✓ This is not a sponsored review.
In this article, I review the Zoom F3 based on my actual experience using it after purchase.

To summarize my review: the XLR balanced inputs, 32-bit float recording, and compact size make it unique. For situations where multi-track recording isn’t needed, this one device is sufficient. With only two inputs, it is perfect for stereo recording or using special microphones like contact mics and hydrophones. The limited functionality makes it very user-friendly and convenient.


Overview

Zoom F3 Professional Field Recorder

  • Input: 2 channels / XLR balanced / Phantom power (+24 / +48 V)
  • Output: 2 channels / PHONE, LINE
  • Recording format: 44.1/48/ 88.2/96/192 kHz, 32-bit float mono/stereo
  • Media: microSD up to 1TB (to be confirmed)

For an overview, refer to the official Zoom description below:

  • 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.

Example of solid vibration sound recording. (Geofón – LOM Audio)

It is easy to use even in unpredictable field recording situations and for beginners.

In typical field recording, appropriate input level settings are made to avoid clipping and noise. Usually, the gain is adjusted to -12db when pointing the mic at the target sound.

With the Zoom F3, dual AD converters and 32-bit float allow recording without adjusting the gain, making it possible to record just by turning on the power. This eliminates concerns about gain-related clipping in unpredictable field recording environments, making it a user-friendly device for beginners.

  • Dual AD Converters
    The Zoom F3 features dual AD converters for low and high gain. Normally, the gain level is adjusted based on the loudness of the sound being recorded. Low gain lowers the gain level for loud sounds, while high gain increases the gain level for faint sounds. With dual AD converters, the Zoom F3 can record loud sounds without clipping and capture faint sounds with a high S/N ratio, minimizing self-noise.
  • 32-bit float
    This recording format accurately captures sounds from faint to loud. In audio recording, bit depth represents the dynamic range without distortion. Especially for faint sounds, it records details finely, allowing reproduction of non-degraded sound even after normalization.

⚠️ While the dual AD converters and 32-bit float enable accurate recording without clipping, checking the microphone specifications is necessary.

Essential Features in a Palm-sized Recorder

Design and Build Quality

The Zoom F3 features a compact and robust design. Its two XLR balanced inputs for stereo recording and palm-sized compactness are appealing. It can be attached with Velcro to arms or boom mics, making it valuable for demanding field recording. The aluminum body is durable against shocks and environmental changes, suitable for outdoor use.

Inputs and Outputs

It has two XLR balanced inputs and two stereo mini-jack outputs (PHONE, LINE). It also supports phantom power (+24/+48V) required for condenser mics. The recording format is WAV, and sampling rates can be chosen from 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 192 kHz.

Usability and Interface

The Zoom F3 features an intuitive and simple interface. The large LCD screen is highly visible, with a backlight that makes it easy to read even in nighttime field recording environments. The physical buttons are sturdy and easy to press, allowing smooth operation during recording.

Battery Life and Storage

Many sources claim that it operates for eight hours on two AA batteries, but the actual continuous usage time varies with conditions. For general recording using condenser mics with phantom power and monitoring headphones, it lasts around two hours. The manual example shows about two hours with alkaline batteries at 48 kHz / 32-bit float, 2 channels, microSD card recording, headphone use, and phantom power (48V, 5mA). For long recording sessions, it supports USB bus power, allowing extended recording time with a portable battery. It uses microSD cards, supporting up to 1TB.

Additional Features

It can also be controlled wirelessly via smartphones or tablets. Attach a dedicated wireless adapter (like the BTA-1) to the F3 and use the dedicated controller app “F3 Control.” It can also be used as an audio interface.

Zoom F3: Pros and Cons, Summary

Pros

  • Compact and very user-friendly.
  • Can be used without worrying about gain adjustment due to 32-bit float recording.
  • Very easy to set up.

Cons

  • Limited to two inputs, so multi-track recording is not possible.
  • Not suitable for long recording sessions on battery power (an external battery is recommended).
  • No gain adjustment, so levels may exceed depending on mic sensitivity.

The Zoom F3 is a favorite among many field recordists due to its usability. Having one as a mobile secondary recorder is very convenient. It is recommended for a wide range of users, from those seeking professional sound quality to beginners.

As an additional note, the battery compartment has a strap for easy battery removal, a small detail that reflects thoughtful user consideration, which I personally appreciate.

BGD_SOUNDS (barbe_generative_diary SOUNDS)

barbe_generative_diary SOUNDS will start sharing and selling a variety of field recordings collected for use in my artwork “Sound Visualization” experiments. All sounds are royalty-free.

Link / BGD_SOUNDS on bandcamp