Blackmagic Design has announced the Blackmagic Ambisonic Microphone. According to the company, it is the world’s first 7th-order ambisonic microphone with 108 MEMS microphones and a built-in spatial encoder, allowing capture of spatial audio over a single USB-C cable
The microphone consists of 108 MEMS microphones that have been placed into a rugged aluminum sphere, allowing users to capture full 360-degree directional sound. A built-in spatial encoder processes the sound from the capsules internally, allowing it to output 64 channels of 32-bit audio. Audio from the 64 channels and power run over a single USB-C cable.
Key features
- Microphone Array. It packs 108 MEMS microphones into a rugged aluminum sphere to capture full 360-degree directional sound.
- 7th-Order Ambisonics. A built-in spatial encoder processes the capsules internally to output 64 channels of 32-bit audio.
- Single-Cable Workflow. All 64 channels and power run over a single USB-C cable, eliminating the need for external multi-channel preamps or recorders.
- Ecosystem Integration. It is built to pair directly with DaVinci Resolve Studio, Fairlight Live, and cameras like the Blackmagic URSA Cine Immersive.
Blackmagic Design also has an Ambisonic Recorder for macOS.
There isn’t currently much more information about the microphone, but it will be available in December for $1,909 USD. There will also be a kit that includes the Blackmagic Ambisonic Microphone and Blackmagic Ambisonic Microphone Mount, plus a windshield for reducing wind noise on location and a locking USB-C cable for secure attachment.
7th-Order Ambisonics. A built-in spatial encoder processes the capsules internally to output 64 channels of 32-bit audio.
Single-Cable Workflow. All 64 channels