Sony has announced the ECM-W5 Wireless Microphone System with audio recording. The system pairs two transmitters with one receiver. With companies such as Hollyland, RODE, DJI, and Insta360 dominating the affordable wireless audio market, it is no surprise that Sony want’s a piece of that pie.
The system is claimed to transmit over a line-of-sight distance of up to 500m / 1640′ and it was designed to reduce audio dropouts in congested radio-frequency environments. Its optimized wireless design uses Bluetooth hopping technology. Low-latency transmission supports applications where real-time audio performance is important, including live streaming. The transmitters provide up to 11 hours of operating time.
As four-channel audio output to the camera is supported, by adding up to two optional ECM-W5T microphones (sold separately) to the included units, you can record up to four speakers simultaneously in-camera, each on a separate track.
Key features
- For Sony Cameras with Digital MI Shoe
- For Cameras, Computers, Mobile Devices
- 2 Mic/Transmitters and 1 Receiver
- Up to 96 kHz / 24-Bit Audio Capture
- 32-Bit Float Audio in Camera Video Files
- 64GB Onboard Storage per Transmitter
- Timecode Sync, Expandable to 4 Channels
- Compatible LE Wireless Monitoring
- Up to 1640′ Line-of-Sight Transmission
- Up to 11 Hours with Charging Case
Bu utilizing the Multi Interface (MI) Shoe on select Sony cameras, 32-bit float audio can be recorded with video in a single file. Up to 64GB of built-in memory enables 32-bit float backup audio recording directly on the transmitters.
Internal recordings can be exported to a PC over USB-C, either directly from the microphone or through the charging case. The storage holds up to 90 hours of audio at 32bit float/48 kHz or up to 60 hours at 24bit/96 kHz.
Additionally, integration with compatible Sony wireless headphones enables cable-free monitoring and microphone functions. The receiver picks up audio from the microphone on connected compatible Sony wireless headphones and records it in-camera. The speaker’s voice can be captured easily, making the receiver useful for vlogging, everyday video, and other situations requiring lightweight wireless audio capture. With a compatible microphone, the system also supports binaural recording
The supplied USB-C adapter also enables connection to smartphones and PCs.
The built-in microphones support 96 kHz high-resolution audio recording, while the 3.5mm microphone input also supports lavalier and external microphones, including the separately sold ECM-L1.
Input gain can be set to Auto, which adjusts to changes in recording volume to prevent clipping and distortion, or to Manual mode with a range of -12 to +12. Fine volume adjustments via manual settings are possible even during 32bit float recording. Noise cut and low cut can also be toggled on or off from the menu.
Clip and magnet attachment options support flexible placement on clothing or surfaces. According to Sony, the discreet appearance suits on-camera use (although I am not so sure about that!), while the upright form factor makes it easy to hold for handheld reporting and live streaming. The receiver weighs 1.2 oz / 35g and the transmitter weighs 1 oz / 27.1g.
The TX units are a little on the large size and I would have prefered to have seen something smaller and more discreet.
Timecode output helps align footage in postproduction. In USB SYNC mode, a USB-C cable connects the receiver to a compatible Sony camera to synchronize with timecode stored as video metadata, supporting multi-camera workflows.
Opening the charging case places the receiver in standby, and removing the units powers them on for use. The receiver features a high-contrast AMOLED touchscreen and a control wheel/button for adjusting settings. When configured in advance, camera-linked power through the MI Shoe also powers on the receiver and microphones.
A compatible camera powers the shoe-mounted receiver during extended shoots. The microphones and standalone receiver each provide up to seven hours of continuous operation per full charge.
Pricing & Availability
The Sony ECM-W5 2-Person Wireless Microphone System is available to pre-order for $399.99 USD.
