Shoe-mount wireless receiver systems - reviews and sticky thread?
 

I have tried searching this forum, Google, Amazon, B&H Photo, etc etc and cannot find an easy to read thread concerning wireless mic packages intended for video use.

Mostly I'm referring to wireless set-up's with camera-shoe mount receivers, XLR output, etc.

I have a Canon XH-A1 camera and currently looking for a wireless setup. I have seen a few packages anywhere from $400 to $3500. It would be nice to have a "sticky" thread in this forum concerning these packages, and "good - better - best" style review portion, and the make and model numbers of these systems. I have found dozens of topics started by people who want this information, without detailed responses or comparisons.

I know there are a lot of knowledgeable people on this forum who have used all difference kinds of these audio set-up's - and I'd rather pull your knowledge then read a review on Amazon.com or something.

Also, if anyone can recommend something in the $500 price range, I would appreciate it.

Sennheiser Evolution G2 ENG
 

Hi Matt,

I use the Sennheiser Evolution G2. There are different flavors ranging from $500 and up, but I purchased the one with the SKP G2 plug on transmitter, so I could use a handheld mic as well. It is available from a number of our sponsors here at DVi. Here is a link from 1 of them...

http://dvcreators.net/sennheiser-mics

The package without the handheld transmitter is $499, and the one with it is $599.

Same here. I use the G2 and stick it on the XH A1 with the supplied shoe mount. Easy, neat, clean.

Reception is excellent, happy camper here. The only thing I changed: I didn't like the stock lavalier mic, and I changed it for the lavalier used in the 5000 series (ME104) and I am glad I did that.
The G2 was enough for me since I do not need the true diversity.

Thanks for the responses!

Are there any brands/packages around that price range that have true diversity?
I'm not sure if I'll need it or not, depends on a few things I'm sure.

The Sennheiser Evolution G2 looks like a promising system, even if it's not diversity.

I have the azden dual UHF system 200upr, and i can attest to it being a very good system, i have found the range to be very good and i have never had any interference, it is the same price as the sennheiser, except you can you two transmitters at the same time.

I have two sets of the Sony UWP series which have worked flawlessly for me.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/cont...goryNavigation

Exact same Sony here, came in package with my Z1U and I love it.

I've used lots of Sony 800 series, available in many configurations. I have a system that includes 6 receivers in a single rack space for events work. Frequency agile, diversity, great sound, etc. Of course it will sound like the mic you put on it. A co. I frequently do work for has Countryman e6 on theirs, truely excellent.

As others have reported, I've also had good results with Sennheiser EW100 and EW500 series, which are what I use when I need a batt powered receiver. You need to step up to an ac-powered receiver to get diversity with them.

All Lectrosonics UHF is excellent. I've not had a chance to use their digital stuff.

Douglas Spotted Eagle has reported here somewhere that his initial work with the Audio Technica 1800 series was very good. Seems like a great package for a great price, two receivers, diversity, in one package with two transmitters for $1300. One of the things I like about AT wireless is that they have a full range of accessories for musical intruments, and they all work together. Want a sax clip? A guitar cable? AT is a great way to go for those of us who do music work. If I drop my Senn. location gear, it would be for something like this.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/cont...+Technica+1800

Just recently used the Audio Tech's U100 series, wireless system (one transmitter, one receiver, and true diversity) and bought the AT899 lav mic to complement the system. Worked absolutely flawlessly for outside interviews (even with wind noise), and inside (office environment). Put the receiver on the back of the XL2, and balanced the camera, which was a good bonus. Bought the entire system, with lav mic, just over $700 (if I remember correctly). (Would've bought the new 1800 series, but just didn't quite have the budget for it :(

--JA

Get the Sennheiser G2 wireless system! There is a reason that their gear is used by most professionals. My only suggestion is that you do not shoe mount the receiver. Shoe mounting a receiver will assure drop outs in your audio--always mount it so it is vertical!

Matthew

I have the 1800 here now for a review I'm writing for TV Technology.
So far I like it. Two diversity receivers in one box!

I've been using the AT U100 for years with very few problems.

Regards,

Ty Ford