The Saramonic Ultra Wireless Microphone system delivers a compelling blend of professional features and user-friendly design. This comprehensive review dives into its performance, highlighting key aspects like its compact charging case, intuitive touchscreen receiver, and robust build quality. We'll explore the exceptional audio quality, achieved through high-quality lavalier microphones and advanced 32-bit float recording capabilities. Discover how features like timecode synchronization, multiple recording modes, and impressive range enhance workflow efficiency.Beyond its technical prowess, we'll examine the Saramonic Ultra's practicality, including its IP X5 water resistance for outdoor shooting and the convenient inclusion of adapters for both iPhone and Android devices. Ultimately, this review assesses whether the Saramonic Ultra lives up to its claims, offering exceptional value and versatility for filmmakers, videographers, podcasters, and anyone seeking superior wireless audio recording.
Pros And Cons
- Professional quality at a reasonable price
- Time code feature for synchronization
- 32-bit Float recording for high-quality audio in various conditions
- IPX5 water resistance (for light rain)
- Includes two transmitters, one receiver, external antenna, charging case, Type-C cable, and a converter for cell phones
- Transmitters have built-in batteries lasting up to 6 hours
- Transmitters have mute/unmute and power buttons, indicator light
- Strong magnet on transmitters
- Includes lavalier microphone
- Sophisticated receiver with touchscreen interface
- Long recording distance
- Multiple recording modes (mono, stereo, safety track)
- Adjustable volume and mic gain
- Camera presets
- Auto gain and low gain options
- Sound settings (original, vocal boost, low cut)
- 32-bit recording with wide dynamic range
- Auto recording feature
- Time code functionality for easy synchronization
Read more: SM Professional XR50 Wireless Microphone: Unboxing, Features & Review
Unboxing and Package Contents
The Saramonic Ultra arrives in a compact charging case. Inside, you'll find two transmitters, one receiver, an external antenna, and necessary charging cables. A notable inclusion is a converter for both iPhone and Android devices, making it versatile for various recording setups.
The charging case itself is small and conveniently sized for portability. Its design is sleek and features a comfortable grip. Battery status indicators are clearly visible on the case, simplifying monitoring.
Transmitter Features and Design
Each transmitter boasts a claimed 6-hour battery life and a robust build quality. The compact size is comfortable to handle, and the inclusion of a mute button, power button, and a recording indicator light makes operation straightforward.
Additional features include noise-canceling buttons, a recording button, and a built-in magnet on the back for convenient attachment to metal surfaces. A 3.5mm input jack for an external microphone is also present, offering flexibility.
Lavalier Microphone and Audio Quality
The package includes lavalier microphones for cleaner audio capture in various scenarios. The audio quality is clear and crisp, even in noisy environments, as demonstrated by the tests conducted in the video.
Using the lavalier microphone provides a discreet and professional look compared to using the larger transmitter directly. The audio quality remains consistent, making it suitable for podcasts, webinars, and other applications requiring clear audio.
Receiver and Control Interface
The receiver features a responsive touchscreen interface allowing for easy control over various settings. Swipe gestures and buttons provide intuitive navigation through menus, making adjustments quick and straightforward.
The screen clearly displays channel information and recording status. The touchscreen provides a modern and user-friendly experience compared to traditional button-based interfaces.
Timecode Synchronization and Advanced Features
The Saramonic Ultra supports timecode synchronization, simplifying the process of aligning audio and video from multiple cameras. This eliminates the need for complex post-production syncing.
Additional features include various recording modes (mono, stereo, safety track), mic gain adjustments, and selectable audio profiles (original, vocal boost, low cut). The 32-bit float recording ensures a wide dynamic range, capturing both quiet and loud sounds without distortion.
Water Resistance and Distance Testing
The IP X5 water-resistant rating provides protection against light rain, making the microphone suitable for outdoor filming. Tests in light rain demonstrate its resilience.
Extensive distance tests showcase the microphone's range. The sound quality remained acceptable even at a significant distance and with the back turned to the microphone, proving its reliability in various shooting conditions.
Conclusion and Verdict
The Saramonic Ultra offers exceptional value for its price. The combination of professional-grade features such as timecode synchronization, 32-bit float recording, and water resistance makes it a highly versatile tool.
Its adaptability to various recording situations, along with its user-friendly interface and durable construction, makes it a worthwhile investment for filmmakers, videographers, and podcasters. The versatile features and high-quality recording make it suitable for both professional and casual use.