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MagyarSony launches three wireless microphones for content creators: ECM-W3, ECM-W3S and ECM-S1
Sony has been strongly targeting content-creators with its ZV series of mirrorless and compact vlog cameras. Now, it’s adding to that ecosystem with three newly released wireless microphones that cover a range of shooting scenarios.
The ECM-W3 has two compact microphone-transmitters and a two-channel receiver for interviews or two-person streaming, while the ECM-W3S is the solo version with one microphone and a single-channel receiver. Both have a 6 hour battery life and include charging cases. The mic units have a handy noise-cut switch for reducing harsh ambient noise, a low-cut filter for low-frequency sounds like wind and vibrations, as well as an included windscreen for stronger winds. An attenuation switch can suppress the signal by either 10 or 20 dB.
The receiver module is designed to be mounted on Sony’s Multi-Interface (MI) shoe, through which it sends digital audio directly to the camera. For recording to other devices, it also has USB-C and 3.5 mm connectors. A safety button guards against signal clipping by recording a duplicate audio stream at -20 dB. The system uses Bluetooth 5.3 LE and LC3Plus codec for lag-free transmission up to 150 m (~490 ft), and the receiver outputs 48kHz/24-bit digital audio.
The ECM-S1 has a traditional desktop form factor with a tilting stand (made popular by the Blue Yeti), while retaining wireless transmission, and is suited for higher quality audio and musical vocal applications. There is a knob for setting mic gain, a row of LEDs for feedback on levels, and a headphone jack for monitoring. Its three 14 mm capsules enable three pickup modes: uni-directional, omni-directional and stereo, the latter two being ideal for capturing multiple speakers, a musical duo or ensemble.
The ECM-S1 features the same noise-cut and low-cut filters as the ECM-W3, and includes a mesh pop-filter. The wireless system is also the same, but it can also be plugged directly into a computer via USB-C. In that case, the mic acts like an audio interface, so one can monitor the mix of signals from the mic and from the computer on the headphones and adjust it using a separate knob.
The ECM-S1 is truly unique and unrivaled, being the only desktop streaming mic that can operate cable-free. It will appeal to a lot of content creators seeking a clean, uncluttered look. The ECM-W3 and ECM-W3S, however, face tough competition from the newly released Rode Wireless PRO, which offers more advanced features, longer range and superior 32-bit float recording at a lower US$399 price. Rode’s GO mics, the DJI Mic and Hollyland Lark M1 are also significant challengers.
All three products can be pre-ordered now on Sony’s website. The ECM-S1 is priced at US$470 and starts shipping in October, while the ECM-W3 and ECM-W3S are priced at US$470 and US$350 respectively, and starts shipping in November.
Until then you can buy the excellent Rode Wireless GO II 2-person microphone system on Amazon
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