GEAR
CREATOR TOOLS
LIGHTING AND AUDIO
THE SOUND SOLUTION
It’s no big secret that audio is crucial in any film, but the needs of content creators and podcasters can differ significantly. Studio-based podcasters will likely prefer large, omnidirectional microphones mounted on an articulating arm, which are very much in the shot and part of the look, or even handheld reporter mics. Others prefer typical out-of-shot shotgun mics on booms or lav mics, usually wirelessly transmitting their signal to a receiver that plugs into a camera or audio recorder. For content creators, a dual wireless radio mic with internal recording or lavaliers is also an essential buy. But so is a camera-mounted shotgun mic or stereo mic on a stand or boom to record music or more general live events. There’s no one- size-fits-all solution when it comes to the right audio system. As the wireless kits are the common denominator, it makes sense to choose one that works for as many different set-ups as possible. Take the latest Rode Wireless Go system, now in its third generation, which comes with two transmitters that can use plug-in lav mics, as well as a single on- camera receiver. The TX units feature built-in 32-bit float recording, while intelligent Gain Assist technology automatically adjusts your volume levels to ensure you aren’t clipping your highs. The Wireless Go doesn’t just come in black and white –it's also available in limited-edition colours. The new Go can output its signal via USB-C for digital audio or 3.5mm TRRS analogue, so it works with cameras, phones or computers. The transmitters can also pair directly to a range of other Rode Series IV-compatible products, such as the Rodecaster Video. For something a bit different, take a look at the Sennheiser Profile Wireless kit – more than just a typical compact dual-channel wireless system. It comes with two small mics and a compact on- camera receiver powered up by a charging case. That case also fits inside a foam rubber windshield, transforming the set-up into a handheld-style reporter mic using one or both mic units. It’s not as pretty as a conventional reporter mic, but it looks decent on camera, and makes the Sennheiser kit that much more useful. Looking for something more high end? The Deity Theos kit provides swappable frequency ranges based on phone GPS, so moving between countries is no issue.
SENN-SIBLE CHOICE The Profile USB mic from Sennheiser is very popular with podcasters
condenser capsule. It has three main adjustments: gain control to adjust the level of the microphone, mix control to balance the microphone with the device audio and volume control to set your headphone monitoring levels. Available in an XLR-fit version, Sennheiser’s MK-4 is a large-diaphragm condenser mic offering warm and detailed audio capture, ideal for speech. It has an internally shock-mounted capsule and a rugged metal housing that holds a large, one-inch diaphragm plated in 24-carat gold to enhance conductivity, resist corrosion and yield an ideal tone. Rode also offers a fantastic mic called the Podmic USB, which is a broadcast- grade dynamic microphone that delivers the same sound quality as the brand’s popular Podmic, but features both XLR and USB connectivity. For content creators, Audio-Technica’s BP4029 is a stereo shotgun that uses tech originally developed to broadcast major outdoor sporting events. So, instead of being exclusively for close-up dialogue, the BP4029 can also record distant sounds and cuts out off-axis noise. To record audio, look at the Zoom range – especially its latest H6essential – as it
EASY AUDIO The Podmic USB plugs right into a computer
The Theos kit works in the UHF radio spectrum rather than the busier 2.4Ghz band, giving it a much more reliable transmission at a range of up to 91m/300ft. The kit includes one receiver and twin transmitters, each coming with a built-in recorder that supports both 24-bit and 32- bit float formats. For podcasting, USB-C mics are excellent – and Sennheiser’s Profile USB is a top choice thanks to its cardioid
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PRO MOVIEMAKER
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