Tentacle Sync Track E Tiny Audio Recorder: Like Wireless But Not Wireless

[@curtisjudd]

Tentacle Sync added the ability to monitor from the app!

[@alesko5]

That's great! I didn't realize this functionality was added.

[@TheRoseLiesDead]

Would love a demo on how that works and what the latency is!

[@curtisjudd]

@@TheRoseLiesDead Me too!

[@juliansimmons7700]

@@curtisjudd It's neat feature. I'm getting a 0.465 second delay from the actual real-time sound and that from the phone. This is not ideal, but for monitoring potential problems with mic placements etc it's fine. There's even an 'earpiece' setting, where by you can raise the phone to your ear, and it patches the audio through to there, handy if you don't have your wireless earbuds or headphones to hand (which is called the 'loudspeaker' setting, as if headphones are not connected it's patched through to the phone speaker).

[@curtisjudd]

@@juliansimmons7700 Thanks for sharing the results! I suspected that there would be a lot of latency and that's why most similar apps don't support this. That latency can be quite distracting if you're close enough to the talent to hear them in real live and the monitor at the same time. But I agree, helpful for at least knowing whether there's a clothing rustle or other issue. 👍

[@sabrirashid5175]

this guy is amazing with reviewing audio stuff

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Sabri.

[@Mintyseden]

Your reviews are absolutely the best. You answer all the questions I have. KZbin owes you!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Denis!

[@peter.klesken]

Thank you for such amazing content. You are my favourite KZbin creator. Excellent information in a detailed and pleasant format.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Peter!

[@kazisaud]

@Curtis is the best product reviewer on the light & sound in the world. I’ve been waiting for this product release for almost a year now

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Saud!

[@sky.london]

Thank you. Great review. First to compare the zoom f2 and these wins 🤪. Very excited for these tho, been waiting a year from when they were announced.

[@DigitalNinja3]

Im looking at those too, The Zoom F2s...

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Sky London.

[@remektekmedia6641]

Can't wait to see the comparison.

[@curtisjudd]

Gerald Undone evidently won. 😀 But we sometimes have different perspectives so I hope you'll still find my late review helpful. He is more of a camera guy and I'm more of an audio guy, after all. 😉

[@sky.london]

@@curtisjudd definitely looking forward to hearing your thoughts. Thank you

[@omgMBP]

Not a moment too soon! Great review. And thanks for the addition of highly paid actors into your demo workflow! Really really useful, actually.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Matthew! 😂 They actually are paid. Not sure about highly, but as much as the business can afford.

[@BreezeA]

This is great for budget oriented youtubers/filmmakers. They can now BOOM their Video Mic Pro Plus mics straight into this recorder, and not worry about wireless transmission issues.

[@curtisjudd]

Exactly!

[@OnDirt]

@@curtisjudd would this work with a phantom-powered XLR microphone if I had the appropriate adapter cable?

[@curtisjudd]

@@OnDirt No, if the microphone needs phantom power, this will not work. You'd need a separate power injector but those are usually pretty big and heavy, sort of defeating the purpose.

[@mdmamusicproduction]

Is there a possibility to name each multiple take from within the app?

[@curtisjudd]

Not a way that I see in the current version of the app in March 2021. But they should be able to add that feature. Might be worth contacting them with a feature request.

[@henrygethe1576]

Looking forward to your Zoom F2 review!!

[@curtisjudd]

Me too!

[@f0t0b0y]

Can you use a Rode VideoMic Pro + instead of the lav? That way I can shoot getting ready on multiple cams without lavs for run and gun work. Thinks!

[@curtisjudd]

It should work, yes.

[@f0t0b0y]

@@curtisjudd Thank you!

[@MrAndyStenz]

An updated firmware just released allows you to monitor via Bluetooth now (while recording!)

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@Smartphonematters]

Thank you for this and all of your great videos. As other's have also said, I love your little summary section in the beginning of your videos. I also think it's also something that could be potentially improved to really shine.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks! What did you have in mind for improving the summary?

[@JohnRicard]

@@curtisjudd The summary is perfect. The last thing it needs is graphics, music, introductions, animations or any other sort of popular "improvements".

[@curtisjudd]

@@JohnRicard Thanks John.

[@dab7963]

Really enjoy your videos. I am heading to Mexico soon and I am taking a Nikon Z6 and a Mixpre3 and have 2 tentacle sync E units. I am using Rode II wireless mics. The Rode receiver is plugged into the Mic 1 port on the Mixpre3. The tentacle sync are synced with each other using the app on my phone. I also have an atomos Ninja V on top of my camera. The first tentacle sync E is plugged into the aux 1 output on the Mixpre3. The second tentacle sync E is plugged into the Mic port on the Nikon Z6 The HDMI port is conected from the Z6 to the Atomos Ninja V. After I put the Audio and video into Resolve Media I then tell the video to sync to the Audio and then I place the files on the time line and tell resolve to sync by time code. This workflow works. I tried to plug the second tecnacle sync E into the Atomos mic connection and followed the same process and it's not synced it's off. Could it be because of a delay between the Camera HDMI and the Atomos? Also played with making the Mixpre3 the master but still delays. Just trying to figure out why using the MixPre3 as the master or feeding timecode into the Atomos are not synced ?

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, you got it - it is due to the latency in the HDMI feed from the camera to the ATOMOS recorder.

[@RVKevin]

Curtis, Being a simple youtube creator, can i drop the 32bit recording from the recorder directly into Davinci Resolve and edit like other audio ? Or does the recording need reprocessing in some way for me to sync up with my camera video and audio ?

[@thatcherfreeman]

From what I recall, Resolve doesn't support 32-bit float audio files yet.

[@TheToneWork]

I'm pretty sure Resolve has supported 32bit floating files now for about 6 months. Since version 16.2.

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, the late version 16 and 17 beta all support 32-bit float wav files.

[@RVKevin]

@@curtisjudd thank you Curtis 😎🙋‍♂️

[@easkate]

would you get this over the zoom f2?

[@RChildVision]

Great question. Plus would like to know if theres a lock-hold recording feature like the zoom f2

[@hiawrj]

@@RChildVision The button on the right is quite tight, and has to be held in place for a couple of seconds for the recording to stop. So I think it serves roughly the same purpose. I have this Track-E and I am not concerned, at all, that it will turn off during recording. Also, you can monitor if it indeed does record via the app and also start/stop record from the app.

[@RChildVision]

@@hiawrj thanks for the reply. Good to know. By monitoring, do you mean you can listen to the recording via the app?

[@hiawrj]

@@RChildVision sadly not, but you can see the waveform playing as if there was sound. So make sure the mic is placed properly on the talent so there is no rustling noises from clothes or hair physically touching it. If you make sure of that, then this recorder is foolproof. I've already used it on 5 paid videos and it works exactly as advertised.

[@RChildVision]

@@hiawrj great. Thanks for your reply

[@robchado]

Nice corps jacket! 😎 It would be cool to have the ability to monitor/adjust via the app similar to Wingman. If it's not currently possible, I wouldn't mind the unit being a bit larger for that functionality.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Robert. You can adjust the gain and watch the meter on the app, just cannot monitor with headphones. I didn't know that Wingman sends an audio feed for monitoring?

[@robchado]

@@curtisjudd Ah, I might be mistaken. For some reason I always think Wingman can monitor audio via headphones, rather than monitoring levels.

[@curtisjudd]

@@robchado I believe it is the same - sends meter data in real-time but no audio, at least last I checked. That'd sure be a nice feature though I'm sure there'd be a bit of latency.

[@jordanseitzinger3167]

Any word friends? It’s been almost a year. You mentioned it in your video Curtis. Still no audio monitoring via app? Was it brought in with a firmware update?

[@boutthere3374]

Thanks for this vid and I just ordered a track e and a set of sync e's. Cheers.

[@curtisjudd]

You're welcome and I hope they work well for you!

[@ZhurbaV]

Have a question. This sync app syncs video and audio only at the beginning of file? I mean, what this app will do if my camera has very bad clock? I have for example 3 hour of record. My files will be synced by the beginning but after 3 hours in will loose sync because my camera has bad clock. Or this app can sync the files not only by the begining but correct sync during all file duration? How? In this case it should add or remove some frames from video.

[@curtisjudd]

The way SMPTE timecode works is that it simply encodes the timecode stamp either as an audio signal along with the video encoded file or as a metadata timestamp at the start of the file (audio or video file). Then the sync process is merely a matter of lining up the first frame with the same timecode timestamp on both files. That's all. It doesn't do any sort of compensation for drifting clocks. If you're doing long form video, I'd recommend feeding audio to the camera so that it doesn't drift out of sync over time.

[@ZhurbaV]

@@curtisjudd So, I can disconect sync device after I pressed record button? SMPTE timecode is important only when record is starting?

[@curtisjudd]

@@ZhurbaV The timecode generator needs to stay attached to the camera, ideally. Technically, you could probably remove it after the recording starts, but I wouldn't chance it.

[@REDDpenMEDIA]

I appreciate your accurate reviews!

[@curtisjudd]

👍🙏

[@chungdha]

Think this be nice combined with additional wireless system to the audio out of it just to monitor the sound for any issues. For example a wireless go on the headphone out of the Track E and then just use that wireless for just monitoring.

[@curtisjudd]

On the non-US version that should work. Hopefully the Wireless GO doesn't impose any EMF or RF interference on the Track E.

[@DuncanDimanche-sreview]

@@curtisjudd I did just that hahah kzbin.info/www/bejne/bZzPdZ5va56ags0

[@DuncanDimanche-sreview]

It works great but like Curtis said the US version does not have the audio output while recording due to a stupid patent

[@curtisjudd]

@@DuncanDimanche-sreview Courtesy of Zaxcom. Too bad, they make otherwise interesting products.

[@idahofallsmagazine3691]

I think sticking with the wireless system and ADDING a Track E for backup would be the way to go for me. It's a pretty amazing device.

[@gomezcreativemedia]

Thank you very much, Mr. Judd, for Your fantastic Production Sound tutorials! Currently, I own a pair of Tentacle Timecode boxes. Therefore, I am seriously considering purchasing these Tentacle recording boxes as well. However, I already own a set of Sennheiser G4 wireless packs, yet as you mentioned in the video, working as a "ONE MAN BAND" can be exhausting, and usually, sometimes, technically, always gets sacrificed.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Chuck.

[@Mintyseden]

I’ve been waiting sooo long for this review!!!

[@curtisjudd]

👍🎙

[@AJCoReTV]

Could I plug in a wireless lav system like DJI mic (receiver) into this?

[@curtisjudd]

Technically, yes, it should work.

[@insanejughead]

Show us how to do the moleskin or gaffer-tape hacks when it comes to lav noise isolation! Also, I am blown away you let the ladies go freestyle instead of reading from my man Arthur Doyle... (Curtis, you must be going rogue or continuing the No-Effort November... Oh, and I hope your holidays were great!)

[@curtisjudd]

Hahaha! Ok, will do. Thanks!

[@TonyHobbs]

Can I use only track e recorder and Timecode it to gopro or iPhone without a sync e unit?

[@curtisjudd]

If you can feed audio in to a device, you can attach a Sync E to it and then also record with the Track E. So yes, sort of, but you need the additional Sync E.

[@kmwong1786]

If you have 2 Track Es, can you misuse one as timecode generator for your camera?

[@petesoulis]

I asked the same question to the guys at Tentacle Sync and they said that you need a Sync-E for the camera.

[@curtisjudd]

Agreed with Nassos T - you need a Sync E for the camera.

[@dymonmein]

0:13 Wait the summary says 24-bit w/ limiter and locut. But then in your take you say 32-bit. Either way, is it better than the Zoom F2?

[@curtisjudd]

It has two modes and yes, I prefer this to the ZOOM F2

[@MMCWeddingFilms]

Hi Curtis. Great video, but could you tell me how this might work in a wedding film environment with four track e devices on talent but also four cameras running. Would you need four sync e devices with one of this track e devices seeding a master track e device? Confused!

[@curtisjudd]

You’d need a Sync E for each camera and a Track E for each talent. Then in the app you just sync them all with a single button press.

[@MMCWeddingFilms]

@@curtisjudd Thanks for that. I thought each sync e had to be matched with a track e. Now I see this is done in the app

[@curtisjudd]

@@MMCWeddingFilms It helps to think of it this way: Each Track E essentially has a Sync E inside of it, plus the ability to record audio.

[@majeanlee]

yet another great review. hopefully zoom f2 has lower self-noise. thanks Chris!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Majean. I'd be surprised if it does.

[@the_black_douglas9041]

Hi Curtis, I guess the inability to monitor is somewhat offset by the post processing capabilities provided by 32 bit floating? Does this ‘talk’ to the AtomX SYNC module on the Atomos NINJA V? I use these and love them!

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Doug. Yes, I agree, somewhat offset. It doesn't solve the problem of being able to know if you have problems like clothing rustle, but it does solve the issue of setting the gain incorrectly. This is a stand-alone system and does not talk with the AtomX sync module or any of the Timecode Systems gear.

[@the_black_douglas9041]

@@curtisjudd thanks Curtis 👍🏻😊

[@JuusoHoo]

Thanks again for nice and wisely neutral notes on a new product. Zoom came out with one too I saw. These dont do miracles but help in situations you cannot concentrate on audio controlling AND you need to do things in postproduction, so no help for streaming audio. The distortion issue I guess comes in hands when the mic cannot handle higher audio pressure right? Nice review! PS. You could use a "normal" 16/24 bit recording with a good lavalier and record to a phone or small dig.recorder too...? (Those we have around🤣)

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Juuso, yes, correct on all counts.

[@teacherofteachers1239]

I have never used timecode before, but thanks to what I learned from these nice videos by Curtis I have just received this week one of the Tentacle recorders and two of their sync devices. I just completed my first test today running their sync devices into two Fuji cameras while recording also with their handy little lavalier recorder described in this video. Also, at the same time that I used a Tentacle Sync device in the X-T3, I could use a Deity V-Mic D3 Pro and override the Tentacle Sync's built-in mic; I did this with Tentacle's little Y-adapter cable. Everything synced up nicely and I was able to open the package in Premiere without issue. The quality of the audio is certainly fine for someone like me, but the main event for me was learning timecode and the Tentacle software, and I was very pleased not to lose the ability to plug a decent mic into the camera. This was a huge step - thanks so much for the lessons. - Dave

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Dave, that’s great to hear!

[@LeeHerbet]

Could you “theoretically” use the headphone out to plug in say a wireless go and then use that to wirelessly monitor?

[@DigitalNinja3]

Sync is an issue again.

[@LeeHerbet]

@@DigitalNinja3 I was thinking you still use the recording and sync on the track E. You’re only using the wireless go to monitor so that you can hear if there is any clothes noise or things like that.

[@BreezeA]

The headphone out does not work when you start recording. For the US version. For the non-us version it is possible to pass it through a wireless transmitter for remote monitoring, or even remote recording.

[@imark7777777]

Yes as long as you are not in the US , I've seen that mentioned somewhere else too

[@TheToneWork]

Was thinking the same thing.

[@carlredmond3642]

The Lectrosonics single channel recorder does not have a high quality time code clock, and when synced with a Tentacle Sync can drift ...but it is expensive. The new stereo Lectrosonics recorder from the specs looks like it has a high accuracy clock, so presumably no drift issues...but is very expensive. This new product from Tentacle based on your evaluation is a much more attractive product than the Lectrosonics for a reasonable price assuming it has the Tentacle Sync high accuracy time clock technology, especially considering the audio recording level features you describe. Thanks for posting your detailed review.

[@curtisjudd]

👍 the Lectrosonics is for the rough and tumble production sound world where toughness is top priority.

[@remektekmedia6641]

With multi mic wireless systems you also run into managing all the receivers - both for physical space in your bag and cables and batteries! With the Track E, all that goes away. :)

[@curtisjudd]

Good point.

[@rachinski]

Hi Curtis, love your show. Tell me, it's going to work with sony lavaliers from uwp? I in the market for those Sanken cos-11. All my wireless body packs are from sony. But I'm thinking a lot in a pair of track-e to go along with timecode. If I buy the Sanken for uwp would I be able to use on those track-e? Phisicaly they seems to fit.

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Lucas, unfortunately no. Sony is one of the few companies which use a different wiring scheme for their 3.5mm microphones. You would need to have the microphone re-terminated for Sennheiser 3.5mm to work with the Track E.

[@rachinski]

Thanks a lot!

[@iyengaryogacenterofsandieg4227]

Great presentation - as usual!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks!

[@VulcanworxSG]

Is it possible to jam sync this with a camera wwith timecode (BNC)?

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, you'll just need the right adapter cable. It does not come with a 3.5mm to BNC cable.

[@VulcanworxSG]

@@curtisjudd thanks!

[@thomastthai]

The international version (non-US) version allows for live monitoring via the headphone jack. If you have a family or friend from a country with a Tentacle dealer outside of the USA, have them order for you and ship to their address. Then they ship the device to your USA address. Some dealers from outside the USA will also ship to your USA address. This is due to the Zaxcom patent in the USA.

[@curtisjudd]

I cannot endorse this but I hear what you’re saying.

[@JohnSoh]

Is there a max db that 32 bit recorders can record before clipping? Like if you wanted to capture the sound of a rocket launch that's 180db or something. Would it still clip or could you bring that down too?

[@curtisjudd]

Short answer: 770dB. In 99.9999999999999% of cases, the microphone's ability to capture a loud sound will be compromised long before the 32-bit float recorder: www.sounddevices.com/32-bit-float-files-explained/

[@Halfmoonbaystudios]

Best 1k I’ve ever spent (besides my slate)

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@MatthewRare]

May sound like a dumb question, but I’m unfamiliar with processing 32bit files, and most searches only pull up bouncing options at 32bit. To utilize the ability to reduce clipping, would you need to have your overall session set to 32bit float (whether in audition / pro tools / etc)? I’m assuming to recognize the extra 8 bits it would need to be set globally to that prior to importing, otherwise it would truncate?

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, your DAW app will need to support 32-bit float. ProTools and Audition both do. Logic does not.

[@HoundDogMech]

where at the 17:50 mark you are saying about Consumer mics that use 2.4ghs that there possibly other 2.4 ghz devices like may a hindered or more R/C model airplane transmitters one might have trouble using multiple or even a single 2.4 Ghz remote mics.

[@imark7777777]

I was with one setting up internet for a non-profit office and for some reason between the I think security cameras in the building and other client's and office's something made the use of anything above Channel 7 useless and it's not like there was a ton of access points up there. I did a channel scan and most of them were in the lower region so I went for the higher region but then I was unable to connect to the access point. Somebody came out with a wireless Spectrum scanner I really would have loved to have seen the output at that office. There's a lot of things within the 2.4 unregulated Spectrum from baby monitors, cordless phones, to some extent cell phones, microwaves although that's been more tolerated as of late, security cameras, a good bit of anything remote controlled, RC anything.....

[@HoundDogMech]

@@imark7777777 One of our members that contracts to NASA says when flying near ST Louis MO field 2.4 got so bad it pretty much shut them down with interference and crashes. He expect it to happen at our field as there already over 500 new homes and 2 schools with in 1/4 to 3/4 of a mile and getting closer every month.

[@curtisjudd]

Great example, yes!

[@davidwest5314]

Do you know of the Euro version and where to get it in London?

[@curtisjudd]

Thomann, perhaps?

[@directoradamg]

Gotta agree with others here. I am super excited to see a comparison between this and the Zoom F2/F2-BT. Bonus points if you can get the blue ultrasync to test with the F2-BT!

[@DigitalNinja3]

Im on that same trajectory.

[@curtisjudd]

F2BT is on order. That Ultrasync Blue is sort of a very niche thing - it only works with mobile device cameras. It doesn't really fit my workflow but probably does for those who regularly shoot with mobile phones.

[@directoradamg]

@@curtisjudd as i understand it, it transmits to the sync attachment of the atomos ninja V as well. So there is growing use case for it. But beyond that, it transmits a radio frequency as well, that you can pair with other ultrasync devices to feed timecode. This would be great, but then once you get all of that, you have extra stuff to worry about and you've spent just as much as you would have had you done twp track e's and a sync e! If that makes sense. It's silly. And I'm not sure why zoom likes the ultrasync blue. If you sync your f2-bt to your f6, and then use your f6 to tc-out into your camera (provided your cam has that function), then it makes sense. But it feels like extra steps you shouldn't have to go through for functionality they could have integrated in easier.

[@curtisjudd]

@@directoradamg Agreed - seems convoluted.

[@ethan_ryan]

How does the stock mic sound when placed underneath clothing?

[@curtisjudd]

A bit more muffled. Ok, but not great.

[@TheLordcasio]

Hi Chris, audio dork chiming in again. I would recommend purchasing lavaliere mics that terminate to the MicroDot connector, then buying a MicroDot-to-xxx adapter. "Why?" well, if you buy an expensive lav and want to resale it, you are not bound to a specific brand of wireless. I own 8 DPA 6060's...they are around $600 each ($750 w/ the Lectro MicroDot-to-TA5 adapter). If I ever want to sell them, I have a massive latitude to who I can sell to.

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@patrickchase5614]

I just got a pair of these and agree with everything in your review. I would add that the included lav looks (and performs) suspiciously like a Sennheiser ME2. I guess that would be consistent with the "made with love in Germany" marketing. EDIT: The similarity is to the original ME2, not to the ME2-II that you showed with the Sennheiser wireless system late in the video. I would guess that Sennheiser still has the plastic case for the original, and maybe they made a "custom" part for Tentacle with that?

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Patrick. No idea on the origin of the included mic, but it seems a bit less bright vs the original ME2 to my ears? On the other hand, it has been a few years since I used an original ME2.

[@mediakobo]

The included mic looks identical to the one that comes with the Sennheiser G3 wireless lav systems.

[@curtisjudd]

Indeed!

[@PaulKentSkates]

Does anyone know if I can jam my zoom f6's time code to the time code of the tentacle track e (then I can use line out to my camera's audio input)? Or is the tentacle and the zoom incompatible? I've never used timecode but I want to be able to run the audio and synch occasional clips to the audio

[@curtisjudd]

No, you'll need a Tentacle Sync E as well. That'll work with the F6.

[@lorageproductions]

Do you have to use the tentacle sync as a mic to do timecode with cameras?Can you use just the timecode function? Are two better than one? for the recorder and camera?

[@curtisjudd]

No, you can use it just as a timecode generator as I recall. Two better than one? Ideally, you should use a TC generator for each recording device otherwise you'll end up having to fine-tune the sync in post anyway.

[@Sirfunkymonkey]

If I powered my mkh-416 using XVIVE P1 to get phantom power, then plug that into the track-E, that would work fine right? great video btw

[@curtisjudd]

It should, yes.

[@Sirfunkymonkey]

@@curtisjudd just so you know I tested it and it works like a charm. Amazing combo

[@curtisjudd]

@@Sirfunkymonkey Excellent, thanks for sharing!

[@theuncledru5266]

I've heard that in app audio monitoring is now available for this product, at least in beta! Would love to see you do a run down of this if you ever get the chance.

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@tulskijpryanic]

Hmm, noise floor not so good as i expected. Can you upload some audio samples? Thanks for review)

[@curtisjudd]

I don't have the audio clips any longer. I can tell you that the wav files did not sound any cleaner than the KZbin encoded video here.

[@tulskijpryanic]

@@curtisjudd Ok, thanks_)

[@jamesbridges1107]

How do monitor audio while recording? If clothing rubs, wind noise, etc. can you hear it while shooting?Not being able to do this is a bad trade off...unfixable.

[@curtisjudd]

You cannot. That's the big downside. You trade off all the challenges of wireless for not being able to monitor (on the US version - on the non-US version, the headphone jack works while recording so. you could plausibly send a wireless signal for monitoring). This has to do with Zaxcom patents in the US.

[@Whaever_1981]

Quick question. I think it wasn't covered but please forgive me if it was. Is it possible to monitor the audio in the app by connecting headphones to the iPhone?

[@curtisjudd]

No, it is not possible.

[@CookingwithFriends111]

wow this is such a great video! Thank you so much for the information :)

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@TonyHobbs]

Would Rode lav be ok? Better? It's not lockable

[@curtisjudd]

Should work though I haven’t tried that specific combination.

[@ScottJWaldron]

Great job on the video as usual! 9:25 is probably the biggest thing I'm reluctant about when dropping around $1500 (Track E + 4x sync E & mounts) on a full audio/timecode kit from them. It's too bad the Track E doesn't do stereo 32-bit recording. Having a dual head lapel would help limit the chance of shirt noise being a problem. Another negative I'm seeing is no easily replicable batteries. Price is relative, but I'd likely be using this stuff for a long time so the batteries are another thing holding me back (Edit, nice to see they will offer a battery replacement kit). I emailed Zoom about their new F2. That one also has a few drawbacks in recording. It can do 32-bit stereo, but only in 44khz and not 48khz (48khz in mono like this one is possible). Overall, the Tentacle sync stuff does seem like the best option to get a nicely integrated timecode based audio setup with cameras that don't officially support timecode, so I'm still thinking about it. Hopefully timecode stuff becomes even more mainstream so there are more options and lower prices.

[@Taukasauva]

Wait what! Zoom said F2 records stereo? I emailed them saying I assume F2 records only Mono and went on asking if I can use then two F2:s with two separate mics to create binaural recording and they said nothing about stereo recording, just that the levels would be different with two separate recorders. Damn, are you sure the stereo really worksin 44.1? Like for example with this mic pair store.lom.audio/sk/collections/microphones-accessories/products/mikrousi?variant=6174830002208

[@Taukasauva]

Btw when I emailed Tentacle Sync about my plans for binaural audio, part of their answer was like this: "By the way, we are already working on a stereo version but I can't promise when exactly we will release it next year."

[@ScottJWaldron]

@@Taukasauva I'm not sure of anything considering I haven't used it. It is possible the person at Zoom USA got the spec wrong.

[@ScottJWaldron]

Here is the exact text from the Zoom USA rep: "In terms of your question about 32 bit float recording, the F2 records in the following file formats: 44.1kHz/32-bit float, 48kHz/32-bit float Mono, BWF format supported."

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Scott!

[@asili2tv767]

There is this new function in Track E where the TC output via headphone jack, Now there are two settings Left TC(0db) and Left TC(-18db) what the difference?

[@curtisjudd]

One is line level, the other microphone level (roughly)

[@asili2tv767]

@@curtisjudd thanks alot

[@baufilmesPT]

I don´t get one thing. The non-US version have headphone monitoring? I live in Europe, so it will have monitoring?

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, in Europe, you will be able to monitor via headphones when you are recording. In the US version, the headphone monitoring turns off once you start recording because another company has a patent on that feature.

[@baufilmesPT]

@@curtisjudd thanks for your answer ❤️ Although, the monitoring exist through the app or I will need something like a wireless device to monitor it? Like pairing it with a rode wireless go should work? The way I’m seeing it could be a perfect solution and solve all my concerns that I have...because then I put each wireless go connected to each track e and these wireless go therefore connected to my zoom H6. I will have a monitoring system from all the track e working, audios without the risk of dropping the signal and still with 32 bit float, on paper that’s look perfect. Am I loosing something?

[@curtisjudd]

@@baufilmesPT No, the app does NOT offer monitoring - the headphones would need to be connected to the recorder, or you will need to use a wireless mic system to transmit the audio. Best wishes and happy recording!

[@baufilmesPT]

@@curtisjudd one last thing if you can answer me... how shielded the track e is? If I tie it with an wireless go for an example and put them both in the talent pocket, there’s a chance that the track e can get RF interference?

[@LSteven2U]

Can you sink with the original Tentacle Sync (non bluetooth ver)

[@imark7777777]

Well that was not something mentioned I think it was kind of grazed over. I'm assuming that's what these sync over the mic Jack function is for if I understand the original version doesn't support anything else.

[@curtisjudd]

Yes. you can sync then via the 3.5mm jack - even the original Tentacle Sync.

[@fxpictures1658]

Awesome video, as always!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks.

[@human_support]

What kind of bag do you have in the video here, for the recorder? I'm looking for a bag for my Zoom f8n pro, but the standard bag is average quality, I'm looking for something better.

[@curtisjudd]

Orca.

[@alanb4942]

Very helpful review, thank you Curtis 👍

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@scottslotterbeck3796]

Hey, Curtis: sound quality compared to my Tascam dr 10? I love the freedom of not having to deal with interference and drop outs. I'm happy with my Tascam, just wondering about the sound quality. Thanks!

[@curtisjudd]

About the same as the Tascam when comparing included lavalier microphones.

[@florianmertl]

Can you download a recording from the tentacle to your smartphone via bluetooth / wifi to quickly process it on your iPhone?

[@curtisjudd]

Not that I saw. But perhaps using the files app on iOS that will work?

[@PavlaVankova]

If I have a camera that is able to generate Timecode (Lumix S1 after the upcoming TC update), then I can pair it with Tentacle Track only and I don't have to buy Sync E?

[@curtisjudd]

The S1 (or any other camera of which I am aware) does not have a dedicated, quality timecode clock. What it will have is the ability to take a timecode signal and set its realtime clock to the external timecode generator. The problem is that it will drift quite quickly. My Panasonic GH5S, for example, allows me to jam sync the camera to an external TC generator like the Sync E, but right out of the gate, it is off by several frames. I don't know how Panasonic plans to implement the timecode input on the S1, but if they make it so that it can continuously sync, you'll want to have a Sync E and leave it connected through the entire shoot. Otherwise, you'll have imperfect sync and will have to nudge every clip a few frames to get them in sync. May was well just use the waveform sync feature of your video editing app...

[@PavlaVankova]

@@curtisjudd Thank you. So after all, wireless might be a less "hustle" version for one man band?

[@curtisjudd]

@@PavlaVankova The most reliable would be a Sync E and a Track E. Wireless works, you just need to know your game with wireless and be able to quickly adapt WHEN you run into issues. You will eventually run into interference and dropout issues with wireless.

[@Seanonyoutube]

Will a macbook pro 16’ support that db dynamic adjustments wizardry?

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, with the right app. Apple Logic is out but most other video editing and audio apps will.

[@Cactustone]

Does 32-bit float essentially eliminate the need for a hardware external compressor, such as the Engineering Labs "Distressor?" Or would the benefit of the external compressor be the elimination of level correcting in post? How tedious is the leveling in post when using 32-but float without compression baked in?

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Ben, yes and yes. A well configured compressor will save time in post. If that's not an option, 32-bit float prevents most clipping while recording so you can do the compression in post. It is a tradeoff. And of course, a microphone can still saturate or distort before the audio ever makes it to the recorder so you'll still need to be careful about that.

[@Cactustone]

@@curtisjudd Thank you!

[@lextr3110]

please review all DPA microphones and headsets..

[@curtisjudd]

LOL. Please send $20,000 USD and I will happily do that. 😉

[@MarshallCant]

I guess this might be a solution for the new Sony FX6 that loses audio input as soon as the handle is removed?

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, indeed.

[@timothyawe5103]

Thanks for the review.

[@thinkognito344]

does it record stereo line in or is it audio compliant though usbc? to record maybe a dj mix.

[@curtisjudd]

It is a mic level input, not line level.

[@thinkognito344]

@@curtisjudd too bad, a little device like that for artists/DJs to record there live sets in 32bFloat would be cool...and why not make everything usbc audio compliant...

[@RobbieSkaff]

Have you had the chance to use the DPA 6060, I'm in between the countryman B6 and the DPA 6060 but haven't been able to find any great samples of the two microphones for a fair comparison. Any thoughts? Best, Robbie

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Robbie, I haven't used the 6060, unfortunately.

[@RobbieSkaff]

@@curtisjudd No worries, I hope you had a nice day. : )

[@fuglbird]

Another great informative review. Thank you!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks.

[@ScribblebytesWorldwide]

Love the review. Its very thorough. I find this mic quite noisy. I'd love to see you do the Instamic (or link it here if you already have).

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Scribblebytes.

[@NewYorkerPEACE]

Can I use my track E as a Timecode on my camera audio file? like using a sync E device but using Track E. thanks Curtis!

[@curtisjudd]

You can jam sync it to other tentacle sync E's but I don't remember the ability to use this as a dedicated timecode generator attached to your camera throughout a shoot. But you might check with Tentacle support to see if maybe they've added that since I did this review.

[@NewYorkerPEACE]

@@curtisjudd I also contacted Tentacle but not word yet. Sync E are back ordered at the moment. Thanks for always getting back so fast. You're a good egg Curtis!

[@NewYorkerPEACE]

@@curtisjudd Can you jam sync w SYNC E into a mixer at 60pfs? my sound/boom guy said he can only set it to 30fps but the Tentacle Studio software will recognize it at 60fps? I would be using 3 SYNC E units, not the Track E. TY

[@curtisjudd]

@@NewYorkerPEACE the current SMPTE timecode spec only supports up to 30 fps though I believe they're looking to update the spec for higher frame rates. Most devices only support up to 30.

[@ZachBoyce]

thought another "con" is the files this generates are substantial compared to non-32 bit recordings?

[@rsmith02]

Any audio is tiny though compared to video, isn't it?

[@curtisjudd]

Not by much. You can still record something like 15 hours on a 16GB card.

[@jannieschluter9670]

Can I use the free software Audacity to work with 32bit float like how you show it in this video?

[@curtisjudd]

Yes.

[@TheToneWork]

@Curtis Judd Anyone, know comparable file sizes for 24bit and 32bit? Surely the file size is larger for 32bit.

[@curtisjudd]

There's an audio calculator at this page which will tell you exactly how much of a difference you can expect: www.sounddevices.com/support/

[@andreasbuder4417]

Uuuuuh nice! And pleeease test the new Zoom F2, when it gets released. It is essentially the cheaper version of the Track E, but from the looks as good.

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, I have it on preorder, just waiting for it to arrive.

[@andreasbuder4417]

@@curtisjudd Damn, Gerald Undone was faster 😅

[@Pikmeir]

Great video! For my uses, if this only didn't use an internal battery it would be an upgrade from my DR-10Ls. So far I've yet to find anything better.

[@curtisjudd]

Keep making great sound with that DR-10L!

[@Pikmeir]

@@curtisjudd Just want to say thank you so much for all of your videos over these years. I went from not knowing how to use a shotgun microphone or why I even needed a separate recorder, to last month hitting 300k subscribers on my main channel. I still have so much to learn from your videos

[@andreasbuder4417]

What I do for audio monitoring: I attach a small BT transmitter to the Audio out and connect Bluetooth headphones to the receiver. The audio quality is ok, it has a lag of about one second, but it does the job of controlling problems like dead battery, scratching clothes, radio interference etc. The rest does the recorder (currently a Zoom H1 in my case).

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@BrianSmeets]

Hi Curtis, I have a question: If the unit shuts down while recording is the audio file saved? I have heard the same question asked of the Zoom F2 and the rep said it was not guaranteed the file will be there on that device. This is an important point of failure for some use cases.

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Brian, I assume you mean if the battery runs out? I haven't run into that situation yet, but will keep an eye out for it.

[@Fearless_Adventures]

@@curtisjudd Great! I plan to use this for recording when you won't have easy access to it - so if it runs out of battery I can't lose a long take.

[@jayeshrathod8444]

Sound is high the mountain for a modest budget films, and I am no exemption. Sony PCM D10 is good enough to use with boom mics for indie filmmakers? or Tentacle Track E will do the job!! (I have none from both of it. So you can suggest which will do the job including dialogue, environment and foley ;). Also looking forward to enroll in your sound courses after Xmas.

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Jayesh, I would think that the Sony PCM D10 would be more versatile because it has XLR inputs and in-built stereo microphones for recording ambient sound. I haven't used it so I don't have a review on it, but between this and the D10, I'd think the D10 is the more versatile filmmaking tool.

[@jayeshrathod8444]

@@curtisjudd thanks for the quick response 🙏🏿

[@ili6065]

very Usefull. Thank You!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks.

[@baldonaaqui6607]

Would you recommend the Tentacle or the Rode Wirerless pro for documentary work? Thanks!

[@curtisjudd]

Probably the RODE Wireless Pro, but there are tradeoffs. Neither is objectively superior to the other.

[@curtisjudd]

Also, is timecode central to your workflow? And which camera(s) are you using?

[@baldonaaqui6607]

@@curtisjudd Thanks for your reply! I shoot with a GH5 and I have the DMW-XLR1E module. I don't use timecode yet, it's not fundamental to my work. I'm looking for something discreet with good sound quality to record discussions. I'm also considering the Deity Theos but I'm afraid it lacks discretion.

[@LearnLightAndSoundSessions]

@@baldonaaqui6607I’d choose the RODE.

[@timmanning9]

Can you use two systems at the same time? For example, recording two wireless receivers into one camera?

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Tim, these are not wireless transmitters. These are pocket recorders with timecode to help you sync them to camera in post. You can use as many as you need and they'll all sync up in post.

[@timmanning9]

@@curtisjudd Understood. I currently have the zoom F1 but it seems like these would be a faster POST production workflow just because of the timecode feature. Do you find the zoom F6 field recorder to make things easier with multiple wireless transmitters AT THE TIME OF RECORDING? I heard you mention wireless can be a headache....lol

[@curtisjudd]

@@timmanning9 Wireless adds risk, always, even with the pro systems. So it is a tradeoff you have to decide on. The problem with things like the F1 and Track E is that you cannot monitor during the recordings so you don't know if you're getting clothing rustle or some other problem you'll have to try to clean up in post. If you're a solo shooter, and you do not have a basic understanding of radio frequency theory, I'd stick with body pack recorders.

[@WindersRanger]

This recorder might be just what im looking for. Ive had issues with audio at times, using the cannon G7x, especially with dialogue and loud sounds clipping. Using the G7x as a blogging camera, its audio is okay to fair on average but it doesnt manage loud sounds well. For instance vlogging in a theme park where there are a lot of ambient sounds, dialogue and say, fireworks. Trying to clean all that up to a usable sound level in post is quite time consuming to say the least.

[@curtisjudd]

That's a good use-case for something like the Track E.

[@WindersRanger]

@@curtisjudd Thank you sir for the reply. I appreciate it.

[@stianmaurstad]

Awesome! Never understood what 32-bit float is, but now because of you I do. This is amazing. For how long has this been around? I would think everyone should record in 32-bit float, as long as your equipment can? I need to look more into this. Thank you! Subscribed.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Stian. Not all software can read 32-bit float audio files so that is one reason to stick with 24-bit in some cases.

[@SlavGuns]

Very interesting. I am actually quite surprised you did not mention a direct competitor that these are meant to replace, the Tascam DR10L units. Would be great to see the sound quality difference between the two. Glad to know the battery is user replaceable, and knowing that, it would be nice, of course, having a bunch of rechargable AAA in the Tascam is far more convenient. Simply swap out the AAA battery before every session, and even if I am low, swap in a new one. Since I film outside, I wonder what that battery life would be in 40 degree weather. When it dies, for sure SOL. I do think the time stamp encoder could be AWESOME, especially for more than 1 unit such as doing interviews. How much is the one for the camera? Or available as kits? Also, does this one allow you to dual record? On the Tascam I can record at the level along with a backup track at -12 db. And btw, your hair is great. =)

[@mshaftenberg]

And Tascam is half the price. Can't understand either.

[@curtisjudd]

I’m not perfect 😔

[@curtisjudd]

Tascam does not do 32-bit float. 32-bit float eliminates the need for “backup” or “safety track” recording.

[@mshaftenberg]

@@curtisjudd Nobody needs to be perfect, your videos are good as they are. But I noticed that Gerald Undone avoided to mention The DR-10L also. Won't say you both are bought, but this is strange as the advantages of the Tascam are obvious, let the 32bit recording aside.

[@2001Film]

Hello Curtis. I'd like to ask something that confuses me: As long as we use the same microphone, will there be a quality difference in recordings made to Tentacle E and Zoom (or Sound Devices) devices? The reason I ask this is because we know the preamp and AD converter quality of the Zoom or Sound Devices devices, but not the Tentacle E device. Lastly, in a serious production scenario where the quality lav. mic+Tentacle E device is used as the lavalier and a quality boom mic+Zoom F3 (or similar device) is used as the boom, will the sound quality change between cut together? I hope I didn't take too long. Thank you.

[@curtisjudd]

The thing which makes the biggest difference to sound quality is the microphone. To a lesser extent, the preamplifier also affects the sound quality.

[@2001Film]

@@curtisjudd Do you think they can be used to cut together in a same scene in a serious production?

[@curtisjudd]

@@2001Film in a serious, well funded production they’d try and if it wasn’t working, they’d send those lines to ADR for re-recording.

[@2001Film]

@@curtisjudd I understand. Thank you very much for your time Curtis.

[@thornne]

Thanks for great review. Included mic sounds a bit muffled, but its still OK as being included mic. I'd definitely use DPA with it, which I wouldn't be able to use with Zoom F2 because It doesnt have 4,5V phantom power for the mic. Second thing its much better choice for me then F2 is compatibility with TS Timecode devices which I use. F2 cant sync with Tentacle Sync.

[@imark7777777]

Plug in power, Phantom is 48 volts

[@thornne]

@@imark7777777 I guess we all know what I meant, but thanks for correcting me!:)

[@curtisjudd]

Agreed - the included mic works decently for very bright, articulate, sibilant voices, but a little muffled for darker voices like my wife's.

[@imark7777777]

@@thornne I thought that by the sentence you might’ve known that but wanted to clarify in case anybody else read it. Having gone through looking for information on the subject it’s really annoying when the wrong word is used and then gets propagated throughout the entire document or form posts.

[@skymakai]

Hi, Curtis. Any opinion on the lav mic quality of the included lav versus the included lav mic of the Tascam DR10L? They seem to look identical.

[@curtisjudd]

Both were…mediocre.

[@skymakai]

@@curtisjudd Time for an updated lav mic roundup? Or is the last one you did still up to date enough?

[@curtisjudd]

@@skymakai The last one I did in 2019 or 2020 is still pretty much a reflection of my experience. I haven't added a lot of new options to my kit since then.

[@bboymac84]

Can Track E sync 5 mics to the Sync E?

[@curtisjudd]

If you have 5 Track Es, yes.

[@BonnersCreate]

Was there a gate applied in post or does the unit have a ducking feature that I'm hearing?

[@curtisjudd]

Nothing applied on the raw samples. On the main storyline, I did use a de-breath plugin.

[@petet66]

Hi Curtis, thanks for another professional and informative video review. I shoout with a Blackmagic Pocket 6K camera. If I wanted to use this and have timecode sync with my camera am I right in thinking I would need a Tentacle Sync E attached to my camera. The Track E would then be jammed to that device's timecode before being attached to my talent (either by wire or Bluetooth). Thanks for your help :-)

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, exactly right. And the Sync E and Track E can be re-jammed at any time via the mobile app.

[@petet66]

@@curtisjudd thanks so much for such a quick response :-)

[@stevefines1887]

Great review as always. While I really like the idea, not being able to monitor strikes me as asking for trouble. Getting back to the office and discovering some hair or clothing or other noise that could have been prevented would be such a drag.

[@curtisjudd]

That is the huge trade off with body pack recorders across the board. You don’t have to worry about wireless dropouts, but clothing noise and any other interference is something you cannot catch while recording.