Field Recording Checklist for Clean Nature Sound – Zoom F3 & RØDE/C-2 Mics
This checklist helps ensure my field sound recordings are clean, well-balanced, and free of technical issues. I use it as a quick reference before hitting record with any of my core setups.
Last changed on 2025-05-13
Behringer C-2 Pair + Zoom F3 (Stereo Ambient Setup)
Use Case: Natural stereo ambiences (forest, wetlands, parks)
To avoid handling noise at the start and end of recordings, the Zoom F3 is controlled via its iOS app. This eliminates the need to approach or move away from the microphone, reducing the risk of capturing footstep sounds. The Zoom F3’s Bluetooth control (available as an optional accessory) functions reliably at distances of up to 10 meters. For efficient post-production, it's better to record one long stretch—20 minutes or more—rather than multiple short recordings from different locations.
Mic Setup (ORTF recommended)
- Spacing: ~17 cm capsule-to-capsule
- Angle: ~110° (each mic angled ~55° outward)
- Height: Ear level or near ground for desired perspective
- Wind Protection: Foam + furry cover (deadcat) if breezy
- Switches on mic bodies:
- Flat (default)
- Use Low-Cut (~) only if heavy rumble or wind
- -10 dB pad off unless recording very loud sources
Zoom F3 Setup (remote with iOS app)
- Phantom Power ON (for both channels)
- Input type: MIC
- 32-bit float recording
- Optional: Adjust metering using “Input Level Boost” - does not affect gain
- Record format: 48 kHz / 32-bit WAV - Recommended for high-quality audio with maximum dynamic range
RØDE NTG-2 + Zoom F3 (Mono Focused Animal or Ambience)
Use Case: Specific animal call or natural mono ambiance
Mic Setup
- Mic orientation: Point directly at subject or interesting area
- Wind protection: Always use foam or deadcat
- HPF Switch on Mic:
- OFF (flat) for full-range natural sound
- ON for traffic rumble or persistent wind
Zoom F3 Setup
- Phantom Power ON (unless battery powering mic)
- Input: MIC (Channel 1 or 2)
- 32-bit float enabled
- Record mono or stereo (duplicate channel) as preferred
- Optional Input Level Boost (e.g. x8) for metering visibility
RØDE VideoMic NTG + Camera (Nikon Z8)
Use Case: On-camera mono audio with natural sound or synced reference
Set the mic gain dial to maximum (15) and leave it fixed. Adjust only the camera's mic input level to prevent clipping during recording. This avoids juggling two controls in the field. The camera’s input level is easier to monitor and adjust whereas accessing the mic’s physical gain dial is impractical.
Mic Setup
- Power: ON (Green LED lit)
- High-Frequency Boost: ON Recommended when using a Deadcat to recover lost high frequencies.
- High-Pass Filter (HPF):
- 75 Hz ON for general nature recording
- 150 Hz ON for windy conditions or close mic use
- Safety Channel: ON -20 dB backup channel active (check LED near -20 mark)
- Gain Dial: Full (setting 15) Maximizes clean signal from mic, minimizes reliance on noisy camera preamps
Camera Setup – Nikon Z8
- Mic Input Sensitivity: Manual, set to 15 Adjust to keep main channel peaks around -12 dB; avoid hitting 0 dB
- Attenuator: OFF Not needed with mic's internal safety channel
- Frequency Response: Wide Captures full natural sound spectrum
- Wind Noise Reduction: OFF Handled physically by mic and Deadcat
- Mic Jack Plug-in Power: ON Required for automatic mic power on/off
Disclaimer
I am not sponsored by, affiliated with, or receiving any incentives from any brands or products featured in this article. All equipment and software mentioned was purchased at market price, and any mention of specific brands or products is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a recommendation.