Zoom debuts Q3 Handy Video Recorder
July 21, 2009 by Robin Parrish
Filed under Electronics
The Q3 Handy Video Recorder by Zoom sets itself apart from the crowded market of portable camcorders by including professional-quality audio recording equipment that’s internal to the device. The Q3 has two condenser microphones on board, using the same X/Y pattern that gives the pros the best stereo recording possible. It records audio at 24-bit/48 kHz for high-def audio that can even “focus” the mics on the sound source of your choice.
The Q3 features a 2.4-inch LCD display that includes audio level meters, battery indicator, time elapsed, and video display. It accepts up to a 32 GB SDHC card delivering up to 16 hours of recording time. Uploading is done via a built-in USB cable that snakes around the camera’s base, waiting to be unfurled and plugged into your PC. Two AA batteries is all it takes to power the Q3 for two hours, at true 640 x 480 resolution. (See the full specs below.) The Q3 includes Zoom’s HandyShare software for editing and uploading of videos to YouTube.
It’s a sleek, smartly-built device, and if it works as well as it looks, it could be a real winner. The price is right too, coming in just under $250.
Zoom Q3 Handy Video Recorder – complete specs
Recording Time: up to 16 hours with a 32GB SD card
Built-in Stereo Microphones: same X/Y stereo condenser microphones as the award-winning H4n
Audio Format with Video: 44.1/48kHz 16/24-bit Linear PCM or MP3 audio up to 320kbps
Audio Only: 96kHz 16/24-bit Linear PCM
LCD Screen Size: 2.4 Inches, 320 x 240 Resolution
Video Recording Quality: 640 x 480 Resolution
Frame Rate: 30 frames per second
Video Format: MPEG-4 SP
Optics Lens Type: fixed focus (0.8m to infinity)
Battery Type: two AA batteries provide up to 2 hours of life (alkaline or Ni-MH rechargeable compatible)
Computer Connectivity: USB 2.0 with cable built-in
Built-in Speaker: designed for immediate playback
TV Output: NTSC / PAL
Tripod Mount: built-in
Included Software: HandyShare built-in editing and YouTube uploading software & Apple Quicktime
Retail price: $249.00
Image: Samson Technologies Corp.
