RF interference when in stereo mode (& I primarily record in mono, hence maybe why I've had less issues than others). In a situation like you describe, a lot of electronics could be susceptible to RF noise and maybe even moreso if poorly shielded cables are connected to them. In theory, while I haven't used one, the RODE VideoMic X could handle it better with it's aluminum build, though it is twice the cost of the M3. Where the M3 has the advantage is 32-bit float recording, especially when dealing with trains as there are likely both softer and then extremely loud sounds in a single recording. Additionally, it records a raw wave file that can be manipulated in the Zoom M3 edit & Play software. So if you did pick up RF in a stereo recording, you can change it to a mono recording where it may not be audible (at least that has been my personal experience). The last thing to consider is what you are plugging the mics into. The M3 can record internally and I've found the recordings to be quite good. The VideoMic X would need to be run into a camera (and would need a 9v battery) or a separate audio recorder that could or could not have phantom power. Not to complicate things, but you might also consider something like the new Tascam X6 which is a 32-bit float recorder with a built-in XY (and 2 XLR inputs). I don't have one so I can't speak to RF issues but it looks like the best of both worlds and has the potential to grow with you. And I think it's priced right between the M3 and VM X. Sorry I couldn't be more help!

[@georgeewart52]

@@WayneRECs Many thanks Wayne for your generous reply. Most helpful indeed. I take video with a Canon R5 so definitely looking to get better audio. Exactly as you say my train recordings start with very quiet ambient sounds and very quickly become extremely loud then disappear as quickly again. I have a lot of clipped soundtracks in my library though most I've recovered ok in Audition. I have a Zoom H5 recorder which I use with a pair of sE4400 mics and have never noticed any RF interference. I'll wait for your review with your replacement mic before deciding. Keep wearing the glasses, they look great!🙂

[@FunkCitynet]

I use the Rode Stereo VideoMic X hooked up to the Zoom F3 and it is amazing in the result. It is sturdy, mostly metal and has the highese SPL of any on camera mic. The only issue is that it's been on backorder for a year and no availability in sight.

[@abagatelle]

Amazing! Looking fwd to getting one

[@sRagnar]

Спасибо за видео, очень полезно! Если можно сравните с RODE VideoMic GO II

[@rmatosinhos]

Zoom R4 MultiTrak is out... so your predictions of a camera with 32 bit float audio might appear soon at zoom headquarters...

[@Ozpeter]

If the output to camera is too high I guess the headphone output could be used instead, as its output level can be changed. And then monitor the sound on the camera's headphone output, which is probably the best way to do it anyway (so you can be sure there's no problem with the connection from the mic to the camera). Setting the stereo width in post - without necessarily using the "raw" file - can be accomplished using an MS plugin such as the free Voxengo MSED (if your editing software supports VST plugins). Always record at 120 degrees, then in post production you can reduce that to mono (or less stereo) using the plugin, even if you are simply working with the audio recorded direct to the camera. Or you could increase the width beyond 120 degrees. Light weight is also very relevant if the mic is being used in conjunction with a gimbal - the lighter the better. Never mind the plastic build, feel the lack of weight. And contemporary plastic can be remarkably robust in practice. RF... well, I think two, or maybe three, reviewers have mentioned it. The rest haven't, and it's not audible on their samples. The Tascam X8 had some issues with strange HF lines on the spectogram, and Tascam have recently said that it was a problem with the first production run, but was fixed afterwards. (Tough on early adopters but maybe they returned it anyway). Maybe the same will apply with the M3. It's odd that there's very few reviews on KZbin at the moment apart from the first flurry on release. I almost get the feeling that the first production run was small, and that it's out of stock until further runs are produced - which might not suffer from the RF issue. All speculation, but I don't think the M3 should be written off until there are more end-user reviews which might, or might not, reveal RF problems. In practice, the biggest downside with the M3 is that it doesn't come with a dead cat windshield - the foam one is unlikely to contend with other than a slight breeze. Great review, thanks!

[@WayneRECs]

Hey Peter! Like I mentioned, I personally haven't encountered any major RF issues (and the clip shows my only successful attempt at recreating interference) so it doesn't seem as prevalent as in the M2 or M4 based on what I've seen. And yes, a furry windshield/sleeve would have been super nice!

[@mekkitel]

Thank you for the excellent review. Please if possible put a link to downlaod the .WAVE file?

[@Angelo_Paduraru]

Great detailed video!!!

[@jeffrey3205]

Can you jamsync timecode?

[@seancloutier2577]

the only problem I see with this....if I do 30 videos each ranging from 1 to 10 minutes in one morning sessions...I would have to sink each video with the audio...which would be a lot of work...I believe the GH7 has 32 bit float....but my fx30 only has 24 bit...the syncing in post would be like putting a puzzle together every time

[@Chrstphr03]

Perhaps a forthcoming FX30 II with 32bit float?

[@seancloutier2577]

@@Chrstphr03 what we need is the Fx30 II. only 12 MP for low light...32 bit float...maybe 1 or 2 more stops of dynamic range and I am happy 😁

[@V-adventurous]

You can sink all your clips at once in davinci resolve in the media page.

[@arskortguldsj]

@@V-adventurous Exactly, works like a charm. :-)

[@skmkenny]

Just clap bro

[@ddrnold]

like the video, would have loved it with chapters. :(

[@ajingogliafilms5340]

I had to return my when it first came out, buzzing everywhere. Got a new one, so much better

[@thefullsetup]

Love the sound and feature set of this mic but the build quality and poor shielding just ruins it for me. It’s like they tried to hit the videomic ntg price and just failed. If rode charged £300 for an ntg with built in 32bit float no one would complain and they would sell a boat load. So that’s all zoom had to do take this mic and encase it in high quality components and charge 300 for it and everyone would be happy 😂

[@WayneRECs]

So true! It's hard to say if Zoom's intent was to compete with a similar mic in price point, but really, to my knowledge there is no other product like the M3 currently on the market. As such, a $300 msrp would have been more than reasonable if extra attention was given to the build quality. The bones of the M3 are great, so hopefully any future iterations address some of these issues!

[@Hindsight101]

@@WayneRECs The closet thing to the M3 I think is the Tascam DR-10SG

[@WayneRECs]

@@Hindsight101 Totally! The same could be said for the Zoom F1 with interchangeable modules. I think the big selling point though is the ease of 32-bit float recording. IMO, if Zoom had released an updated 32-bit float version of the F1, that would be an easier sell to those who already have Zoom modules.

[@findingthetrackway4875]

I'm looking to purchase a microphone that will record out at a distance infront, wildlife. Any recommendations?

[@dougsphoto]

hi thx for the video and your thoughts but how does it compare to the ZSG-1 and the H1 Essential ps I'm a beginner and my main aim is to record wildlife but also some city ambient sounds thx

[@andreasirgang4484]

Hi Wayne, thanks for your great video including all these details. You motivated me to purchase one ;-). I got my M3 Mictrak now and as i am recording most of the time during my traveling i would like to save my recordings on my iPad. I read in the handbook that it should be possible. But with which software can i copy the files, *.wav and *raw.wav? The edit & play App is not available in App store and not on ZOOM page. I was able to connect my M3 with the iPad by USB-C cable and use it as a microphone. I also switched on by pressing the Stereo button and than the Power button to get the orange light for Datatransfer. But no App pops up and i could not see the M3 somewhere on the iPad to copy the data. It would be great if you have a solution for me.

[@andreasirgang4484]

Hi wayne i just read in your comments below that you do not use Apple productcs. Hi @matosinhos, maybe you can help me with my question above instead.

[@meisampourjafari2685]

Can it record stereo and mono on sparate lines at the same time?

[@scottkarch80]

How would the microphone work bringing to concerts for recording audio? No video, just as a concert audio recorder for rock concerts? 32 bit means I don't have to worry about clipping. small enough to clamp onto different surfaces.

[@WayneRECs]

Hey Scott! I think with the right mic placement, it would get a decent audio recording at a concert. But there are a few factors to consider. If you do mount it onto something at the venue, be mindful of potential handling/vibration noise being transmitted through the shock mount. While the included one is sufficient for an on camera vlog setup, it may not do so well in an extremely (bass heavy) environment. Presumably, you'd be setting the mic somewhere in the center of the house. If that's the case, be mindful of people in the audience. If someone nearby is consistently yelling or singing along, that would also be recorded. But yes, recording in 32 bit float is ideal in super loud scenarios (though the mic does have a max spl so may experience distortion if placed say directly in front of a cabinet)

[@seancloutier2577]

I have the FX30 with the XLR mount and a Deity MIC....do you think if I added the M3 on top of the XLR I would get interference having two mics so close together....I want to use the Diety just for filming crowds....but on interviews I would like to hit the record button on the M3 for 32 bit backup....however I was not sure if having the mics so close on the same camera I would get interference...what are your thoughts...

[@gutosoulza]

Hi Wayne, RF Interference was fixed?

[@SimoneNunzi]

Very good video! I have two big issue with M3 and I hope you can help me with your experience: 1) internal recording is only 16 bit and I didn't find a way to change this setting by software. 2) 32 bit recording don't start when I press rec on camera: I have to press rec on mic to start recording so it's very frustrating! Is there a way to fix these issues? Thanks

[@WayneRECs]

Hey Simon! Thanks for your questions! Your first issue is interesting as to my knowledge, the ZOOM M3 only records internally to an inserted micro SD card in 32-bit float. There are no settings to change either physically on the M3 itself or via the M3 Edit & Play software to change this to 16-bit. If you are referring to the audio that is recorded internally on your camera when using the M3 as an external microphone, the bit depth will be whatever your camera is capable of recording (likely 16-bit or 24-bit) and as far as I know, no camera currently accepts a 32-bit float device and records audio in 32-bit float. With your 2nd issue, this is a limitation of the M3 in that there is no way to trigger the M3 to begin to record simultaneously with the shutter press on your camera.

[@SimoneNunzi]

@@WayneRECs thank you very much for your answer!

[@SimplicityForGood]

can this not universally be connected to it start to record when one start recording on the Lumix GH camera ? like a universal remote control for the tv?

[@ericgrayphoto]

Have you seen they’ve recalled certain units due to the RF interference?

[@WayneRECs]

Hey Eric! Thanks I did see that and am contemplating sending mine in!

[@RayValdezPhotography]

@@WayneRECs do it.

[@zogun]

Hi Wayne, I hv Zoom H5 & thinking to add the SSH6 mic capsule. Or should I buy this M3 instead? I'm going to use it standalone, on camera & as usb mic

[@WayneRECs]

I love my M3 and in fact use it just about every day. It's been super convenient and the 32-bit float means a faster production workflow (at least for me lol). ZOOM is about to release their new Essential recorders including a new H1essential which might something to consider. Additionally, it looks like they have a new capsule system so the SSH6 may be discounted soon...

[@zogun]

​@@WayneRECsthanks, awesome comments, really appreciate it. Yes I did notice the new essential recorder. Could you transfer the file from M3 into the computer without taking out the SD card? M3 looks convenient. I'm damn lazy to connect the XLR mic 😂😂😂

[@WayneRECs]

@@zogun yes, with the m3 powered off, if you hold the stereo button while powering on the m3, it will be in USB drive mode. The LED is amber and when connected to a computer, acts like an external drive.

[@zogun]

​@@WayneRECsthanks Wayne 🙏👍

[@rmatosinhos]

is there a way to connect the M3 into an iphone or ipad? if yes, will it transmit 24bit or 32bit audio?

[@WayneRECs]

While I do not own an iPhone or iPad, I can't confirm how the M3 would connect to those devices. However, regardless of the device, 32-bit float only applies to the internal recordings of the M3 and any output would be 24-bit or 16-bit depending on the device's specs.

[@rmatosinhos]

@@WayneRECs thank you. When connecting to the pc it looks it is 32 but float too. At least I did a QuickTime audio recording, opened it in audacity and it was showing 32bit

[@WayneRECs]

@@rmatosinhos Hmmm, I'm not exactly sure this is how it works. I think Quicktime records at a maximum bit depth of 24-bit. Audacity's default workspace is 32-bit float, so when opening any audio file, it could appear like it's a 32-bit float recording. The M3 manual states the USB output at 48kHz, 24-bit and to my knowledge, there are only 2 devices on the market that actually output 32-bit float (the ZOOM UAC-232 & the RODE NT1 5th gen). While 32-bit floating point audio is not necessarily new technology, recording in 32-bit float digitally on a PC in a DAW is. Most programs have 32-bit float workspaces (for lack of a better term) in which they can manipulate 32-bit float files to recover audio information (that wouldn't be present in a 24-bit recording). But these same programs are not necessarily enabled to actively record in 32-bit float (both aforementioned devices have compatibility issues with certain DAWs). I surmise eventually, everyone will get on board with 32-bit float but industry wide change and adoption is probably going to be a slow and painful process. I think most see this change as a massive amount of work and effort for what is perceived as a marginal benefit. But hopefully one day, mics and cameras will all be 32-bit float. Only time will tell lol!

[@MarkShawMedia]

How is this mic compared to let's say, the zoom h5 for doing ambient nature sound recordings?

[@TheSkrylar]

@@WayneRECs USB mode isn't 32-bit, but recording software can be asked to convert whatever comes in to them as 32-bit. That could be what happened.

[@venuslnd]

When you edit the files, which one do you use? Regular one or Raw?

[@WayneRECs]

Thanks for asking! I generally use the regular file in my edits. I would only utilize the raw file if I needed to convert the recording from mono to stereo or vice versa.

[@andreasirgang4484]

Hi Wayne, do you agree, that the normalization in the edit & play software does not make sense if i have a recording with very large and very small level in one file? For me the normalization and compressing etc. need to be done in the post production with splitted pieces from the file. Thanks for an answer, Andreas

[@WayneRECs]

Hi Andreas! Thanks for your comments! For me personally, I only use the Edit & Play software if I want to convert a recording from Mono to Stereo or vice versa. With this I would typically use the RAW wav file. However, if I only need to make level adjustments in post, I'll typically do that either in a DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) like Adobe Audition or in my editing software (Davinci Resolve) and in those cases I'm using the normal wav file. Hope this helps!

[@antoniusvandermeijde5054]

does it also have blue tooth timecode like the F2

[@WayneRECs]

No, unfortunately no BT capabilities.

[@sjfsupport]

RF issues are resolved: please update your video - now its perfect!!

[@shubertmedia4277]

I hoped this would be a good field recorder setup, but alas, it only records in 48khz/24...all the 32bit float goodness in the world can't make up for that... no where did I see the specs or research further, so that is on me, but they should have to call out max khz as much as they do the 32bit float. I think this will have a great spot in the world, but not for high quality field recording for resale samples. Just my two cents. Great video though, you always do it right.

[@JeffBourke]

Omg I didn’t realise it was stereo! What a shame! I HATE stereo microphones. Just awful!!!

[@caseyd6602]

I tried to watch this because I was interested. Your ridiculous white glasses were so distracting I couldn’t