Sony launches three new lightweight wireless mics

Sony has expanded its microphone portfolio with the introduction of the ECM-W3 and ECM-W3S wireless microphones, along with the wireless streaming microphone ECM-S1.

Three new mics from Sony; two wireless models aimed primarily at vloggers and one wireless/streaming model that folds in the podcast market as well.

Here’s the key features list for each mic.

ECM-W3 key features: 

• Two-channel receiver and two microphones
• Easily record high-quality voices even when you are shooting away from the camera
• High-quality sound pickup with reduced noise
• Compatible with a digital audio interface

 ECM-W3S key features:

• A one-channel receiver and one microphone
• Easily record high-quality voices even when you are shooting away from the camera
• Compatible with a digital audio interface
• Deliver low power consumption

 ECM-S1 Key features:

• Compact and lightweight body
• Capsules tuned to capture human voices naturally and with high-quality sound.
• Seamless connection to cameras
• Three sound pickup modes: Uni-directional, Omni-directional and Stereo
• Full range of functions that reduce noise and support high-quality sound pickup.

So, in a bit more depth.

ECM-W3 & ECM-W3S

The ECM-W3 (above) consists of a receiver and two microphones, and the ECM-W3S consists of a receiver and one microphone. Both are equipped with a noise-cut filter that effectively reduces harsh noise with digital signal processing and a low-cut filter that reduces unwanted low-frequency noise such as wind, air conditioning, and vibration noise. In addition, the included windscreen reduces the noise generated when strong wind or breath hits the microphone, making it possible to record clear audio without interference from the ambient environment. Working together, the filters and windscreen result in less noise removal processing during post-production.  

When connected to a Sony camera equipped with the Multi-Interface (MI) shoe, the mics’ receivers are compatible with a digital audio interface, and the camera can then directly record the audio signal output. This enables ‘superb’ sound recording with minimal noise interference. In addition, it is equipped with a safety function that suppresses sound distortion at high volumes, and an attenuator function that manually reduces the sound during high-volume recording. Both deliver low power consumption, low latency, and high sound quality with Bluetooth 5.3 (Bluetooth Low Energy) and LC3Plus codec.

MI Shoe support also enables greater flexibility with battery-free (up to 6 hours on a full charge) and cable-free shooting. Power is supplied directly from the camera to the receiver, so there is no need to worry about running out of battery. They also have a USB Type-C terminal, so it is possible to output digital audio (48kHz/24bit) from the receiver to a USB-connected smartphone or PC. In addition, there is also a 3.5mm mini jack (stereo) audio output terminal, ensuring compatibility with cameras, PCs, IC recorders, etc., that do not have an MI shoe.

A terminal protection holder/stand for the multi-interface foot is included and can be used as a microphone stand when attaching the receiver to equipment other than a camera or attached to a smartphone clamp as an adapter with screw holes. 

Size is 25.0mm x 52.5mm x 20.5mm (W/H/D), and weight is only 17g. The receiver is 32.0mm x 29.0mm x 50.0mm (W/H/D) and weighs 25g. For added durability, the ECM-W3 and ECM-W3S are designed to be dustproof and moistureproof, while the lightweight charging case makes it possible to charge while on the move.

The ECM-W3 and ECM-W3S wireless microphones will be available December 2023 judging by listings on various reseller networks. The two-person ECM-W3 lists at $469, the one-person ECM-W3 for $349

ECM-S1

The ECM-S1 is equipped with three large-diameter (14mm) capsules that correspond to three sound pickup modes: Uni-directional, Omni-directional and Stereo, providing high-quality sound pickup with high sensitivity and wide frequency characteristics. The microphone’s intrinsic low noise levels and wide dynamic range allow for clear recording of even the softest sounds. 

Sony says that by tuning it to record human voices naturally and clearly, the microphone can capture realistic and rich textured sound during recording that is unique to streaming microphones. It also has a noise-cut filter that effectively removes harsh noise through digital signal processing and a low-cut filter that reduces unnecessary low-frequency noise such as wind, air conditioning, and vibration, thus reducing the effects of the surrounding environment.

It’s light, weighing just 157g, and compact at 63.0 mm x 137.5 mm x 63.0 mm(W/H/D) with an ultra-light and compact receiver that weighs 25g at 32 mm x 29 mm x 50 mm (W/H/D). Connectivity-wise it's the same deal as with the other two newly released models

Usefully, the microphone is equipped with an independent dial that adjusts the sound recording level. The ECM-S1’s audio input level volume can also be adjusted intuitively with the upper dial while checking the audio input level in realtime with the indicator lamps. The built-in LINK lamp indicates the communication status between the microphone and receiver to prevent any missed recording. 

When recording via a USB connection between the microphone and a PC or smartphone, headphones can be connected to the microphone’s headphone out jack to monitor the audio without involving the connected device. The headphone volume can also be adjusted with a short press of the dial on the bottom of the microphone. Users can adjust the audio mixing ratio between the input volume level of the audio from the microphone and that of the audio from the computer or smartphone via the USB connection with the headphone volume/mixing ratio adjustment dial on the microphone.

The ECM-S1 and receiver each have a built-in battery for extended use. The receiver can also be used continuously with the support of a direct power supply when connected to a camera’s MI Shoe or a USB Type-C cable. The microphone can be used continuously for up to 13 hours when the battery is fully charged using a USB Type-C cable.

A pop guard reduces popping noises, enabling vocals, narration, and other audio to be recorded under optimal conditions. A stand that can be attached to the microphone is also included, allowing the microphone to stand without support while recording. The microphone angle can also be adjusted forward or backwards. Alternatively, the stand can be removed when not in use and the 1/4” thread on the bottom of the microphone allows it to be mounted on a tripod or attached to a commercially available microphone arm.

The ECM-S1 will be available in November for $419.