Sony recently announced a new microphone targeted at professional videographers and amateurs looking to improve sound quality in their videos while keeping a simple setup. The ECM-L1 is an omnidirectional lavalier microphone that positions itself between the professional and consumer markets and promises high sound quality and durability. The new mic is a plug-in power version of the ECM-77, and it upgrades the ECM-LV1, aimed at the consumer market segment. Let’s take a look at it!In recent years, Sony has expanded their microphone lineup with mics and kits like the XLR-K3M or the ECM-M1, giving more choices to those needing different options in their recordings. With the new ECM-L1 lavalier microphone, the Japanese company upgrades the popular ECM-LV1 by inheriting the design and quality of the high-end model ECM-77. The mic’s main selling points are high sound quality, reliability, durability, and versatility thanks to its plug-in power and the possibility of using it with consumer-grade 2.4 GHz wireless microphone systems.The ECM-L1 at a glanceAs mentioned before, the ECM-L1 incorporates the technology of the ECM-77 in components like the microphone capsule, which is enclosed in a machine brass casing to avoid external resonance and thus enhance the sound quality. The capsule features a ceramic electrode plate for low noise, quick response, and high-resolution sound, while the oxygen-free copper (OFC) cable reduces transmission loss while recording. Regarding reliability and durability, the ECM-L1 capsule features a brass housing to protect it, minimizing deformation and damage. The screw-lock connector helps prevent accidental detachment (if you have recorded sound with a lav mic often, you know what we’re talking about). The mic features a 2.2mm diameter cable, which Sony claims is resistant to bending and tensile stress. The mic includes two types of wind screens, metal and fur, and the clip has the logo embossed instead of printed. – Source: Sony.The Sony ECM-L1 features plug-in power, which allows it to be connected to various devices with a 3.5mm plug-in power microphone jack, such as cameras, wireless receivers, IC recorders, smartphones, etc.Finally, the mic includes two windscreens (metal and fur type) to prevent unwanted sounds.Price and availabilityThe new Sony ECM-L1 will be available in mid to late October 2024 at a price of $279.99. For more information, please visit Sony’s product website here.What do you think about this microphone? Do you use lav mics in your productions? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
