I like the simple, straight forward review. Overhead then wide shot for testing. Taking notes. Another thing to note about the PCS... Some quick releases require you to screw in a small set screw to hold the quick release to the 3/8"-16 thread on the boom pole. That screw digs into the threads on the boom causing damage to the threads. The PCS follows in a design similar to the the SGS quick release in that it has screws the threads from either side to compress the threads rather than screw into them. Doesn't damage the threads in the mean time.
After using the Ambient QR systems with many of my mixers, I have come to realise how bad they are. Not only this thread issue, but the mechinism itself will wear down and eventually stick, making it not so QR. Excited to test the Rycote system!
Just a note, friends: The Nano Shield is NOT a cheap product and is designed for those who make a living recording sound outdoors. It has several features needed for that type of work. If these features aren't compelling for your use cases, that's ok. You can watch up the to starting summary and then get back to your regularly scheduled activities! Have a great day!
This is a great system and I'm sure it will work perfect for years. It is expensive and for private video and audio producers it might not be needed. But I'm sure many professionals will be happy about the benefits. Thank you, Curtis, for this nice review.
Hi Curtis. I have been using the Rycote PCS system for some time and I must say that it is a very reliable, safe and above all fast system. In addition to the lite version I use the PCS-spigot version which can be attached to a stand or articulated arm (I have many Manfrotto); unfortunately the price is a bit high but the money spent was well spent
Hi, Curtis, great review, as usual. Thanks a lot! There was a question (about one year ago, see below), that was left unanswered: How can we use the Nano shield with a 5 pin connector mic (in my case - with BP 4029, that is 236 mm long)? Although it is written, that Nano shield (Rycote Nano Shield NS4-DB ) is appropriate especially for BP4029, according to the specs, the space (the length) inside the Nano shield will be not enough? Even if I buy the longer version of Nano shield (Nano-Shield Kit NS6-DD), I have to enlarge the hole, where the cable goes through, since the original BP 4029 cable (that I have to use) is almost double thicker than the one, supplied with Nano shield? Any comments?
Hey man, Great Video! Im just wondering, I can not find the High Wind basket you bought seperatly (7:57). Are they discontinued? When I look on the rycote website, the normal nano Shield kit fotos look like it actiually is the high wind basket. But when i look at thomann for example the fotos look like the normal basket. Im confused. Maybe you know more about that.
I just bought my mighty boom and it has significantly more cable noise when extended when compared to my cheaper ktek Avalon. Any idea how I can reduce this? Aren’t there attachments you can put on the cable to hold it away from the interior of the pole? Thank you
If you have a coiled internal cable, you might be able to insert some small plastic tabs to prevent the cable from hitting up against the side of the pole. I'd contact K-tek and see what they suggest.
Great, detailed review, thanks Curtis. As I sometimes use a stereo 5-pin XLR mic (AT BP4025), should a short thin cable from a 3rd party manufacturer fit in the Nano, please? (The one I've seen is the rather short Cable Techniques stereo 9" (23cm) Shortie Mic Jumper cable, which has a low profile 5-pin female XLR connector to go inside the Nano, with a thin 3.4mm cable.)
Hello Curtis! On one document from Rycote's website it looks like and and is said to have a 3/8 mount on the bottom instead of a PCS connector, but everywhere else I look I find no mention of this! Is the PCS connector removable or is the only 3/8 mounting option under the pistol grip? Regards
My copy has the PCS connector on the shock mount and the PCS connector is not removable. Also, I was mistaken, the pistol grip has a hole in the bottom which is roughly 3/8" but it is not threaded on my copy. I'm wondering if I received a pre-production copy.
Hey Curtis! I'm looking at upgrading and this seems to be the best pick. But how is it with more wind? Have you have a chance to use it on a windy day the past year? :)
Hi Curtis,Great video and Great product.. Do you know where can I find the alternative basket that you show in the video cause I can't see anyone selling it online,thank you
I cut square holes in the hard shell cases to allow the pistol grip handles to stick out while the hard shell provides full protection to the baskets and mics. This allows me to easily fit 3 mics Into a Portabrace hard case, with plenty of room to spare for accessories like dead cat covers and furry brushes.
I have enjoyed the nanoshield, however the cable just failed on me in the middle of a shoot, so now I’m looking for something that doesn’t add wires. For an outdoor Oklahoma wind would the rycote supersoftie work well enough? Thank you!
The softies don’t put as much space between the mic capsule and the outer shell of the softie so it doesn’t have the ability to manage higher winds. But for not too extreme breezes the softie will work nicely.
CON! 45 degree angle connector Also the basket on this version is pretty much indestructible according to Rycote. But they provided a case that only protects basket 😂😂😂 We needed that case on the original model. But I am loving mine. Great video Curtis.
Hey Curtis, Great to hear you in 2022. From a laypersons viewpoint, the cyclone gives slightly more base to the overall sound which was evident both in your voice and movement of your jacket. I'm listening on a MacBook Pro 14 inch M1 Pro via it's built in speakers. Otherwise , very little difference, as you mentioned. It would be nice to hear how both handle stronger wind. Best wishes from London Uk. Keith
Interesting observation, Keith. Due to the nature of blimps and the materials used for wind protection, the thicker the material the more high end is absorbed. On my studio speakers it was very easy to hear that the Cyclone (with thicker material) was attenuating/rounding off the high end thus making Curtis's voice darker which could be perceived as being "bassier." Had he used the long hair fur the high end loss would have been even more apparent. An interesting test would be to see if the results were more similar if the high end boost switch on the DPA 4017B was used within the Cyclone (which offsets the loss). I agree with other reviewers, Curtis, that a higher wind review would be great, but as always your personality and content are a great contribution to the media community and I appreciate you. (I have an upcoming feature in Belize and I'm debating a switch to either a Nano Shield or Cinela from the Windshield Kit that came with the 4017B). Cheers!
I have viewed a couple user product videos and forum images where the basket cover is worn or torn away from the basket structure. Have you noticed any damage during testing or field use? Thank you.
I love the pcs system. All my 3 booms are equipped with that. Can't live without it 😁 I also needed a new wind protection for the mini cmit and the nano shield was over the table as one of the options. In the end I ordered the Cinela Cosi. I hope to have made a good decision...
Hi Miguel, how are you feeling about your decision to go with the Cosi after half a year? Is it handling strong enough winds for your needs? Currently making this decision for myself too. Thanks
@@nigelchristopherbrow Hi Nigel. I am using the Cosi 90% of the time, but I always carry with me the Rycote windshield kit 4 because if its too windy or a bit of rain I used that instead. In my opinion, if you only going to have one option, go with the Nano because there always going to be problematic days and the Nano or similar is the only option. I am now preparing my gear for a job that is going to happen in a hotel by the seaside and for sure I will carry the Rycote because we will do some shots at the beach and the wind there can be too strong for the Cosi... Hope this helps you in your decision
@@miguelsotto-mayor7325 really appreciate your reply. Yes, what you say confirms what I've been thinking. I'd love to only have to carry Cosi, but I don't want to get caught out in those occasional heavy winds. Thanks again.
Thanks for the in-depth review Curtis! One thing I'm curious about that maybe you can shed some light on. I've read "30% lighter" in all their advertising. Yet no websites or reviewers that I've come across have listed a weight (feels odd considering how compelling a selling point it is). Did you happen to weigh yours or have that info somewhere? Curious how it compares weight wise to a piano or pianissimo. Thanks!
Hi Evan, I don't have a piano or pianissimo on hand to weigh the two, but I can say it is substantially lighter than the Cyclone. I suspect the Nano is closer in weight to the CineLa designs.
Excellent video! Have you (or anyone else) tested other mic quick release systems? Right now I’m using the On-Stage quick releases, though I’m doing much more solo production, field recording, they work great. And the price difference is pretty substantial when it comes to setting up all mics / stands. Just tying to figure out if there is value in upgrading. I have a couple of nanos on order, looking forward to testing in the field.
This new PCS is so nice that I am seriously considering replacing all of my many Ambient quick releases as they are hard to release in several use cases.
Just a quick question-- can you confirm that your handle did have a 3/8 tap in the bottom? I just received a version that doesn't seem to have a tap as you mentioned at ~7:30 in the video above. I'm also understanding that Rycote has changed the basket material... did you hear any handling noise with the provided grey and black socks?
@@curtisjudd Interesting! Looks like the new handle just has a smooth bore without any threads-- and they pulled both the black and grey socks out of the system and changed it to the same material as the cyclone due to some low frequency resonance. Have you heard of anyone else having those same problems?
@@curtisjudd Thanks for checking, I suppose it wouldn't be too hard to put a 1/4-20 adapter in there, but it seems like a bit of an oversight. Did you ever receive the "update" replacement for the grey and black windsocks that some people have reported receiving?
Could you please do a review of current USB microphones for commentary. Or, Entry XLR mics + additional equipment needed for same use. My mic is dying and *_you're known to be the goto guy for Audio gear!_*
Thanks Ken. I wasn't aware that Sennheiser made blimp style covers. But if you meant standard Rycote wind shields (the super shield, I believe they call it), this is lighter weight and apparently more transparent. Also, this includes the low-cut and RF filter.
@@curtisjudd Curtis thanks for that. I was thinking of the mzw series. Perhaps more correctly a basket windshield. I guess the expense comes from the technology of wind protection and transparency but to look at the materials it’s hard to imagine what exactly is making the real difference. As a single shooter I used to use one with a 416 and the pistol grip attached to a strap so it was to the side of my waist angled up for vox pop style interviews. It worked a treat. Unfortunately got mashed in transit and I have been looking for a replacement. I had it for years but just couldn’t remember them costing so much or now how they compare. I would have thought tech and materials would have moved on and 600usd sounds like something must have changed. Thanks so much for your excellent posts and you ever reassuringly professional and assured demeanour.
@@KenFlanagan The materials have advanced, depending on which generation of wind shield you're referring to. And also, Rycote still sells the super shield which is half the price of this if the weight and filters are not critical for your projects.
@@curtisjudd Ah yes, I was wondering if you're had more experience with it indoors where there's reflection from walls etc. Have you noticed more benefit when indoors by chance?
I think I'll hang one of those by my fireplace to see if Santa leaves something in it... But that storage case is a really nice value add. I always worried about crushing my RODE blimp.
@@LearnLightAndSoundSessions aw…when I bought my old Rycote kit, 10-years ago (and before I was in the biz) it was “zeppelin” and “with a dead cat”. Terrible names, but there is a “validity” to using the working terminology. Like…do you call it an EIC cable or an “Oscha”? The latter is seriously dumb, but somehow, a set staple.
Not trying to make a statement here, just using the manufacturer's names for their products. Interestingly, RODE no longer refers to the fur covers on their newer products as "dead" animal. They now just name them WS and then some number.
@@curtisjudd The division of sound components from one centralized body into multiple (a dedicated DAC, pre-amp and amp instead of an AV receiver that does it all, for example).
@@jaylewis2611 I see. It depends. If mobility is important for your production, combining several is important and with modern mixer/recorders, they include the preamps, ADCs and do so with very high quality. Unless you are working at the very top of the music industry, I don't think that separate components is a critical approach.
@@curtisjudd That's nice to hear. I appreciate the quick response, and I think people would be good to hear you talk about that in one of your videos as I scoured your channel looking for an answer to no avail before asking this 😅
@CurtisJudd I would have like to see another test, extremely important for professional work where, IMO the Cyclone for example falls apart and that's handling noise - the transfer of low frequency rumble from boom to the mic. Rycote has never been particularly good at addressing that specific problem. It would be nice to see a handling test with touching, hand sliding etc. on the boom. However, it would be AWESOME if you could do a comparison with the king of blimps and shock mounts (especially in that regard) that is Cinela. I'm in the process of searching for a good shockmount for my new MKH 8050. 99% of it's use will be indoors so a Cinela Minix 8000 is a no brainer for me (but it has no wind protection beyond a foam), but just in case I wanted something for outdoors or faster booming I started looking and the only contenders I can see are the Rycote Nano Shield and a Cinela Zephyx that internally has the Minix mount but Cinela provides so little information on how these actually work that I can't make a decision...
@@curtisjudd I own two Cyclones and they both exhibit massively more handling noise from touching the boompole than either of my Cinelas (COSI and Pianissimo). I've tested both on my K-Tek and Ambient poles, with and without quick locking adapters and the results are almost the same (Ambient is a little louder). Cyclones seem to particularly amplify it IMO. It almost feels like a low end rumble inside that blimp, every time I slide my hand on the pole. Rycote in their designs only suspends the mic itself (on lyres), while Cinela suspends either the whole blimp (COSI) or both the blimp and the mic inside (Pianissimo) which I believe is what makes up the bulk of the difference. Don't get me wrong, Cyclone is still the best weapon against heavy wind - I actually haven't taken out my fur cover from original packaging since I bought my first Cyclone in 2016 - I never needed to, which is a statement on it's own. But the weight, the handling isolation and high end transparency of the Cinelas are really difficult to beat, but they are pricey...
I bought this system for my KM185 and it was absolutely horrible for boom handling noise. Adding the zepplin made handling even worse than without. Had to return. How do you think it performs in terms of handling?
The thing is, you can’t really mix and match in the way Rycote suggested, because they are not selling the baskets individually. So you’d have to keep buying entire kits just to get a new size of the front basket. It makes no sense.
Curtis, the FIRST thing I noticed about this windshield was it looks like it is made from chicken wire! It screams "CHEAP." I believe Rycote is INSANE charging $629.00 for what appears to be a windscreen made from plastic and shoddy materials.
No need to buy it if it doesn't fit the type of work you do. I will say that I've had the Cyclone for about 5 years and can assure you that while it may LOOK cheap, it has help up extraordinarily well with no mechanical failures of any sort.
@@curtisjudd I'm not referring to the Cyclone but to the Nano Shield, the one you are reviewing in the video. The link you provided in the video description for the Nano Shield says its retails for $629.00.
@@adobemastr The materials are nearly identical. The Nano Shield is slimmer, yes, but its materials are not of lower quality in my experience so far. The Cyclone LOOKS beefier largely because of the thicker fabric. You can buy a similar version of the Nano Shield. And the Cyclone was also over $600. I'm not trying to convince you to buy any of these, but I wouldn't judge the quality of the build based on the look of the honeycomb structure and the lighter sock material. Lighter material will generally be more transparent sounding which is desirable. So there's always a tradeoff between greater wind protection (for higher wind) and transparency. For most outdoor situations where there's just a slight breeze, I'd much prefer to use the Nano Shield.
@@curtisjudd Curtis, thank you for your insights. I appreciate your time and all the effort you put into your reviews and have the greatest respect for you.
Nano technology is not plastic! It’s one of the most leading edge materials to have been developed in the last 20 years. Is it worth this price, for the true high end professional … yes. For most no.
If you don't need a tool like this, I understand your perspective. But for professional boom operators, tools like this are critical and there are a lot of little details the product must get right. Also, keep in mind that a lot of R&D goes into designing a product like this, it isn't just the materials. I hope that makes sense.
Clearly you know nothing about what it takes to produce something like this but that's cool. I'll pay you $1000 to produce me 1000 Mr Bigglesworth zeppelins of this quality. I'll pay you $2000 even. When can you deliver? If you want to know why it's priced the way it is, it's because of the engineering. The $1 plastic (which isn't $1) has to be produced then made into the shape which is very light yet still structurally firm without whistling in the wind. It can't give or make any noise when you move it and has to be versatile enough to properly suspend multiple mics with a variety of centers of gravity and diameters. It has 3 different skins for different degrees of wind and has multiple points of modularity and integration with other Rycote products. Shall I go on and make you look like a complete idiot?
I like the simple, straight forward review. Overhead then wide shot for testing. Taking notes.
Another thing to note about the PCS... Some quick releases require you to screw in a small set screw to hold the quick release to the 3/8"-16 thread on the boom pole. That screw digs into the threads on the boom causing damage to the threads. The PCS follows in a design similar to the the SGS quick release in that it has screws the threads from either side to compress the threads rather than screw into them. Doesn't damage the threads in the mean time.
Thanks for the additional info re: PCS. I'm impressed so far.
Also, this is really more of just an overview as we didn't test it in stronger wind situations.
After using the Ambient QR systems with many of my mixers, I have come to realise how bad they are. Not only this thread issue, but the mechinism itself will wear down and eventually stick, making it not so QR. Excited to test the Rycote system!
Just a note, friends: The Nano Shield is NOT a cheap product and is designed for those who make a living recording sound outdoors. It has several features needed for that type of work. If these features aren't compelling for your use cases, that's ok. You can watch up the to starting summary and then get back to your regularly scheduled activities! Have a great day!
10:50 - Looking Epic in the snow!
❄️
This is a great system and I'm sure it will work perfect for years.
It is expensive and for private video and audio producers it might not be needed.
But I'm sure many professionals will be happy about the benefits.
Thank you, Curtis, for this nice review.
Thanks!
Hi Curtis. I have been using the Rycote PCS system for some time and I must say that it is a very reliable, safe and above all fast system. In addition to the lite version I use the PCS-spigot version which can be attached to a stand or articulated arm (I have many Manfrotto); unfortunately the price is a bit high but the money spent was well spent
Thanks, Giancarlo, I appreciate the input!
Hi, Curtis, great review, as usual. Thanks a lot!
There was a question (about one year ago, see below), that was left unanswered: How can we use the Nano shield with a 5 pin connector mic (in my case - with BP 4029, that is 236 mm long)? Although it is written, that Nano shield (Rycote Nano Shield NS4-DB ) is appropriate especially for BP4029, according to the specs, the space (the length) inside the Nano shield will be not enough? Even if I buy the longer version of Nano shield (Nano-Shield Kit NS6-DD), I have to enlarge the hole, where the cable goes through, since the original BP 4029 cable (that I have to use) is almost double thicker than the one, supplied with Nano shield?
Any comments?
I don’t have any experience with this. Probably best to contact Rycote support. Best wishes!
Small is beautiful. Good to know them. Thanks.
You're welcome and thank you.
Hey man, Great Video! Im just wondering, I can not find the High Wind basket you bought seperatly (7:57). Are they discontinued?
When I look on the rycote website, the normal nano Shield kit fotos look like it actiually is the high wind basket. But when i look at thomann for example the fotos look like the normal basket. Im confused.
Maybe you know more about that.
It looks like they changed it since I reviewed it. Probably best to contact Rycote to see what they offer at this point.
That PCS quick release system is what I've been needing in my life!
👍
I love your sound tests. I would love to see some outdoor tests with a wind speed measurement of some sort in the future. That would be awesome.
Good idea. Thanks.
I just bought my mighty boom and it has significantly more cable noise when extended when compared to my cheaper ktek Avalon. Any idea how I can reduce this? Aren’t there attachments you can put on the cable to hold it away from the interior of the pole? Thank you
If you have a coiled internal cable, you might be able to insert some small plastic tabs to prevent the cable from hitting up against the side of the pole. I'd contact K-tek and see what they suggest.
snow does a great job at deadening sound. you're the fuckin man Curtis
He indeed is 😁
Very few reflections out there, indeed.
Great, detailed review, thanks Curtis. As I sometimes use a stereo 5-pin XLR mic (AT BP4025), should a short thin cable from a 3rd party manufacturer fit in the Nano, please? (The one I've seen is the rather short Cable Techniques stereo 9" (23cm) Shortie Mic Jumper cable, which has a low profile 5-pin female XLR connector to go inside the Nano, with a thin 3.4mm cable.)
Should work, but I’d contact Rycote support to confirm.
Hello Curtis! On one document from Rycote's website it looks like and and is said to have a 3/8 mount on the bottom instead of a PCS connector, but everywhere else I look I find no mention of this! Is the PCS connector removable or is the only 3/8 mounting option under the pistol grip? Regards
My copy has the PCS connector on the shock mount and the PCS connector is not removable. Also, I was mistaken, the pistol grip has a hole in the bottom which is roughly 3/8" but it is not threaded on my copy. I'm wondering if I received a pre-production copy.
Could the handle go inside the basket for storage inside the case? Any option for 2 ch stereo / MS cabling?
I didn't see a way to get it inside of the basket. I don't know whether there are 2 channel options yet.
Hey Curtis! I'm looking at upgrading and this seems to be the best pick. But how is it with more wind? Have you have a chance to use it on a windy day the past year? :)
Haven't had an opportunity to use it on a particularly windy day just yet.
Hi, thanks for sharing. Really like this design!
👍
@@curtisjudd I'm thinking buying one for my shotgun. Where did you buy the "high wind basket"? Can't find in internet. Thanks.
@@Hsuanice That was given to me directly by Rycote to make this video. It looks like they are out of stock at B&H where I usually buy my gear.
Hi Curtis,Great video and Great product..
Do you know where can I find the alternative basket that you show in the video cause I can't see anyone selling it online,thank you
Not sure - it was listed at B&H previously. Might be best to contact Rycote support for details.
I cut square holes in the hard shell cases to allow the pistol grip handles to stick out while the hard shell provides full protection to the baskets and mics. This allows me to easily fit 3 mics Into a Portabrace hard case, with plenty of room to spare for accessories like dead cat covers and furry brushes.
👍
👍
I have enjoyed the nanoshield, however the cable just failed on me in the middle of a shoot, so now I’m looking for something that doesn’t add wires. For an outdoor Oklahoma wind would the rycote supersoftie work well enough?
Thank you!
The softies don’t put as much space between the mic capsule and the outer shell of the softie so it doesn’t have the ability to manage higher winds. But for not too extreme breezes the softie will work nicely.
CON! 45 degree angle connector
Also the basket on this version is pretty much indestructible according to Rycote. But they provided a case that only protects basket 😂😂😂
We needed that case on the original model. But I am loving mine. Great video Curtis.
Thanks for sharing!
There's a little cloth sack for the innards which can be tucked inside one of the baskets when stored in the case.
Wonderfully thorough, as always. Is this filter a perfect match for the 8060?
Good question
I would think yes.
Beautiful landscape : )
🙏
Hey Curtis, Great to hear you in 2022. From a laypersons viewpoint, the cyclone gives slightly more base to the overall sound which was evident both in your voice and movement of your jacket. I'm listening on a MacBook Pro 14 inch M1 Pro via it's built in speakers.
Otherwise , very little difference, as you mentioned. It would be nice to hear how both handle stronger wind.
Best wishes from London Uk.
Keith
Thanks for the input, Keith!
Interesting observation, Keith. Due to the nature of blimps and the materials used for wind protection, the thicker the material the more high end is absorbed. On my studio speakers it was very easy to hear that the Cyclone (with thicker material) was attenuating/rounding off the high end thus making Curtis's voice darker which could be perceived as being "bassier." Had he used the long hair fur the high end loss would have been even more apparent. An interesting test would be to see if the results were more similar if the high end boost switch on the DPA 4017B was used within the Cyclone (which offsets the loss). I agree with other reviewers, Curtis, that a higher wind review would be great, but as always your personality and content are a great contribution to the media community and I appreciate you. (I have an upcoming feature in Belize and I'm debating a switch to either a Nano Shield or Cinela from the Windshield Kit that came with the 4017B). Cheers!
@@KellyAskam_MindExchangeMusic Thanks Kelly. Best wishes on the project in Belize!
I have viewed a couple user product videos and forum images where the basket cover is worn or torn away from the basket structure. Have you noticed any damage during testing or field use? Thank you.
None yet.
I love the pcs system. All my 3 booms are equipped with that. Can't live without it 😁 I also needed a new wind protection for the mini cmit and the nano shield was over the table as one of the options. In the end I ordered the Cinela Cosi. I hope to have made a good decision...
Thanks for sharing and I hope the CineLa works well for you.
Hi Miguel, how are you feeling about your decision to go with the Cosi after half a year? Is it handling strong enough winds for your needs? Currently making this decision for myself too. Thanks
@@nigelchristopherbrow Hi Nigel. I am using the Cosi 90% of the time, but I always carry with me the Rycote windshield kit 4 because if its too windy or a bit of rain I used that instead. In my opinion, if you only going to have one option, go with the Nano because there always going to be problematic days and the Nano or similar is the only option. I am now preparing my gear for a job that is going to happen in a hotel by the seaside and for sure I will carry the Rycote because we will do some shots at the beach and the wind there can be too strong for the Cosi... Hope this helps you in your decision
@@miguelsotto-mayor7325 really appreciate your reply. Yes, what you say confirms what I've been thinking. I'd love to only have to carry Cosi, but I don't want to get caught out in those occasional heavy winds. Thanks again.
Thanks for the in-depth review Curtis! One thing I'm curious about that maybe you can shed some light on.
I've read "30% lighter" in all their advertising. Yet no websites or reviewers that I've come across have listed a weight (feels odd considering how compelling a selling point it is). Did you happen to weigh yours or have that info somewhere?
Curious how it compares weight wise to a piano or pianissimo. Thanks!
Hi Evan, I don't have a piano or pianissimo on hand to weigh the two, but I can say it is substantially lighter than the Cyclone. I suspect the Nano is closer in weight to the CineLa designs.
Excellent video! Have you (or anyone else) tested other mic quick release systems? Right now I’m using the On-Stage quick releases, though I’m doing much more solo production, field recording, they work great. And the price difference is pretty substantial when it comes to setting up all mics / stands. Just tying to figure out if there is value in upgrading.
I have a couple of nanos on order, looking forward to testing in the field.
I don't have experience with the On-stage QR nor the Gator QR system which was mentioned below so I don't have a frame of reference on those two.
This new PCS is so nice that I am seriously considering replacing all of my many Ambient quick releases as they are hard to release in several use cases.
Check Gator frameworks quick release. I tried it and very happy with it. Less expensive also.
I'm definitely happy with PCS so far. I just bought 4 additional studs for my studio mics.
@@curtisjudd Im happy w my gators, bought additional studs as well.
@@wpkambiancesounds 👍
Just a quick question-- can you confirm that your handle did have a 3/8 tap in the bottom? I just received a version that doesn't seem to have a tap as you mentioned at ~7:30 in the video above. I'm also understanding that Rycote has changed the basket material... did you hear any handling noise with the provided grey and black socks?
Yes, my handle has a 3/8 tap. Quick/rash movements, yes. But for normal cueing, no.
@@curtisjudd Interesting! Looks like the new handle just has a smooth bore without any threads-- and they pulled both the black and grey socks out of the system and changed it to the same material as the cyclone due to some low frequency resonance. Have you heard of anyone else having those same problems?
@@Driftc44 My mistake - just got it out today and checked my copy and indeed, it does NOT have threads on the bottom of the handle.
@@curtisjudd Thanks for checking, I suppose it wouldn't be too hard to put a 1/4-20 adapter in there, but it seems like a bit of an oversight. Did you ever receive the "update" replacement for the grey and black windsocks that some people have reported receiving?
@@Driftc44 👍 No, I haven't.
Could you please do a review of current USB microphones for commentary. Or, Entry XLR mics + additional equipment needed for same use. My mic is dying and *_you're known to be the goto guy for Audio gear!_*
I have several reviews. You might have a look at this review of the RODE VIdeoMic NTG: ua-cam.com/video/c4Pu72J5BRE/v-deo.html
Thanks so much. Seems expensive. How does it compare to the Sennheiser standard blimp??
Thanks Ken. I wasn't aware that Sennheiser made blimp style covers. But if you meant standard Rycote wind shields (the super shield, I believe they call it), this is lighter weight and apparently more transparent. Also, this includes the low-cut and RF filter.
@@curtisjudd Curtis thanks for that. I was thinking of the mzw series. Perhaps more correctly a basket windshield. I guess the expense comes from the technology of wind protection and transparency but to look at the materials it’s hard to imagine what exactly is making the real difference. As a single shooter I used to use one with a 416 and the pistol grip attached to a strap so it was to the side of my waist angled up for vox pop style interviews. It worked a treat. Unfortunately got mashed in transit and I have been looking for a replacement. I had it for years but just couldn’t remember them costing so much or now how they compare. I would have thought tech and materials would have moved on and 600usd sounds like something must have changed. Thanks so much for your excellent posts and you ever reassuringly professional and assured demeanour.
@@KenFlanagan The materials have advanced, depending on which generation of wind shield you're referring to. And also, Rycote still sells the super shield which is half the price of this if the weight and filters are not critical for your projects.
Hi Curtis. Unrelated question - was that an RF Venue on your cart? If so, how do you like it?
Yes, in fact we covered it here: ua-cam.com/video/3UBUNxbT0JE/v-deo.html
@@curtisjudd Ah yes, I was wondering if you're had more experience with it indoors where there's reflection from walls etc. Have you noticed more benefit when indoors by chance?
@@TheUnMarketingGroup No, unfortunately, I haven't had a chance to use it extensively in large indoor settings.
I think I'll hang one of those by my fireplace to see if Santa leaves something in it... But that storage case is a really nice value add. I always worried about crushing my RODE blimp.
LOL!
Good review. You never heard the expressions of "dead cat" or "pistol grip"?
"Dead Cat" is the name RODE uses while "Windjammer" is the name Rycote uses.
@@LearnLightAndSoundSessions aw…when I bought my old Rycote kit, 10-years ago (and before I was in the biz) it was “zeppelin” and “with a dead cat”. Terrible names, but there is a “validity” to using the working terminology. Like…do you call it an EIC cable or an “Oscha”? The latter is seriously dumb, but somehow, a set staple.
Not trying to make a statement here, just using the manufacturer's names for their products. Interestingly, RODE no longer refers to the fur covers on their newer products as "dead" animal. They now just name them WS and then some number.
Is it recommended to use separates when recording sound, similarly to how audiophiles do in playback?
Hi Jay, sorry, I don't understand what is meant by "separates"?
@@curtisjudd The division of sound components from one centralized body into multiple (a dedicated DAC, pre-amp and amp instead of an AV receiver that does it all, for example).
@@jaylewis2611 I see. It depends. If mobility is important for your production, combining several is important and with modern mixer/recorders, they include the preamps, ADCs and do so with very high quality. Unless you are working at the very top of the music industry, I don't think that separate components is a critical approach.
@@curtisjudd That's nice to hear. I appreciate the quick response, and I think people would be good to hear you talk about that in one of your videos as I scoured your channel looking for an answer to no avail before asking this 😅
@@jaylewis2611 Good idea, thanks for the input.
Is there a nano for DMS rigs yet?
Not that I've seen, at least not yet. I'm hopeful they'd extend the product line to include that.
@CurtisJudd I would have like to see another test, extremely important for professional work where, IMO the Cyclone for example falls apart and that's handling noise - the transfer of low frequency rumble from boom to the mic. Rycote has never been particularly good at addressing that specific problem. It would be nice to see a handling test with touching, hand sliding etc. on the boom. However, it would be AWESOME if you could do a comparison with the king of blimps and shock mounts (especially in that regard) that is Cinela.
I'm in the process of searching for a good shockmount for my new MKH 8050. 99% of it's use will be indoors so a Cinela Minix 8000 is a no brainer for me (but it has no wind protection beyond a foam), but just in case I wanted something for outdoors or faster booming I started looking and the only contenders I can see are the Rycote Nano Shield and a Cinela Zephyx that internally has the Minix mount but Cinela provides so little information on how these actually work that I can't make a decision...
Will test when I can. But to be honest, I've got a long list so it probably won't be soon.
I should note that I've used the Cyclone on several paid jobs and haven't had any issues or complaints re: excessive handling noise.
@@curtisjudd I own two Cyclones and they both exhibit massively more handling noise from touching the boompole than either of my Cinelas (COSI and Pianissimo). I've tested both on my K-Tek and Ambient poles, with and without quick locking adapters and the results are almost the same (Ambient is a little louder). Cyclones seem to particularly amplify it IMO. It almost feels like a low end rumble inside that blimp, every time I slide my hand on the pole. Rycote in their designs only suspends the mic itself (on lyres), while Cinela suspends either the whole blimp (COSI) or both the blimp and the mic inside (Pianissimo) which I believe is what makes up the bulk of the difference.
Don't get me wrong, Cyclone is still the best weapon against heavy wind - I actually haven't taken out my fur cover from original packaging since I bought my first Cyclone in 2016 - I never needed to, which is a statement on it's own. But the weight, the handling isolation and high end transparency of the Cinelas are really difficult to beat, but they are pricey...
@@Michael_Bialik thanks for sharing your experience with both, great to know! 🙏
I thought the DPA 4017b ALWAYS has a 50hz lowcut filter. 13:25
Not that I'm aware of or that is listed in its specifications.
I bought this system for my KM185 and it was absolutely horrible for boom handling noise. Adding the zepplin made handling even worse than without. Had to return. How do you think it performs in terms of handling?
It has been good on my K-tek poles.
The thing is, you can’t really mix and match in the way Rycote suggested, because they are not selling the baskets individually. So you’d have to keep buying entire kits just to get a new size of the front basket. It makes no sense.
I agree, they need to make the baskets available independently.
Curtis, the FIRST thing I noticed about this windshield was it looks like it is made from chicken wire! It screams "CHEAP." I believe Rycote is INSANE charging $629.00 for what appears to be a windscreen made from plastic and shoddy materials.
No need to buy it if it doesn't fit the type of work you do. I will say that I've had the Cyclone for about 5 years and can assure you that while it may LOOK cheap, it has help up extraordinarily well with no mechanical failures of any sort.
@@curtisjudd I'm not referring to the Cyclone but to the Nano Shield, the one you are reviewing in the video. The link you provided in the video description for the Nano Shield says its retails for $629.00.
@@adobemastr The materials are nearly identical. The Nano Shield is slimmer, yes, but its materials are not of lower quality in my experience so far. The Cyclone LOOKS beefier largely because of the thicker fabric. You can buy a similar version of the Nano Shield. And the Cyclone was also over $600. I'm not trying to convince you to buy any of these, but I wouldn't judge the quality of the build based on the look of the honeycomb structure and the lighter sock material. Lighter material will generally be more transparent sounding which is desirable. So there's always a tradeoff between greater wind protection (for higher wind) and transparency. For most outdoor situations where there's just a slight breeze, I'd much prefer to use the Nano Shield.
@@curtisjudd Curtis, thank you for your insights. I appreciate your time and all the effort you put into your reviews and have the greatest respect for you.
Nano technology is not plastic! It’s one of the most leading edge materials to have been developed in the last 20 years. Is it worth this price, for the true high end professional … yes. For most no.
🙏🏾
Thanks Eugene.
Mmmm to my ears... its wear but.. Im hearing more high frecuency with the cyclone than the new one but... its look heavier.
The cyclone definitely is heavier, in terms of overall weight and the weight of the fabric cover.
seriously OVER PRICED..... poor value for cost I will pass on this one untit they get the pricing reduced by half
If you want lower prices, look at the heavier RODE Blimp.
630$ for basically 1$ worth of material, 10oz or so of plastic and thick sock, haha..really?
If you don't need a tool like this, I understand your perspective. But for professional boom operators, tools like this are critical and there are a lot of little details the product must get right. Also, keep in mind that a lot of R&D goes into designing a product like this, it isn't just the materials. I hope that makes sense.
Clearly you know nothing about what it takes to produce something like this but that's cool. I'll pay you $1000 to produce me 1000 Mr Bigglesworth zeppelins of this quality. I'll pay you $2000 even. When can you deliver?
If you want to know why it's priced the way it is, it's because of the engineering. The $1 plastic (which isn't $1) has to be produced then made into the shape which is very light yet still structurally firm without whistling in the wind. It can't give or make any noise when you move it and has to be versatile enough to properly suspend multiple mics with a variety of centers of gravity and diameters. It has 3 different skins for different degrees of wind and has multiple points of modularity and integration with other Rycote products. Shall I go on and make you look like a complete idiot?
@@SoundSpeeds pls do go on, I love to learn at the expense of this person 😂