Love that we have a first party set of dual wireless mics. But without internal recording, I would never feel overly confident using them. Seems like transmission through objects is good but if there is a lot of frequency interference I would worry about them dropping out. Their price of $470USD makes me consider the competition instead.
🎯 Key Takeaways for quick navigation: 00:00 🎙️ Introduction to Sony Podcast Microphones - Introduction to the Sony ECM S1 and ECM W3 microphones. - Mention of the focus on 32-bit float audio quality. 01:25 🎤 Audio Quality and 32-Bit Float - Discussing the difference between 24-bit and 32-bit float audio. - Emphasizing the importance of setting audio levels correctly. 03:03 🎧 Testing Audio Quality - Audio tests with yelling into the microphone to test its handling. - Comparison between the ECM S1 and Shure SM7B microphones. 04:30 🔊 Microphone Features and Usage - Overview of features such as gain control, noise cut filter, and low-cut filter. - Demonstrating different directional modes of the microphone. 06:51 🎚️ Microphone Controls and Functionality - Details about the gain dial, monitoring through the headphone jack, and audio levels. - Mention of the safety track feature in newer microphones. 08:41 📡 Transmission and Range Testing - Testing the microphone's transmission strength through walls and obstacles. - Comparing the ECM W3 to the older ECM W2BT in terms of transmission. 10:44 🔄 Upgrades and Differences - Highlighting the improvements in the ECM W3 compared to the ECM W2BT. - Discussing the lack of internal recording in these microphones. 12:50 🎤 Microphone Capsule and Final Thoughts - Comparing the microphone capsule size in the newer W3 and older W2BT. Notes for my future reference
I think that no one is talking about it is because the release date isn't until December 6th. The release price is $469 on Amazon. The sound is awesome. A comparison with the DJI might be an interesting comparison.
I meant mainly content creators and other UA-camrs. I know they have it, they just haven’t made a full video about it. Many people have made shorts and IG reels but no full videos
The ECM-S1 to me sounded significantly better than the SM7B in the first, regular speech test. Regarding the wireless mics, I still prefer the Rode Wireless Pro, it’s got so many great features, 32bit internal recording, locking connector, great audio quality, etc.
The Sony ECM-W3 seems very comsumery, plus is these are much easier to use than the old Sony digital wireless mics. But, its very desireable to have a visible VU meter and volume knob on the receiver. Goods: using noise filter and hot shoe attachment. Good: Safety Track. I use a safety track that all the time. Good: the travel charging box. I use my lapel mics to quickly mic presenters at trade shows.
I like the form factor, and the multi shoe feature, but the lack of recording is a deal breaker. I want redundant audio systems in the field. Lack of 32 bit float…mmmm….want it, but I don’t have it now, so less issue there.
If these had the 32 bit float internal recording I think they'd be a competitive product. The convenience of being able to run into the Mi smart shoe is really tempting but for these smaller wireless systems in the consumer/prosumer marker, I think a backup recording is a must. For vlogging and content creation, it's possible this could be a good offer, but they priced this too high to stay competitive in that market. Sony was close with this but they missed their mark.
the trick with 32 bit recording is you can't clip the noise level, example you record a very noisy place there is room to bring back your sound to an acceptable sound level, it's almost as dynamic as your microphone can handle most mic can handle 137 Db of SPL, but you must take care of the SPL anyway, we can say it's a safer way to keep level control in post.
Thank you for the informative video. What about the battery time? Is it possible to leave it on for hours nonstop in a vlog or POV style configuration? Thank you.
I was recording a talking head piece to camera the other day, and it was in a busy environment. For some reason, the sound was dead in camera, but the track directly on the DJI Mic saved my ass. I’ll be sticking with them.
I suppose if you are a wedding photographer, the certain features are going to be important - 32bit float, recording on the transmitter, safety track, wireless range etc. For me those are just a nice to have, using good technique, you can mitigate most issues and normally I'm filming myself or people in same vicinity so crazy wireless coverage isn't going to matter so much. Would be cool if the receiver could also be used a mini shotgun mic.
Hi Jason! Thanks for reviewing the ECM-W3. I had to get rid of my DJI mic because of unacceptable latency (15ms) whilst monitoring. Ie. there was a lag between what I could hear on location with talent vs what I heard in my headphones: caused an echo which meant it was unsafe to trust the audio being laid down. I could not find this referenced in ANY review prior to purchasing :(. I note you were not using monitoring / headphones whilst recording either, but on the off chance you did off screen, did you notice any latency? I guess these small wireless devices are mostly being used by vodcasters and whatnot, but it’s bizarre no one is checking what’s actually being laid down (in headphones / on camera) during recording. Appreciate your thoughts, cheers
You’re right. The latency on these is absolutely awful. Side by side comparison with the Rode Wireless Go II knocks the ECM-W3 out of the park. No contest. Had high hopes for the ECM-W3 but very disappointed with my purchase.
Sorry to hear you had a similar experience: I had to get rid of the DJI Mic as they were gathering dust. Have now been able to test Sony ECM-3, DJI, and Rode Wireless Pro and concur, Rode wins. I’m not purchasing any of these smaller systems though. Will be staying with my old JuicedLink Riggy preamp and Sony UWP radio mics. Just can’t trust these new devices for professional work. Ah well, guess I can skip the gym on shoot days, given all the extra gear I have to carry!
I noticed most of the time he is speaking into it in Omni mode and it sounds great. Only video I’ve seen with someone mainly using the Omni mode. Nice bottom and warm. However. When he switches to cardoroid front address the sound quality takes a significant dip…. I wish he used the Omni in a more uncontrolled environment
Is this good for run and gun shoots? Does it automatically turn on the microphone when you turn on the Sony camera? Or do you have to wait and pair it all the time? I want to get this one but I’m afraid to miss Vlog shots if I need to wait for it to pair compared to a normal shotgun mic. Would love an answer since I can’t find it anywhere. Thanks mate.
You may not need 32bf very often. But when you need it, you really need. If I have the option of buying a mic with or without 32bf I will choose the 32 every time.
I do wonder if no internal recording is a technical impossibility because of the MI connection. No locking lav and no internal is a miss at this price.
You could be on to something. That could be a hardware issue for sure. I think their market seems to be for social media content creators judging by their specs
I heard Godox microphone with a Sony Mi shoe , you can't set the audio level in the camera and recording in the camera limits to 16 bit audio ? Is it the same with sony ECM w3 ?
32 bit float is nice but certainly not necessary. I work in broadcast radio and it is extremely rare that high quality audio clips of the level is set somewhat decently. Its a bit like megapixels, something hobbyists and spec heads obsess over. Lack of internal recording is perhaps a bummer but tbh if reliability is important I would never use any of these types of bluetooth mics. Get proper radio transmitters/receivers in that case. These new Sony wireless mics will be a great complement. Love love love that I don't have to fiddle with any cables.
Do you get 4 channel audio into a sony compatible camera via the mic input on the camera. i.e. 2 channels via the hotshoe radio mic setup, then plugging another 2 channels in via the analoge mic input on the camera?
Thank you for the great and informative review. One question: if I'm recording two transmitters and activate the safety track, do I end up with 4 tracks - two original and two with -6dB?
Just cancelled my preorder. Seemed great until I realized there’s no USB C port on the transmitters. Might sound like a nitpick but it really isn’t. I need a way to either switch batteries or power the transmitters continuously for up to 14 hours in certain filming situations. Need a USB connection for the situations where I have to hook a small battery bank into the mic to prevent a break in filming
32 bit float should have been implemented on audio recording devices years ago. Sony and Shure will have to follow the others now Rode have stepped up, due to the lesser known ones forcing their hand, thank goodness
I am 100% keen to get a set, I think they tick all the boxes I need for my "smaller" jobs. Love Mi hotshoe kit that that requires no cables on my camera. (but also love having an output jack option on the same unit) Will still hold onto my UHF mics for when I need ultimate range, battery life and for higher budget client jobs but will sell on my original Rode Go sets and get this Sony set to replace them. I have no need for 32bit float or internal recording for the work I do, both are great features for people who may not be confident with audio capture and equipment. But if I want perfect reliability I will just use a UHF mic and capture it correctly in sync rather than pulling the internal recording off a bluetooth or wifi mic in post.
There is no “correctly” and uhf isn’t more reliable in many circumstances. So, for everyone who has actually done their research, you are sounding out of touch. Professionals just want what works, that’s all
@@RicanStudio sorry you are triggered by how I choose to use my own equipment for my own specific use case. As a professional who has been using wireless mic systems for the past 10+ yrs in the harshest environments I must not know what I want in my own kit 🤷 Reliability of a wireless unit is not based solely on getting uninterrupted clean signal. Reliability is also being able to have user interchangeable batteries, manual descreet frequency selection, metal bodies of the packs, longer range, durability that will last decades of daily use, locking connectors. All these things I class as reliability. As a professional user, the 2.4ghz ultra compact packs are great for low stress, low risk, low pay jobs that don't warrant pro equipment. I use 2.4 packs all the time on these jobs. But if I mic up someone for a TVC, live or complex 1 take shot, I am not risking using a 2.4 pack. Your concern about me being out of touch has been taken on. May I extend my own concern that you jump to conclusions about people on the internet far too easily. Have fun out there 👋🙃
Hi, great videos as usual!. Some advise for the following scenario, recording family vacations where I want to be recording all ambient sound but as well the voices of 1 or 2 family members. Would you recommend using for example on an FX30 the ECM-B1M connected through the hotshoe to get the Digital audio embedded and then through the 3mm jack use the ECM-W3? is it possible to bake in all audio sources at once? Cheers!
You can't use both. One thing you can do, since you have an FX30, is use a recorder with timecode like the the Zoom M4 MicTrak to record ambient sounds and then sync in post. You will need a timecode generator (highly recommend tentacle sync) and special cable to connect it to FX30. That's the setup I have and it works perfectly!
For $500 you may as well buy the Sennheiser G2, G3, or G4 wireless system with interchangeable batteries and more adapters for mic and lav setups. I don't know why people are so hung up with permanent batteries and single function devices.
Odd that with compression and through headphones that the Sony sounds better than the Sure to me. There’s more range and it sounds more like you’re in a room vs the more limited range on the sm7b. I can see that podcasts might prefer that limited sound with the Sure, but with video the Sony feels wayyy more natural
Honestly the S1 mic was incredible. To my voice with really pics up the mid tones better. I definitely need a cloud lifter for the Shure mic for it to shine a bit better. Well done to Sony though!
It does. I’m pretty embarrassed about the Shure. I will either need a cloud lifter and boost the audio in the Shure or try adjust my EQ. Sony really have done a crazy good job with the S1
I know this isn't related to the video but I really need your opinion on this since this question is really bothering me. I am a beginner and want to get into videography primarily and photography on the side too. I have a limited budget and I can get the Sony a7iii for 400 dollars cheaper second hand than the a6700 where i live. I've gotten mixed opnions from people saying the a7iii is the clear winner because of the 2 card redundancy and less overheating. While the others say the a6700 is the newer camera which will be a better choice. So what should i get if I want to make videos but at the same time still be able to do paid photography or something down the line? Is the dual card that big of a deal or will i get by with a high quality sd card or tethering? Should i save my money and get the old a7iii second hand or get the a6700 new and slowly build on that?
Well Jason - they're more expensive than the Rode Wireless Pro ($AUD100 more expensive), they don't have timecode, they don't have internal recording and they aren't 32bit float. Seriously, the only advantage is they plug directly into the Sony MI shoe. And if you use the safety track you're back to a single channel aren't you? I think you could have come to the same conclusion - they don't make sense. I never rely on recording directly into camera anyway but if I did and most of my work was a maximum of 2 channels, single camera (it isn't) it could make sense.
Compared to the competitors they have advantages but also disadvantages. For my use I definitely miss the internal recording. Other than that 24bit is plenty when audio is set correctly.
Yeah - but the timecode… I was considering buying a mixpre 6 II to replace my existing mixpre 6 to get both timecode and 32bit float. I could buy 2 wireless pro sets for less than that. Sure the TC is not quite as flexible but I would just have to sync the Deitys to the Pros and it’s done. I’m still not seeing the rationale for the Sony offering though. Except no one ever got fired for buying Sony 😎
Jason has somehow downplayed 32bit float, but its a HUGE UPGRADE over 24 - you can FORGET about clipping FOREVER. Apart from that the new w3 sounds average at best, and having to compete with new Rhode wireless go which does have 32 bit float - I mean what were they thinking there at Sony?
Sony definitely did good with these, but ball was for sure dropped on the internal recording. To my understanding, someone correct me if I'm wrong, but on all other wireless mics that receiver plugs in through 3.5mm jack, the audio recorded in camera is 16-bit only. The 24-bit file is within the internal recording as far as camera goes. If you want that full 24-bit file, you need to sync in post, whereas on the Sony mics that plug into the hotshoe, it's straight 24-bit audio file baked in. Sony certainly wins on the convenience.
I didn’t do the test. Using the wind muff will help protect it like any other microphone. For best results these should have lav mics attached and mounted under clothing and concealed
Great video! I think that the lack of internal recording on the W3 might be the biggest dealbreaker, second only to the price. You can get a pro-grade large diaphragm mic for that price of S1 (since a podcast is usually a sit-down thing, one does not need it to be wireless) - we are almost gettin in the price range of a Neumann TLM 102, AKG C214 or even two cheaper but still great ones like a Røde NT1 or a Lewitt. And if you have an XLR handle /extension on a camera (like a FX3) you can easily feed two of such studio mics with phantom power and have a two-mic setup with a single camera, which is not really possible with the S1 (you would need to buy two and put it on two Sony cameras, possible, but pricey and not really comfortable. So yeah - the Sony S1 is a neat but also niche thing. Also, I suppose the W3 jack input is for Sony's TRS wiring, so that also does narrow these products into "made for brand fanboys" category a bit. Not that there is anything wrong with that, just the market is significantly smaller.
*They're Nice, but I still Love my Hollyland Lark M1's and Rode Wireless II. I don't think I'd notice it myself but then again I'm not doing professional Work, just UA-cam*
Personally i think the fact that sony might not always be the best value but now has a near complete set of mic solutions for their hotshoe audio in is amazing, In some cases i like the fact no wires and less options compared to say the rode solutions and we can now have this. Also what many people are missing is they are opening up the port for other brands with godox of all brands being first with also making a mic that uses the multishoe input. Good times we need more brands to move away from 3.5" plugs and cables.
It’s always my biggest pro with Sony mics. Cables are things I hate using with mics. They certainly are good just missed a couple things considering what the competition has
@@JasonMorrisphotocinema Agreed i also have more mics with more features but i consider the sony solutions good enough for many things and no cables. What would be nice if someone makes (ill ask smallrig would be a nice match for their tiny wave mic and i have contacts at smallrig) a usb-c audio -> hotshoe interface that would be a nice way to add say a rode-nt1 gen 5 or other bigger mic's that now also have usb-c or the very small mics like the smallrig wave-1c that i use on my DJI osmo action 4. The good news is we have so many mic solutions now and even for sony hotshoe nearly complete. Hope sony adds 32bits soon for internal recording using the hotshoe that would be sweet.
Mic in camera: watch EVERY major TV magazine programme. They are ALL wearing visible laveliers. Sure if you're film making you don't want them visible.
ThHE GOOD - I like the streamline build (much better the Rode Go). And the 32bf is great. Also the controls seem more intuitive. (Again Rode Go fails at this, so hard to get to the settings). THE BAD - No internal recording. Price. THE CURIOSITY - This is not a 2.4 wireless transmitter. It uses blue tooth. So will it perform better in areas with crowded 2.4 traffic?
Man sony audio department didn't upgrade anything...fire them for putting out worse mic quality then last gen....how tf can this compete with rodes wirless pro
The audio quality on the W3 is not that good! But most importantly, simple design features like having the on-camera receiver turn on and off automatically when the camera is turned on and off or goes to sleep is a serious omission by the engineers. The reciever stays on after the camera is turned off... why? And when you turn the camera back on it doesn't automatically turn on! Again, why?!! You still have to pay constant attention to the receiver being on or off separately from the camera, that completely makes the hotshoe benefits limited. I can't believe Sony designers and engineers are so shortsighted! It should turn on and off with the camera automatically and it should record 32bit float on the transmitter separately, have locking mic jacks and it would be perfect!
I mean I get what he is saying about you dont need 32bit Float BUT BUT BUT he goes on to say that with 16bit and 24bit you need to make sure your mics are not hot. But with 32bit float you dont need to worry about the ONE MAJOR thing that goes wrong without 32bit float sooooooo Yeah ill use 32bit float
Honestly nope, no where close unless they were competing with the original Rode Go system. It’s cool not having cables but that’s the only selling point.
Rode, DJI, synco, godox, and other brands also have similar products and don’t have removable batteries. It’s the way for industry in the low end is going. It’s a standard now because people from want to remove batteries to charge
Love that we have a first party set of dual wireless mics. But without internal recording, I would never feel overly confident using them. Seems like transmission through objects is good but if there is a lot of frequency interference I would worry about them dropping out. Their price of $470USD makes me consider the competition instead.
I had the same concerns with the price tag. I am a current DJI mic owner and previous rode go owner. Hard to make the switch
🎯 Key Takeaways for quick navigation:
00:00 🎙️ Introduction to Sony Podcast Microphones
- Introduction to the Sony ECM S1 and ECM W3 microphones.
- Mention of the focus on 32-bit float audio quality.
01:25 🎤 Audio Quality and 32-Bit Float
- Discussing the difference between 24-bit and 32-bit float audio.
- Emphasizing the importance of setting audio levels correctly.
03:03 🎧 Testing Audio Quality
- Audio tests with yelling into the microphone to test its handling.
- Comparison between the ECM S1 and Shure SM7B microphones.
04:30 🔊 Microphone Features and Usage
- Overview of features such as gain control, noise cut filter, and low-cut filter.
- Demonstrating different directional modes of the microphone.
06:51 🎚️ Microphone Controls and Functionality
- Details about the gain dial, monitoring through the headphone jack, and audio levels.
- Mention of the safety track feature in newer microphones.
08:41 📡 Transmission and Range Testing
- Testing the microphone's transmission strength through walls and obstacles.
- Comparing the ECM W3 to the older ECM W2BT in terms of transmission.
10:44 🔄 Upgrades and Differences
- Highlighting the improvements in the ECM W3 compared to the ECM W2BT.
- Discussing the lack of internal recording in these microphones.
12:50 🎤 Microphone Capsule and Final Thoughts
- Comparing the microphone capsule size in the newer W3 and older W2BT.
Notes for my future reference
Not sure how I missed this thanks for this Jason.
I think that no one is talking about it is because the release date isn't until December 6th. The release price is $469 on Amazon. The sound is awesome. A comparison with the DJI might be an interesting comparison.
I meant mainly content creators and other UA-camrs. I know they have it, they just haven’t made a full video about it. Many people have made shorts and IG reels but no full videos
Thank you for this video. I'm a new UA-camr, and this video has played a significant role in helping me make a decision on a wireless microphone.
The S1 has me ready to buy one once they come out a good podcast mic especially when traveling. And a great mic for a desk talking head shot.
No internal recording is the dealbreaker for me. So I stick to my DJI mic, because I often use it as an standalone recorder.
So do I and I hope DJI Mic2 will have internal 32bit recording.
after taking a look at the price i figured out why no one is talking about them, the competition already built a good enough base
£430 in the UK. I'll pass, thanks.
OMG I just said this same thing!!! Maybe I'll consider it when I start working for the BBC or SKY LOL.
I did the same thing and was about to comment that!
Whoa that price is not competitive at all
The ECM-S1 to me sounded significantly better than the SM7B in the first, regular speech test. Regarding the wireless mics, I still prefer the Rode Wireless Pro, it’s got so many great features, 32bit internal recording, locking connector, great audio quality, etc.
I really enjoyed the S1 for my voice. It’s made me re-think and re-listen to my audio adjustments to the SM7B for sure
@@JasonMorrisphotocinema I noticed the same. S1 sounded with more clarity/less muffled.
The Sony ECM-W3 seems very comsumery, plus is these are much easier to use than the old Sony digital wireless mics. But, its very desireable to have a visible VU meter and volume knob on the receiver. Goods: using noise filter and hot shoe attachment. Good: Safety Track. I use a safety track that all the time. Good: the travel charging box. I use my lapel mics to quickly mic presenters at trade shows.
I heard about them and already had the podcast mic in my cart. It just seemed great as a travel podcast mic.
I think you can also connect two at the same time to one receiver making it even better for podcasts
That podcast mic blew me away. Made my Shure mic sound pretty empty.
Man I’m so excited to try these. 24 bit is good enough for me. Great video!
24bit is plenty for sure
The podcast mic is amazing, but no internal recording for the W3 is a deal breaker.
Podcast mic was very surprising!
@@JasonMorrisphotocinema I wasn't that interested until you mentioned 24-bit recording integrated within the video file!
I like the form factor, and the multi shoe feature, but the lack of recording is a deal breaker. I want redundant audio systems in the field. Lack of 32 bit float…mmmm….want it, but I don’t have it now, so less issue there.
If these had the 32 bit float internal recording I think they'd be a competitive product. The convenience of being able to run into the Mi smart shoe is really tempting but for these smaller wireless systems in the consumer/prosumer marker, I think a backup recording is a must. For vlogging and content creation, it's possible this could be a good offer, but they priced this too high to stay competitive in that market. Sony was close with this but they missed their mark.
the trick with 32 bit recording is you can't clip the noise level, example you record a very noisy place there is room to bring back your sound to an acceptable sound level, it's almost as dynamic as your microphone can handle most mic can handle 137 Db of SPL, but you must take care of the SPL anyway, we can say it's a safer way to keep level control in post.
Thank you for the informative video. What about the battery time?
Is it possible to leave it on for hours nonstop in a vlog or POV style configuration?
Thank you.
I was recording a talking head piece to camera the other day, and it was in a busy environment. For some reason, the sound was dead in camera, but the track directly on the DJI Mic saved my ass. I’ll be sticking with them.
thank you no body is talked about this. does ECM-W3S Wireless Microphone automatically switch on with camera?
I suppose if you are a wedding photographer, the certain features are going to be important - 32bit float, recording on the transmitter, safety track, wireless range etc. For me those are just a nice to have, using good technique, you can mitigate most issues and normally I'm filming myself or people in same vicinity so crazy wireless coverage isn't going to matter so much. Would be cool if the receiver could also be used a mini shotgun mic.
Hi Jason! Thanks for reviewing the ECM-W3. I had to get rid of my DJI mic because of unacceptable latency (15ms) whilst monitoring. Ie. there was a lag between what I could hear on location with talent vs what I heard in my headphones: caused an echo which meant it was unsafe to trust the audio being laid down. I could not find this referenced in ANY review prior to purchasing :(. I note you were not using monitoring / headphones whilst recording either, but on the off chance you did off screen, did you notice any latency? I guess these small wireless devices are mostly being used by vodcasters and whatnot, but it’s bizarre no one is checking what’s actually being laid down (in headphones / on camera) during recording. Appreciate your thoughts, cheers
You’re right. The latency on these is absolutely awful. Side by side comparison with the Rode Wireless Go II knocks the ECM-W3 out of the park. No contest.
Had high hopes for the ECM-W3 but very disappointed with my purchase.
Sorry to hear you had a similar experience: I had to get rid of the DJI Mic as they were gathering dust. Have now been able to test Sony ECM-3, DJI, and Rode Wireless Pro and concur, Rode wins.
I’m not purchasing any of these smaller systems though. Will be staying with my old JuicedLink Riggy preamp and Sony UWP radio mics.
Just can’t trust these new devices for professional work. Ah well, guess I can skip the gym on shoot days, given all the extra gear I have to carry!
I noticed most of the time he is speaking into it in Omni mode and it sounds great. Only video I’ve seen with someone mainly using the Omni mode. Nice bottom and warm. However. When he switches to cardoroid front address the sound quality takes a significant dip…. I wish he used the Omni in a more uncontrolled environment
Is this good for run and gun shoots? Does it automatically turn on the microphone when you turn on the Sony camera? Or do you have to wait and pair it all the time? I want to get this one but I’m afraid to miss Vlog shots if I need to wait for it to pair compared to a normal shotgun mic. Would love an answer since I can’t find it anywhere. Thanks mate.
Hey Jason Please Compare these Sony Mics with DJI Mics, which one is better in quality and features.
You may not need 32bf very often. But when you need it, you really need. If I have the option of buying a mic with or without 32bf I will choose the 32 every time.
Certainly for concerts and wedding I can see 32bit float being a necessity
I like your stuff overall. But you need timestamps man! Especially for two products in 1 video.
Instead of analog cable, can you use USB-C to USB-C in it's place? Connect to a phone as the audio recorder?
I do wonder if no internal recording is a technical impossibility because of the MI connection. No locking lav and no internal is a miss at this price.
You could be on to something. That could be a hardware issue for sure. I think their market seems to be for social media content creators judging by their specs
I have the DJI mics and there are a beast the only think they missed is the Noise Reduction but love them ❤️ do you think there better?
Would love to see these compared to the new Rode Wireless Pro
Same. I personally don’t own the rode so I couldn’t compare unfortunately
Spec sheet wise the rode wireless pro has internal recording, 32 bit float, time code. All things you'll miss out on with the sony
if I am upgrading my rode wireless go ii it needs to be to something with 32bit float.
I heard Godox microphone with a Sony Mi shoe , you can't set the audio level in the camera and recording in the camera limits to 16 bit audio ? Is it the same with sony ECM w3 ?
32 bit float is nice but certainly not necessary. I work in broadcast radio and it is extremely rare that high quality audio clips of the level is set somewhat decently. Its a bit like megapixels, something hobbyists and spec heads obsess over.
Lack of internal recording is perhaps a bummer but tbh if reliability is important I would never use any of these types of bluetooth mics. Get proper radio transmitters/receivers in that case.
These new Sony wireless mics will be a great complement. Love love love that I don't have to fiddle with any cables.
I wonder if this could work with the old Sony Alpha a6000. Those cam don't have regular audio input.
unfortunately this one doesnt as yet
the S1 one sounds soooo good, the convenience of these microphones make them worth it. the shouting test was great hahahahah
im currently have the W2BT, but seldom used because it got some minor 'hssssss' sound.
wow that ecm-s1 sounds great! I loved the yelling test haha
your lighting is just amazing. what cam, lens, and lighting setup do you use?
Do you get 4 channel audio into a sony compatible camera via the mic input on the camera. i.e. 2 channels via the hotshoe radio mic setup, then plugging another 2 channels in via the analoge mic input on the camera?
Need to check these out! Look awesome!
The ecm-s1 is incredible
Waiting for the Sony a7iv setting 😮💨😮💨
Pls tell me they upgraded the charging ports on the ECM-W3 to usbc?
I would like to see the review from musician perspective. Unfortunately, there are none on youtube.
Can Sony ECM-W3 work with an iPhone 14 Pro?
Thank you for the great and informative review.
One question: if I'm recording two transmitters and activate the safety track, do I end up with 4 tracks -
two original and two with -6dB?
Just cancelled my preorder. Seemed great until I realized there’s no USB C port on the transmitters. Might sound like a nitpick but it really isn’t. I need a way to either switch batteries or power the transmitters continuously for up to 14 hours in certain filming situations. Need a USB connection for the situations where I have to hook a small battery bank into the mic to prevent a break in filming
32 bit float should have been implemented on audio recording devices years ago. Sony and Shure will have to follow the others now Rode have stepped up, due to the lesser known ones forcing their hand, thank goodness
Does it power on and be ready to use fast? Or do you have to wait for the wireless system to connect?
How does this compare to the main competition? DJI from China and RØDE from Australia?
I am 100% keen to get a set, I think they tick all the boxes I need for my "smaller" jobs. Love Mi hotshoe kit that that requires no cables on my camera. (but also love having an output jack option on the same unit)
Will still hold onto my UHF mics for when I need ultimate range, battery life and for higher budget client jobs but will sell on my original Rode Go sets and get this Sony set to replace them.
I have no need for 32bit float or internal recording for the work I do, both are great features for people who may not be confident with audio capture and equipment. But if I want perfect reliability I will just use a UHF mic and capture it correctly in sync rather than pulling the internal recording off a bluetooth or wifi mic in post.
There is no “correctly” and uhf isn’t more reliable in many circumstances. So, for everyone who has actually done their research, you are sounding out of touch. Professionals just want what works, that’s all
@@RicanStudio sorry you are triggered by how I choose to use my own equipment for my own specific use case. As a professional who has been using wireless mic systems for the past 10+ yrs in the harshest environments I must not know what I want in my own kit 🤷
Reliability of a wireless unit is not based solely on getting uninterrupted clean signal.
Reliability is also being able to have user interchangeable batteries, manual descreet frequency selection, metal bodies of the packs, longer range, durability that will last decades of daily use, locking connectors.
All these things I class as reliability.
As a professional user, the 2.4ghz ultra compact packs are great for low stress, low risk, low pay jobs that don't warrant pro equipment. I use 2.4 packs all the time on these jobs.
But if I mic up someone for a TVC, live or complex 1 take shot, I am not risking using a 2.4 pack.
Your concern about me being out of touch has been taken on. May I extend my own concern that you jump to conclusions about people on the internet far too easily.
Have fun out there 👋🙃
Do they work well with Rode Lav mics?
Great video, if u using bright background bit more contrast against the colour of product would be even better 🎉
Reviewers of the Rode Pro always mention line of sight. From your test, this is not an issue, correct?
Hi, great videos as usual!. Some advise for the following scenario, recording family vacations where I want to be recording all ambient sound but as well the voices of 1 or 2 family members. Would you recommend using for example on an FX30 the ECM-B1M connected through the hotshoe to get the Digital audio embedded and then through the 3mm jack use the ECM-W3? is it possible to bake in all audio sources at once? Cheers!
You can't use both. One thing you can do, since you have an FX30, is use a recorder with timecode like the the Zoom M4 MicTrak to record ambient sounds and then sync in post. You will need a timecode generator (highly recommend tentacle sync) and special cable to connect it to FX30. That's the setup I have and it works perfectly!
Cheers for the vid. Just wondering if the w3 is compatible with zv1 m 1? Thanks
does the receiever have an inbuilt mic?
For $500 you may as well buy the Sennheiser G2, G3, or G4 wireless system with interchangeable batteries and more adapters for mic and lav setups. I don't know why people are so hung up with permanent batteries and single function devices.
How about noisy environment?
You should compare these with the Godoy Virso S Wireless Mic w/ the Sony hot shoe connector
Yes I would love to get my hands on the godox mics
Shure for the win! I hear the static coming through! 😢
Odd that with compression and through headphones that the Sony sounds better than the Sure to me. There’s more range and it sounds more like you’re in a room vs the more limited range on the sm7b. I can see that podcasts might prefer that limited sound with the Sure, but with video the Sony feels wayyy more natural
Honestly the S1 mic was incredible. To my voice with really pics up the mid tones better. I definitely need a cloud lifter for the Shure mic for it to shine a bit better. Well done to Sony though!
@@JasonMorrisphotocinemaThat Cloud Lifter definitely makes a difference with the Shure! I would highly recommend it.
Hi Jason, I’m a new subscriber. How are these compared to rode wireless pro? I have sony A7iv.
Take love from Bangladesh🇧🇩🇧🇩🇧🇩
Hello friend
The ECM-S1 sounds so much better than the SM7B oh myyy
It does. I’m pretty embarrassed about the Shure. I will either need a cloud lifter and boost the audio in the Shure or try adjust my EQ. Sony really have done a crazy good job with the S1
I know this isn't related to the video but I really need your opinion on this since this question is really bothering me. I am a beginner and want to get into videography primarily and photography on the side too. I have a limited budget and I can get the Sony a7iii for 400 dollars cheaper second hand than the a6700 where i live. I've gotten mixed opnions from people saying the a7iii is the clear winner because of the 2 card redundancy and less overheating. While the others say the a6700 is the newer camera which will be a better choice.
So what should i get if I want to make videos but at the same time still be able to do paid photography or something down the line? Is the dual card that big of a deal or will i get by with a high quality sd card or tethering?
Should i save my money and get the old a7iii second hand or get the a6700 new and slowly build on that?
Get the Sony a6700. 10bit codec in the newer cameras really are much better for Colors overall
@@JasonMorrisphotocinema thanks for the help!
Sounds Great! Better than my Zealsound mic lol
What is zealsound? Haha I’ve never heard of them
@@JasonMorrisphotocinema A very budget brand lol
Release date? I can’t find it on sale yet
Yikes. I believe November I think. Pre-release I believe is out now
Just get Godox Virso S M2. Same Mi Hotshoe connection, with internal recording.
Nice one, but without internal recording it doesn't make sense, and the price is not friendly
Considering the competition I feel the should have some internal recording for sure
Well Jason - they're more expensive than the Rode Wireless Pro ($AUD100 more expensive), they don't have timecode, they don't have internal recording and they aren't 32bit float. Seriously, the only advantage is they plug directly into the Sony MI shoe. And if you use the safety track you're back to a single channel aren't you? I think you could have come to the same conclusion - they don't make sense. I never rely on recording directly into camera anyway but if I did and most of my work was a maximum of 2 channels, single camera (it isn't) it could make sense.
Compared to the competitors they have advantages but also disadvantages. For my use I definitely miss the internal recording. Other than that 24bit is plenty when audio is set correctly.
Yeah - but the timecode… I was considering buying a mixpre 6 II to replace my existing mixpre 6 to get both timecode and 32bit float. I could buy 2 wireless pro sets for less than that. Sure the TC is not quite as flexible but I would just have to sync the Deitys to the Pros and it’s done. I’m still not seeing the rationale for the Sony offering though. Except no one ever got fired for buying Sony 😎
Jason has somehow downplayed 32bit float, but its a HUGE UPGRADE over 24 - you can FORGET about clipping FOREVER. Apart from that the new w3 sounds average at best, and having to compete with new Rhode wireless go which does have 32 bit float - I mean what were they thinking there at Sony?
Sony definitely did good with these, but ball was for sure dropped on the internal recording. To my understanding, someone correct me if I'm wrong, but on all other wireless mics that receiver plugs in through 3.5mm jack, the audio recorded in camera is 16-bit only. The 24-bit file is within the internal recording as far as camera goes. If you want that full 24-bit file, you need to sync in post, whereas on the Sony mics that plug into the hotshoe, it's straight 24-bit audio file baked in. Sony certainly wins on the convenience.
Well, there is a godox wireless mic also using sony hotshoe audio. Not sure if it support 24bit.
@@qiyuxuan9437 Yeah, that one flew under the radar for sure. Not sure why.
I agree. Internal recording is something I have relied on with other mics and nerve racking situations
It can transmit through walls! That's even more powerful than a Sennheiser G3 or AVX!
The Sony sounds like it would be great for music.
А как там защита от ветра? Или я пропустил или ты?
I didn’t do the test. Using the wind muff will help protect it like any other microphone. For best results these should have lav mics attached and mounted under clothing and concealed
Спасибо большое за ответ. Осталось уточнить, есть-ли в комплекте мёртвая кошка?@@JasonMorrisphotocinema
Great video! I think that the lack of internal recording on the W3 might be the biggest dealbreaker, second only to the price.
You can get a pro-grade large diaphragm mic for that price of S1 (since a podcast is usually a sit-down thing, one does not need it to be wireless) - we are almost gettin in the price range of a Neumann TLM 102, AKG C214 or even two cheaper but still great ones like a Røde NT1 or a Lewitt.
And if you have an XLR handle /extension on a camera (like a FX3) you can easily feed two of such studio mics with phantom power and have a two-mic setup with a single camera, which is not really possible with the S1 (you would need to buy two and put it on two Sony cameras, possible, but pricey and not really comfortable.
So yeah - the Sony S1 is a neat but also niche thing. Also, I suppose the W3 jack input is for Sony's TRS wiring, so that also does narrow these products into "made for brand fanboys" category a bit. Not that there is anything wrong with that, just the market is significantly smaller.
"...They don't have 32-bit float..." If Sony's going to keep up with the competition, then they have to make this a standard feature in their mics.
*They're Nice, but I still Love my Hollyland Lark M1's and Rode Wireless II. I don't think I'd notice it myself but then again I'm not doing professional Work, just UA-cam*
very nice
The sm7b kinda sounds shit compared to the ecm, eq is really good on the ecm
Personally i think the fact that sony might not always be the best value but now has a near complete set of mic solutions for their hotshoe audio in is amazing, In some cases i like the fact no wires and less options compared to say the rode solutions and we can now have this. Also what many people are missing is they are opening up the port for other brands with godox of all brands being first with also making a mic that uses the multishoe input. Good times we need more brands to move away from 3.5" plugs and cables.
It’s always my biggest pro with Sony mics. Cables are things I hate using with mics. They certainly are good just missed a couple things considering what the competition has
@@JasonMorrisphotocinema Agreed i also have more mics with more features but i consider the sony solutions good enough for many things and no cables. What would be nice if someone makes (ill ask smallrig would be a nice match for their tiny wave mic and i have contacts at smallrig) a usb-c audio -> hotshoe interface that would be a nice way to add say a rode-nt1 gen 5 or other bigger mic's that now also have usb-c or the very small mics like the smallrig wave-1c that i use on my DJI osmo action 4. The good news is we have so many mic solutions now and even for sony hotshoe nearly complete. Hope sony adds 32bits soon for internal recording using the hotshoe that would be sweet.
Mic in camera: watch EVERY major TV magazine programme. They are ALL wearing visible laveliers. Sure if you're film making you don't want them visible.
ThHE GOOD - I like the streamline build (much better the Rode Go). And the 32bf is great. Also the controls seem more intuitive. (Again Rode Go fails at this, so hard to get to the settings). THE BAD - No internal recording. Price. THE CURIOSITY - This is not a 2.4 wireless transmitter. It uses blue tooth. So will it perform better in areas with crowded 2.4 traffic?
Rode sounds better 8:48nice video
Thanks for your input
I checked the price now I know why nobody is talking about them LOL. Rode wireless go for me.
32bit float is over hyped. Honestly we all been doing fine even before 32bit float was introduced lol.
Safety track is good enough for me 😊
Absolutely agreed. 16 & 24 bit has been doing wonders for ages and specially with a safety track it helps immensely
This dude got this for free, wonder why no one is talking about it? Check the price and check why you can get better sound for less.
No indicator for battery for both sides which a big turn off for such a mobile usage devices
Oh that’s something I missed. For sure! Good spot. I have no idea how you would monitor battery power
Not sure if it’s just me, but silabance sounds pretty bad to me.
You’re right. The whole video was unprocessed audio. This can easily be adjusted in post
@@JasonMorrisphotocinema I appreciate the response. I’ll look into how to remove it in post, I do like the convenience the mics provide.
Man sony audio department didn't upgrade anything...fire them for putting out worse mic quality then last gen....how tf can this compete with rodes wirless pro
The audio quality on the W3 is not that good! But most importantly, simple design features like having the on-camera receiver turn on and off automatically when the camera is turned on and off or goes to sleep is a serious omission by the engineers. The reciever stays on after the camera is turned off... why? And when you turn the camera back on it doesn't automatically turn on! Again, why?!! You still have to pay constant attention to the receiver being on or off separately from the camera, that completely makes the hotshoe benefits limited. I can't believe Sony designers and engineers are so shortsighted! It should turn on and off with the camera automatically and it should record 32bit float on the transmitter separately, have locking mic jacks and it would be perfect!
Take my money
The S1 sounded incredible
I mean I get what he is saying about you dont need 32bit Float BUT BUT BUT he goes on to say that with 16bit and 24bit you need to make sure your mics are not hot. But with 32bit float you dont need to worry about the ONE MAJOR thing that goes wrong without 32bit float sooooooo Yeah ill use 32bit float
Привет Джейсон 👋 О боже! Это новый набор беспроводных микрофонов?
Honestly nope, no where close unless they were competing with the original Rode Go system. It’s cool not having cables but that’s the only selling point.
if it's not 32 bit FL - it's not better than the "Rode Go Pro" (i call it the Go Pro).
$470USD and non replaceable battery that will last max 2 years?
Rode, DJI, synco, godox, and other brands also have similar products and don’t have removable batteries. It’s the way for industry in the low end is going. It’s a standard now because people from want to remove batteries to charge
Re: lapel mices on camera, no problem, but branding must be Subdued. Rhode is guilty of making their name too bright and large.
No back up
No internal recording - no deal.