Saramonic Ultra review– 2-Channel Wireless Microphone System with Timecode and 32bit Recording Capabilities

The Saramonic Ultra 2-channel wireless microphone system is an affordable solution that offers impressive features such as timecode synchronization, 32-bit float recording, IPX5 waterproof rating, and a robust, durable design. It’s perfect for a variety of production needs, including those of podcasters, vloggers, YouTubers, and more. Let’s dive into the details!

Saramonic has introduced the Ultra, a brand-new addition to their wireless microphone lineup, joining the popular Blink500 and BlinkMe series. The company has been known for delivering high-quality professional audio gear for years, ranging from wireless microphones to intercom systems. These systems are not only affordable but are also designed for long-lasting use.

Key Features of the Saramonic Ultra

One of the standout features of the Saramonic Ultra is its advanced timecode synchronization, which ensures precise syncing of timecode across multiple cameras. This simplifies the editing process, ensuring that both audio and video are in perfect sync. The system also supports a variety of frame rates, from 23.98 fps to 30 fps. For instance, if you are filming in 60p, you would set it to 30 fps for seamless synchronization.

In addition, the system offers 32-bit float recording and ClearVoice technology, which plays a critical role in noise reduction. There are Video Boost and Low-Cut modes, along with automatic gain control, ensuring that the audio remains crystal clear, even in environments with high sound pressure levels, such as concerts or places with overhead aircraft noise. When filming outdoors, where controlling ambient sound can be challenging, this feature becomes especially beneficial.

Comprehensive Audio Mastery

Audio expert Mark Edward Lewis provides an extensive guide covering every aspect of sound a filmmaker might need to understand. This includes topics like recording, dialogue, sound effects, foley, ADR, mixing, and sound corrections, all essential for mastering the craft of audio in filmmaking.

The Saramonic Ultra kit includes a transmitter, receiver, charging case, external antenna, fur windshield, magnet clip, carrying bag, and various cables and adapters. While two lavalier microphones can be purchased separately, their price is quite reasonable.

Durability and Design

The Saramonic Ultra’s construction follows the brand’s reputation for durability. If filming in outdoor settings, the IPX5 waterproof and weather-resistant features are incredibly useful for protecting the microphone system against adverse weather conditions.

Here’s a summary of its full feature set:

• Advanced timecode synchronization for precise sync.
• External antenna that ensures stable transmission up to 300 meters, with the option for detachment.
• 32-bit float recording.
• Supports both 48 kHz 24-bit and 48 kHz 32-bit formats.
• Frequency response range: 20 Hz – 20 kHz.
• Built-in Premium MEMS microphone, with the option to buy two lavalier microphones separately.
• ClearVoice technology for intelligent noise cancellation, along with Voice Boost, Low-Cut modes, and automatic gain control.
• Can handle up to 130 dB SPL with anti-distortion protection.
• 25 ms latency.
• Frame rate support: 23.98 fps, 24 fps, 25 fps, 29.97 fps DF (drop frame), 29.97 fps, 30 fps.
• Rugged, durable design suited for tough environments.
• Cutting-edge IPX5 weather resistance.
• Circular “totem” design, consistent with the Blink500 series.
• Detachable external antenna for enhanced signal range (up to 300 meters).
• Internal recording in transmitters with 8GB of storage, which auto-overwrites the oldest recordings.
• 1.1″ touchscreen and adjustable knob.
• 6 hours of battery life.
• Available in black or white.
• Compatible with cameras, smartphones (via USB-C and Lightning), and certain action cameras like the DJI Action 4 and DJI OSMO Pocket 3.

Importance of 32-bit Float and Timecode for Audio

The 32-bit float recording feature in the Saramonic Ultra adds significant flexibility and options when it comes to capturing audio. In dynamic filming situations, such as run-and-gun shooting, audio levels can often fluctuate, leading to potential clipping and distortion. When recording at lower bit depths, such as 16-bit or 24-bit, this issue can be difficult to resolve in post-production.

However, with 32-bit float recording, the system captures a far wider range of audio values compared to 16-bit or 24-bit systems. This allows for more “latitude” in the recorded sound, similar to how RAW video footage is captured. For context, 16-bit provides a dynamic range of up to 96.3 dB, 24-bit up to 144.5 dB, and 32-bit float offers a staggering dynamic range of 1,528 dB. This expanded range ensures that both soft sounds (like dialogue) and loud sounds (such as concerts) are recorded without distortion, making it much easier to work with the audio during post-production.

Furthermore, ClearVoice technology helps reduce unwanted noise, while Voice Boost and Low-Cut modes ensure clean audio without clipping.

The timecode synchronization feature in the Saramonic Ultra also helps streamline the editing process when dealing with multiple cameras and audio sources. Even if the mics, cameras, and recorders start and stop at different times, the timecode ensures that everything remains perfectly synchronized down to the exact frame.

Price and Availability

The Saramonic Ultra is currently available, with the receiver priced at $269. If you opt for the additional Lavalier microphones, the total price comes to $299. This price is highly competitive when compared to similar products, such as the RØDE Wireless Pro ($399), DJI Mic 2 ($399), and Hollyland Lark MAX ($249). While some competitors may offer longer battery life or greater storage (like the RØDE Wireless Pro), the Saramonic Ultra stands out with its unique combination of features.

With its advanced timecode synchronization, 32-bit float recording, and rugged, weather-resistant design, the Saramonic Ultra 2-channel wireless microphone system is an excellent choice for a wide range of users, including filmmakers, YouTubers, podcasters, and those in the news industry. And with a price tag of $299, it fits within most budgets. To learn more, visit Saramonic’s website.