The Hollyland Lark M2 is a game-changer in the world of compact wireless microphones. This tiny powerhouse delivers surprisingly big sound, boasting impressive features that punch far above its weight. Forget bulky and cumbersome setups – the Lark M2 offers a sleek, discreet design perfect for vloggers, filmmakers, and anyone needing high-quality audio on the go. Its comprehensive package includes dual receivers (USB-C and Lightning), ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices, from smartphones to professional cameras.Beyond its impressive versatility, the Lark M2 boasts exceptional battery life, lasting up to 40 hours on a single charge. Paired with the intuitive Hollyland Blacksound app, managing settings and monitoring audio levels is a breeze. The high-resolution 48kHz/24-bit recording ensures pristine audio quality that rivals far more expensive microphones. Discover how this compact marvel delivers professional-level sound without the professional-level price tag.
Pros And Cons
- Two receivers (one for camera, one for mobile)
- Long battery life (around 40 hours)
- Controllable via BlackSound app (iOS and Android)
- Noise cancellation (though optional for post-production)
- Adjustable volume levels (low, medium, high) with meters
- High-quality audio recording (48,000 kHz, 24-bit)
- Small and lightweight
- Multiple versions available to suit different needs (Combo, Camera, Mobile USB-C, Mobile Lightning)
- Magnet can detach easily from clothing, especially thick fabrics
- Lacks internal recording capability
Read more: SM Professional XR50 Wireless Microphone: Unboxing, Features & Review
Unboxing and Package Contents
The Hollyland Lark M2 combo package is surprisingly comprehensive. Inside, you'll find a charging case housing two transmitters (I'm wearing one right now!), two receivers (one USB-C for Android, one Lightning for iOS), a USB-C to USB-A charging cable, and some clever extras.
These extras include small chains for wearing the transmitters, clips to attach them to clothing if the magnets aren't suitable, and two furry windshields for outdoor use. The magnets themselves are detachable, and while convenient, they require careful handling.
Receivers and Connectivity
A standout feature is the inclusion of two receivers: one for cameras and one for mobile devices. The camera receiver is small, featuring a volume knob, indicator light, and a 3.5mm input jack for direct connection to cameras.
The mobile receivers are designed specifically for either Android (USB-C) or iOS (Lightning). Conveniently, the mobile receiver also allows pass-through charging for your phone while connected.
This dual-receiver setup ensures compatibility with various recording devices and provides flexibility in your audio setup.
Battery Life and App Control
The Lark M2 boasts an impressive battery life of up to 40 hours – that’s a lot of juice! It easily outlasts many competitors.
To manage the microphone's settings, you use the Hollyland Blacksound app (available for both iOS and Android). This app provides control over features such as noise cancellation, volume levels (low, medium, high), and speaker playback.
The app also includes helpful metering to ensure you avoid clipping or overly quiet audio.
Audio Quality and Size
The Lark M2 records audio at a high-resolution 48kHz/24-bit, delivering pristine sound quality. This high sample rate ensures better audio detail compared to standard 44.1kHz.
The mic's diminutive size is both a pro and a con. It's incredibly discreet and easy to wear, but it's small enough to easily get lost if the magnet detaches.
Sound Comparison and Price
In a direct comparison against a more expensive lavalier microphone (a Pod USB mic costing around $200), the Lark M2 held its own, showcasing surprisingly good audio quality for its price point.
The Lark M2 comes in four versions: Combo Edition ($179), Camera Edition ($159), USB-C Mobile Edition ($139), and Lightning Mobile Edition ($149). Choosing the right version depends on your specific needs and device compatibility.
Conclusion and Overall Impression
The Hollyland Lark M2 is a fantastic wireless microphone for content creators, interviewers, and anyone needing high-quality, portable audio. Its compact size, long battery life, and excellent audio quality make it a strong contender in its class.
However, the lack of internal recording capability is a missed opportunity. The easily lost magnet is also a potential drawback. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Lark M2 provides exceptional value for its price, making it a highly recommended purchase.