By technical editor Matt Allard:
Lectrosonics is introducing what they claim is the smallest full-featured bodypack transmitter available – the SSM. Part of the company’s Digital Hybrid Wireless Series, the SSM is fully compatible with all current Lectrosonics receivers including the UCR411A, slot-in SRB, LR and Venue, and several older models. The SSM features a wide tuning bandwidth of three standard Lectrosonics blocks or up to about 76 MHz depending on the specific frequency range – this is much a much broader range than older Lectrosonics transmitters but still not as wide as some wide-band wireless systems from other makers. RF power is selectable at 25 or 50 mW for flexibility depending on the application – a useful choice if the greatest range is needed. Dimensions for the SSM are 2.52 x 1.48 x 0.57 inches or 64.25 x 37.6 x 14.5 mm. Weight is a mere 2.3 oz or 66 grams, including battery.
The SSM features a rugged, all-metal housing and is available on four different frequency ranges for worldwide use: A1 (470.100 – 537.575 MHz or blocks 470, 19 and 20), B1 (537.600 – 614.375 MHz or blocks 21, 22 and 23), C1 (614.400 – 691.175 MHz or blocks 24, 25 and 26) and D1 (for export only, 691.200 – 767.975 MHz or blocks 27, 28 and 29). Tuning steps of 100 or 25 kHz can be selected in the menu, allowing for up to 3,072 frequency choices. The microphone connector is the industry-standard Lemo 3. An infrared sync port on the SSM allows for quick setup with compatible receiver systems. A backlit LCD allows for ease of setup in any lighting conditions. A micro-B USB port makes it possible for firmware updates in the field as advanced features are added in the future.
I can see the smaller size making this a popular choice for documentary makers looking for the least obtrusive way to mic up their subjects for long periods of time – there is nothing worse than an unsightly wireless transmitter accidentally showing up in your cinema verite shot.
Key features:
Tunable across three standard frequency blocks (76.8 MHz)
Digital Hybrid Wireless® audio for compandor-free digital quality
Selectable 25 or 50 mW RF power
Compatibility modes for use with analog receivers
25 or 100 kHz tuning steps for up to 3072 selectable frequencies
Wide range input gain control in 1 dB steps
Quick change Lithium-ion rechargeable battery
Audio coupled remote control
The SSM will have a suggested retail price of $1,998 and should be available in the third quarter of 2015.
