What wireless mic to purchase?
 

Same boat as a lot of others- having to replace wireless mics. We do a fishing show and other outdoor filming. What mics systems are others using. Been looking at Sen. G3. Usually use 2 mics, sometimes 3. Have been using Azden 100's. Want to research before buying. What's your opinion?

The G3 is a good choice - but for your use I would swap out the mics for the MKE 2-ew as the MKE 2 features an "umbrella" diaphragm to protect the mic. against moisture.

Some of the Countryman mics (like the B6) are water resistant as well, they can reportedly be submerged and used as a hydrophone, though I haven't tried that yet, intentionally or not.. Lectro makes some water-proof transmitters, but it costs about as much as two complete G3 systems.

I use Audio Technica's ATW-1800 diversity systems.

Here are some examples:
Hi Ho Silvers, Part 1
Hi Ho Silvers, Part 2

4 mics going to a recorder. Sync in post.

Never a dropout. For me it's the next best thing to a wired mic.

Hi Tony,

How have the Azden 100 series been working for you?

In the same price range you have the Sennheiser Evolution G3 series and the Sony UWP-V1. Both are decent UHF true diversity systems.

I've also used the ATW-1800 and found it to be rather noisy, although Dean's audio sounds clean. I may have just had a bad unit, but compared to the Sennheiser, it was night and day. I did like having one receiver that picked up two transmitters though.

Sennheiser also has the new 2000 series out if you have the budget. The main difference in the US model is the stronger ouput. It'll push 100mW if you want. Selectable from 10, 30, 50, or 100 mW.
http://www.sennheiserusa.com/profess...er_2000-series I'm not sure if you'll be needing that kind of range from the shore or if you'll be on the same boat at all times, but it's worth knowing about.

One of the first ones I purchased, which was among the first batch to hit the market, had some noise problems.

I sent it in, along with a recording of the problem, and the unit was replaced.

In terms of noise they're on par with other wireless equipment I've used (Sennheiser and the older VHF Lectrosonics). But when it comes to reliability and lack of dropouts, the ATW-1800s have been rock solid.

I film mostly hunts and some fishing and love the G3 from Sennheiser. Sound quality is great and they are light weight and small.

Senny
 

We are using G3's wired up with Countryman B6's. Audio is VERY clean and sounds good. Very rugged as we have used this setup in everything from snow to crawling through brush on our hands and knees. Very satisfied.