Maurice ORTF- 3D Kit

Product Overview

The Maurice ORTF-3D Kit is a compact immersive microphone array system designed for 3D and spatial audio recording. It uses multiple capsules arranged in an ORTF-3D configuration to capture sound from all directions, including vertical information.

Unlike traditional microphones, Maurice is a multi-capsule recording system, combining eight microphones into a single integrated structure for immersive audio capture.

Design & Performance

Maurice is based on a symmetrical ORTF-3D array, using eight capsules arranged in pairs to capture directional audio across a three-dimensional sound field. This configuration enables recording formats suitable for immersive playback systems such as surround and spatial audio environments.

Each microphone element is positioned to contribute to a coherent stereo and spatial image, allowing accurate reproduction of soundstage width, depth, and height. Compared to traditional stereo techniques, this approach captures significantly more spatial information.

The system uses JLI-160A11UC680 capsules, selected for consistency and performance. Combined with a repeatable physical layout, this enables reliable results across builds.

The microphones are mounted within a 3D-printed structural frame, designed to maintain precise geometry while remaining compact and portable. Optional windscreen frames can be added for outdoor recording applications.

Maurice provides an accessible entry point into immersive audio recording, offering performance that would otherwise require significantly more expensive commercial systems.

What’s Included

• 8 × JLI-160A11UC680 capsules
• 8 × Neutrik XLR connectors
• Neutrik colored boots for channel identification
• 8 × 12' Mogami W2697 cable sections
• 3D printed microphone structure
• 3D printed windscreen frames
• Required capacitors and resistors

Key Features

• ORTF-3D microphone array for immersive recording
• Eight matched capsules for spatial capture
• Compact 3D-printed structure for portability
• Complete kit with wiring and connectors

Applications

• Immersive audio and spatial recording
• Field recording and environmental capture
• Film, VR, and surround sound production
• Experimental and advanced recording techniques

Who This Kit Is For

Maurice is intended for builders and recordists interested in immersive audio and multi-channel recording techniques. It is well suited for users working in spatial audio, surround sound, or experimental recording environments.

Technical Description

The ORTF-3D configuration uses multiple directional microphones arranged in a defined geometry to capture spatial cues across a full 3D sound field. Each capsule contributes to the overall recording, which can then be decoded or mixed for immersive playback systems.

The system relies on precise positioning and matched components rather than complex internal electronics, making it both effective and repeatable for DIY construction.

• Full Spatial Capture
  Captures sound across horizontal and vertical planes.
• Multi-Channel Output
  Provides multiple discrete signals for post-processing and spatial mixing.
• Repeatable Geometry
  3D-printed structure ensures consistent microphone placement.
• Expandable Recording Workflows
  Compatible with a range of immersive and surround audio formats.

Build & Demo Resources

Video Overview:
Maurice ORTF-3D Microphone Demo

Build Guide:
Step-by-step build instructions

Audio Samples:
Listen to Maurice recordings

What Else Is Required

A multi-channel audio interface or recorder is required to capture all channels of the array. Assembly involves wiring multiple capsules and connectors, along with mechanical assembly of the structure.

Helpful Pairings

For additional components and accessories, see our DIY microphone parts and accessories.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is ORTF-3D?
ORTF-3D is a multi-microphone recording technique designed to capture immersive audio with spatial accuracy.

Is this a single microphone?
No. Maurice is a multi-capsule microphone array system that outputs multiple channels for spatial recording.

Is this a complete kit?
Yes. This kit includes all components required to build the microphone array.