Shure, the audio company behind products like the SM7dB mic, has released the MoveMic Lav, a compact wireless Lavalier microphone. The mic is available in single and dual-channel options with the MoveMic One and MoveMic Two. The competition in wireless mic systems keeps growing with Shure, DJI, and RØDE, among others, expanding and upgrading their catalog. 

MoveMic Lav’s main features

The MoveMic Lav features an omnidirectional pickup pattern that ensures clear sound and is easy to place. The included windscreen helps reduce unwanted noises. The mic has two operating modes, normal RF power and high RF power. The last one is helpful when the source is farther away or to overcome interference (high RF power is only available in the U.S.).

Users can configure the MoveMic Lav audio settings using the free ShurePlus MOTIV video or audio apps. Gain, limiter, compression, etc., can be configured in the apps at a distance of up to 100’. Shure’s in-app Bluetooth technology prioritizes audio input rather than playback, a traditional Bluetooth priority. This lets you record two people simultaneously with reliable, quality audio.

The mic’s pairing is straightforward both to the phone (via the MOTIV video app) and to the MoveMic Receiver. Once paired, the device reconnects automatically when removed from the charging case and powered on. 

Direct connection to the phone is only recommended when using MOTIV apps. For third-party apps or other devices such as cameras or computers, the dual-channel MoveMic Receiver is available.

Size, build quality, and battery life

In some situations, such as high-end documentaries, we want to hide our microphones from the shot. The MoveMic Lav is small and discreet, and it can be hidden by placing the clip facing outwards. Also, according to the company, the mic is water resistant, making it suitable for outdoor and heavy weather conditions. 

The MoveMic Lav has an internal battery, rechargeable by using the MoveMic Charging Case (not included). The battery life is around 11 hours, or 8 hours if using high RF power. There is an additional feature of 24 hours of recording by charging two eight-hour charges on the charge case.

MoveMic Lav Highlights 

• Additional Mic for MoveMic One System
• Mini Clip-On Mic/Transmitter
• Record Direct to Phone via MOTIV Apps
• Ultracompact, Quick and Easy to Use
• IPX4 Water-Resistant
• 100′ Range
• Includes Windscreen
• 8-Hour Rechargeable Battery
• Charging Case Not Included

Price and availability

The MoveMic Lav is now available at $129, and the MoveMic Receiver costs $199. The Shure MoveMic Two receiver kit sells at $499, and there is also an option for recording one person, the MoveMic One kit, selling at $249.

What do you think of the Shure MoveMic Lav? Would you use it as a part of your equipment? Let us know in the comments below!

Chinese audio manufacturer Saramonic launched the Blink500 wireless microphone system back in 2019. A year later, they launched the Blink 500 Pro that, as its name suggests, was targeted more at professional content creators with bigger transmitters and a charging case.

After nearly five years, a revamp of the popular Blink500 was well overdue, introducing the Blink500 B2+.

Saramonic Blink500 B2+ – features

The Saramonic Blink500 B2+ consists of one receiver, two transmitters, a charging case, and a set of connectors/cables. This wireless microphone system uses the popular 2.4GHz bandwidth – similar to other RØDE, Hollyland, and DJI microphones, to list a few – and has a maximum range of 150m/492ft.

According to Saramonic, the Blink500 B2+ has a signal-to-noise ratio of 80dB, a 20 to 20KHz frequency range, and a 48K/24bit sampling and bit rate. On the receiver, you can select the audio output to Mono, Stereo, or a safety track. Please note that the Blink500 B2+ doesn’t record audio internally, so the safety track is only used for streaming.

Audio receiver

The audio receiver features a built-in clip that doubles as a cold-shoe adapter to mount it on your camera. On the right side, you’ll find a power and menu button, an OLED screen at the front of the unit, and two blue indicators showing how many transmitters are connected to the receiver.

On the left side of the receiver, you’ll find a 3.5mm audio output and a dedicated 3.5mm headphone jack to monitor your signal if your camera doesn’t have a headphone jack. Also, you can use the receiver’s headphone jack to monitor your sound if the receiver is connected to a smartphone/tablet/computer.

At the bottom of the receiver, you’ll find a USB Type-C port, charging pins, and a proprietary connector.

This proprietary connector is used to plug the included lightning and USB-C adapters magnetically. This means that you can connect the receiver of the Blink500 B2+ to a smartphone, tablet, or even computer and record audio using the free Saramonic App. When connected to a smartphone or tablet, you can use the USB-C port on the Blink500 B2+ receiver to power your device.

Lastly, the transmitter has a built-in low-cut filter to clean noises in the 75-150Hz spectrum.

Saramonic Blink500 B2+ – transmitters

The Saramonic Blink500 B2+ transmitters feature a built-in omnidirectional microphone, a power button, and a new blue noise reduction button. There are two noise reduction levels, but the kit also comes with windshields to further reduce unwanted noises. Please note that the transmitters don’t have any 3.5mm audio input, so your only option is to use the built-in microphone.

You’ll find a USB Type-C port on the left side of the transmitters, and there is a built-in magnetic clip at the back of the unit. You can back-clip the transmitter to your shirt or use the magnetic attachment to attach it to a dress or costume, for example.

Charging case and battery life

As previously mentioned, the Blink500 B2+ comes with a charging case. At the back of the case, you’ll find a USB Type-C port to charge it and charge the transmitters, plus the receiver.

According to Saramonic, the transmitters have a battery life of 16 hours, and the receiver can go up to 20 hours. Also, when the charging case is fully charged, it can supply a single complete recharge for both the transmitters and receiver.

Price and availability

The Saramonic Blink500 B2+ is available now for $126. In the box, you’ll find the charging case with one receiver and two transmitters, one 3.5mm TRS cable, one 3.5mm TRRS cable, the proprietary USB-C and lightning connectors for the receiver, magnet clips, fur windshields, and a bag.

To me, and if the audio quality is good, this is a solid offering from Saramonic. Indeed, as a direct comparison, the RØDE Wireless Me is $149 with only one transmitter, and the DJI Mic 2 retails for $349 but has a 32-bit float audio recording option.

For more information, please visit Saramonic’s website here.

What do you think about the Blink500 B2+? Did you get the first version and now consider upgrading to this one? What is your go-to wireless microphone system? Don’t hesitate to let us know in the comments down below!

American camera accessories specialist Zacuto introduced the Smart Z-Finder in November 2022. This unique smartphone EVF/loupe solution is an interesting rigging option if you often shoot with your smartphone and want to take it to the next level. My colleague Nino met with Steve Weiss, Zacuto’s head product designer, to discuss the future of smartphone filmmaking here.

During the launch of the Smart Z-Finder, Zacuto teased an upcoming accessory, the MicroBOOM, which is now available for pre-order.

Zacuto MicroBOOM – features

The Zacuto MicroBOOM is a carbon fiber boom that extends from 14 to 35″/35 to 88cm. The MicroBOOM only weighs 6oz/170g and is internally cabled with a 3.5mm audio cable.

The particularity of the MicroBOOM is that it is designed to be attached to your camera directly, whether a cinema, mirrorless camera, or even a smartphone. The boom attaches to your camera via a built-in NATO rail on one side. You can also adjust the angle of the boom via a dedicated knob and rosette.

On the other end of the MicroBOOM, you’ll find a cold shoe mount that can support lightweight microphones up to 60g/2.11oz. It features a basic tilt head, so you can also adjust the angle of the microphone with one turn of a knob.

Price and availability

The Zacuto MicroBOOM is available for pre-order now until February 14th for $125, which is $40 off the regular $165 price. There are 150 units available for pre-order, and it should start shipping at the end of March 2024.

For more information, please visit Zacuto’s website here.

What do you think about the MicroBOOM? Do you think it would be a helpful addition to your kit? Do you often have to boom talents as a one-man-band filmmaker, or do you prefer to use a lav mic? Don’t hesitate to let us know in the comments below!

The H1essential is the entry-level model, sporting an X/Y mic module capable of handling up to 120 dB and an analog 3.5mm input. It features a monochrome OLED unit for indication and can record two channels of 32-bit. The H4essential follows the popular dual XLR-1/4″ TRS Combo Inputs with preamps and an X/Y mic module. The X/Y module on the H4essential will handle up to 130 dB. As its name suggests, four channels are available and there’s a niche color LCD for monitoring. The H6essential ups the game by adding two more channels for a total of six. The X/Y module here will handle up to 135 dB and is also hot-swappable.

32-bit float taking over

It’s been a long time since NAB 2019 and the first introduction of the Zoom F6, a revolutionary field recorder. Since then, many other companies and products have hopped on the 32-bit train, providing sound personnel with an impeccable dynamic range.

Zoom launched several 32-bit float recorders, and now this trio covers the entire field recording segment with these classics updated.

Physical design

All three essential products feature a rather futuristic, all-black angular design. I don’t know about their radar signature, but they seem quite stealthy and unobtrusive. All three feature new screens. The H1essential gets a bright monochromatic OLED and the other two get larger color LCD units. All three work with a single microSDXC card (up to 1TB), and can be powered by an AC adapter (included), USB-C, or batteries. The essential series will also incorporate unique accessibility features in the form of an audible menu for the visually impaired.

H1essential

This is the most basic product in the series. Featuring an X/Y mic with a single 3.5mm input and a headphone output, this compact device can be used as a field recorder, mainly aimed at ambient sound. It will also work as an on-camera mic, elevating sound and recording quality while maintaining compactness. Two AAA batteries will support around 10 hours of recording.

H4essential

Following the popular H4 design, this field recorder offers two XLR-1/4″ TRS Combo Inputs with preamps, and both can provide phantom power. On the ‘Front’ side, we’ll find the X/Y microphones with the color LCD and controls occupying the top panel. A pair of AA batteries will enable 9-20 hours of recording, depending on the battery type. An optional BTA-1 Bluetooth Adapter will add the option of a remote control should you include it in the package. The H4essential is a versatile device. A single operator will find its simplicity and wide dynamic range invaluable. A soundperson or an audio professional may also use it in the field and on set, combining compactness with essential professional features.

H6essential

The bigger brother of the essential triplet, the H6essential fills the gap between the H4essential and the Zoom F3, to the larger F6. With four XLR-1/4″ TRS Combo Inputs, it can take control of many different sound sources. If that’s not enough, the X/Y module is interchangeable, enabling various operating patterns such as a directional shotgun mic, two additional XLR inputs, etc. As with the H4essential, this one is also compatible with the optional BTA-1 Bluetooth Adapter. Although the general design resembles the older H6 field recorder, all physical gain dials are missing. This looks like a poor design decision until one recalls that 32-bit recording doesn’t require many gain adjustments. The H6essential is operated by four AA batteries. Operation time varies depending on the number of channels recorded, phantom power, and other variants. For reference, it will provide about 18 hours with four AA Alkaline batteries, 2 channels, recording, and a built-in mic.

Who are they for?

The new essential line is a fairly straightforward upgrade to the popular H1, H4n, and H6. They will do about the same with the (significant) added bonus of 32-bit float recording. If you are using one of their predecessors and want a higher dynamic range, just go for the respective successor.

Alternatives

The market holds some great 32-bit recorders. The TASCAM Portacapture X8 and X6 offers similar features to the H6essential and the H4essential respectively. The TASCAM includes a larger screen, especially on the X8. This screen has its pros and cons. While very nice to operate, it is prone to scratches and can break. It will also draw more battery power. The Portacapture X8 is also significantly pricier at $400 compared to the Zoom H6essential, competitively priced at $300. As for the mid-line field recorder – the TASCAM Portacapture X6 is priced at $300 compared to the H4essential at $200. Aside from the price, the X6 uses two XLR ports compared to the H4essential’s combo inputs. In terms of price/performance, it seems like a clear victory for the new Zooms. If 32-bit recording isn’t necessary, the older 24-bit models may save some money and are still available.

Price and availability

The Zoom essential series recorders are available for pre-order. The H1essential will cost $99, the H4essential will cost $199 and the H6essential will set you back $299.

Will you opt for the new essential recorders? Will they replace their direct predecessors or are you upgrading from another brand? Is 32-bit recording the future, or is it just a gimmick to you? Let us know in the comments.

Back at Cine Gear 2023, Tilta showcased the Zombie Rig boompole support system that allows sound recordists to operate in a more comfortable position. In case you missed it, make sure to check out our Cine Gear interview below.

Tilta Zombie Rig – features

Constructed of aluminum alloy, carbon fiber, and polyurethane plastics, the Zombie Rig is designed to redistribute the weight of the traditional boom pole. It even allows one-handed operation allowing for adaptability in recording to adjust audio levels on your recorder of choice. Often, the sound department on set will be a one-person show, so I could see multiple use cases for this sort of apparatus.

It is compatible with a wide variety of boom poles and sound mixer bags. The connection between the Zombie Rig and the mixer bag is accomplished via baby pin connectors. This also allows for connection to C-stands or support vests. The included brackets attach to various thicknesses of boom poles, accomplished with the use of shims.

The most integral part of the system is the Operating Bracket, which connects to the back of the boom pole. The operating pole is used to guide the direction of the microphone and is weighted to counterbalance the weight distribution of the microphone held at long lengths. Therefore, you can manipulate directionality with the operating pole, while the support pole rests on your bag or vest.

Tilta’s Zombie Rig weighs 14.6 lbs/6.7 kgs and can be disassembled for storage in a bag one meter long (included) – a negligible addition to your on-set gear.

Is it worth it?

While I can see the benefits of this system, it comes with a hefty price tag. It is currently on pre-order for $719 (this price includes 10% off until the 6th of February if ordering directly from Tilta’s website). I suppose that at this price, the Zombie Rig isn’t aimed at indie filmmakers who would probably most benefit from this system. Nevertheless, I’m sure you’re also subsidizing the cost of Tilta’s research and development into this system as much as you are the actual system itself with the purchase. If you’re interested, you can pre-order on Tilta’s website.

What do you think about Tilta’s Zombie Rig Boompole Support System? I would personally like to see more affordable gear made available for smaller productions, but this is a pretty cool innovation for sound mixers! Let us know your opinion in the comments below!

As the number of content creators keeps growing, there is a need in the industry for small but versatile audio and video devices that deliver reasonable quality while staying under the ‘affordable’ label. Aware of this niche, brands like RØDE, Hollyland, and DJI launched some of their most popular kits that are now leading the sales.

Same features, dual transmitter, and two colors

After the release of the RØDE Wireless GO, the company completed their ultra-compact wireless mic systems with the Wireless PRO and the Wireless ME, an affordable version with fewer features but still enough for the less demanding content creator. Ideal for users looking for a simple and easy-to-set-up solution, RØDE has now announced a new version with a Dual Transmitter (the original Wireless ME included a single transmitter and a receiver). The new version will be available in either black or white for those looking for a solution when working with talents wearing light-colored clothing, like brides. (Assuming that the bride won’t mind the black big logo on the transmitter attached to her dress)…

The dual Wireless ME will expand the users’ possibilities, allowing for two simultaneous recordings – or three, if we activate the built-in receiver. The rest of the features remain the same: 2.4GHz digital transmission up to a range of 100 meters, compatibility with cameras, smartphones, and computers, and GainAssist technology for automatic control of audio levels, etc.

Price and availability 

The RØDE Wireless ME dual transmitter version will be available in the spring of 2024 and will sell for $199. Stay tuned!

What do you think of RØDE’s wireless audio systems? Have you used them in the past? Please let us know in the comments below!

2.4GHz wireless audio sets – DJI, RØDE, and others

When it comes to affordable 2.4GHz wireless audio sets, there are already many companies in this market segment, some of which are introducing very capable sets, such as the Hollyland LARK MAX, which was released last year in June (in case you missed it, check out Johnnie’s review). I think, however, that DJI and RØDE are the ones, who have been leading this category of products for the past few years.

It seems to me that these two companies have been playing a kind of “back-and-forth game” by each releasing new products that try to improve, bring new functions, and push the limits of what a 2.4GHz wireless audio set can do. Let’s take a brief look at the timeline.

In February 2021, RØDE Wireless GO II (set with two transmitters) was announced and shortly after that, in November of the same year, the first generation DJI Mic – the company’s first wireless audio recording set – was announced and became available a few months later in April 2022. In some ways, DJI Mic outperformed the Wireless GO II by including the charging case for the whole set, making the transmitters smaller, and so on.

Last year in August, the Australian audio company released the RØDE Wireless PRO set which brought 32-bit audio recording, timecode, and other new features. Well, today, DJI comes with a new wireless audio system that will try to fare against the RØDE Wireless PRO. Let’s take a quick look at the new DJI Mic 2.

DJI Mic 2 – refining the first generation

The standard DJI Mic 2 set comes with two transmitter units (TX), one receiver unit (RX) and a charging case. It operates in the 2.4GHz frequency, which can unfortunately often be quite crowded and prone to interference, but thankfully the transmitters support internal recording.

The DJI Mic 2 promises to support a wide range of recording devices. DJI claims it can be connected to DJI Osmo Action 4, DJI Osmo Pocket 3, and smartphone devices via Bluetooth (without the RX unit). For cameras and other devices, the receiver (RX) offers USB-C and Lightning adapters as well as a 3.5mm TRS analog output.

The receiver unit has a 1.1″ OLED touchscreen that provides access to critical information and can be used to adjust volume, gain, brightness, and more. Newly, there is also a physical knob. The RX unit has a 3.5mm headphone jack for monitoring, which might be useful when using it with a phone for instance.

TX units with 32-bit float internal recording

Each transmitter has a built-in mic with omnidirectional recording and intelligent noise-canceling technology which should reduce environmental noise (this cannot be enabled when the transmitter is connected to a smartphone via Bluetooth). The TX mics can be equipped with the included windscreen to lower wind noise in the audio recordings. Every TX unit also supports external mics via a 3.5mm input jack. Each transmitter has dimensions of 46.06 × 30.96 × 21.83mm and weighs 28g.

DJI Mic 2 offers dual-channel recording, so users can capture audio from two sources simultaneously. Each transmitter is equipped with 8GB of internal storage that can store up to 14 hours of 48kHz 24-bit audio recording. The safety track feature allows users to record a second track at -6dB alongside the primary audio track to avoid clipping.

On top of the 24-bit recording, the mic also offers 32-bit float internal recording. This feature practically removes the need to set gain as all captured sounds can be recovered in post-production regardless of the intensity (simply put).

Please keep in mind that the internal recording of DJI Mic 2 cannot be used when the transmitter is connected to a smartphone via Bluetooth.

While the DJI Mic sets come in shadow black color, you can also purchase transmitters in pearl white. This might be useful if you show the TX units in your video attached on subjects that wear white shirts for instance. The transmitters again feature a clip-on design with magnetic attachment.

Charging case, range, battery life

The set comes with a newly designed metal charging case that now features a locking latch. According to DJI, the operation time of each transmitter with the built-in 360mAh Li-ion battery can reach up to 6 hours (without the backup recording activated). With the charging case, you can get up to 18 hours of recording time.

When it comes to range, DJI claims the set will work at a distance of up to 250 meters (820 ft.) in open unobstructed environments without interference (FCC mode). From my experience, having worked with a few 2.4GHz wireless audio sets including the first DJI Mic, the audio signal is often plagued by interference as this frequency is used by many consumer products. Thankfully, the internal recording in the transmitter can save the situation.

Price and availability

The new DJI Mic 2 is available now and it comes in two versions:

• DJI Mic 2 set with 2 transmitters, 1 receiver, and a charging case – additionally includes 3.5mm camera audio cable, USB-C and Lightning adapters, DJI Mic 2 windscreens, clip magnets, USB-C charging cable, and a carrying bag. This set costs $349 (€349 in Europe).
• DJI Mic 2 set with 1 transmitter and 1 receiver. This set costs $219 (€219 in Europe).

Furthermore, there are various accessories available separately:

• DJI Mic 2 transmitter (black or white color) for $99 (€99 in Europe)
• DJI lavalier mic for $39 (€39 in Europe)
• DJI Mic 2 charging case for $69 (€69 in Europe)

Do you use any of the 2.4GHz wireless audio sets for your work? What do you think about the new DJI Mic 2? Let us know in the comments section underneath the article.

These days when filmmakers need to produce visual content quickly to have an impact, time is a critical aspect we constantly deal with. We have mentioned in past articles that looking for the right music for your project can be daunting due to the insane number of platforms and tracks available. Filmstro appeared as a breath of fresh air by letting us customize our music selection. In case you missed it, you can read up on our review here. With the new Filmstro update, they have now joined other companies who have recognized the importance of this and improved their interface and tools for a better user experience. 

Control over our soundtracks

The difference between Filmstro and other music platforms is that you can create your soundtracks by modifying the existing ones intuitively and visually, allowing you to control every stem on the track to fit your video. You can make real-time changes while watching how the music and the changes you make affect the video. For filmmakers who have a clear idea in mind about the soundtrack they want, this is a more advanced approach than the typical stock music platform, hence the Filmstro motto, ‘We are all composers now’. For more information about the platform, check out this article.

Speed and a straightforward interface

The new Filmstro upgrade now offers instant dynamic playback. We can listen to the tracks in the browse section instead of opening the edit tab to do it. That also works with the uploaded video and is a welcomed feature that improves the search speed and control in our creations, two essential elements in all these stock music platforms.

Another Filmstro update is the inclusion of new playlists that appear as searchable items, improving and enhancing our manual search on the search home page. The UI has also been redesigned to match the current trend of stock music libraries, adding search filters like BPM, Mood, Energy, and Instrumental Palette or Ensemble.

I’ve been hoping to combine instant playback of music with our dynamic USP for a while now. Our developers have outdone themselves by bringing our dynamic playback technology directly to bear on the music discovery stage – without compromising on immediate music preview playback.

– Seb Jaeger (Founder of Filmstro)

Price and availability 

If you want to take a look at Filmstro and test how it works, you can visit their website. The company is offering now a 30% off sale for CineD readers by using the code CINED30. Please note that this sale is restricted to Annual licenses and Lifetime licenses only. 

The platform offers monthly, annual, and lifetime subscriptions tailored for different kinds of users (YouTuber, Pro and Pro Plus). For example, the regular monthly price for YouTubers is $14.99, while the annual subscription costs $99 and the lifetime subscription $189.

What do you think about Filmstro? Have you used this platform to refine the music for your videos? Let us know in the comments!

The wireless dual-mic segment has become crowded in recent years. Several manufacturers, old and new, produce new systems diversifying the market, and letting different users find their perfect fit. The new Hollyland LARK M2 improves the former LARK C1 model in terms of compactness, while also doubling as a LARK M1 successor if used with its camera receiver module. While the LARK C1 and M1 were already pretty compact, the new M2 sets the bar much higher, creating one of the smallest mic-transmitter modules on the market.

Build and ergonomics

Hollyland touts the LARK M2 as a “One Button Mic” emphasizing both the extreme compactness of the new mic modules and operational minimalism. At a mere 9 grams and not much wider than a coin, the LARK M2 transmitter is indeed very compact. This comes with some compromises. Being so small leaves no spare space or depth for a 3.5mm jack, so the device cannot connect to any external Lavalier mic. Nevertheless, the transmitter supports a single yellow button, used for initiating control over video recording or taking photos on your mobile phone, next to enabling noise cancellation. Speaking of which, the dedicated LARK Sound App (Google Play, App Store) will enable additional functionality such as remotely adjusting noise cancellation levels (Strong/Low) to fit specific recording needs. The smartphone receiver comes with either a lightning port for older iPhones or with USB-C for the iPhone 15, Android smartphones, select action cameras, and computers. Both receivers will have an additional input for power, etc, and are equipped with an MFi-certified Apple chip. 

The camera receiver module provides more control over audio recording. The standout design feature is a large dial for gain control. The LED indicators display the gain level. Two additional LEDs will indicate the connection status (one for each transmitter). On one side we’ll find a 3.5mm out to plug into the camera mic socket. The other side supports a USB-C port to connect the receiver to your computer directly. There is also a pairing button and a mode-switching button. Pushing both will toggle between Mono and Stereo recording. 

Audio quality

The Hollyland LARK M2 will provide 48kHz/24bit output. These figures are in line with most high-end hybrid cameras and some dedicated cinema cameras, audio recorders, etc. Such audio quality is more than enough for most use cases of the target market for the LARK M2. In addition, a noise-canceling algorithm is also on board. While we haven’t tried it, from past experiences with different noise-canceling options from different manufacturers in similar audio devices, we recommend proceeding cautiously with such a feature, depending on the environment you are recording in.

Battery life and transmission range

One may reasonably expect such a tiny device to compromise battery life. Well, this is not the case here.  The Hollyland LARK M2 offers 10 hours of uninterrupted shooting. The included charging case will fully charge the set in 1.5 hours and have enough power to charge the full set twice. The system will support stable transmission up to 300 meters. These are Hollyland figures, so we’ll have to check how it performs in the field once we get the opportunity. 

Various attachment methods

Being so compact, the LARK M2 transmitter-mic module has no built-in clip. Its attachment is magnet-based. A rather strong magnet may hold it from the other side of your shirt, collar, etc. If this doesn’t work, there are two additional methods: A clip that is magnetically attached to the mic or a magnetic necklace to wear around your neck. Considering the size and weight of the device, all methods seem to be secure enough for all but the most extreme situations. 

Alternatives

Several compact dual-mic wireless systems populate our market. There’s Hollyland’s own LARK M1 and C1, both at $109. GODOX offers the WEC system for $99, but it will have a shorter range and inferior audio quality at 48 kHz / 16-bit, compared with the LARK M2 48 kHz / 24-bit. If you would like to cut costs, you can go with something like the Ulanzi J12 but will have to significantly compromise on range, as the J12 only goes as far as 20m compared to 300m with the LARK M2 (both manufacturer-published specifications).

The Hollyland LARK M2 still holds one significant advantage – its transmitter-mic unit is much smaller and stealthier than any competitor I know. Though an additional Lav-mic may be better concealed on your talent, we see many content creators clipping transmitter-mic units, foregoing the additional hustle of attaching the Lavalier. In this regard, the LARK M2 reigns supreme.

You can find out more about Hollyland’s LARK microphone technology by watching our video here and our review of the “bigger brother” LARK MAX here.

More information on the LARK M2 can be found here.

Price and availability

The LARK M2 is available in four different kits: The combo kit, including both camera and smartphone receivers is priced at $179. The camera kit will set you back $159. Two smartphone kits are available, one with a USB-C port and one with a Lightning port. Both will cost $149.

What do you think about the new Hollyland LARK M2 button-sized dual-mic system? Is it something you will consider working with? Please share your thoughts with us in the comment section below.

K-Tek is an American manufacturer that has been making high-quality boompoles for decades. Audio professionals from all over the world use K-Tek products on film sets to capture the sound of blockbuster movies we all know.

After the launch of the KC108 essential boompole and the more high-end Mighty Boom, K-Tek is back with an upgraded version of their Stingray BackPack introduced back in 2019.

K-Tek Stingray BackPack X – features

The K-Tek Stingray BackPack X is a 20-liter bag made of black nylon and primarily designed for one-man-band sound professionals and news reporters. According to the company, the bag is “strong and moisture-resistant,” but it also comes with a removable rain cover.

The Stingray BackPack X has three zippered pockets and can fit a 17″ laptop or tablet, audio cables, microphones, a mixer bag, and various audio gear. Furthermore, the main compartments feature smaller mesh pockets.

On the outside, you’ll find multiple MOLLE straps to attach gear and accessories to the bag’s exterior. The Stingray BackPack X also comes with a fold-away boom cup holder, which is handy.

Now, let’s talk about the most significant addition to the K-Tek Stingray BackPack X compared to its predecessor: the integrated harness. This adjustable front-facing harness enables you to attach your fully loaded audio mixer bag to the backpack. This means you can transfer your mixer bag from storage to the audio mixing position within seconds. The integrated harness is compatible with the K-Tek Stingray mixer bags, including the small and large Junior X audio mixer recording bags and the MixPro. It should also be compatible with mixing bags from other manufacturers.

Price and availability

The K-Tek BackPack X is available now for $349 / €466.63. If the orange exterior is not your thing, a purple version, called the BackPack XP, is also available, retailing for $349 / €466.63.

For more information, please visit K-Tek’s website here.

What do you think about this audio backpack with an integrated harness? Do you often use an audio mixer bag? Do you have a K-Tek boompole? Don’t hesitate to let us know in the comments below!