Description

ECM-W5 Wireless Microphone System

Capture audio with the Sony ECM-W5 Wireless Microphone System with Audio Recording.

The Sony ECM-W5 combines two wireless microphones, a receiver and a charging case in one system. It supports wireless audio recording, 32-bit float audio, built-in microphone storage and up to four-channel audio output with compatible Sony cameras. It also connects to smartphones, PCs and other compatible devices.

Wireless Audio and Recording

Connect the receiver to a compatible camera through the Multi Interface (MI) Shoe without a cable. The system records digital audio in-camera at sampling rates up to 96 kHz/24-bit or 48 kHz/32-bit float. With compatible Sony cameras, 32-bit float audio transfers wirelessly and records directly as an audio track within the video file, keeping audio and video together during editing.

Each microphone includes 64 GB of built-in storage for independent audio recording. The system also supports simultaneous onboard microphone recording and WAV file recording in-camera on compatible models. Export internal recordings to a PC through a USB Type-C connection, including through the charging case. This backup approach helps preserve audio if wireless transmission encounters problems.

The 32-bit float format provides flexibility when adjusting audio during editing, reducing the need to keep changing gain for quiet voices or sudden loud sounds during recording. Set input gain to Auto or Manual, with a manual range of -12 to +12 dB. Noise cut and low cut can also be switched on or off through the menu.

Flexible Microphone Connections

Both microphones and the receiver feature a 3.5 mm mono external microphone input. Connect a compatible lavalier microphone, such as the ECM-L1 (sold separately), for discreet placement near the speaker. The microphone also features a locking 3.5 mm TRS connector to help prevent accidental cable disconnection.

Attach each microphone using its clip or magnet, or hold it upright for handheld recording. The compact design supports different recording setups, including interviews, events, live streaming, vlogging, on-location reports, small-crew productions and standalone voice recording.

The receiver also captures audio from compatible Sony wireless headphones connected to it. This feature supports voice recording for vlogs and everyday video. With a compatible microphone, the system also supports binaural recording with a three-dimensional sound character, combining the wearer’s voice with surrounding ambience.

Transmission and Audio Monitoring

Sony’s wireless design uses Bluetooth hopping technology to maintain stable transmission with low latency and reduced audio dropouts, including in crowded radio environments. The stated line-of-sight transmission distance reaches up to 500 m.

Connect Bluetooth LE Audio-compatible wireless headphones to the receiver for cable-free monitoring. The receiver’s high-definition, high-contrast AMOLED display presents menu settings, while the control wheel and button support menu operation. Each unit uses an LED indicator to show power, recording and connection status.

Timecode and Multi-Channel Recording

The ECM-W5 supports timecode output to compatible connected devices for aligning footage during post-production. In USB SYNC mode, connect the receiver to a compatible Sony camera using a USB Type-C cable to synchronize timecode recorded as video metadata. This also supports using the system as a timecode generator in multi-camera setups.

The system supports four-channel audio output to compatible cameras. Add up to two optional ECM-W5T microphones to the included units to record up to four speakers simultaneously, with each voice on a separate track. The microphone’s REC start/stop control supports recording operation.

Power, Connectivity and Included Items

Opening the charging case automatically places the receiver in standby. Removing the receiver and microphones powers them on for use. When connected through the MI Shoe, the receiver can power on in sync with a compatible camera if configured in advance. The microphone also links to this setup, allowing remote power-on.

The receiver is powered by the camera when connected through the MI Shoe. The microphone and receiver each provide up to seven hours of continuous standalone use on a full charge. With microphone charging through the case, total use can reach up to 11 hours under the stated operating conditions.

The microphone and receiver also connect to smartphones, PCs and other compatible devices. The included USB Type-C adaptor enables a cable-free receiver connection to supported devices. Use the system for PC podcast recording, standalone voice memos and other audio tasks outside camera use.

The kit includes a receiver, two microphones, a charging case, magnets, wind screens, a USB adaptor, an MI adaptor and other included items.

Key Features

• Two wireless microphones and one receiver
• Up to four-channel digital audio recording with compatible cameras
• 32-bit float recording and sampling rates up to 96 kHz/24-bit
• 64 GB built-in storage in each microphone
• Wireless transmission up to 500 m in line-of-sight conditions
• 3.5 mm mono external microphone inputs and locking TRS connector
• Timecode support, USB Type-C connectivity and Bluetooth LE Audio headphone monitoring
• Up to 11 hours of use with the stated charging setup