The Saramonic Vmic Recorder is a broadcast-quality condenser shotgun microphone with integrated audio recording capabilities, specifically designed for use with DSLR cameras and camcorders. It allows users to record high-quality audio directly to MicroSDHC cards, making it a versatile tool for filmmakers, videographers, and content creators who require reliable and clear sound capture.
Function Description:
The primary function of the Vmic Recorder is to capture audio using its supercardioid polar pick-up pattern, which focuses on sound directly in front of the microphone while minimizing ambient noise from the sides and rear. In addition to functioning as a standalone microphone for cameras, it features an integrated flash recording system that records 24-bit/48kHz WAV audio files to MicroSDHC cards, supporting capacities up to 32GB. This dual functionality means it can either send audio directly to a camera's input or record internally, providing flexibility for different production workflows. The device is equipped with a 3.5mm audio output jack to connect to a camera's MIC input and a 3.5mm headphone jack for real-time audio monitoring. Its shock mount system is designed to isolate the microphone from vibrations and mechanical noise, ensuring cleaner recordings.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Microphone Type: Condenser Microphone
- Polar Pattern: Supercardioid
- Recording Format: WAV, 16-bit/24-bit, 24kHz/48kHz Sampling Rate
- Frequency Response: 50 Hz to 20 kHz
- Maximum SPL: 0 dB Gain Setting, 1 kHz at 1% THD, 1000 Ω load 110 dB SPL
- Signal to Noise Ratio: +30 dB Gain Setting 78 dB
- Audio Output Impedance: 47 Ω
- Headphone Output Impedance: 5 Ω
- Plug: Mini-pin plug (3.5 mm)
- Power: Two AA batteries (approximately 8 hours of operation)
- Dimensions (L x H x W): 255 x 66 x 80 mm
- Net Weight: 000 g (The manual indicates "000 g" which suggests a placeholder or an error in the provided text, as a specific weight is not given.)
- Operating Temperature Range: -17°C (0°F) to 57°C (134.6°F)
- Memory Card Support: MicroSDHC cards up to 32GB
Usage Features:
The Vmic Recorder is designed for ease of use with several intuitive features:
- One-Button Recording: Simplifies the process of starting and stopping recordings.
- Easy-to-Use Menu System and LCD Display: Provides clear navigation and visibility of settings and recording status. The LCD screen displays crucial information such as microphone volume (1 to 60), level meter, power indicator, elapsed time, current file name/total number of files, recording status (Record, Pause, Stop, Play), folder name, and low-cut filter icons.
- Switchable Low-Cut Filter: Allows users to enable or disable a low-cut filter (filtering audio signals lower than 200Hz) to reduce unwanted low-frequency noises, or to record original audio.
- Headphone Monitoring: A 3.5mm headphone output enables real-time audio monitoring during recording and playback.
- File Management: Users can browse recorded files, delete specific files, and organize recordings into up to 9 folders, with each folder accommodating up to 200 WAV files.
- Recording Settings: Adjustable file limit (30, 60, 90, 120 minutes) and sample rate (24kHz/16bit, 48kHz/16bit, 24kHz/24bit, 48kHz/24bit) to suit different quality and storage needs.
- Playback Modes: Offers single play, single cycle, order play, and content cycle for reviewing recorded audio.
- System Settings: Includes options to set date and time for file timestamps, adjust LCD backlight (always on, always off, or timed delay of 5/10/15/30 seconds), and set LCD contrast (levels 1-5).
- Standard Size Shoe Mount: Allows for easy attachment to DSLR cameras and camcorders.
- Lightweight All-Metal Construction: Ensures durability and portability.
- Battery and Memory Card Compartment: Features a lock/unlock mechanism for secure access.
Maintenance Features:
- Firmware Upgrade: The device supports firmware upgrades to ensure optimal performance and access to new features. Users can download ".bin" files, rename them to "VMIC_R.bin", insert them into a MicroSDHC card, and follow a specific button sequence (ENTER + POWER) to initiate the upgrade process. Only versions after V2.10 can be upgraded, and the device must be at full power during the upgrade.
- Factory Reset: A "factory rst" option in the SYSTEM SET menu allows users to restore the device to its default settings.
- SD Card Formatting: The "format SD" option in the SD CARD menu allows users to erase all data on the memory card. It is recommended to always format new memory cards in the device before recording.
- General Cautions:
- Avoid using the unit underwater or exposing it to rain. Store in a cool, dry place.
- Operate and store at normal temperatures. Avoid frequent transitions between overheated and supercooled conditions, and keep away from heat sources like heaters and ovens.
- Protect against dust and moisture during use and storage.
- Handle with care to prevent violent collisions.
- Ensure the power is off when inserting or removing the memory card.
- The device can still function as a microphone even without a memory card installed.
The Saramonic Vmic Recorder provides a comprehensive solution for capturing high-quality audio, combining the functionality of a shotgun microphone with an integrated audio recorder, all within a robust and user-friendly design.