We have seen a lot of wireless mic systems over the past few years. The 2.4GHz options have exploded in popularity thanks to their simplicity and effectiveness – having a more affordable entry point has also helped a ton.
Saramonic has been getting more and more involved and has a new product that looks like a new take on this growing market: the BlinkMe B2.
Sporting some big and colorful screens along with a circular shape and nice-looking receiver unit this is a very different take from the many we have seen already. For a closer look we have a review from Momentum Productions.
Much like the other options from RODE and DJI, the Saramonic BlinkMe has two transmitters and a single receiver – perfect for two-person shoots. It has a large screen and has magnets to help with getting them attached.
The real trick with these is that they will also record 24-bit audio while transmitting. This means you always have a backup recording ready to go in the event of dropouts or if you just don’t need or can’t use the receiver.
Image Credit: Saramonic
It comes in a nice case with a ton of magnets for getting your transmitters mounted how you need them. There are options for the transmitters to help get them on your subject as well as stuff for the receiver, such as a shoe mount, to get it on your camera. There’s a USB cable for charging and audio cables.
The receiver will run for up to 24 hours on a single charge while each transmitter will go for around 9 hours. You actually charge all the devices at once via the receiver.
Size-wise it is very similar to other units today though it might look a bit cleaner with the flat screen in front. The touchscreen is great for adjusting settings and controlling the units.
The receiver has many of the ports. There is a USB-C charging port next to a headphone monitoring output and camera line output. Data can also be transferred via USB to get those recording off the device. The other side has power and volume buttons.
Image Credit: Saramonic
You’ll get about 14 hours of recording in 24-bit and quite a bit more in 16-bit. Honestly, just go with 24-bit for the extra quality.
A screen on the receiver lets you control transmitter gain and start recording remotely. It’ll also show you the levels of both transmitters while you are recording.
A neat trick in these is a noise reduction setting. It can help eliminate some annoying background noises on set so you don’t have to do as much processing later on.
For range, you have a fairly standard 328’ or 100 meters. This is usually with line-of-sight since it is a 2.4GHz unit. If you have longer requirements the built-in recorders can come in handy.
What do you think of this alternative wireless mic system? There’s some real competition out there now. Which would you pick?
[source: Momentum Productions]
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