Hollyland Lark M2S Review: Discreet Wireless Mic for Content Creators

The Hollyland Lark M2S is a compact and discreet wireless microphone system designed for content creators on the go. This review delves into the performance and features of this versatile system, exploring its strengths and weaknesses in various recording scenarios. We'll examine the included components – two tiny transmitters, receivers for both cameras and mobile devices, and helpful accessories – and assess the audio quality, range, and noise reduction capabilities. Different kit configurations and pricing will also be discussed.This in-depth analysis compares the Lark M2S to its predecessor, the original Lark M2, as well as competing wireless microphone systems from Road Wireless and DJI. We'll scrutinize features like stereo recording, gain control, and the Hollyland Lark Sound app's functionality. Ultimately, we'll determine if the Lark M2S's compact design and competitive price point outweigh the absence of certain features, offering a comprehensive guide to help you decide if it's the right wireless microphone for your needs.

Pros And Cons

Hollyland Lark M2s
  • Discreet transmitters with no visible branding
  • Tiny transmitters
  • Simple to use
  • Good value for the price (especially the kit with both receivers)
  • Two-channel recording over USB receiver
  • Simple controls
  • USB receiver has pass-through power delivery for phone/tablet charging
  • Good battery life for transmitters (up to 9 hours)
  • Some settings must be controlled via app (inconvenient if using with camera receiver only)
  • Missing features compared to competitors (no safety track, clipping protection, or low-cut filter)
  • Camera receiver isn't securely held in some cold shoe mounts
  • Transmitter button is on the concealed side, making it hard to access while worn
  • Limited placement options due to clip style design
DJI Mic Mini
  • Full-featured
  • Relatively small transmitter
  • Clipping protection
  • Clip guard feature
  • Low-cut filter
  • Noise reduction (two levels)
  • Safety track
  • Direct Bluetooth connection to DJI cameras
  • More expensive than other options
  • No internal recording
Hollyland Lark M2
  • Simple to use
  • Good battery life for transmitters (up to 10 hours)
  • Multiple kit versions available
  • Stereo 2-channel recording only available via 3.5mm output on camera receiver (not USB)
Rode Wireless GO II
  • Smallest charging case
  • Auto gain assist
  • Brings up quiet audio
  • No noise reduction
  • Larger transmitter than Lark M2 and M2s
  • No camera receiver with 3.5mm output, only USB receiver available

Read more: SM Professional XR50 Wireless Microphone: Unboxing, Features & Review

What's in the Box?

The Hollyland Lark M2S comes in a few different kit options. The one I purchased includes a tiny USB-C receiver for smartphones, tablets, and computers, along with a camera receiver featuring both 3.5mm and USB outputs. It also boasts two transmitters, a charging case, wind muffs, a USB cable, a 3.5mm TRS cable, and a carrying pouch.

Image of the Lark M2S kit contents
Image of the Lark M2S kit contents

The cheapest kit (around $119) only includes the USB receiver, while the most expensive (around $159) bundles all the receivers mentioned. The audio conversion is 24-bit at 48kHz; precise specifications are provided on screen in the video.

Design and Functionality

The Lark M2S transmitters are incredibly small and discreet, weighing only 7g each. They feature a titanium clip holding the microphone capsule, making it the only visible part. The main body of the transmitter, including the indicator light and control button, is cleverly concealed.

Close-up of the Lark M2S transmitter showing the discreet design
Close-up of the Lark M2S transmitter showing the discreet design

A single button controls power, pairing mode, and noise cancellation (on/off via quick press). The stated range is up to 300 meters (1000 feet). The camera receiver is plastic, with three output gain levels and a cold shoe mount; the battery life is up to 8.5 hours.

Image of the Lark M2S camera receiver
Image of the Lark M2S camera receiver

Hollyland Lark Sound App and Features

The Hollyland Lark Sound app offers additional controls when the receiver is connected via USB. Settings include recording mode (mono or stereo; stereo works over USB), noise cancellation level (high or low), gain, speaker playback, and power timeout.

A custom setting feature allows personalization of button functions. For example, you can assign different LED colors to transmitters for easier identification. Firmware updates are also manageable through the app.

Audio Quality and Range Test

Audio quality tests were conducted using various setups. A comparison was made against the DJI Pocket 3's built-in microphone in a car environment, highlighting the Lark M2S's superior sound clarity even in challenging noisy conditions.

Range test starting point at 10m
Range test starting point at 10m

A range test was performed, assessing performance at 10m, 25m, 50m, and 150m distances. While the system showed some signal degradation beyond 50m, the results exceeded most users' typical recording needs.

Range test at maximum distance
Range test at maximum distance

Noise Reduction Performance and Comparison with other Lavaliers

Noise reduction was tested with traffic noise, demonstrating effective reduction of both constant and transient sounds at both low and high settings. The high setting was deemed suitable for live settings, while the low setting would suffice in most recording situations. A processed audio sample demonstrates noise reduction and other post-processing improvements.

The review includes comparison to the original Hollyland Lark M2, showing how to make it more discreet, and the tried-and-true lavalier microphone. The advantages and disadvantages of each approach were discussed.

Comparison with Competitors: Road Wireless Micro & DJI Mic Mini

A comparison was made to similar wireless microphones: the Road Wireless Micro and DJI Mic Mini. Pricing was discussed, highlighting the Lark M2S's competitive price point.

Features such as the stereo recording over USB (a feature missing in other competitors), Auto Gain Assist, safety track, clipping protection, and low-cut filter capabilities of competitors were also noted.

Conclusion and Recommendation

The Hollyland Lark M2S offers excellent value, discreet design, ease of use, and the added benefit of dual-channel recording via USB. However, lacking safety track and low-cut filter might be dealbreakers for some users. The placement options, while discreet, are more limited than those of the original Lark M2.

Ultimately, the Lark M2S is recommended for those prioritizing a discreet, easy-to-use, and affordable wireless microphone, and who can manage the limitations of placement and the absence of features like safety track and low-cut filter. Whether the original Lark M2 or a competitor is a better choice depends on individual needs and preferences.