Here are some jump links for easy comparison: 1:02 - XLR-K3M Adapter with Sony ECM-XM1 Shotgun (Off Camera) 1:41 - XLR-K3M Adapter with Sony ECM-XM1 Shotgun (On Camera) 2:03 - ECM-B1M Shotgun at 6 Feet (1.83 Meters) Away 2:41 - ECM-B1M Shotgun at 3 Feet (0.91 Meters) Away 3:14 - ECM-B1M Shotgun Hand Held 3:29 - XLR-K3M Adapter with Sennheiser MKH-416 (Off Camera)
Perfect comparisons, thank you! Obviously, the expensive Sennheiser properly placed is another level. But the ECM-B1M at 3 feet seems compact and useable. It seemed useless at 6 feet, but reasonable at 3. Thank you again for the comparison! :)
416! Now that is a microphone! Good review, both Sony shotguns work pretty well at 3 feet, I use the XLR-K2 with the shotgun a lot. Not a lot beats a 416 for video, the NTG3 is a nice cheaper option. This review confirms I just need to get the K3M and use my existing mic s instead of going for the ECM-B1 so thanks!
Thanks for the video. I am not sure if anybody else has mentioned it or not. It would have been more complete if you had added some lateral noise to test/compare the directional performance of each mic as well. Thanks again, cheers
Thanks Mohammad - I did do a separate video to test active or passive noise cancellation in case that's of interest. Find it here: ua-cam.com/video/8Gutj3WFgAY/v-deo.html
i would like to see more stuff dealing with Lav mics to go directly into the camera, and also for atleast 3 or 4 people talking, this would be ideal for people who are doing a wide shot interview of people talking
many of us invested in that great 416 many years ago and is our go to mic. But I agree, at least going through the K3M, they are fairly close. Now to go see if Curtis Judd has done something to compare the 416 and the B1M... and Sony, please pay some creatives to help you come up with better marketing names (of course I say that, then think about MKH-416, so I retract that, lol)
I was also surprised to see how closely they compared. I've had the MKH-416 for a while now, and in addition to interview audio, it makes a fantastic voice-over mic. And if you're doing any kind of regular professional work, the build quality is far better than the mic that comes in this kit. But I do agree - sound quality in this test was impressive.
Hi James nice review Sennheiser MKH-416 best mic i have ever used. did you find a solution ECM-B1M hand noise ? I have ordered the k3m but I am also interested in the ECM-B1M big oversight on sony's part ?
Hey John - I haven't ended up using the ECM-B1M much at all since the pandemic. My plans for it have been postponed. I remain wary of the handling noise, though. It does seem like a pretty big oversight.
Can you please explain why you think the XLR is the right mic for nature? I am a newbie to fancy cameras and am doing research. ( I just bought a Sony A7c )
@@newlifeeveryday1821 Honestly after surfing around the ECM-B1M is all you need. I was really shocked of how crazy thia mic is, I would buy it now and test it for birding and such. Search for that "ECM-B1M sony malaysia" and many other in field videos and you should be amazed. I would use it on my a7S III. I think it'll be my only mic solution for some time, although I have lavalaier mics already for longer distances. Go see many comparisons of this magic tool against famous other mics like RODE.
Thanks for vid. For sure a boomed mike sounds way better than an on camera mounted mike. I have the ECM-B1M as a 'reasonable' but relatively discrete mike for scratch audio or original audio if working close. It looks like adding an XLR input direct to camera can further improve quality esp. when getting mike off camera and close to desired voice/SFX. I also have a Sennheiser MKH 416 and a MixPre 6ii for optimum quality - but it's more kit to manage and harder to be discrete with. I'm now considering the XLR-K3M too, not least for the extension hot shoe cable (nearly impossible to source separately) so I can use the mike away from hot-shoe, better facilitating a cage mount rig with top handle. I have yet to work out how best to handle a camera with a DJI gimbal (RS3) with/without cage and options for sound plugging etc. If it were possible to buy the remote cord separately (almost impossible) it might negate or lessen my perceived need for the full XLR-K3M kit. That said your demo of stand booming a MKH-416 direct into camera via the K3M module looks like a simpler, quicker, lighter set-up rather than using my MixPre6ii with separate syncing etc for quicker/lighter shoots when working solo. Ideally having a team to operate sound, lights, camera, handle and carry kit etc is best but either expensive and/or impractical for many situations.
Hey Ricky, thanks for the great feedback. That XLR-K3M has been wonderful. I haven't used any higher-end stuff for the work I do, but you can't beat the simplicity, and I get results I'm really happy with. I have a similar unit for a GH5, and they're very comparable - though the Panasonic needs a splitter if you want to record audio tracks at different levels for safety, where the Sony can do that with just one XLR cable plugged in. Thanks for watching!
Consonants and overall sound quality is clearly better with the Sennheiser. Albeit at 3-4 times the price, but that unfortunately is the difference for pro gear. Bottom out / poor shock mount of the B1M makes it unusable for handheld videos. Which contradicts the marketing of this mic.
Yah neither of the Sony shotguns sound good at 6ft. Sony included a shotgun with a camcorder I bought 10 years ago, and its better than these. However, nothing wrong with plugging other mics into the XLR-K3M. I'm glad you tried it with the Sennheiser. The shotgun mic is important to me to as a backup, and to catch ambient sound. For voice, I use lavaliers. 4-channels on-camera is a big reason I wanted this camera. Recording off-camera....as a one man operation, just a non-starter. My work is for UA-cam so, so quick and dirty.
Have you tried the hot shoe adapter that comes with the XLR-K3M with the ECM-B1M? I'm very interested in getting both and would be happy to know if the adapter works with the ECM-B1M so it can be mounted slightly away on my camera cage. Thanks a lot!
Hi. I have Sony hot shoe mic and Polsen lav. I wanted to use 2 channel for these. Problem I have is mics not working together when channel in put on ch1.ch2 It is working on ch1 only. Is it manufacture problem or my setting is off. Also when I record something on ch1 only option I have, when I review it ch1 sound goes to right ear, ch2 sound goes to left ear only. What am I doing wrong? Please help
The noise of the ECM-B1M when you are moving is terrible. I don't think i will be buying it now after your video. Thanks! Any ideea what i can use with a sony a 7 c for walking ? The mic. of yhe a 7cis terrible with the wind noise.
What is that cool little boom stand? Hey thanks for this. Your setup is very similar to mine. All mics sounding pretty much as expected. But that boom stand!
Hey Clyde - that boom stand is a really cheap Auray MS-5230T - and I'll say that putting my MKH-416 (attached to Sennheiser's shockmount) at the end of that flimsy boom is a little unsettling. I really have to make sure all that weight is balanced over one of the legs on that tripod stand. I don't want it falling over and hurting the talent, the mic, or any other equipment. But it certainly is portable, and can be handy for tight setups. Hope that helps.
@@NeverStark Thanks, yes it helps. Funny it looks solid on the vid. But that's my same issue, securing balance, protecting subject. Hope to see more of your vids. Go James!
Deceptively so, I'm afraid. Not something I'm ever comfortable putting a thousand dollar mic on because it will tip over without careful attention or added weight for stability. It's been a long time since I ordered it, so I'm not sure on the model - but anything like it will probably be just as good.
Can I please ask you an audio question ? I am a newbie in general. I have a Sony A7Siii and enjoy recording video of streams, rivers and other nature scenes and want to increase the quality of the sound on my videos. Can I use two microphones with the K3M to create better quality stereo sound ? or should I use an H6 to add stereo sound to my nature videos ?
Great review. For two person trade show indoor interviews from 5-10 feet away from the camera (not centered), do you feel the ecm-b1m mic will be effective in picking up two voices with my Sony Zv-e10? Assume we set it for super directional, noise cancel, auto. I travel alot pre pandemic so portability is key. I have a Saramonic Blink but it is USB c and the usb c doesn't work with the zv e10 for some reason.
Hey James.. the K3m comes with an adapter that allows you to move the hot shoe off center. This is a must if you use a Rig with a top handle and cage. The b1m does Not Include the adapter wire to move hot shoe. MY QUESTION IS THIS? DOES THE K3M WIRE ADAPTER WORK WITH THE B1M? CAN I MOVE THE B1M OFF CENTER WITH THAT WIRE? HOW ELSE CAN YOU MOVE SHOTGUN MIC B1M OFF CENTER OR OFF CAMERA..
Hi Adam - I actually tested that extension cable from the XLR-K3M kit with the ECM-B1M last month because I was curious about it, too. At least on the A7R IV, the B1M did in fact work with that extension cable. I can't speak for other cameras, but I thought that was a positive result.
So i had a xlr mic with 3 prongs.. i assumed when I seen the pic.. it says xlr 1/4.. so i thought they were mini connectors. As for b1m.. i wish they sold wire separately.. i need it off center.. but i hear included shotgun mic is really good on the k3m.. so kinda pointless to buy the b1m unless it was 4 run n gun. I hear the b1m is only good for 3ft. So kinda disappointing. Thx 4 hard work
As someone who spent serious money on the MKH-416, it's almost depressing how close they are! Still love that Sennheiser for durability, VO work, and a fuller low-end, but that Sony gets the job done.
Hey Panzardi - this is interesting. I'm very used to duplicating one audio channel over to the other in post, or using an XLR splitter to record audio into both channels (one at a lower level as a safety track.) But with the K3M set to IN1, audio is recorded to both L and R channels (1 and 2, respectively) and even though you're only physically plugged into input 1, you can vary the levels recorded to either channel with the gain wheels. Note that I've only tried this on the digital setting - but I haven't seen anything in the manual that suggests it can't also be achieved in analog.
Yeah, I hear you, Matt. Panasonic has a similar adapter for the GH5, and I prefer their approach of just duplicating the hot shoe on top. With the XLR-K3M a cage would probably be the answer to mounting lav receivers.
@@NeverStark Thanks for the reply James! I actually found an adhesive cold shoe accessory that I could mount on top of the flat part. Not ideal, but it would easily support the little RODE Wireless GO receiver, which weighs almost nothing. Cheers!
@@NeverStark If you use it with an A7iii does it still talk to the K3M just analog or do you have to connect it to the camera's mic input through 3.5mm?
Hey Matt - while I haven't tried it on an A7III, my understanding is that it will send an analog signal through the hotshoe as long as you've flipped the switch from Digital to Analog. In support of that theory is the fact that there are no other outputs on either the XLR-K3M nor the ECM-B1M. Should work just fine.
Really glad you made this! Can I ask what do you mean by it bottoming out? Or maybe I need to listen with my headphones and not my phone speakers! I'm really interested in the ECM-B1M for wedding videography, small profile, but I do move a lot and would want to avoid that effecting the audio! But the possibility of it not needing a cable is really great, so is it worth the trade off to someone who knows the difference?
I absolutely agree about the convenience - definitely why I bought it. "Bottoming out" may not have been the best way to describe what I think is happening. It just seems like the built-in shock mount still allows the mic to move enough to make contact with its housing. The result is a sort of hollow "rattle" that I find unsavory. Hard to say whether you would experience it - but it seems to me that it doesn't take much motion to cause the unwelcome noise.
@@NeverStark thanks for the reply! I try to keep things pretty steady as I'm shooting, but things like walking down the isle need to be done in motion. But for me, the small profile wins out.
@@MurrayEnders That's great, Murray - I'd love to hear how it performs for you. I just posted another video testing noise cancelling, and the ECM-B1M does a great job of it. Hope you enjoy it.
Wow... I can’t believe that you made this video days before I finally decide to go in on a purchase. Not sure why there aren’t many good vids that talk about this mic: I just wanted to know if I could relocate the mic using a hot shoe extension of some sort. I’m using an a6600, and learning... just how awful the vertical-only articulation is. If I mount anything to the native hot shoe, I’m going to block the screen! Really not sure if I can even use any of the Multi-Interface Mics if I decide to get a hot shoe extension cable, or a bodyframe with a cold shoe. Any ideas?
Hey Lies - glad you were able to find this video! I didn't know about the screen articulation issue on the a6600 - that's unfortunate. I have some ideas, but they're probably not perfect fixes. After reading your comment, I did a quick test. The larger XLR-K3M kit comes with a hot shoe extension cable, and I'd been curious if it could be used with the ECM-B1M. My test worked (at least on the A7R IV) so maybe an extension cable could work in your case. Unfortunately, the hot shoe portion of the extension cable would still block some portion of the screen on your a6600 in the vertical position. Another idea, and I'm sure this is something you've already considered, is getting a small external monitor that can plug into your camera's HDMI. Not great, as it takes away the benefit of having such a small camera in the first place. It's what I would have to do on the A7R IV because its screen can't be viewed at all from in front of the camera. Lastly, if you're looking for better audio for vlogging, maybe a wired lapel mic like the Rode SmartLav+ into the mic input on the a6600 could get the job done? You'd have a cable to deal with, but you'd be able to see yourself on screen. Hope this helps.
James Jordan Hey no way! That's awesome. Any info you can give me on that cord? I actually did some more research and not sure if I should go with a Diety D3 Pro... or maybe try my luck the the ECM! Might save some money. But that's amazing to hear. Definitely going to invest in a monitor eventually... but not yet. Might be a last step since I'm not doing too many shoots that need it... yet. We'll see! I'm fine with a bit of the screen being blocked, so the extension may work! I'll let you know. Oh and forgot to sub! (Today I get paid, so taking everything in me not to just buy all of the camera things)
@@usernamehandle I know that struggle! I've just checked the cable, the box and the manual for a part number, but all I can find is "extension cable for audio". I did a little Google searching, but failed to find anything that looks exactly like what comes in the box for the XLR-K3M kit. You might have to do some trial and error! (Another struggle I know well.)
Also what long wires are you using for boom? K3m is XLR 1/4 input right? So its not a Full XLR? Do you use adapters or buy mics with and cables that are XLR 1/4? The 3 prong full XLR inputs look like they wont align in pics of k3m. Lmk? But most Importantly.. please tell me if the K3m hot shoe adapter to move off center will work with the B1M? Is there any other hotshoe adapter that allows you to use B1M off center. I need a top handle for my cage on center and that mic on hot shoe b1m won't work the wire adapter from k3m allows it too.unless
Hey Adam - answered your 2nd question in your previous comment. As for the XLR-K3M, it has two full XLR inputs and I use a standard XLR cable to connect my Sennheiser MKH-416. (The included mic has its own built-in XLR cable - not detachable.) The K3M also has a 3.5mm input.
Hi Jorge - the shock mount is the Sennheiser MZS20-1 for their MKH series mics. The Sony did not actually fit in the back part of the mount, so this setup was a little precarious. The problem is the rubber cuff around the mic that helps to suppress vibration when it's in the mount on the XLR-K3M. I actually have a Rode SM3-R laying around, so I tried that. I was just able to get the Sony mic to fit - but it was pretty tight . So maybe the SM4-R is an option if you're careful.
Mounted off-camera, surprisingly good. The MKH-416 still has the sound I prefer, but I could definitely use the included shotgun for professional work if needed.
hi james，i am wondering if you did a noise cancling of ecm-xm1 or not，i recenly bought this microphone kit，it has a crazy sound noise and hearless electic sound，did i use the microphone in the wrong way or not？
Hi Seth - no, I didn't do any noise reduction in post for this test. If I was experiencing what you described, I'd definitely try to return or exchange with the retailer.
Hi Eddie - apologies for the late response. I haven't tested that specifically, but the only connection between the camera and the ECM-B1M is through the hotshoe, so I'd assume that a broken mic input jack wouldn't prevent this mic from functioning with the camera. If there's something else going on with audio processing within the camera, though, that could be another story.
@@NeverStark thanks for your response, I bought the Sony ECM-XYST1M which uses the hotshoe but it didnt work. The fact the internal mic went at the same time (It fell over on a tripod with a mic plugged in and all the impact went through the mic input jack and pushed it in) probably are tell tell sign that there is something wrong with the ability to record any audio.
Here are some jump links for easy comparison:
1:02 - XLR-K3M Adapter with Sony ECM-XM1 Shotgun (Off Camera)
1:41 - XLR-K3M Adapter with Sony ECM-XM1 Shotgun (On Camera)
2:03 - ECM-B1M Shotgun at 6 Feet (1.83 Meters) Away
2:41 - ECM-B1M Shotgun at 3 Feet (0.91 Meters) Away
3:14 - ECM-B1M Shotgun Hand Held
3:29 - XLR-K3M Adapter with Sennheiser MKH-416 (Off Camera)
Very helpful. Simple and clear. Thanks.
This was helpful thanks James.
As if I hadn't already been eyeing a 416 already. Thank you for encouraging an expensive purchase 😅
I feel your pain!
Perfect comparisons, thank you! Obviously, the expensive Sennheiser properly placed is another level. But the ECM-B1M at 3 feet seems compact and useable. It seemed useless at 6 feet, but reasonable at 3. Thank you again for the comparison! :)
Super helpful. I was thinking of using the kit XM1 as a backup to my NGT3. Thanks :)
Thanks for the test! I'm surprised how well that XM1 holds up to the 416. I use the 416 for interviews too!
Thanks for taking the time to make this, much appreciated.
Happy to do it - thanks for watching!
416! Now that is a microphone! Good review, both Sony shotguns work pretty well at 3 feet, I use the XLR-K2 with the shotgun a lot. Not a lot beats a 416 for video, the NTG3 is a nice cheaper option. This review confirms I just need to get the K3M and use my existing mic s instead of going for the ECM-B1 so thanks!
Glad it was helpful!
Thanks for the video. I am not sure if anybody else has mentioned it or not. It would have been more complete if you had added some lateral noise to test/compare the directional performance of each mic as well. Thanks again, cheers
Thanks Mohammad - I did do a separate video to test active or passive noise cancellation in case that's of interest. Find it here: ua-cam.com/video/8Gutj3WFgAY/v-deo.html
@@NeverStark great l will check that
Hi James, thank you for this text. This was exactly I was looking for, and exactly these three mics. - Possible to make an outdoors run'n gun test?
Very helpful! Thanks :)
Excellent video and much needed.
why did you do all that work and NOT test the XM1 at 3 feet like you did the B1M???
Do it again! xD
Thanks for this super helpful comparison.
Glad you found it useful!
i would like to see more stuff dealing with Lav mics to go directly into the camera, and also for atleast 3 or 4 people talking, this would be ideal for people who are doing a wide shot interview of people talking
Great video, this is exactly what I was looking fir
Excellent - glad it was useful to you!
great review . just what I was looking for. Subscribed ☑️
It would have been interesting to also test the 416 on the cam...
Almost a perfect video, only thing missing is links to the products you tested.
VERY helpful! Awesome work. Thank you!
Glad it was useful for you, Hunter. Thanks!
Such a professional video. Thanks
Wow, the performance of the ECM compares to the MKH is stunning. I cannot see how you could justify the purchase of the sennheiser.
many of us invested in that great 416 many years ago and is our go to mic. But I agree, at least going through the K3M, they are fairly close. Now to go see if Curtis Judd has done something to compare the 416 and the B1M... and Sony, please pay some creatives to help you come up with better marketing names (of course I say that, then think about MKH-416, so I retract that, lol)
I was also surprised to see how closely they compared. I've had the MKH-416 for a while now, and in addition to interview audio, it makes a fantastic voice-over mic. And if you're doing any kind of regular professional work, the build quality is far better than the mic that comes in this kit. But I do agree - sound quality in this test was impressive.
@@NeverStark I completely agree in both of your points. I personally have an AT875R on my XLR-K3M and I could not wish for a better audio quality.
Hi James nice review Sennheiser MKH-416 best mic i have ever used. did you find a solution ECM-B1M hand noise ? I have ordered the k3m but I am also interested in the ECM-B1M big oversight on sony's part ?
Hey John - I haven't ended up using the ECM-B1M much at all since the pandemic. My plans for it have been postponed. I remain wary of the handling noise, though. It does seem like a pretty big oversight.
Seems like the XLR is an impressive solution for in-studio interviews etc, but the ECM-B1M should be the first to get for nature and outdoors.
Can you please explain why you think the XLR is the right mic for nature? I am a newbie to fancy cameras and am doing research. ( I just bought a Sony A7c )
@@newlifeeveryday1821 Honestly after surfing around the ECM-B1M is all you need. I was really shocked of how crazy thia mic is, I would buy it now and test it for birding and such. Search for that "ECM-B1M sony malaysia" and many other in field videos and you should be amazed.
I would use it on my a7S III. I think it'll be my only mic solution for some time, although I have lavalaier mics already for longer distances. Go see many comparisons of this magic tool against famous other mics like RODE.
Great comparisons
Thanks for vid. For sure a boomed mike sounds way better than an on camera mounted mike. I have the ECM-B1M as a 'reasonable' but relatively discrete mike for scratch audio or original audio if working close. It looks like adding an XLR input direct to camera can further improve quality esp. when getting mike off camera and close to desired voice/SFX.
I also have a Sennheiser MKH 416 and a MixPre 6ii for optimum quality - but it's more kit to manage and harder to be discrete with. I'm now considering the XLR-K3M too, not least for the extension hot shoe cable (nearly impossible to source separately) so I can use the mike away from hot-shoe, better facilitating a cage mount rig with top handle. I have yet to work out how best to handle a camera with a DJI gimbal (RS3) with/without cage and options for sound plugging etc.
If it were possible to buy the remote cord separately (almost impossible) it might negate or lessen my perceived need for the full XLR-K3M kit. That said your demo of stand booming a MKH-416 direct into camera via the K3M module looks like a simpler, quicker, lighter set-up rather than using my MixPre6ii with separate syncing etc for quicker/lighter shoots when working solo. Ideally having a team to operate sound, lights, camera, handle and carry kit etc is best but either expensive and/or impractical for many situations.
Hey Ricky, thanks for the great feedback. That XLR-K3M has been wonderful. I haven't used any higher-end stuff for the work I do, but you can't beat the simplicity, and I get results I'm really happy with. I have a similar unit for a GH5, and they're very comparable - though the Panasonic needs a splitter if you want to record audio tracks at different levels for safety, where the Sony can do that with just one XLR cable plugged in. Thanks for watching!
Super helpful- thank you!
excellent video. Thanks!
great stuff bob.. stay safe bob
Consonants and overall sound quality is clearly better with the Sennheiser. Albeit at 3-4 times the price, but that unfortunately is the difference for pro gear.
Bottom out / poor shock mount of the B1M makes it unusable for handheld videos. Which contradicts the marketing of this mic.
Full agreement, Sheik. I'd really like Sony to address that somehow.
Yah neither of the Sony shotguns sound good at 6ft. Sony included a shotgun with a camcorder I bought 10 years ago, and its better than these. However, nothing wrong with plugging other mics into the XLR-K3M. I'm glad you tried it with the Sennheiser. The shotgun mic is important to me to as a backup, and to catch ambient sound. For voice, I use lavaliers. 4-channels on-camera is a big reason I wanted this camera. Recording off-camera....as a one man operation, just a non-starter. My work is for UA-cam so, so quick and dirty.
Awesome, thanks for the video!
Thanks Daniel, glad you found it useful!
Thank you very much.
Have you tried the hot shoe adapter that comes with the XLR-K3M with the ECM-B1M? I'm very interested in getting both and would be happy to know if the adapter works with the ECM-B1M so it can be mounted slightly away on my camera cage. Thanks a lot!
Would like to know this as well… Anyone know this?
@@MickeyDelen Curious myself. So far never seen that. Might ask Gerald Undone if he ever notices the reply as he has both.
@@Bo_Hazem I noticed OP answered someone with the same question on another comment that it worked on A7R using the hotshoe cable.
@@MickeyDelen Wonderful! Great to know. Now hoping Sony to be competent enough to release those extension cables separately with a variety of lengths.
Great video dude!
Much appreciated.
Good stuff bud. Keep it up.
Hi. I have Sony hot shoe mic and Polsen lav. I wanted to use 2 channel for these. Problem I have is mics not working together when channel in put on ch1.ch2
It is working on ch1 only. Is it manufacture problem or my setting is off. Also when I record something on ch1 only option I have, when I review it ch1 sound goes to right ear, ch2 sound goes to left ear only. What am I doing wrong? Please help
Great comparison!! Did you record the audio straight into the video or separate and then synced it afterwards?
Thanks! And yes, audio was recorded straight into the camera via the hotshoe interface.
The noise of the ECM-B1M when you are moving is terrible. I don't think i will be buying it now after your video. Thanks! Any ideea what i can use with a sony a 7 c for walking ? The mic. of yhe a 7cis terrible with the wind noise.
is the k3m worth it for weddings? seems like this is more used for controlled environments
What is that cool little boom stand?
Hey thanks for this. Your setup is very similar to mine. All mics sounding pretty much as expected.
But that boom stand!
Hey Clyde - that boom stand is a really cheap Auray MS-5230T - and I'll say that putting my MKH-416 (attached to Sennheiser's shockmount) at the end of that flimsy boom is a little unsettling. I really have to make sure all that weight is balanced over one of the legs on that tripod stand. I don't want it falling over and hurting the talent, the mic, or any other equipment. But it certainly is portable, and can be handy for tight setups. Hope that helps.
@@NeverStark Thanks, yes it helps. Funny it looks solid on the vid. But that's my same issue, securing balance, protecting subject.
Hope to see more of your vids. Go James!
Hi thanks for this video. Can I know your mic stand model? It looks good and steady.
Deceptively so, I'm afraid. Not something I'm ever comfortable putting a thousand dollar mic on because it will tip over without careful attention or added weight for stability. It's been a long time since I ordered it, so I'm not sure on the model - but anything like it will probably be just as good.
Can I please ask you an audio question ? I am a newbie in general. I have a Sony A7Siii and enjoy recording video of streams, rivers and other nature scenes and want to increase the quality of the sound on my videos. Can I use two microphones with the K3M to create better quality stereo sound ? or should I use an H6 to add stereo sound to my nature videos ?
I'm also thinking of nature sounds with a7S3+k3m, currently researching stereo mic Audio Technica BP4025
Great review. For two person trade show indoor interviews from 5-10 feet away from the camera (not centered), do you feel the ecm-b1m mic will be effective in picking up two voices with my Sony Zv-e10? Assume we set it for super directional, noise cancel, auto. I travel alot pre pandemic so portability is key. I have a Saramonic Blink but it is USB c and the usb c doesn't work with the zv e10 for some reason.
Great comparison! I wonder if a mic can still be feed into the 3.5 mm audio input when the ECM-B1M is connected?
Thanks, and good question! I doubt it, because I think the digital interface overrides the analog, but if I find time to test it, I'll let you know.
@@NeverStark Thanks for the reply!
Hey James.. the K3m comes with an adapter that allows you to move the hot shoe off center. This is a must if you use a Rig with a top handle and cage.
The b1m does Not Include the adapter wire to move hot shoe.
MY QUESTION IS THIS? DOES THE K3M WIRE ADAPTER WORK WITH THE B1M? CAN I MOVE THE B1M OFF CENTER WITH THAT WIRE?
HOW ELSE CAN YOU MOVE SHOTGUN MIC B1M OFF CENTER OR OFF CAMERA..
Hi Adam - I actually tested that extension cable from the XLR-K3M kit with the ECM-B1M last month because I was curious about it, too. At least on the A7R IV, the B1M did in fact work with that extension cable. I can't speak for other cameras, but I thought that was a positive result.
So i had a xlr mic with 3 prongs.. i assumed when I seen the pic.. it says xlr 1/4.. so i thought they were mini connectors. As for b1m.. i wish they sold wire separately.. i need it off center.. but i hear included shotgun mic is really good on the k3m.. so kinda pointless to buy the b1m unless it was 4 run n gun. I hear the b1m is only good for 3ft. So kinda disappointing. Thx 4 hard work
I may just be dumb or deaf (or both), but even closing my eyes I could not really make a difference between teh XM1 and 416...
As someone who spent serious money on the MKH-416, it's almost depressing how close they are! Still love that Sennheiser for durability, VO work, and a fuller low-end, but that Sony gets the job done.
Hi, do you also have exantion cable for XLR-K3M and would the extantion cable work with ECM-B1M?
I don't, sorry Arthur. Was curious about that myself, but never dug in.
thank you @@NeverStark
Hey man great comparison! I have the k2m. Does the k3m also have to be switched to dual mono in post?
Hey Panzardi - this is interesting. I'm very used to duplicating one audio channel over to the other in post, or using an XLR splitter to record audio into both channels (one at a lower level as a safety track.) But with the K3M set to IN1, audio is recorded to both L and R channels (1 and 2, respectively) and even though you're only physically plugged into input 1, you can vary the levels recorded to either channel with the gain wheels. Note that I've only tried this on the digital setting - but I haven't seen anything in the manual that suggests it can't also be achieved in analog.
Where would you put a lav mic receiver on the XLR-K3M? I wish there was a hot shoe instead of that shotgun mic.
Yeah, I hear you, Matt. Panasonic has a similar adapter for the GH5, and I prefer their approach of just duplicating the hot shoe on top. With the XLR-K3M a cage would probably be the answer to mounting lav receivers.
@@NeverStark Thanks for the reply James! I actually found an adhesive cold shoe accessory that I could mount on top of the flat part. Not ideal, but it would easily support the little RODE Wireless GO receiver, which weighs almost nothing. Cheers!
@@NeverStark If you use it with an A7iii does it still talk to the K3M just analog or do you have to connect it to the camera's mic input through 3.5mm?
Hey Matt - while I haven't tried it on an A7III, my understanding is that it will send an analog signal through the hotshoe as long as you've flipped the switch from Digital to Analog. In support of that theory is the fact that there are no other outputs on either the XLR-K3M nor the ECM-B1M. Should work just fine.
Really glad you made this! Can I ask what do you mean by it bottoming out? Or maybe I need to listen with my headphones and not my phone speakers!
I'm really interested in the ECM-B1M for wedding videography, small profile, but I do move a lot and would want to avoid that effecting the audio! But the possibility of it not needing a cable is really great, so is it worth the trade off to someone who knows the difference?
I absolutely agree about the convenience - definitely why I bought it. "Bottoming out" may not have been the best way to describe what I think is happening. It just seems like the built-in shock mount still allows the mic to move enough to make contact with its housing. The result is a sort of hollow "rattle" that I find unsavory. Hard to say whether you would experience it - but it seems to me that it doesn't take much motion to cause the unwelcome noise.
@@NeverStark thanks for the reply! I try to keep things pretty steady as I'm shooting, but things like walking down the isle need to be done in motion. But for me, the small profile wins out.
@@MurrayEnders That's great, Murray - I'd love to hear how it performs for you. I just posted another video testing noise cancelling, and the ECM-B1M does a great job of it. Hope you enjoy it.
Hey James, would you be willing to sell your k3m extension hot shoe cable? lmk thanks!
Wow... I can’t believe that you made this video days before I finally decide to go in on a purchase. Not sure why there aren’t many good vids that talk about this mic: I just wanted to know if I could relocate the mic using a hot shoe extension of some sort. I’m using an a6600, and learning... just how awful the vertical-only articulation is. If I mount anything to the native hot shoe, I’m going to block the screen! Really not sure if I can even use any of the Multi-Interface Mics if I decide to get a hot shoe extension cable, or a bodyframe with a cold shoe. Any ideas?
Hey Lies - glad you were able to find this video! I didn't know about the screen articulation issue on the a6600 - that's unfortunate. I have some ideas, but they're probably not perfect fixes. After reading your comment, I did a quick test. The larger XLR-K3M kit comes with a hot shoe extension cable, and I'd been curious if it could be used with the ECM-B1M. My test worked (at least on the A7R IV) so maybe an extension cable could work in your case. Unfortunately, the hot shoe portion of the extension cable would still block some portion of the screen on your a6600 in the vertical position. Another idea, and I'm sure this is something you've already considered, is getting a small external monitor that can plug into your camera's HDMI. Not great, as it takes away the benefit of having such a small camera in the first place. It's what I would have to do on the A7R IV because its screen can't be viewed at all from in front of the camera. Lastly, if you're looking for better audio for vlogging, maybe a wired lapel mic like the Rode SmartLav+ into the mic input on the a6600 could get the job done? You'd have a cable to deal with, but you'd be able to see yourself on screen. Hope this helps.
James Jordan Hey no way! That's awesome. Any info you can give me on that cord? I actually did some more research and not sure if I should go with a Diety D3 Pro... or maybe try my luck the the ECM! Might save some money. But that's amazing to hear. Definitely going to invest in a monitor eventually... but not yet. Might be a last step since I'm not doing too many shoots that need it... yet. We'll see! I'm fine with a bit of the screen being blocked, so the extension may work! I'll let you know. Oh and forgot to sub! (Today I get paid, so taking everything in me not to just buy all of the camera things)
@@usernamehandle I know that struggle! I've just checked the cable, the box and the manual for a part number, but all I can find is "extension cable for audio". I did a little Google searching, but failed to find anything that looks exactly like what comes in the box for the XLR-K3M kit. You might have to do some trial and error! (Another struggle I know well.)
Also what long wires are you using for boom? K3m is XLR 1/4 input right? So its not a Full XLR? Do you use adapters or buy mics with and cables that are XLR 1/4? The 3 prong full XLR inputs look like they wont align in pics of k3m. Lmk?
But most Importantly.. please tell me if the K3m hot shoe adapter to move off center will work with the B1M?
Is there any other hotshoe adapter that allows you to use B1M off center. I need a top handle for my cage on center and that mic on hot shoe b1m won't work the wire adapter from k3m allows it too.unless
Hey Adam - answered your 2nd question in your previous comment. As for the XLR-K3M, it has two full XLR inputs and I use a standard XLR cable to connect my Sennheiser MKH-416. (The included mic has its own built-in XLR cable - not detachable.) The K3M also has a 3.5mm input.
What shock mount did you use to mount the ECM-X1? I have a Rode SM4-R, would that be compatible by any chance?
Hi Jorge - the shock mount is the Sennheiser MZS20-1 for their MKH series mics. The Sony did not actually fit in the back part of the mount, so this setup was a little precarious. The problem is the rubber cuff around the mic that helps to suppress vibration when it's in the mount on the XLR-K3M. I actually have a Rode SM3-R laying around, so I tried that. I was just able to get the Sony mic to fit - but it was pretty tight . So maybe the SM4-R is an option if you're careful.
How does the included shotgun mic sound to you compared to the mkh-416?
Mounted off-camera, surprisingly good. The MKH-416 still has the sound I prefer, but I could definitely use the included shotgun for professional work if needed.
hi james，i am wondering if you did a noise cancling of ecm-xm1 or not，i recenly bought this microphone kit，it has a crazy sound noise and hearless electic sound，did i use the microphone in the wrong way or not？
Hi Seth - no, I didn't do any noise reduction in post for this test. If I was experiencing what you described, I'd definitely try to return or exchange with the retailer.
@@NeverStark yeah thx for your advice and test，it helps a lot，i just returned it to the retailer already，you have a nice day。
Hi, do you know if the ECM-B1M bypass the mic input? My A7sii mic input jack and internal is broken. thanks
Hi Eddie - apologies for the late response. I haven't tested that specifically, but the only connection between the camera and the ECM-B1M is through the hotshoe, so I'd assume that a broken mic input jack wouldn't prevent this mic from functioning with the camera. If there's something else going on with audio processing within the camera, though, that could be another story.
@@NeverStark thanks for your response, I bought the Sony ECM-XYST1M which uses the hotshoe but it didnt work. The fact the internal mic went at the same time (It fell over on a tripod with a mic plugged in and all the impact went through the mic input jack and pushed it in) probably are tell tell sign that there is something wrong with the ability to record any audio.
@@eddiegoldsack4339 Very sorry to hear that, Eddie. Here's hoping it's repairable.