DEITY THEOS Wireless Microphone System Review

[@curtisjudd]

We've found some oddness in the audio quality of the wirelessly transmitted audio but the audio recorded to the transmitters is good. See this livestream where we dig into the details: kzbin.infoEFSJ4yjywyc?feature=shared

[@daviddobson217]

Do you know if a firmware update has fixed this? There’s a slight crackle in all my audio? If I can’t find a solution I’ll have to go back to my g4’s

[@curtisjudd]

@@daviddobson217 I don't know - Best to contact DEITY support.

[@crowlsyong]

I always like the pacing of the text at the beginning- we're smart, we know how to pause. You know your audience. Thanks for making quality videos.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks! 👍

[@REMY.C.]

This is so true, the fact that he writes that shows how much he respects us and encourage me to watch all the videos.

[@Acebandet167]

​@@curtisjudd I just got this in last week, and while I do love it I was kind of surprised by noise when I use the USB to power the receiver. The batteries allow it to work fine, and it only occurs when there's a USB attached to power it. Even if I turn the gain all the way down I still get the buzzing is this because of a faulty product, not designed to be used with USB while recording, or unclean power? The power supply I am using is from a large traveling 12 volts 9-volt and USB brick I can get you more specifics and I already sent a message d e i t y via email so I'll hear from them in a month

[@SeaJay_Oceans]

Absolutely - Time = Money , but money can't buy us more time ...

[@dingdong5601]

If Curtis was a fast food restaurant he would be Chick-fil-A

[@patrickr7538]

Great pro review. I’m a retired film sound mixer. Sold all my gear years ago to my first who then went on to mix. I bought the Mix-pre 3ii just for fun and find I use it for all sorts of volunteer projects. Been looking for something similar but cheaper than Lectro just to add some wireless. This system (I live in Canada) sounds just about perfect for me. Thanks again for your review. I watch all your reviews! Once a mixer, always a mixer…!

[@curtisjudd]

🎙️🎧

[@JustinPorterMedia]

Yo Curtis! Phenomenal video. Just a note, to sync the theos without the app, you must have one of the TC-1 set as master and the theos/other tc-1 set to auto. Then you put them on the same group like “A” and from the master, you can navigate to the TC option in the menu and press sync. It will sync any deity device set on the same group 🥹

[@curtisjudd]

Awesome, thanks for that!

[@primo8825]

Good to know cheers!

[@SitinprettyProductions]

Hi. Do you know how you can do this with tentacle syncs?

[@nathanksimpson]

Also an advantage of powering by usb is the RXs automatically power on when they detect usb power in. This makes bag use a little more convenient since they can remain in your bag indefinitely regardless of power status if you use a bds. Sidus app has a power off function.

[@curtisjudd]

Good point, thanks for that.

[@JakeSloan]

I have been looking forward to this video since I saw the new system at NAB. Great to see @deity is working to deliver such great tools at affordable prices for creators and small production teams. Also it was fun to see you and Allen together lol.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Jake. Happy holidays and hope you keep warm up there!

[@jeffreyhackmedia]

Hi Curtis, I'm a production sound mixer from Phoenix, AZ and wanted to express my appreciation for your review on the new Deity Theos system! It was last year at the NAB show in Vegas that I had the chance to see what the new system looked like and everything seemed very impressive and like a step up from Deity's connect system. At the moment, I'm looking to upgrade from my connect system (2.4GHz) and use the Deity Theos UHF system. Thanks again for this video and for your expertise on location sound!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Jeffrey. Happy recording!

[@SashaJordanAppler]

One of the best review channels for filmmakers! Long time viewer, thanks so much! Keep up the great work :)

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Sasha!

[@antone9751]

Great review Curtis. I'm listening to this on some Jabra Elite Active 75T bluetooth buds and in your range test am hearing quite a bit of noise in the high frequencies. Are you hearing this Curtis?

[@tomdchi12]

I can say I was engaged by Allen messing with you as you were trying to count off distance. I don’t immediately need to step up to this level of gear from my current 2.4ghz system but I’m happy to see improvements and competition in this slice of the market. I’m particularly happy to see time code becoming increasingly common in lower priced gear like this!

[@curtisjudd]

😉

[@MarkusFinholt]

What! Having the mic in the hat makes that great of a sound? Impressive

[@curtisjudd]

One of the best places to hide a lavalier in my experience 👍

[@JoeTheViewer]

I did sound on an indie that I put a cos-11 in his hat and it picked him up and the person he was talking to next to him really good.

[@jafieldspictures]

Awesome review, Curtis! I’ve been tempted to pick a set of these up since your initial thoughts stream and I think you’ve sold me on them here.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks! Happy recording!

[@chakerian]

Lack of limiters can probably be handled in firmware. With a 32FP signal, they can simply bring down the signal where needed without clipping internally. Pretty cool, thanks for the review.

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@EffectiveCommunications]

Thank you so much for making and sharing this video. I foolishly bought the last generation from Diety with the BP TRX and deeply regretted it. I could tell within seconds of hearing the audio that Diety has a long way to go to get their transmitted audio to a professional quality. Thankfully they have figured out the features that we need with the app control. Maybe their third generation will be ready for professional use. Until then, thank you for everything you do!

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@WalioNYC]

Great review, as always. In my humble opinion, the one competitor of the Theos system is the Sennheiser AVX system. I work on a LOT of Indy films and I can wire-up a bunch of actors and be ready to shoot in minutes. No frequencies, no menus, just go. BUT I’ll still get the Theos system because it’s priced wonderfully.

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@adzreybai3596]

Great review… may I know your setting? Is it thru line or mic level in your sound devices? And how about the gain setting? Tq

[@AtlantaSoundGuy]

Hi Curtis - Cujo from Atlanta Sound Guy here... Long time listener, first time caller. Great review, and hope you had fun with Allen. You should be able to sync the TC-1 and the TX/RX by making the TC-1 the master device and setting all the other devices to auto jam. From the Master TC-1, scroll to *sync* in the timecode menu, menu and engage it. All devices in range (30 feet-ish) will sync via bluetooth and it does not require the Sidus app.

[@curtisjudd]

Nice, thanks Cujo!

[@TopherBarnett]

Great video; just one question. Can the receiver output timecode from one of its outputs? This would be really useful as a camera hop so I could send mono audio and TC from one box.

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, I believe so

[@jasonknight1281]

Great review Curtis. Thank you so much for doing it. I've been waiting for this review to go ahead with my purchase and you've confirmed that this will be a great fit for what I do. Feeling quite fortunate to be in Australia and not have to worry about the patent issue. Such a shame it's an issue there in the States. I also like the sound of the W.Lav Pro on the mic test - perhaps lacking some base compared to the Cos 11D - but pretty solid I thought. Thanks again Curtis. Looking forward to getting and using these.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks and happy recording!

[@marklholloway]

Nice review! Curious why you call the Theos Prosumer and not Professional? In the Sony UWP review you called it Professional. I’d like to know what separates the two systems between Prosumer and Professional products. Thanks!

[@curtisjudd]

The sound quality, for one. THEOS sounds good on its internal recordings but the transmitted audio doesn’t sound as good.

[@call9trace]

Hello Curtis ! First, thanks for all t he work you do on those - Your channel become my go-to place if I need to understand or review of somethink sound related. I have question about noise of those. My original setup is Zoom F4 and sony UWP-D21 set - I have also one really old UWP-2 . UWP-D21 have extremely low noise floor in comparison with Theos which suprised me. I have 15dB gain on TX's and -20dB on receiver outpu. I can here a big difference - If I set gain on F4 to max 75dB for both systems - Sony have ambient noise on -32dB , Theos on -18dB. Is this normal, Or I have something setup wrong? Thanks in advance.

[@curtisjudd]

It might be normal, I'm not sure which microphone you're using, which is the biggest factor in self-noise. (I assume you're talking about self-noise and not ambient noise)

[@jdebmd]

Curtis, would you purchase the DeityTheos over a used Lectrosonics LR/LT system?

[@curtisjudd]

No, I’d buy the lectro.

[@ChuckCalhoun1]

Hi Curtis, Would you recommend these for a wireless hop IFB to camera? I've used Sennys G3/4 in the past.

[@curtisjudd]

Yes.

[@assarhopaneng7339]

Can you use Atomos Ultrasync One or Blue on Deity Theos?

[@UltrafiAV]

Interesting and informative review as always, so thank you for that. Just a comment/question or two: I live in Canada, so I'm wondering if the THEOS hardware sold here will allow for simultaneous recording and transmitting. Based on your comments, it sounds like it might, although often times we get the same versions of electronics that you do in the States. Second, would you say the included lav mic with the system is a limiting factor in overall sound quality? Would upgrade to, say, the COS-11D be a noticeable improvement? Thank you!

[@p0ggles]

Wow, it's hard to find channels like this one. This video was excellent!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks

[@p0ggles]

How did you get your audio so clear? I use the Theos Digital Wireless but I get hissing I can't seem to get rid of. Now, Granted I use a mirrorless camera, so maybe that's why. Do you do anything in post?@@curtisjudd

[@fer_fdi]

Excellent review as usual, thank you! There is a couple things I can't get info about: 1. Does the L output on RX work as stereo unbalanced output too? 2. Can it work as a headphone out too? WIth the right output impedance for headphones and an easy to reach hp level control? 3. If it can work like this, the hp out signal has the system's delay (6ms) or longer? - Thank you and regards!

[@ravagliafilms]

Hi Curtis! I was wandering what do you think about the mic that comes with the system and if its possible to connect other mics from different brands like the Sennheiser mke2. Thank you!!!

[@curtisjudd]

The included mics are good. You can use others as well.

[@directed_by_steve]

Been waiting for this review from you :) Sanken 11D and this Lav system sounds like a dream plus 32bit float recording.

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@StefanFischerFacilitation]

Hi Curtis, thanks for this review. I wonder about the side noise while you talked, especially when you begin a new sentence. At 3:27 for example. Did your cap produce this?

[@curtisjudd]

Not my hat, more likely my multiple layers of clothing.

[@ashjam7]

Nice review. How does the sound quality compare with the the SONY UWP-D27? I don't need all the bells and whistles. Just looking to do a studio shoot, and need excellent sound, and clean silence.

[@curtisjudd]

You can pull up our review of the Sony system in another browser tab and play them back to back to compare: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aaWpi5meit6cnrMfeature=shared

[@TheMinistryFilmworksEST2018]

THANK YOU CURTIS!!!! I'VE BEEN WAITING FOR THIS REVIEW!!!

[@curtisjudd]

👍🙏

[@goranstojcevski1014]

Great review. Theos has great features, but just in terms od sound quality, how it stands compared with sennheiser ew 100 g4?

[@curtisjudd]

I don’t have a G4 on hand to do a head to head comparison, unfortunately.

[@robert_starling]

Would these packs benefit from better quality lavs?

[@curtisjudd]

Not really in terms of audio quality. But perhaps in terms of durability.

[@DavidKfilmmaker]

Hey Curtis. Great review. I’m wondering what circumstance you’d choose to record on the body packs vs pumping it to the camera? Not being able to monitor threw me off and I just opted to have it go to camera.

[@ArtOca]

1. Recordings on the transmitter is 32 bit float, the one sent to your camera is not. 2. In case the signal drops for whatever reason, or if the input jack to your cam got unplugged, you have a back up in the transmitter.

[@freddudderar9860]

Thank you for this great review Curtis. My question is whether an additional Theos receiver can be mounted on a second camera so that 2 transmitters can be used to transmitter sound to two cameras?

[@curtisjudd]

Yes

[@SitinprettyProductions]

Great review, thanks. I'm confused about one thing. If you are recording on 32 bit float and transmitting wirelessly you can still clip? Even if your recorder has 32 bit float as well (like the zoom f8n pro)? Didn't realize it was only good if recording directly to the transmitter. Can you please confirm?

[@curtisjudd]

Confirmed - the wirelessly transmitted audio is converted back to analogue at the receiver and it can clip there before it gets to your 32-bit float recorder.

[@SitinprettyProductions]

@@curtisjudd Thank you!

[@creativegreatsvisuals]

Have you heard about the hissing sound complaint these units are receiving online ? Couldn’t that be user error? What should gain be set at in the Mixpre6 ii when using this system ?

[@jbe1official]

Hello Curtis! I absolutely appreciate your last feedback. It really helped me. I’ve been trying to get deity’s support for sometime but there’s no reply till now and I’d be absolutely glad if you could help me with this. I recently got the deity theos and i have some unanswered questions and confirmations. I'd be glad if you could help me out. 1. In the Workstation menu in the app, i usually see one of my transmitters in a submenu called unallocated. Is that normal or i need to do something? 2. In the time code menu, the TC sync is grayed out till i change TC settings before i can sync, right? 3. Can the antennas on the receiver be repositioned by loosening the screw? 4. Lastly, I know that a change in frequency or some settings of the receiver would simultaneously affect the transmitters, but in my case, there’s sometimes a connection issue that I have to pair them again to sync settings. Is that also normal ? I have the global version in EU territory for more context. Thank you!

[@erikpreston2393]

Curtis, if one is integrated into the Sony Ecosystem, would you recommend the UWP over the Theos? Seems like True Diversity, and integration with the Mi-Shoe edges out the Theos, albeit, no internal recording capability. Would love your thoughts and a possible side by side review if you ever have the time. As always, thanks for your wonderful, probative content!

[@curtisjudd]

If you’re invested in UWP, filming with Sony, and getting the results you need, I’d stick with it. PS - UWP-D is antenna diversity as is THEOS.

[@castillosounddirect8335]

Hello Curtis, thanks for the video and for testing the quality of the system, I was wondering if this is not a diversity system then what is the function of both antennas? And what would be the difference with a system of real diversity compared to this one?

[@curtisjudd]

This is an antenna diversity system. “True diversity” usually refers to systems which have a separate radio receiver for each antenna. Antenna diversity has a single radio receiver which can switch between antennae. In theory, and probably in practice, true diversity systems can switch with fewer dropouts or hits.

[@JohnThainTV]

Fantastic review! Any idea if the recording can be stereo? Only mono?

[@curtisjudd]

Only mono.

[@RJHEllis]

I'm not sure if it is just me, but my ears seems to be picking up a slight digital modulation and drops throughout the video. My ears heard it most around the 09:00 to 09:10 region. I refreshed the page, listened to other KZbin videos... Perhaps maybe an issue with the export? But, for me, I am hearing some kind of digital modulation. At the 09:14 mark, it is most noticeable when Curtis says "that's the."

[@curtisjudd]

Good ear. Not sure whether that's digital modulation, the mic, my voice, or something else, but there is a little something there.

[@ilcontezio01]

Hi, thanks for the review. If I may , I would like to understand if the 32bit recording is available only on the transmitter internal memory, or if the transmitter can also send 32bit data to the reciever so that 32bit can be recorded on a sounddevices mixpre II for example..?

[@curtisjudd]

Just in the transmitter. The wireless signal is NOT 32-bit float.

[@pebuchmann]

Thank you for an other great episode! I have two questions: - Can I timecode-sync my Sound Devices Mix Pre 6 II with the Theos system? - Can I connect a Deity W Lav Pro mic with a 3.5 jack to a Rode Wireless Go II? Thank you for you ongoing support! Peter

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Peter, 1) yes, with an additional DEITY TC-1 and 2) yes. Happy recording!

[@pebuchmann]

Thank you and happy holiday!@@curtisjudd

[@TheJiBoom]

Hey Curtis! Thank you for a great review! I wnated to know if the receiver can be set to send a mono signal out from one of the 3.5mm ports? I want to downsize my rig and was wondering if this could work with a zoom f3 to achieve 3 possible inputs. Thanks again for your review!

[@curtisjudd]

Sorry, I don’t understand.

[@TheJiBoom]

@@curtisjudd Can the receiver send a combined line out of both the channels through one of the 3.5mm outs? To connect to a camera for e.g. or do I need to combine the cables with an xlr Y cable?

[@malcomowenflood]

Hey Curtis! Thanks for the video! Have you ever tried using the Theos reciever as an IFB? Trying to find a cam hop/IFB solution! Currently using Sennheiser to do this, but would find the modern features of this system worth the upgrade if it's suitable as both a cam hop and IFB!

[@curtisjudd]

I haven't but you can use it if the plan is to get scratch audio to the camera.

[@etiennelacroix-videoproduc4382]

Thanks for the nice video! I bought the kit one week ago, really nice, but I have noticeably more noise than my AVX system. And there is really no noise at all when I hear the recording. What are your thoughts about that?

[@curtisjudd]

Would need to hear samples.

[@vividmotion66]

Great review, thanks Curtis. Question: Would there be an difference in therm of quality between recording 32 bit float internally on the theos or on my MixPre-3 II? Would the MixPre-3 II do a better job when it comes to noise floor or quality?

[@curtisjudd]

If you transmitt wirelessly, that part of the signal chain will be 24-bit. So no, you won't gain anything or hurt anything by recording from the THEOS to the MixPre.

[@vividmotion66]

@@curtisjudd thanks for getting back to me. Does that mean clipped audio can still be recovered in post in the 32bit mixpre file?

[@curtisjudd]

@@vividmotion66it is NOT 100%, no. If the audio is above 0dB FS at the output of the receiver, the MixPre cannot save that.

[@DamausZA]

Hi Curtis, thanks for the super informative video! Have you tried using the Sennheiser MKE2 Gold Lag mic with the system? Are the Sennheiser MKE2 Gold lab mics compatible with the Deity Transmitters? Reason I ask is I currently have the Sennheiser G4 units with Sennheiser MKE2 Gold lavs and I love the way they sound and I want to still be able to use the lavs on the deity system.

[@curtisjudd]

I don’t have one to test, but they should work with THEOS.

[@DamausZA]

@@curtisjudd Thanks ,I was worried the low voltage of 5V might damage my mics!

[@D4ni3lS4nk3]

Is it possible add 2 more transmitters to the receiver (4 total), to only one receiver?, Are they compatible with the pr-2?

[@curtisjudd]

No, each receiver can only receive 2 channels. The timecode is compatible with the PR-2, yes.

[@erikpreston2393]

Curtis, great review. Quick question, can one monitor audio via the Receiver while internally recording (US Model)?

[@curtisjudd]

No, because that would require transmitting from the recording transmitter to the receiver, unfortunately.

[@codylander]

Wow 🤩 Deity really knocked it out of the park with this one! I just recently upgraded from 2.4 to Sonys UHF. Wishing I had held out a little longer for Theos! As always great video and delivery of all of this technical info! I live near a lot of radio and television studios and often run into RF when I use Deity mics. I wonder how Theos will hold up for me here…🤔

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@KevinFedde]

Great video! I live in New Zealand now (moved from the US) and have used my Theos sets on 2 different jobs so far and the recording/transmitting together is so nice!

[@curtisjudd]

👍🎙️

[@ntchi]

Fascinating kit! How the self noise and latendy compare to EW-DP? 6ms vs 1.6ms is it noticeable?

[@curtisjudd]

Self noise in the same range. 6ms latency is not generally a problem, depending on your workflow.

[@HiPunch]

I'm wondering why I'm able to record and transmit audio with an older Røde Go II system but not with Deity. Does this mean that I will not have a back-up copy recorded in the Deity transmitters? Thanks!

[@curtisjudd]

The reason is that a company called Zaxcom has a series of patents that are VERY specifically focused on the ability to transmit and record to REMOVABLE media in the same device. RODE and others have NON-REMOVABLE media. And, in an interesting twist, it is my understanding the Zaxcom sued RODE for this very issue. We'll see what happens.

[@HiPunch]

@@curtisjudd Fascinating! Thanks, Curtis. It kind of defeats the whole 32 bit recording feature for many of us monitoring with field recorders. I guess I should focus on obtaining the best transmission quality.

[@terrygriffin5201]

Hi Chris, Deity released the PR-2 audio recorder in China this week. I am interested in buying it and using with my existing mic setup. Question, have you had a chance to get your hands on this and if so when does your review come. You are our got for all stuff audio. Thanks in advance.😊

[@curtisjudd]

No hands-on with it yet. Hoping to try it out once available here in the US.

[@fulloffame]

Why was it a little a noisy in the outdoor test?

[@Cactustone]

Excellent video, Curtis! Thank you for introducing me to this system. I was actually searching for a wireless transmitter/receiver setup for use with my MixPre 3 (original non-32-bit float version). I'm now wondering if the THEOS transmitter alone could completely replace the MixPre for non-timecode required applications where talent mobility via a discreet body pack would be needed. Especially since the THEOS has 32-bit float capability. Not sure if you have any thoughts on using the THEOS this way. Cheers!

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, this is designed to use that way. I would consider the preamps and converters of the MixPre are far superior.

[@keiths6631]

I want to upgrade my G3s, but the next step up is expensive. Is Theos the system I've been waiting for? I want reduced dropouts/increased range. I've seen G3s do 110 yards under similar conditions to your outdoor test, even though they have less output power. Should I just SMA-mod my G3s and get sharkfins? I hope you will address such questions in your next Theos video. I'd love it if you repeated your outdoor test with sharkfins. Thanks for your great videos!

[@curtisjudd]

I, personally, wouldn't SMA mod the G3s. There's a lot that goes into the design of the antennae that most DIYers can't account for. I've generally found the RF Venue Diversity Fin antenna that I have to extend range by 15 or 20 meters outdoors and also a bit more when needing to penetrate walls. It isn't a night and day difference, but it helps, mainly because you can position the antenna up higher.

[@redjrjames]

Great review as usual! Can’t wait to see Allen’s review. I personally love this system and I saw it on KZbin while I was doing research on UHF systems to invest into for myself earlier this year. My only gripe currently is that the app can be pretty slow or just won’t work when it comes to engaging the on board recorder during my tests. It wasn’t the end of the world because once I restarted the transmitter everything was working fine again.

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@DevynFromCFXTV]

Just in time! Awesome review as always

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@alexanderyuniverg5268]

Hi Curtis, does they provide a good -pro sound quality , if i compare it to lectrosonics or wisycom?

[@curtisjudd]

Not that good, no.

[@alexanderyuniverg5268]

❤​@@curtisjudd

[@promedianz]

Great video, thanks Curtis. I got mine a couple of days ago and wow, Im really impressed. Tried out a few different lavs and the Deity is pretty darn good but I have a Micboosters EM272 based lav and that sounds absolutely amazing! Really full and lovely, worth checking out as its inexpensive. The only downsize is its slightly bigger then some.

[@curtisjudd]

👍 glad it’s working well for you!

[@kengoodwin459]

Would you consider renting a G4 and comparing the two?

[@curtisjudd]

I’ve used the G4 in the past and when operating within its scope it is fine. For those using it and getting good results, I generally recommend NOT replacing it. But if buying new, I’d generally advise people to go with the THEOS or the Sony (if they need the convenience of the shoe interface and film with a compatible Sony camera.)

[@andreimanilkin5339]

Hello Curtis! Thank you so much for the review! I heard from one movie sound engineer that the system has slight artifacts and compresses the sound in the upper frequencies. And he also claimed that this digital system had more noise than the analog G4. His summary: good for bloggers, not for serious projects. This is an extremely interesting note, because I was just about to buy DEITY. Have you noticed similar phenomena in the operation of your system?

[@curtisjudd]

I would ask you to make that judgement based on the audio of this video which was recorded entirely with the THEOS system and included W.Lav Pro microphone. No, you’re not likely to see this system on a set of a big budget movie or narrative TV show, but it sounds good enough for most other pro and enthusiast projects to my ear.

[@andreimanilkin5339]

@@curtisjudd Quite clear. Thank you.

[@richardweddle3408]

Thank you. This has been helpful. I thought I was taking a risk on this system but your review is reassuring. I like the sound quality of the Sanken and will get two of them (next year).

[@curtisjudd]

👍 Happy recording!

[@RandomRichard2022]

Hi, great review. I wanted to know if you ended up testing the range with external/shark fin/butterfly (or other) antennas? In the video, you only test the included whip antennas, but I would love to know if the Theos works better (and by how much) with other antennas. Thanks. :)

[@curtisjudd]

Not yet. But the fact that I can position the shark fin higher alone should improve distance.

[@RandomRichard2022]

@@curtisjudd Yeah that makes sense. It would still be great to see an actual test and comparison when you can. Thank you very much and have a Happy New Year!

[@curtisjudd]

@@RandomRichard2022 Thank YOU and happy new year to you!

[@ericsternberger2768]

Thanks for reviewing! Do you have a follow up on this?

[@curtisjudd]

Yes: kzbin.infoEFSJ4yjywyc?feature=shared

[@desguitaresetduson]

Thanks for your test, always very detailed and clear. On my system, I found that the signal recorded from the two receiver was delayed (6ms as you mentioned) and out of phase compared with my wired boom mic (Neumann KM 185).

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@JosephGoldsmith]

So, you would definitely recommend getting one Theos set in lieu of two more sets of G4s? I'm the only full-time audio guy within an hour and half radius of me. So, work is slim which is why I do not own Lectros or the A20s. I do have the MixPre6ii and trying to find a gently used 10ii. It is all a "Return on my Investment" situation here because mid-level productions only come through here a few times a year and only for a day or two. I was in that situation yesterday. 4 units each with 3 cam, 1 audio, 1 PA... two were rocking A20s, one guy had the Theos, and then me with my two G4s... I just felt like everyone had their slick Hotwheels and I was there with a Tonka truck you know. It worked out and they were cool with it but I just felt... I don't know.. lesser... as if I went to shoot a commercial with a Canon t5i and kit glass.

[@curtisjudd]

I’m not sure DEITY THEOS is necessarily going to get you street cred for bigger commercial jobs over Sennheisers, but maybe.

[@jean-charlesguichard6420]

Hi Curtis, Thanks for the review ! Did you test the unit with Sanken COS-11D microphones ? That's what I work with and I have to put the TX gain to the max (+30db) to get the level I need on the RX... Would love to have your input on that. Also when using the Theos with a Sony camera (FX3/FX6/A7S3), the "line" level of the Theos is too weak (have to put the Sony K3M to +10db on the wheel, which is not possible in a real world shooting). When using "mic" level, a lot of self noise comes out of the RX. Would love to have your input on this aswell.

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, in fact, half of the raw audio samples were with the COS-11D near the start of the video. 😀

[@jakobgeorgaudio]

Can you record and monitor directly from the Receiver in, say, pro tools via USB-C?

[@curtisjudd]

Yes

[@MarkRowsey]

Great review and congratulations on your Telly! 🎉

[@curtisjudd]

🙏

[@Liewcengteng]

Hi Curtis, Thanks for the review. I am woondering, can these TX anf RX cross grade like from Sennheiser / Wisycom / Shure to these ? ie. using TX 512p to RX D2RX. will they work together ?

[@curtisjudd]

These are not compatible with any other system.

[@oren.kirschenbaum]

Hi Curtis! I recently purchased 3 Theos kits and I've been having major issues: 1. In post production, when I insert the internal 32bit recording into my DAW the length doesn't match the live recording (wireless feed). There is noticeable drifting and it's different in each unit. 2. Audible distortions when the signal gets too hot (not clipping!) - while recording classical singers I've noticed that even without clipping and gain set to 0 (zero) I was able to hear distortions when the signal was hot. 3. Severe lack of headroom - when using the supplied lav mic I recorded classical singers and even at zero gain the meter of the transmitter unit was dangerously close to clipping on loud notes. The singer was not extremely loud nor the microphone was placed too close to the mouth. It seems that the ADC is having a hard time handling hot signals. When I use a lower output mic like that Sennheiser MKE2 the headroom issue is mostly resolved, but I still need to be at zero gain. The supplied lav mic is way too hot for the transmitter. Another minor issue: the phase of the wireless signal is inverted. The signal of the internal recording has the correct (standard) phase. No mention of that in the owner's manual. This becomes an issues when mixing the lav signal with room signals. All units have the latest firmware and I went over all the settings via the sidus app. Have you noticed those issues?

[@curtisjudd]

Some people say that I experienced number 2 in this video. But I haven’t experienced 1 or 3. Curious if you brought it up to DEITY support and what they say?

[@GriffinConway]

Great video Curtis. I think this kit looks great and look forward to adding it to my kit soon.

[@curtisjudd]

Hope you enjoy it!

[@brad.carpenter_]

This kit recently landed in South Africa through Pro Gear SA and there are a lot of other two channel kits on their store page and I was wondering if two channels are enough for prosumer film/videography work. I've worked on short films in the past where we had 3 actors in a single frame and I was wondering what the experience has been like for others using 2 channel kits?

[@brad.carpenter_]

Great review by the way!

[@curtisjudd]

This kit has a LOT of features for the price. However, I find the Sennheiser and Sony systems to both sound better when transmitting audio (the recorded audio on the THEOS sounds great, but the higher frequencies, when wirelessly transmitted, don't sound as clean or detailed).

[@curtisjudd]

And, 2 channels will cover a LOT of situations. If you're doing narrative film, then yes, you may need more at times.

[@vividmotion66]

I was trying to use my Sennheiser MKE2 lav on them. If I did my research right the input voltage of the MKE2 is 2-4.35v. But the Theos TC will only let choose 3 or 5v. 3v gives me a very quiet recording. Is it safe to use 5v?

[@curtisjudd]

It should be, yes.

[@vividmotion66]

@@curtisjudd thank you

[@mkingw]

Does the kit include all the antennas which cover the 550 to 960 MHz band.

[@curtisjudd]

Yes.

[@norrdal]

Thank you for this fantastic review! Do I need to have a TC-1 to sync time codes via the app or is it enough to just have the Theos system connected to the app? From Deity's website it seems like a TC-1 is not needed but since I'm looking to buy my first recording system I'm not really familiar with all the technicalities. Thanks! 🙏🏻

[@andrewjones9498]

You'd want a TC-1 anyway so your camera has timecode sync too.

[@norrdal]

​@@andrewjones9498 True, makes sense. I didn't even think about the camera. Thanks!

[@curtisjudd]

Ditto what Andrew said. 👍

[@isaacrojas3698]

@curtisjudd did you notice the rf noise coming from the antenna system? (I may be wrong as far as the source of the noise but there seems to be some noise nonetheless, and I don’t think it’s the preamps or mic) but I noticed my Saramonic UHF wireless packs do the same thing (same noise) sometimes. It seemed to be noticeable throughout your video. I tried reading as many comments as I could to see if anyone mentioned this but no one did. Maybe it’s just common with UHF?

[@curtisjudd]

No, I noticed weird high frequency response in a few spots.

[@sevenchannelsound]

are there 2 outputs from the receiver to another XLR in recorder, like the Zoom F6?

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, there are two outputs and two 3.5mm to XLR output cables included in the kit. 👍

[@TheSpiv]

Trivia thing - interesting the app is branded Sidus. Are they finally merging the Deity and Aputure brands or starting to more openly acknowledge they are the same company or two very closely affiliated entities? Always wondered why they aren't trying to leverage one brand versus sticking with Aputure/Amaran for lighting and Deity for audio?

[@curtisjudd]

They tried making microphones under the Aputure brand but found that nobody took them seriously so spun the audio gear off into DEITY.

[@shagral]

Is there an auto mode for frequency hopping?

[@curtisjudd]

For scan and sync to the transmitters, but no, there is no dynamic changing of frequencies automatically on the fly, if that’s what you mean?

[@TimTheFoolMan]

Did you try connecting the D2RX to your 8-series recorder via USB? Per the block diagram of the 8-series, 2 channels of USB audio are available as inputs, and the product manual for the D2RX says that the USB-C connector provides USB audio out for the received audio. It's not AES, but seems like a decent alternative. (If you tried this and mentioned it in the video, I apologize for missing it.)

[@curtisjudd]

I haven’t tried that. I believe they each need to plug into a USB host and these are both essentially USB peripherals but worth a try.

[@TimTheFoolMan]

@@curtisjudd I got this back from Deity Support this afternoon: The D2RX USB-C port has a digital signal output function, as long as the recorder's USB port supports audio signal input.

[@TimTheFoolMan]

@@curtisjuddyour assessment is correct. I tested such a configuration, and both show up as USB audio inputs to a host computer, but since each one is waiting for a host USB device to initiate communication, they don’t “see” each other. On the plus side, you can power the D2RX from the 8-series USB-A port (or any other USB power source). The 8-series USB-C port, however, doesn’t provide power.

[@LearnLightAndSoundSessions]

@@TimTheFoolMan Thanks for confirming! 👍

[@Eric.Gonzalez]

I currently have the Sennheiser G4 500 with MKE 2 Gold and considering an upgrade to this... I live in Canada hoping the 32 bit limitations do not exist. Do you think it will be a noticeable difference?

[@curtisjudd]

You can record and transmit at the same time in Canada. It is an upgrade in that you can record and transmit at the same time. I would not expect it to sound a lot better unless you work with people who unexpectedly get loud a lot.

[@johanneshillstrom1336]

Great review Curtis, like always! For a Sony-user, do you recommend Deity Theos over Sony UWP-d27?

[@curtisjudd]

I’d look at the UWD-P first: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aaWpi5meit6cnrMfeature=shared

[@johanneshillstrom1336]

Thanks! And 3 months later, are you still pleased with the Theos? Or have you notice something bad with the kit?

[@curtisjudd]

@@johanneshillstrom1336 it does some odd things with dialogue sometimes - a few artifacts.

[@EvanFotis]

@@curtisjuddAfter 3 moths use would you still recommend these Theos for a setup of indoor interview live streams to an audio console with no post processing over the Sony UWP21-27 or Senn G4 as far as audio quality, latency etc ?

[@curtisjudd]

@@EvanFotis in terms of pure audio quality, probably the Sony or Sennheiser (G4 500 series).

[@Libsenth]

Great review. Definitely interested in these - but it'll have to wait till I get more gigs.

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@raredreamfootage]

Is your transmitter the DTU0253D57 or DTU0253D54 sku? I believe one is the Global Version and one is the USA Version? In that case can you record and transmit at the same time?

[@curtisjudd]

Mine is the US version and it CANNOT record and transmit at the same time.

[@BenPhanStudios]

Hi Curtis! When using only 1 transmitter I get a clean signal, but when I try using both simultaneously I get interference and dropouts. I tried all different frequency ranges in my tests with the same result. Any help would be appreciated, thanks!

[@creativegreatsvisuals]

what are the benefits of the deity pro lav mics that come with this over the sanken cos11d lav mics ?

[@curtisjudd]

Slightly smaller and less expensive.

[@madsmix]

Q1. Can one of the transmitters be programmed to output TC for use with a camera with no built-in TC capabilities? Or can the receiver do that (when using only one transmitter)? Q2. How does the supplied mic SOUND when compared to the COS-11?

[@curtisjudd]

1) no, timecode is only embedded in recordings made in the transmitter packs. 2) watch the raw samples. We recorded with the COS-11D

[@madsmix]

Sorry, completely missed the COS11 sound samples@@curtisjudd

[@chuckmason3493]

As the patents expire can the transmit and record feature be enabled by firmware?

[@curtisjudd]

I assume so but that’s just a guess.

[@rickymcc8624]

Hi Curtis, looks as if this might just prove to be an excellent choice for those minded to invest in robust pro systems utilising UHF (rather than 2.4 Mhz). I'm tempted to buy one. I had their Connect system but sold it as I felt it may not be supported in future and also thought it noisier than expected. What chance do you think there is that they might quite quickly do a new improved mkii version with even better self noise and/or other tweaks? Probably impossible for you to answer as it's just conjecture. I currently have a Sony two channel system and a DJI Mike kit for when I might need more than 2 channels. I was contemplating getting this so I could do up to 4 channels UHF and support timecode too (I already have a trio kit of TC-1 boxes for use with 2 cams and a MixPre 6ii).

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks! I would not expect a mkII in less than 2 years. More likely they’ll add additional types of transmitters (XLR plug-on or smaller body pack).

[@byronholman9228]

I love this system so far

[@curtisjudd]

Me too

[@matw6364]

Hi Curtis. Thanks for your very nice video and professional thoughts. I own the system since some days. Unfortunately I ran into troubles with my setup. I bought it with the intention to use it as a two channel transmission from the mixer ( mixpre 10 II) to the camera. As the two transmitters are in the sound bag, they seem to cause heavy interferences with the two sennheiser G4s receivers from the talents lav mics. I got in touch with deity and their answer is attached below. Any ideas, thoughts and recommendations about that? I never had these issues with other brands in the same setup scenario. Thanks in advance and greez from abroad, Matthias. Deity’s reply: Hi there, You most likely are overloading the front end from the Sennheiser receivers. No matter which brand, having transmitters close to a receiver can always cause issues. If in a bag, keep them as separate as possible, and also lower the transmission output of the transmitters. spacing out the frequencies (for example, sennheiser in range 500/550, Theos all the way up in 800) can help. That said, there is only so much you can do. It is a matter of physics. Kind regards,

[@curtisjudd]

They’re not wrong. RF can be tricky. I’d get the transmitters as far from the other receiver as possible.

[@matw6364]

Hi Curtis. I tried to position them as far away in the mixers bag as possible. Even at 40cm distance, there were hardly any free channels in the scan on the sennheisers available as they were interfered by the deitys signal. I was able to return the system. Unfortunately I need a new solution. Now I am thinking of using the Sony UWP D transmitters to send the two mixers outputs to the fx6. Would be using the mi shoe for input and have two free xlrs as a side effect. What are your professional thoughts about it? mixpre 10II out into the two transmitters? Good alternative route? Thanks in advance, Matthias @@curtisjudd

[@curtisjudd]

@@matw6364 I'm not familiar with the RF landscape where you're working, but I would expect similar results with the SONY system, maybe worse since it is an analogue system and its channel density isn't super narrow. But real-world testing is the ultimate answer. I hope it works!

[@matw6364]

@@curtisjudd Thanks mate! I‘ll test it out. Happy rest of 2023!

[@BenPhanStudios]

What are the range of the three antennas? Thanks!

[@curtisjudd]

Depends on which region kit you buy (assuming you mean which frequency range each set of antennae support?)

[@BenPhanStudios]

Yes, I figured it out - it's listed on Deity's website. My US kit arrives this week, thanks Curtis!

[@fhmedia936]

awesome! love your videos man! been a lot of help!

[@curtisjudd]

❤️👍

[@DJaysParadise]

Thank you for your review Curtis! I think with the current patent situation the US and global version are two very different products. E.g. for our documentary work wiring up people and being able to listen while having the safety of 32bit recording at the same time is a real game changer. I wonder if the global version can still record and transmit at the same time when connected to the app while in the US.

[@curtisjudd]

I don’t know. I have the US version.

[@jaybillups2063]

According to Deity it cannot. It picks up GPS from the phone app and adjust the settings if in the US. I’m sure someone can find some kind of work around. Main reason I didn’t order