How to Build a Brahma Ambisonic Microphone

The Zoom H2n is the successor of the H2 microphone. Brahma micro capsules in the Zoom H2n are small and convenient to use but capture more noise. By introducing bigger 14mm capsules that capture less noise in a tetrahedral array to the Zoom H2n microphone, it can be modified as an ambisonic microphone.

An ambisonic microphone is used to capture full 3D sound without the concern of placement with respect to the source of sound. The microphone captures sounds from all directions, in a 360 degree manner to give a full sphere spatial surround sound experience. In conventional recordings, much of the quality of the recording is determined by which microphones you choose (omni, cardioid, hyper-cardioid) and how and where you place them. But, in an ambisonic recording, much of this is still in your control after the recording. You can create virtual microphones of different patterns, angles and rotate them. An ambisonic microphone also helps record audio with minimal noise, owing to larger 14mm capsules used.

This DIY document will help you build your own ambisonic microphone at home using a Zoom H2n recorder. This will also guide you through the process of calibrating the built microphone and getting it up and ready for uses as diverse as professional field recordings, virtual reality, music production, film soundtracks, etc.

Please click on the link above to access the DIY.