PicoMic Wireless Microphone In-Depth Review | Smallest Mic For Weddings | PicoGear PicoStream

[@hellomisterbrown]

I really like how you give your answer at the beginning. I will adopt that when I begin doing reviews.

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey hey Mister Brown! Thank you so much for checking out this video and commenting! I'm so glad you like the channels format, I definitely modeled the channel how I would want to consume this type of content so I made it and it seem's to be a hit! Wishing all the best as you begin your channel and reviews, just remember to always have fun! Thanks again for stopping by and I’ll see you in the next one!

[@justsuperjl]

Great review! If there's a chance, would love to see a tutorial on how you calibrate all the different settings and all the uses.

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Greetings JL! Thank you so much for checking out this video and commenting! I have a video in the works that will go over the Menu System on the receiver and how to calibrate it for your DSLR or Field Recorder! That video will be coming out very soon! Thanks again for stopping by and I’ll see you in the next one where I put the PicoMic against the RØDE Wireless GO!

[@asolidmindproductions]

Glad you reviewed this; I saw Tom Antos review on it and was hoping to find out more about this product as its pretty much what we wish the Rode Wireless Go could be and while they are definitely different products, it would still be great to see how they compare to each other. So, looking forward to that review my friend! Also, soooo f'ing awesome that the company was receptive to your feedback! I can't wait for their future products as well.

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey hey Jose! Thank you so much for checking out this video and commenting! This definitely was something we all wish the RODE GO would be, but that being said I’m still perfectly happy with the RODE go as well. Yup these two mic system, in my mind, serve very very different purposes, however with PicoGear talking about developing their own XLR modules… the race between the two could be close, provided that the price range remains extremely competitive. We shall see! Yup that video is coming next week, the battle of the 2019 of small wireless mics at an awesome price range! Hope that video will give everyone nice idea of which one they should go for (for now). I am extremely happy that PicoGear took me seriously, this really speaks volumes as to who they are and I can’t wait to see what they continue to do. I may not be a major influencer, but I will not hesitated to tell any company that reaches out to me for a review on what I believe will help their products based on how I use it as a indie filmmaker or a youtuber. Thanks again for stopping by, hope all is well man! See you in the next one!

[@scottwu]

I'm a wedding filmmaker and for years, I've been looking for a way to mic the bride. There are tutorials online but their methods are way too intrusive and complicated. This might actually be a solid solution if the bride doesn't mind having a small clip showing. Would also be nice if it came in a white variant, to blend with wedding dresses. Worst case I could also just hide the mic inside the dress because it's so tiny. Thank you for this video, it helped me alot!

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey hey Scott! Thank you so much for checking out this video and commenting! You're most welcome! I had an idea of how you can easily try and match the brides dress, but this system has been sold out for awhile :( Hope Picogear makes more soon so I can make a tutorial of how to go about making it! If not Picogear, then I hope another company takes note of this design and produces another version of this small clip on mic. Thanks again for stopping by and I’ll see you in the next one!

[@CalgaryCalamari]

The GH5 and other Panasonic cameras are known for their hot input issues with multiple mics. It's great they took your camera-specific issue to heart and found a solution quickly - they're going to do well!

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey hey Armando! Thank you so much for checking out this video and commenting! Their most recent firmware update 2.0 now has a specific GH5 setting, I'll will be doing a follow up soon because we're now using the Picomic system for a feature film and we are not disappointed! Thanks again for stopping by and I’ll see you in the next one!

[@TransplantHelper]

I bought one today based on your recommendation and used your link

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey hey Transplant Helper! Thank you so much for checking out this video and commenting! So glad this video was helpful and I appreciate your support! Enjoy the Picomic when it arrives! Thanks again for stopping by! Stay safe, healthy, and I’ll see you in the next one!

[@OpenDGuitar]

Finally was able to get an order put through! We have higher end wireless for higher end cameras we use. But we are also experimenting with the minimalist approach - entire production kit in a messenger bag. We will use this product in that. The usb drive size mic/clips are reason #1, then long battery life #2, and dual channel #3.

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey hey OpenDGuitar! Thank you so much for checking out this video and commenting! So glad you were able to get a set! This is definitely a very minimalist setup with the mics being so small. Anytime I put it on a client they are confused how it could possibly work haha! Enjoy it when you receive it and create some fun content! Thanks again for stopping by and I’ll see you in the next one!

[@OpenDGuitar]

TLDR Filmmaker one of my colleagues had one this afternoon recording a workshop, so I got to see in person. Very impressive.

[@vidcreations]

I really like the idea of the two wireless microphone system and the small size and light weight of the mics. It appears the microphone is in the clip. What happens if the clip breaks off? It would be nice to have the option to plug in a lav mic too.

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Greetings Jimmy! Thank you so much for checking out this video, commenting, and asking a question! You are correct, the mic capsule is hidden inside the clip itself. The Clip has a very nice sturdy spring to it and feels well built, I don’t think it will break easily through normal use unless something smashes the entire clip on mic. I’d think if something did break you’d have to purchase a PicoMic completely instead of being able to just buy the clip part and install it yourself. I was told that the upcoming developing XLR module might include a 3.5 lav port. I expressed this idea early on because not everyone uses an XLR lav connection, most basic systems will just use the 3.5 jack. We shall see as they continue developing it, I can’t wait to see what they do! Thanks again for stopping by and I’ll see you in the next one!

[@BrandonLuckain]

You had me up until “micro-usb”. No reason they couldn’t use USB-C. It’s 2019! Could you possibly reach out and ask them to update this for a future batch?

[@PawFromTheBroons]

Brandon Luckain Looks like a missed future proofing opportunity, not to have this as USB-C.

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey hey Brandon Luckain! Thank you so much for checking out this video and commenting! That is a very good observation, for me a lot of my items that I use, new and old, still use the Micro USB port. You and Jufloca are right, USB-C is indeed becoming the standard… I wonder if its a licensing cost kind of thing, or may cost for materials? I know they’ve been developing this system for the last few years so maybe the design was meant for a Micro USB as those ports are still out and about in full force. I can definitely relay this information in my followup communications to let them know what I am hearing. That being said I have to be the devils advocate in certain ways as I know it’s very easy for all of us to ask for things here and there, but there is always 3 sides to a story. The GH5 critique I gave, I believe, was a major one that needed immediate attention. I can’t imagine purchasing this system to only realize that DSLR users would need to invest in a recorder to get the most out of it. I don’t think a lot of us film that way for most projects. The USB-C feels more like a luxury request in comparison, but don’t get me wrong, I agree that as they move out of the “start-up” phase that they will want to keep future proofing in the back of their minds and designs. We shall see what happens as PicoGear continues their journey with the development of the XLR module. I personally cannot wait to see what they do with that! Until then, thank you so much for stopping by and I’ll see you in the next one!

[@briancayko]

Why wouldn’t they implement a digital recorder into the receiver itself. Saw another review where the reception while facing away from the unit seemed a lot better than the results you got. It was version 2 I think? Not sure if they fixed that but it was significantly better.

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey hey Brian! Thank you so much for checking out this video and asking a question! Having a digital recorder inside would probably bulk up the design a bit, but It would be very nice to eventually see someone make a recorder wireless mic hybrid! As for the line-of-sight test, I purposely went to an area where there were no building structures around me. This makes it extremely difficult for a small 2.4ghz mic. I'm not sure if the other tester was in an area with more structure. But yes, If I was inside an lecture hall and turned my back, I will most likely not lose signal because of being inside a confined space. Hope this make sense! Thanks again for stopping by and I’ll see you in the next one!

[@systemedmultimedia6526]

That wireless mic system is good. However, can you plus any lav mic on those ? Also, they need to be open to international market, not just US based. Even Amazon doesn't seem to carry them anymore (hope I'm wrong on that one) Thanks to answer and keep up with the good work.

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey hey Système D Multimédia! Thank you so much for checking out this video and commenting! You cannot plug a Lav mic to this unfortunately, last I knew they were developing a different module for a Lav mic. I know they are a relatively small company but with an amazing product. I'm not sure why it was only available for USA sales only and not more worldwide. My guess is their business admin team is large enough to handle that kind of scale, but I hope they figure that out soon because I've heard from many people outside of the USA that really want this Picomic, especially now that Firmware 2.0 has improved its sound quality from this review when it was firmware 1.0. Thanks again for stopping by! Stay safe, healthy, and I’ll see you in the next one!

[@AJ_Stone]

Great video! The pet peaves I have is the following: The light is on the front. The cost (I'd rather have shorter battery life) than the cost. I don't see paying that much. You can do so much more with Rodes mic. Those are really my only 2 real complaints. **Aside from what you explained in the beginning with the LXR and what not, and the wind muff**

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey hey A Culp! Thank you so much for checking out this video and commenting! They've since updated the firmware so that the light is not as bright as before, though a little tape will block it out nicely if really needed. The cost for the system, if you're specifically doing events, is not bad for how quick you are able to work. I have since used this PicoMic for many corporate or quick events and you should see the look on all these executives faces when I walk up to them to tell them I have to mic them up. They go from "oh here we go" to "wait, you didn't do anything... are you going to be able to hear me?" They never in their lives thought id just walk up and clip the mic to their dress shirt and walk away. We then review their footage for training purposes and they are always surprised at how well they sound for such a small unnoticeable mic on their shirt. The amount of repeat clients I have simply because of this mic is amazing because they've never had such a painless experiences. This is what I was talking about and why this mic makes so much sense for certain filmmakers. For narrative it doesn't make sense unless the script calls for it, which the currently movie I'm a part of does. So it really just depends on your needs, if you're an event or corporate filmmaker I believe its not even a question that the PicoMic should be part of your principle audio kit. Especially with the new firmware improving the sound. Thanks again for stopping by! Stay safe, healthy, and I’ll see you in the next one!

[@OpenDGuitar]

Nice review. Very impressed with this system. I especially like the little USB drive-size mic. But with the news they’re designing a more pro version is exciting too.

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey hey OpenDGuitar! Thank you so much for checking out this video and commenting! I just used this system today for a corporate training session, all the executive wanted to buy one cause they never felt so free without a camera guy going up to them and wiring them up etc etc. They said..."wait...this was actually capturing my voice? I thought you just clipped this on for the training." I'm like nope, that's your voices captured for this training video, fun huh? haha Definitely exciting that they are developing it, I haven't heard much if they are making good progress, will reach out to them again soon. Thanks again for stopping by and I’ll see you in the next one!

[@Ethan-lx5fe]

It's very cool! The charging system is great and the size is insane! But the audio sounds a little scratchy and that price tag makes it a hard sell. I won't be buying this one but I am looking forward to the next version. Great video as always! Very informative.

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey hey again Ethan! Thank you so much for checking out this video and commenting! I totally get what you're saying, sorry for being lazy, but I'm going to copy and paste a pretty length explanation replied somewhere below. Essentially I feel sometimes certain tools sets get tossed away because of "not IBIS" "no flippy screen" "no this or that" and all I see is a missed opportunity for someone to hear where a piece of equipment actually excels. So I break it down a little bit in this reply below: ============ Thanks for checking out another video and commenting! The price tag isn't that bad actually when you take into account where it does well over the other options. So far a dual wireless setup from the bulky traditional wireless Lavalier style, you're looking at [Traditional bulky Affiliate links] $400 - Saramonic Uwmic9 [ amzn.to/2XjW6IT ] $650 - Deity Connect [ amzn.to/2xlx4tg } [Non bulky route with two channels of wireless audio] $400 - 2x Rode Go [ amzn.to/2JeaubS ] $700 - 2x Sennheiser XSW Lav [ amzn.to/2XlwJ9F ] $450-500 - PicoGear's Picomic [ amzn.to/2Lj3QUr ] While the sound quality is passable when there are bg music as well as ambient noise, you start looking at how small it is compared to all the systems, backed by 20 hours of operation. But the major thing that I stressed is that I would only use this system for weddings, events, and lectures. I don't believe in forcing a piece of equipment into an environment where it doesn't excel, it just doesn't make sense or good Return on Investment. So long story short, for 450-500 dollars being pretty much on par in pricing with other similar systems, but excels in an area of filmmaker that non of the others do. The price tag, in my opinion, is acceptable for what it is. As I said, I won't used it in narrative films because I need a cleaner sound, but for the all day lectures that I have to film sometimes? No questions, Picomic, clip it on the speaker and then never going back to touch it until the end of the day. This Picogear saves me so much time and less hassle for the client that always knows I'm coming to mic him up and hes gotta stop what hes doing. The clients experience with me is a major part of the equation why I recommend this mic for those filming scenarios. ================= Simply but, use the right tool for the right job cause unfortunately it seems no company (yet) has been able to make something that is truly the be all end all when it comes to filmmaking gear. One piece of equipment will always outperform another in some aspect. Though I would say, if the PicoGear can clean up the aggressive Noise gate a little bit, somewho, whether it bet another hardware added into the mic or digital processing internally. That could sent this Mic up very fast up in people's radars. But for now, it is the perfect Wedding and lecture Mic in my book! Thanks again for stopping by and I'll see you in the next one! Can't wait to see what their XLR Module can do!

[@chrisklugh]

Interesting product. Would be interesting to see it go toe to toe vs the Rode. I think this definitely brings some interesting features to the table, one of them simply being dual recording with the added bonus of just being a little bit smaller then the Rode. Can't believe I'm saying the Rode looks huge now... lol

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey hey again Chris! Way ahead of you my friend, thats the next episode coming next week! I have to agree that the feature set this includes in the overall kit is really awesome! Especially with them developing an XLR module so that people can use their lav’s etc. I’ll be very interested to see if they will stay with this type of very compact design, if so, then the race between RØDE GO and PicoGear Wireless System will get very interesting! You’re not alone, when you see me place the RØDE GO and the PicoMic next to each other in the next episode… the GO feels really bulky now lol. Stay tuned! See you in the next one!

[@stevehanson6327]

Thanks for the Review. Actually considering from the perspective of a DJ/soundperson for outdoor ceremonies. With the 3.5mm out (or the upcoming XLR version), would you consider this a possible alternative to battery-pack type lavaliers, etc., for speaking?

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey hey Steve! Thank you so much for checking out this video and asking a question! This could depend on a couple things in terms of where the DJ is setup in relation to the person speaking, or if its just a general PA system thats next to the presenter where the Receiver can sit. In these outdoor situations, the general rule of thumb is to get the receiver as close as possible to the speaker, because I would assume your setup will always be different. That being said if they have you setup a bit far away from the presenting staged area… I wonder if maybe you would just run a longer XLR cable into the receiver with a 3.5mm to XLR adapter and from there you could just hide it somewhere on, off, or under the stage? That way your receiver is constantly nearby and should not drop out within under 50ft, with no line of sight. (30ft to be on the safe side) This could be a problem should the speaker suddenly walk away from the stage and go to the various party tables. This is of course all assuming that you are out in the complete open with nothing for the RF to bounce off of. If the reception is indoors, then I think it would be a nice way to mic up a speaker into the sound system without having to give them a handheld Mic or wire them up. This is definitely one of the more interesting use cases as I can see a lot of colleges using this system for professors in larger lectures halls. Hope this helps! Thanks again for stopping by and I’ll see you in the next one!

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

@Steve Hanson Gotcha! My next video coming next week will be me pitting the RODE, PicoMic and a budget UHF, all of these are going to be compared because they fall into an approximate $450 USD price range when considering a dual channel audio setup. In my tests I actually measured out 50, 100, 150, 250ft in the same wide open parking lot to see how each system does with or without line of sight. That video may further help to see if the PicoMic works well for your needs. If you do pull the trigger later, I would love to hear your feedback on how its working for you as a DJ! Thanks again and I'll see you in the final follow up battle between these cheap dual audio solutions!

[@alexworks9659]

Aww man, I just got the rode wireless go...Was looking for exactly this kind of system. I like the form factor (slots right into camera bag), the clean interface and the way the dock is integrated. Very clean simple design

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Greetings Alex! Thank you so much for checking out this video and commenting! They definitely have an amazing streamlined design and interface, I was very impressed when I started testing it. I wouldn't discount the RØDE Go in comparison as both units, in my opinion, serve different purposes in how I would use one over the other. I will be covering this in my next video cause I know people are gonna start to wonder which one is the better deal since their price point is currently $50 apart if you got 2x RØDE Go's. Stay tuned for that one! Until then, thanks again for stopping by and I'll see you in the next one!

[@itsoverat6000]

Perfect man, I love the wedding comment.

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey hey Daniel! Thank you so much for checking out this video and commenting! This Pico Wireless System definitely has the potential to be an amazing piece of kit for wedding videographers. I've only ever filmed one wedding for my friend when I didn't have much gear and I just remember uncomfortable I felt putting a Tascam DR-05 into the grooms pocket in attempts to capture the vows of any sort, and just not knowing if it accidently shut off or ran out of batteries. Do you film weddings yourself? It's such a craft! Thanks again for stopping by and I'll see you in the next one!

[@freelancealchemist1904]

It's awesome that they listened to you man! Was looking to purchase the Instamic until I saw this. Hmmm.

[@tinylil]

JENKO V I wouldn’t recommend the instamic! I own it and interacting with it is just short and long presses of a button and the only visuals are three lights on the front

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey hey again Jenko! Thank you so much for checking out another video and commenting! It really was, I wasn’t expecting PicoGear to care about my thoughts, but they did, and that just speaks volumes! I cannot wait to see what they continue to do with their developing XLR module. Hope I will get to test it and see how well it performs! 2019 is really turning out to be an interesting year for audio, the race between RØDE GO, Sennheiser XSW, and PicoGear is ON! I was thinking about the Instamic at some point too, I don’t think I would compare them for the same use cases because when I look at the two I would use them very differently. Thanks Lil Lil for chiming in also! Thank you both for stopping by and I’ll see you in the next one!

[@freelancealchemist1904]

@@TLDR_filmmaker See you next one!!!! Looking forward to it. Maybe ask them to include the feature from the Zoom F6 where there would be no need to set gain. Maybe in their 3rd Gen.

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

@@freelancealchemist1904 Unfortunately the Dual limiter feature is more for the recording end of things instead of live audio. However that's not to say that this feature won't eventually make its way into wireless audio where they are able to process and jump between the limiters live followed by an AGC so that the RMS amplitude can be manually set. It's all a matter of time as tech gets smaller and more efficient, but for now, it might take a couple years before we start seeing that. Perhaps as you said, by 3rd gen :)

[@vladvrinceanu5430]

can u connect the pico to your smartphone and then use it for portable podcast with duo microfone?

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey hey Vlad! Thank you so much for checking out this video and asking a question! Yes, the Picostream (receiver) has a smartphone setting where it will turn its output into a TRRS signal that smartphone can use. Thanks again for stopping by! Stay safe, healthy, and I’ll see you in the next one!

[@CihanekPhotography]

You said you can remotely turn them off. Can you remotely turn it on? I've had a situation with my Rode Go when I've put them on the priest too early and he goes into a back room out of range and I loose connection for too long, they shut down and I have to go find him to turn it back on . Turning them on remotely would be awesome.

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey hey Stephen! Thank you so much for checking out this video and commenting! In the Picomic's case, the best option is to just Mute the TX from the RX unit instead of disconnecting the signal from the RX to force the TX to turn off, because you're going to need to re-dock it to pair the RX and TX back up. With the amazing 20hr battery life, you should have no problem letting it be in Mute until you have to unmute it. Hope this helps! Thanks again for stopping by and I’ll see you in the next one!

[@CihanekPhotography]

@@TLDR_filmmaker Thank you. Thank you. But that is not exactly what I was meant to ask. I wanted to know if they will automatically shut themselves off after a prolonged period of time not in contact with the base station. For example, putting it on the groom, and then he goes to another part of the church waiting for the service to start. I could lose signal for 15 minutes or more. I would like a mic set-up that does not shut itself off. But, anyway, I just got my Picomic in the mail today. I guess I can test this for myself now. Your video made me want to give these a try.

[@grasworxTTGameplan]

i like this product. seems like a perfect solution to my being able to record finish line interviews with athletes, questions i have are these: What happens if the clip breaks? do they sell replacement clips? If my AT or Sennheiser mic malfunctions i can replace the mic and that wont cost me a whole system Will this work on mobile devices with minijack inputs? usually we find that hissing is a major issue line-of-sight and through walls are good tests, however, how does this perform in a crowd of people? Like at a party? Usually what i find is these mics start to break up about 10-15 feet away from the receiver. even the best ones.

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey hey Dennis! Thank you so much for checking out this video, commenting, and asking some questions! The mic unit is a full unit, so it the clip breaks (where the microphone is built into) I’d have to assume that you’d just need to replace the entire Mic Module. By Minijack if you mean the standard 3.5mm headphone sized jack, then yes, this PicoMic will work with mobile devices as it also has a TRRS mode to work with them. That is a very interesting comment about using it in a physically crowded environment instead of just testing it through walls. I honestly do not know the answer to that question in terms of how well the PicoMic will perform… Looks like moving forward I need to have 40 people at the ready to do such a test, that would be fun if I can make that happen to always test these types of environments! Hope this helps! Sorry I couldn’t give you a more definitive answer on your last question :( But thank you so much for stopping by and I’ll hopefully see you in the next one!

[@grasworxTTGameplan]

@@TLDR_filmmaker LOL you need to round up your squad and test! LOL We do a lot of interviews at live events and sometimes wifi radio bands have serious problems in those environments. this piece of gear looks like a major tidal shift if it can handle the rough and tumble world of soca and carnival.

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Lol for real, now I need to count to see if I even have 40 friends lol! That it indeed the question with these 2.4ghz bands, guess the best way for me to test this would be to go to an area right after a sporting event, many many people all about. Probably the closest simulation I can make to Carnival! We'll see if I get that chance to make that test happen, until then id have to assume if you are within close proximity, it should be ok. With some distance could be a different story in that type of scenario.

[@grasworxTTGameplan]

@@TLDR_filmmaker sometimes we're right in front the camera and NADA...zilch! The sweaty humans absorb the radiowaves. I guess it's a pretty specific use scenario hahahah

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Very specific scenario! Might need to break out the old fashion wired mics or have a XLR module with a built in recorder onto a handheld microphone and sync up audio later if you can (I imagine that would be a nightmare with the amount of footage captured at those large events) Alas and alak, the search continues!

[@ZoeMaven]

Have watched a couple of other reviews of the same product and I must say... It appears to be a great wireless mic option... Price point is a little high compared to the Rhode wireless Go... but the specs are impressive!!! Great review!!

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey hey again Zoe! Thank you so much for checking out another video and commenting! The RØDE and PicoMic are definitely battling it out in the same arena with only a $50 difference between the two if you bought two RØDE's. I will be doing a comparison between these two as I personally believe they both Mic serve different purposes depending on the video needs. One thing is for sure, what a time to be a filmmaker with such amazing audio options! Stay tuned for my comparison and thanks again for stopping by! See you in the next one!

[@PaulFeinberg]

TLDR Filmmaker I am looking forward to this video comparison

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey @@PaulFeinberg! Thank you so much for checking out this video and commenting! Episode coming soon next week, I'll see you then!

[@PaulFeinberg]

TLDR Filmmaker for sure....see you then!

[@MostlyNotDps]

How would you rate this compared to the Saramonic blink 500 pro?

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey hey LegalySarcastic! Thank you so much for checking out this video and asking a question! It's a bit hard to rate it as the PicoMic and the Blink 500 pro that I reviewed I believe serve very different purposes. If your type of filming does not require to hide a lavalier mic, than the PicoMic is handsdown my favorite wireless mic to use, it is just so simple and with the updated firmware it sounds great! If you are in a narrative film where you have to hide the Lav mic, then you need to go with the Saramonic for your ability to plug in your own wired mic. You can't plug in a wired mic to the PicoMic system. Thanks again for stopping by! Stay safe, healthy, and I’ll see you in the next one!

[@Ranger7Studios]

My question is, how do you know if you are getting the first batch or the second batch? And are they going to identify it? Or is it luck of the draw? And what about people who have already bought the first batch? Hopefully these are things they will address when shipping out the new version of the fixed audio device.

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey hey again Ranger! Per my discussion with PicoGear, they said they will be including the DSLR attenuator cable for all the first batch shipments. I’m not sure if some people have already bought units before our reviews began surfacing. But I wouldn’t be surprised if it’s just a simple email over to them with a receipt and then be able to get a cable. I am very impressed so far with how PicoGear base on my experiences with them. I seriously thought maybe they would say “oh thats nice” and never address this problem with GH5 / DSLR users. This makes me really excited to see what they develop with the XLR module for lav mics etc. If its in a nice competitive price range like the PicoMic systems is + the streamline design taken into account… This could be a very interesting fight between the RØDE Wireless GO, Sennheiser XSW system, and PicoGear! Thanks again for stopping by! Are you still enjoying your RØDE Wireless GO?

[@Ranger7Studios]

@@TLDR_filmmaker The Rode is now part of my vloging/coverage rig. I'm going to probably drop a video on it soon. But, it's still works great! I'll be interested to see how the Pico works. I'm thinking of using it in one of my next short films. Thanks again for the review!

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

You're most welcome! The RODE is definitely more of my go to for narrative films and such because of the ability for a Lavalier mic. The PicoMic will strictly be used for live events where I am recording a speaker, or weddings. Though I'm never going to film another wedding unless its a good friend of mine getting married and I'm not in the wedding party lol. Wedding's aint my jam. I am however very interested in their future XLR Module. I'd love to see how that performs against the Rode Wireless Go to see which one one reigns on top. Cause if the XLR module has good sound quality from its XLR or 3.5mm, and its touting 20hr of battery life AND dual channel to the PicoStream.... well shoot....shoot shoot shoot! I look forward to your next video about your Rode going around in your colgging and coverage rig! I'll see you then!

[@Alex-jv5ci]

Hello @TLDR Filmmaker. I would like to use these microphones for windows desktop. When I insert the USB into the computer, will the microphone be defined as an audio device or will it just be recharged?

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey hey Alex! Thank you so much for checking out this video and asking a question! It will only be charging, as far as I know they have not released a firmware that allows the RX to operate as a USB audio device. I'm not for certain if they can based on the hardware programing. In theory it has the potential since it is recognized as a device for firmware updates. Thanks again for stopping by! Stay safe, healthy, and I’ll see you in the next one!

[@ivoivanov5993]

Great Review! Thank you!

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey hey Ivo! Thank you so much for checking out this video and commenting! I'm so glad you enjoyed the review, it's a long one! Thank you so much for stopping by and I'll see you in the next one!

[@mobilechaosyt]

Is there a place I can rent a picomic system? I think it would be perfect for all day trips to amusement parks.

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

There is not, unfortunately. The 20hr battery life is insane!

[@JarradShaw]

How is it compared to the Rode wireless Go? Sound quality comparable? Having 2 mics for interviews for each person is great!

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey hey Jarrad! Thank you so much for checking out this video and asking a question! That will all be done in my next video where I pit the RØDE Go vs PicoMic! The PicoMic is definitely, in my opinion, off to a great start. Coming up with something like this out of the gate is not bad at all! I’m really look forward to their XLR module as that will serve my needs more than the PicoMic at this time, but man… what I wouldn’t give to have had this system when I filmed my first and only wedding! Thanks again for stopping by and I’ll see you in the next one!

[@JarradShaw]

Agreed. For me and my channel, 2 person interviews will be my focus of content coming up very soon. A simple way to mic up two folks, me and someone else, would be great. Most of these interviews will be in public spaces too. So I would think that these would sound better than if I used my Deity v-mic d3 pro shotgun mic

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

It may depend a little bit. The PicoMic might capture more surrounding noises where as if you are hand holding the Deity and controlling it between the interview, you would get a overall cleaner focused sound. But if this is not possible on the fly, then it's great to be able to clip two mics to someone without much work. In the end, in my opinion, sometimes it comes down to a fine balance between sound quality and deployability. I generally favor deployability over quality (within reason of course, I don't want a tin sound). If you end up getting the PicoMic, definitely let the community how it works for you in your situations!

[@AANasseh]

So, I just ordered the product; but does this mean my product that's going to ship is going to be the updated hardware for DSLR?! That's what I'm intending to use it for! Please let me know since if it's not I rather wait until the DSRL optimized version comes out! Please reply! :)

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey hey Real World Endo! Thank you so much for checking out this video and asking a question! As far as I am aware, even if you don't have the hardware revised version, the 1st hardware version would come with a attenuator cable that would do the exact same thing. This is what I was told, I haven't heard different just yet. Definitely let the community know if yours came with either an attenuator cable or if you received one of the first hardware revised versions! If your isn't either and you don't have an attenuator cable, I would e-mail the company to let them know. Now as far as I know, the GH5 for sure needs the attenuator cable, if you are filming on a Canon that traditionally has very weak pre-amps, you would actually be ok. I'm not sure about Sony cameras as Tom Antos didn't state if his came with an attenuator cable. It looked like he went straight into this Sony A6500? But yes, definitely let us know what you are sent, I have a video coming out this week that walks through the menu system and how to set it up :) Thanks again for stopping by and I'll see you in the next one!

[@AANasseh]

@@TLDR_filmmaker Thanks for the reply. I already have the RW Go (as well as AVX!) But I like this smaller, quick set up for two people interviews run and gun. But I do think the sound quality is not that good compared to either the Go and definitely not the AVX. So, I'm worried now if I should have just waited for the version with a better microphone. .A higher quality microphone on this type of set up would be a total home run... but I already ordered it. So, we'll see what happens!! lol! Thanks man and keep up the great content!

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

You're welcome and I will! If you haven't already, definitely watch my most recent video where I compare the RODE W Go and the PicoMic. When I jump back and forth between the two, its actually a little harder to hear the difference. But one thing I will say and I will always say... "We, the filmmakers, know the difference and can hear it. Unless the person we are delivering to is a filmmaker too they will never know the difference and are probably more concern with how they look on camera, not how they sound." Lastly, a little post audio work pretty much cleans it up, if you have any background music then it'll further fill out the videos sound etc. Adding a room tone will also help if you'd like. There comes a time where form plays a bigger role than function, since you basically have all three small mini wireless lav set... you pretty much have every tool for whatever job may throw at you :D Last last thing lol to clarify, the new hardware version isn't a new Mic, its simply a bypass chip that allows for the receivers pre-amp to drop down -30dB with an attenuator. This doesn't make the physical Mic better, its just a thing you do when you are trying to convert a LINE signal down to a MIC signal. But no doubt that if PicoGear continues their ways, I can see the Gen 2 of the PicoMic getting better and better. Until then, I am extremely happy to know I have two wireless mics that are super small that can last 20 hours!! Like seriously, that factor right there is worth it to me to do a small amount of post audio work (Really just a couple clicks, nothing major) Alrighty, sorry for the long reply haha. Check out my recent vid on a direct comparison, use the mic in the right situation, and remember that the average person watching is "watching" they don't hear the things we do. Cause if they did, then I hate to break it to them, but if you listen to nearly 80% of TV shows, their mic actually sounds really close to the PicoGear in terms of the noise floor that you can hear and the noise gate cutting in and out. (Sometimes I really second guess why I went into filmmaking...cause now I hear these things when I don't even pay attention lol)

[@TamasVarga-VatartPhoto]

Good product and good video 😎. Thanks! It seems they went “all in”. Especially like the channel mixer and the TRS TRRS compatibly.. charger should be usb c though 😉

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey hey again Tamás Thank you so much for checking out another video and commenting! Haha I know I know, but I totally get why they kept the Micro USB. USB C would be nice, but I’m not too bothered by not having it. Thanks again for stopping by and I’ll see you in the next one!

[@pjsagnia]

I’m very curious about how you would handle wind noise? Is there a windmuff solution?

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey Peter! Thank you so much for checking out this video and commenting! Yup, I talk about it in the video that PicoGear has told me they are designed their own windmuff for the PicoMic system! They'll be sending me one to try once its finished! Until then, thanks again for stopping by and I'll see you in the next one!

[@terrytk9398]

Hi, nice review! Would this work with a camcorder 3.5 mm input - eg SonyAX 53? Thanks.

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Greetings Terry TK! Thank you so much for checking out this video and asking a question! Yes, the PicoMic Wireless System should have no problems sending audio to the Sony AX53. You will just want to make sure that the PicoStream Receiver is in TRS mode. I’m not sure how the preamps are in the Sony, so you may or may not need to use the DSLR Attenuator cable to get the best cleanest signal possible. Hope this helps! Thanks again for stopping by and I’ll see you in the next one!

[@VitorDomingos]

What settings did you use as post? EQ, Compressor and Denoise

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Greetings Vitor! Thank you so much for checking out this video and asking a question! The settings I did towards the end of the video where I processed the audio are as follows. - Normalized to -1dB - Captured noise pattern and applied Denoiser at 90% reduction - EQ'd with a bell curve ot +6dB from Frequency 100-250hz - Compressor settings in Adobe Audition (Tube compressor) (-4dB Threshold) (2:1 Ratio) (Gain Back 2.5dB) (Attack 10ms) (Release 100ms) These are of course for my recording environment and situation at the time, but hopefully this helps a little. I would check out Curtis Judd's channel for how he processes audio, he's got a lot of great info there as I am still learning the audio side of filmmaking and post-processing. Hope this helps! Thanks again for stopping by and i'll see you in the next one!

[@Dice-Gamble]

Hey, How are you doing? Have you encountered a low static noise in your recordings? It's not the normal low whitenoise type noisefloor sound, but like a crackle. I spoke to Pico Support and they said that they cannot replicate the scenario. You might have to listen to the audio with Earbuds so that you can hear everything. Not sure you can pick it up with speakers or headphones. Please let me know.

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey hey Dice! Thank you so much for checking out this video and asking a question! When you say, crackle, does it only happen when you are speaking or when you are silent? The initial firmware from this review, the limiter was hitting very hard and could sometimes feel like theres this crisp sound when you're speaking. Their newest firmware that you can download and update on their website seems to have fixed this crisp sound for me. These mics when you're calibrating for someones voice really likes to be in the green and not hit the yellow too much. That will also help with the audio quality as you adjust the mics sensitivity. Are you recording into a camera or external recorder? If you have a limiter setting on both, I would turn those off because of how hot a signal the Picomic can produce. Because once you've set the boundaries of the Receivers output, it will rarely ever clip out as the system puts a hard stop there if you get to it. Not sure if this makes sense, but hopefully this helps! Definitely update to the newest firmware if you haven't already. Thanks again for stopping by! Stay safe, healthy, and I’ll see you in the next one!

[@Dice-Gamble]

@@TLDR_filmmaker Thank you so much for replying. The crackling sound is throughout the recording, with a slight increase during when you are talking. I'm recording into a smartphone Huawei P30. This issue doesn't come up when i use my wired lav mics, which suggests that this is a pico related issue. The thing is that it's not easily noticeable, but i discovered it when i had the speaker right IN my ear, as you would be listening to a voicenote when in a loud space.... As a note, I had updated to the 2.0 version of the firmware.

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

You're most welcome! Hmm... the only thing I can think of is that maybe the Pico and Huawei could be getting some kinda of interference when connected together. If you turned your Huawei into Airplane mode, I wonder if this would clear up the crackle. Thats the first thing I would try. The second would be to try a different TRS to TRRS cable if you happen to have one handy. Thats the only things I can think of to try and troubleshoot whats going on. Hope this helps!

[@Dice-Gamble]

@@TLDR_filmmaker THANK you so much for taking the time out to really respond. Will try these suggestions

[@mnkpro1]

I have been trying to buy this for a while, but it's been out of stock. Corona probably holding the production

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey hey Nabil! Thank you so much for checking out this video and commenting! Unfortunately I've only seen them restock once in November, I think, and it sold out after a day or two. I hope they ramp up production eventually because the product has been out for almost a year and I feel not a lot of people have been able to get a set :(. I'm sure thats holding up production as well, unless they might be doing some hardware upgrades before producing the next batch? Thanks again for stopping by! Stay safe, healthy, and I’ll see you in the next one!

[@robpastore]

Wonder if you can pair more then 2 in one single receiver?

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey Rob! Thank you so much for checking out this video and asking a question! Unfortunately you cannot pair more than two modules to one receiver, most likely because of the antenna design inside is just meant for two signals, would be interesting if a company in the future makes a receiver able to go up to 4 signals. Saramonic have a triple channel 2.4ghz system (3TX to 1RX) but I'd have to imagine when you start doing this you are having three audio's crammed into a stereo or mono signal. Perhaps if they ever do 4TX to 1RX that the RX has two output plugs so that you can split all four signals into their own stereo channels... but you'll definitely have a much bigger RX than what we see here. So in the end some compromises needed to be made. Honestly it's just easier to have multiple systems in general as well as safer for a shoot. Just imagine that the receiver gets damaged, you now have 4 transmitters that are worthless. If you but two dual channels systems, you'll at least still be able to have 2 transmitters to work with. Don't put all your eggs in one basket they say! Ok and off that tangent lol. Hope this makes sense and helps! Thanks again for stopping by and I'll see you in the next one!

[@Professorvapes]

glad you did this review I am sure some people will buy but to be honest the price to me is way too high and I do not expect it will be going any lower. so Like others who will watch this video we will go elsewhere for a much more competitive priced item like the rode go.

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey hey again Professorvapes! Thank you so much for checking out this video and commenting! I totally get what you're saying, sorry for being lazy, but I'm going to copy and paste a pretty lengthy explanation I replied with somewhere below. Essentially I feel sometimes certain tools get tossed away because of "price" "no flippy screen" "no this or no that"; and I feel some filmmakers miss an opportunity in where a piece of equipment actually excels, but instead they hear someone try to force a piece of equipment into a situation where it doesn't thrive. So I break it down a little bit in this reply below: ============ ...The price tag isn't that bad actually when you take into account that its a dual channel system and where it does well over the other dual channel options. So far a dual wireless setup from the bulky traditional wireless Lavalier style, you're looking at paying [Traditional bulky Affiliate links] $400 - Saramonic Uwmic9 [ amzn.to/2XjW6IT ] $650 - Deity Connect [ amzn.to/2xlx4tg } [Non bulky route with two channels of wireless audio] $400 - 2x Rode Go [ amzn.to/2JeaubS ] $700 - 2x Sennheiser XSW Lav [ amzn.to/2XlwJ9F ] $450-500 - PicoGear's Picomic [ amzn.to/2Lj3QUr ] While the sound quality is passable when there are bg music as well as ambient noise, you start looking at how small it is compared to all the other systems, backed by 20 hours of operation. But the major thing that I stressed is that I would only use this system for weddings, events, and lectures. I don't believe in forcing a piece of equipment into an environment where it doesn't excel, it just doesn't make sense or make a good Return on Investment. So long story short, for 450-500 dollars being pretty much on par in pricing with other similar systems, but excels in an area of filmmaking that the others don't do as well. The price tag, in my opinion, is acceptable for what it is. As I said in the video, I won't use it in narrative film because I need a cleaner sound, but for the all day lectures that I have to film sometimes? No questions, Picomic, clip it on the speaker and never go back to touch it until the end of the day. This Picogear saves me so much time and less hassle for the client that always knows I'm coming to mic him up and he's gotta stop what he's doing. The clients experience with me is a major part of the equation why I recommend this mic for those filming scenarios. ================= Simply put, use the right tool for the right job cause unfortunately it seems no company (yet) has been able to make something that is truly the "be all end all" when it comes to filmmaking gear. One piece of equipment will always outperform another in some aspect. Though I would say, if the PicoGear can clean up the aggressive Noise gate, somehow, whether it be another hardware chip added into the mic or digital process internally. That could sent this Mic up very fast up in people's radars. But for now, it is the perfect Wedding and lecture Mic in my book! Thanks again for stopping by and I'll see you in the next one! Can't wait to see what their XLR Module can do, cause thats where it'll start competing more against the RODE go and others!

[@user-qp2hj7sg9c]

Another great review - thank you so much!

[@user-qp2hj7sg9c]

PS - did they indicate that they'd be making a version that supports connecting a lav mic into the transmitter? Seems like that's the only feature that's missing -- sometimes you really want to hide the mic -- or not have something on clothing that looks like a clip. At least with a lav mic in an interview situation that's visible on clothing, audiences know that it's a mic, so they don't even notice it. I think this 'strange' clip-thing could have the opposite effect. This lack of mic input is the only thing holding me back at the moment.

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey hey again A! Thank you so much for checking out another video and commenting! The XLR module they are currently developing may or may not have a 3.5mm lav port, I did express this idea to them that if they are to have a lav module to make sure it can support both XLR and 3.5mm ports. We shall see! If not you can of course use the RØDE VXLR+ that I reviewed where you can take a XLR port and allow a 3.5mm lav to work. I have an idea for PicoGear that I’m going to relay, because what they’ve done in hiding a mic in something so small is really a beautiful thing and depending on how well they do as a startup… I think there is another thing they could do to seal the deal as THE best wedding mic ever. I would definitely wait on the PicoMic depending on your use case, if you are a narrative filmmaker than I would hold off for sure. I’m not kidding when I stated in my video that this PicoMic is meant for wedding and event/lecture videographers. I don’t believe one tool can work in many fields, and I try my best to be observant of the tools that are available to me. This is going to be very apparent in my next video where I pit the RØDE GO vs PicoMIc! Until then, thanks again for stopping by and I’ll see you in the next one!

[@user-qp2hj7sg9c]

@@TLDR_filmmaker Howzit, thanks so much. I can't wait for the exciting episode!

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

You're welcome again! See you then!

[@ludo1632]

Thank you for the review. Looks like a practical system but it sounds pretty bad with a strong buzzing noise in the voice all the time

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey hey Ludovic! Thank you so much for checking out this video and commenting! It’s definitely a very nice streamlined system, but with the mic capsule so small, there is definitely some aggressive noise gate and reduction I think. It’s the most apparent when I force into this type of filming environment where I don’t let you hear any sort of ambient noise or background music during the presentation. I believe some of these settings can be tweaked on their end with firmware updates as they continue to smooth out their sound. Outside of that, I don’t think the normal person will be able to hear it, because this type of aggressive noise gate I hear all the time in TV shows. I will definitely relay the info to them, everyone here in the comments is awesome and providing some great feedback! I can’t wait to see what their XLR module will be like! Thanks again for stopping by and I’ll see you in the next one where I put the RØDE Go against the PicoMic!

[@user-qp2hj7sg9c]

Hey, I was wondering if you could let us know when your next Picomic video is coming out? (You know, just so I don’t have to keep reloading your page every 10 minutes). ;)

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey hey again A! Haha well it looks like your refresh got to the video release this morning. I'll respond more to you there! Thanks for being so active with the channel and in the comments! Really appreciate it!

[@petevidales1519]

If you mic the bride and groom will the mic pick up the minister as well with out the third person having a microphone? Will all three people sound good? Thanks.

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Greetings Inspire Life! Thank you so much for checking out this video and asking a question! I think it will depend on a couple of things, mainly how close and loud spoken is the minister in relation to the bride and groom. If the grooms mic is inside the coat pocket, it may have a harder time picking up the minister. If the Bride’s mic is exposed, it’ll have an easier time. However the PicoMic has a seems to have a noise gate that could interfere if the minister doesn’t speak loud enough. The best practice would be the mic up all three people, with the mic being so small and you not having to wire anyone up, the setup would be extremely easy and quick. In my opinion the best scenario would be to mic up the minister, and then which ever the bride or groom make sure their mic is facing outwards instead of being hidden in the grooms inner coat pocket. I would personally try to see if you can mic up the bride because… and I hate to say this, but generally the bride is more excited to see the wedding video than the groom. So making sure shes able to hear her vows more clearly may be the better bet? Of course this is all dependent if the wedding ceremony has a PA system, if they do then the best option is to make sure you have an audio recorder that you can plug into the PA system. Sorry I can’t give a definitive answer, but hopefully this helps! Thanks again for stopping by and I’ll see you in the next one!

[@petevidales1519]

Thanks great info

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

You're most welcome @@petevidales1519 , your question does give me an idea for a near future video, I will include it when I receive the PicoMic Windmuff to test out to give wedding filmmakers more tests to determine if this is the right system for them. Thank you so much for engaging!

[@mrheng562]

Wow, they listened. Wow, 20 hours?!!! I can vlog all day!!! 4 overnight is all good for recharging. Peter Piper popped a pimple bro. LOL!!! You remind me of my football field test with this distance test. Green PAC-MAN was AWESOME!!! Where can I buy that game? I didn’t really like the EQ voice bro. Bring back the raw audio. They need to send me one to test too. I can take it on vacation with me.

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Yo yo yo MrHeng! Wow wow WOW! For sure on all of those things haha! Peter Piper better stop messing with his face lol! I remember your football field test, I was thinking about finding one but figured a wide open parking lot might be better as I’m not encased into a field. I wanted to go to the Park that I did my initial test in where it very very VERY wide open like a desert, but the drive was too far… So this parking lot will be my distance test bed for all things wireless moving forward lol. Lol green Pac-Man, its Mr and Mrs Pac-man’s “feeling under the weather brother” instead of cherry hes looking for some Tylenol! The EQ’d voice was to try and take the harshness of my odd voice, I realize that I don’t have the smoothest voice in the world its got like its own built-in distortion sound lol. Doesn’t hear to give them a shout out and see! I’m really excited to see how they move forward, especially if they are creating many different types of modules. I can’t wait to see what they do with the XLR one! Heng10 for the next video where I put the RØDE Go vs Picomic!

[@mrheng562]

TLDR Filmmaker , I’ll be “henging” in there bro. LOL!!!

[@foxhouse_tips]

Amazing little alien technology implementation )))

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey hey again Советы Лисьего Дома ! Thanks you so much for checking out another video! This is indeed super small! If you want to see how this mic compares against the RODE GO, definitely check out my latest video! Thanks again for stopping by and I’ll see you in the next one my friend!

[@RyanKemperinOhio]

Was going to order one until I saw your review. It cuts out from just 15-20 feet the moment you turn your back to the camera. This would never work for weddings.

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey hey Ryan! Thank you so much for checking out this video and commenting! You are correct, it does blip out a bit, the only thing I can say is that I purposely put that test in the worst possible situation outside. This completely changes when you are indoors in my second test where I started purposely walking into other rooms and outside where line of sight is completely gone but yet you can still hear me because the signal has a chance to bounce around indoors. So essentially it's going to really depend on the type of weddings you film, if you are outdoors in a field, you will definitely want a recorder near the alter to get audio that way to sync up in post. If you are in a church, then the blip out at 15-20ft won't happen because the signals are in a confined space and can work much further. Hope this makes sense! Thanks again for stopping by and I'll see you in the next one!

[@RyanKemperinOhio]

TLDR Filmmaker Thanks for the response! I shoot 50/50 indoor and outdoor weddings. :-/ Subscribed!

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

You're most welcome Ryan! And thank you so much for Subscribing! I truly appreciate it! Oh man you are right in the middle! For outdoor weddings I almost wonder if most of them would have a PA system that you could hook up a recorder into. If not, i'd say the best bet would be to get a simple 2 XLR recorder and have it hidden somewhere near the altar were all the talking happens. That way for the ceremony you can make sure the TX and RX are always close together... Now if the reception is outside too... man that could get tricky for sure!

[@RyanKemperinOhio]

TLDR Filmmaker We currently use 3 Tascam DR10-Ls. One on the groom, one on the minister, and one on the PA. I was hoping for a solution that would make it so I don’t have to do all the matching of audio in post. Thank you!

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Gotcha, totally understand, all I can say is, give it another couple of years and we will have a tool set like it. Gotta love technology!

[@cambellevans9945]

Good review.

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey hey again! Thanks for checking out this review, hope it helped!

[@Ronbc000]

Good info. Thank you.

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

You're most welcome again Ron!

[@TexpatOTG]

Does this company have a history? I didn't hear anything about them until recently when they apparently sent a lot of freebie units to KZbin creators. Are they a real company that does their own engineering and production ...or are the selling OEM china stuff?

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Greetings TexPat! Thank you so much for checking out this video and asking a question! Based on my interactions so far with the company, this is the beginning of their history as they are a startup company (as I talked a little about in the video) The PicoMic is their first product out of the gate. When I went through my initial testings and reported back, they told me they would work on a firmware to address the problems I found and have it ready in one day or two, the firmware did indeed come out a day later (v1.3). It definitely looks like they are their own team and engineering/producing the products and not just rebranding other products. They are currently working on the windmuff for the mic as well as an XLR module. I'm definitely keeping my eye on them based on my experiences with them and how they are listening to critical feedback and actively making changes! Hope this helps! Lets see what PicoGear does moving forward, if they keep it up I think they might hit a good stride by Gen 1.5 - 2.0. Thanks again for stopping by and I'll see you in the next one!

[@NatesFilmTutorials]

It’s not a Wednesday! Outrageous!

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

I know right?! Sometimes I just gotta surprise the subs with an early episode haha!

[@PaparazziEntertainment]

Great Review thanks

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Greetings Paparazzi Entertainment! Thank you so much for checking out this video, the kind words, and commenting! I’m glad to hear that this video provided some value for you! Thanks again for stopping by and I’ll see you in the next one!

[@GeekGarageDK]

they should change to USB-C. The micro is "dead" and should not be used on new products. Also they should either move that LED below the clip so it's not visible. or time it out so it only glows the first 30 sec after being removed from base. it annoys me that you can see it glow

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey hey Geek Garage! Thank you so much for checking out this video and commenting! I don't disagree with you about the USB-C, however knowing their history and timeline of when this mic was in development followed by the costs involved to switch over to a USB-C etc, I can see why they left it. The Micro USB may be dead, but not totally gone yet like floppy disks. I bet they could probably do a firmware upgrade to do as you suggested where the mics LED only glows for 30 seconds. Or one can print a small sticker with either a Number or "R" for red "B" for blue and tape over that light. That way you take away the glow, but still label each mic in accordance to the PicoStream Receiver. Other than that, for what it is, it's a very nice small unobtrusive setup, I hope as the company continues to develop that their next version will be the same form factor with updated mics and internal processing. We shall see! Thanks again for stopping by and I’ll see you in the next one!

[@_ac_7649]

Pio Pico Power!

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey hey _AC_! Thank you so much for checking out this video and commenting! Pio Pico as in Pío de Jesús Pico? The man sure accomplished a lot, just read up about him! Thanks again for stopping by and I’ll see you in the next one!

[@ChrisParayno]

Awesome but that price tag

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey hey again Chris! Thanks for checking out another video and commenting! The price tag isn't that bad actually when you take into account where it does well over the other options. So far a dual wireless setup from the bulky traditional wireless Lavalier style, you're looking at [Traditional bulky Affiliate links] $400 - Saramonic Uwmic9 [ amzn.to/2XjW6IT ] $650 - Deity Connect [ amzn.to/2xlx4tg } [Non bulky route with two channels of wireless audio] $400 - 2x Rode Go [ amzn.to/2JeaubS ] $700 - 2x Sennheiser XSW Lav [ amzn.to/2XlwJ9F ] $450-500 - PicoGear's Picomic [ amzn.to/2Lj3QUr ] While the sound quality is passable when there are bg music as well as ambient noise, you start looking at how small it is compared to all the systems, backed by 20 hours of operation. But the major thing that I stressed is that I would only use this system for weddings, events, and lectures. I don't believe in forcing a piece of equipment into an environment where it doesn't excel, it just doesn't make sense or good Return on Investment. So long story short, for 450-500 dollars being pretty much on par in pricing with other similar systems, but excels in an area of filmmaker that non of the others do. The price tag, in my opinion, is acceptable for what it is. As I said, I won't used it in narrative films because I need a cleaner sound, but for the all day lectures that I have to film sometimes? No questions, Picomic, clip it on the speaker and then never going back to touch it until the end of the day. This Picogear saves me so much time and less hassle for the client that always knows I'm coming to mic him up and hes gotta stop what hes doing. The clients experience with me is a major part of the equation why I recommend this mic for those filming scenarios. Hope this makes sense! Thanks again for stopping by and I"ll see you in the next one!

[@Bobster986]

It's too bad that after 9/11 they passed laws making it illegal to use analog wireless radio systems. With digital mics, you either have a signal or you don't, analog simply fades out as you lose signal. I would imagine for a wedding videographer it would be better to have some audio than nothing at all during the exchange of vows.

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey hey Bobster! Thank you so much for checking out this video and commenting! I did not know that! I was far far from filmmaking when that event happened. I wonder if digital signals could ever eventually get to the point where its close to analog… I guess it technically can’t happen because of how digital works, but who knows, someone smart might be able to do it with some crazy RF algorithm. The new Mikme’s have some interesting audio syncing on the backside when it loses connection to the phone. We shall see! Thanks again for stopping by and I’ll see you in the next one!

[@Bobster986]

@@TLDR_filmmaker I guess the best way is a diversity system where the signal can change back and forth between channels seamlessly, but I guess you would pay more for that. Good luck with yours.

[@piso11studio47]

great reveiw. why it sounds like you have noise reduction on? like a brittle sound at the end of your voice

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Greetings Piso 11! Thank you so much for checking out this video and commenting! The PicoMic Wireless System has its own Noise Reduction algorithm, it's a little bit on the aggressive side as I could hear it between my review and Tom Antos and Scott McKenna's. My guess is this noise reduction is needed and possibly unavoidable due to how small the mic capsules are. I think as more firmware comes out PicoGear could potential adjust it more to fine tune it. That being said I definitely put it into a situation where this sound is the most noticeable, if I recorded with background music or ambient noises outside you may not hear the noise reduction as much. That being said, some post processing of the audio is not too bad and can yield some decent results for wedding videographers. But for narrative films, I would choose to use wired laves for the larger capsule and fuller sound. Thanks again for stopping by! Stay tuned when I pit the PicoMic vs the RØDE Wireless Go!

[@piso11studio47]

@@TLDR_filmmaker first, thanks for the thorough reply. I get what you explained. Sure there must be some compromises when the mic is so tiny and i get where these are going to be fantastic and convenient at wedding time. Gonna buy one to try thanks to all of the reviews. regarding rode wireless go.. please dont get me started haha. just sent back 2 units because of QC issues (1 lav acted as a RF interference magnet and the other one internal mic was damaged, plus same RF issue) so im not messing with that system anymore. Have a nice day man

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

You're most welcome! I wonder if my RØDE Go's will eventually give out, I'm not hearing about some of the units failing here and there. So far my two units part of the first shipments have been fine, will definitely report if end up experiencing some oddities. Thanks again for stopping by!

[@63MacGuy]

I wish we could see a test inside of a church. It doesn’t seem to work well when your not facing the camera. Also the $ is too high

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey 63MacGuy! Thank you so much for checking out this video and commenting! The scenario I showed in this review is the absolute worst case scenario for a microphone, this size, that operates on the 2.4ghz frequency. When you're inside a church where you are confined by walls, these systems works as intended and you'll be able to get a nice range inside the room. In my most recent video kzbin.info/www/bejne/r2ioiWiDpa-LmJo I test how well the microphone works when I leave a room and go all the way outside. If the church auditorium is as big as the parking lot, I could see there being a problem with this wireless system and its probably best to us a traditional UHF system. But if the Church Auditorium is pretty normal and nothing too extravagant, then this PicoMic should work just fine. I wish I had access to an actual auditorium to do all these test, but unfortunately I do not, the only experience I have in terms of using a 2.4ghz mic in an auditorium was recently when I had my RODE Go about 100+ feet away on stage where I was capturing stage sounds during a performance. It worked just fine for my needs. Sorry I can't give a super definitive answer but I hope some of this info helps for your needs! Thanks again for stopping by and I'll see you in the next one!

[@63MacGuy]

@@TLDR_filmmaker Thank you for your reply! I'm actually thinking about using something, maybe the Rode Wireless Go for the toasts at the reception. I'm tired of the the DJ's mic going out during Dad's welcome speech. This is so much smaller though and easier to put on a bridesmaid

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

You're most welcome! Gotcha! Either the RODE or PicoMic will for sure do the trick since id assume, if it's not an outdoor wedding, that you'll be more or less 50ft or less from the toast and the walls of the reception hall will help in case you need to go back further. The PicoMic will definitely be the nice, small, quick solution. Oh man, that's not good that the DJ's mic goes out!

[@YektaFrtna]

VERY VERY GOOD PRODUCT BUT THİS NEEDS A SDCARD. This product must be a record sound internally.

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Greetings Yekta! Thank you so much for checking out this video and commenting! I agree it would be extremely awesome if it did, but if they included a SD card inside the Mic or Receiver, the unit will have to become bigger overall to compensate for a Wireless and Internal Recording setup as well as someone to remember to hit the record button from the RX etc. In the end it may depend on what type of filmmaking is being done, but I would not be surprised if certain companies begin the bridge the gap between a wireless audio kit and a wireless audio kit recorder combo! I talked about the 2nd Gen RØDE Wireless Go potentially having its own SD card and how that would help should a signal drop somewhere. But we also forget that that means we will have a 3 hour long audio file and that the audio won’t be broken down into takes. Eventually something like this will be completely doable, especially if some sort of timecode is generated into these small wireless audio + recorders, then lining up the long audio file with the many many videos should be easy… i think… i’ve never actually worked on a timecode project before, but I assume it should make syncing all easy and fast! Thanks again for stopping by! Hope to see you in the next one where I take the RØDE Go vs PicoMic!

[@user-qp2hj7sg9c]

You mentioned you were shooting on a GH5, (as do I). Can you advise on how the Picomic would connect to the GH5 Audio Adapter, which has two totally separate channels? How would you get the dual mic performance? tinyurl.com/y4wzxe3z Thanks

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey hey again A! You will need a 1/8 to XLR Stereo Splitter cable like this one: amzn.to/2Nibu3L (Affiliate link) So what this will do is take the Stereo signal coming from the PicoStream and split it into a right and left channel. You will want to go into the PicoStreams menu system to determine which mic you want to go to which channel, or both at the same time. I have a video coming out soon that walks through all the menu settings. From there simple just plug in the XLR into the GH5 XLR adapter and you’ll be golden. Because you will be using a different pre-amp. You will want to perform the PicoGears 0 dB calibration so that you get the best signal to noise ratio possible between the PicoMic and the GH5 XLR module. Hope this helps!

[@user-qp2hj7sg9c]

@@TLDR_filmmaker That's brilliant - thanks

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

You're most welcome!

[@isDatBoi]

WHY WHY MICRO USB? WHYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey hey dat boi! Thank you so much for checking out this video and asking a question! While I don't know this for sure, the USB-C standard is still more expensive to implement because of all the extra stuff it is capable of than the Micro. I don't disagree with you in why you wish it wasn't a Micro, but from the start up companies standpoint in their 5 year development, it makes sense that the Micro was left in the design than trying to overhaul their entire chipsets to work with the now newer Type C. Also, as for right now, most battery banks you purchase still use USB-A plugs and you pay a good premium to get TypeC battery banks, and the PicoMics battery doesn't require that much watt to charge. So if you take the current situation into account, it makes sense from design and keeping costs down for the users. But that being said, I would not be surprised if their next model uses Type C. Thanks again for stopping by and I’ll see you in the next one!

[@MrLakkuchu]

450$ too much for that

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey hey MrLakkuchu! Thank you so much for checking out this video and commenting! You're not wrong, $450 for anything is quite a bit of money to invest. I will say that this video is a little outdated because this was the initial firmware, I am now running firmware 2.0 in which they've made some major improvements. I'll be making a follow up video eventually. That being said, this Lav really fits into a specific niche. As of right now with whats going on in the world, this Picomic would actually be the best for athletic instructors that teach live online. No wires, no blocky clip on mics bouncing around when they demonstrate, just a small mic that works for that purpose. Thanks again for stopping by! Stay safe, healthy, and I’ll see you in the next one!

[@germanevision]

Do you really think the performance of this mic is better than the rest in the market? There is another review of a wifi mic you have done in which you walk out of the room to test efficiency. Even that one is better than this. The only two advantage in this mic is the battery life and the size. Even a mic like Sokani which uses a more reliable UHF performed great in outdoor situations and in indoor office environment where there is multiple internet wifi interference. And that costs only 200 dollars for a pair. There are others which perform better than this but costs less than $200 like Saramonic and Boya which can be used for professional work. If the performance is not reliable wonder why should anyone pay $450-500.

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey hey Germane! Thank you so much for checking out this video and commenting! Do I think it's better? It really depends on the content being filmed. Is the audio quality better? It has improved since this videos firmware v1.1, I just updated to 2.0 and it seems to be doing a much better job. I will be doing a follow up review soon. I performed the same "walk out of room" test with this mic and it performed more or less close to the others in terms of distance before it started cutting out. The Picomic, as I say, fits a very specific situation where the mic clip can be exposed and does not need to be hidden. When in this situation it becomes extremely valuable for its ability to be used and last throughout the day. Right now I am on set for another independent action film that requires us to film it like a reality TV show. Instead of a traditional wireless lavalier approach, I opted to deploy the Picomic for its size and improved audio quality in the new firmware. The actors did not take off the mics when they went into their fight scenes. This is the first time we've ever caught such clear fighting audio upclose without a boom operator. This would have been impossible with a wired lav approach. I really wish I had a second set as we could have used more for another scene. But again this is because of my specific situation where the Picomic excels more than the other options. In my opinion I don't ever see one product as being the ultimate choice for all situations. I'm traditionally a GH5 shooter, but for this project we have the team using Sony A7iii instead because that system is more fit for this project than a GH5 (which would have been a nightmare to shoot with for this project). In the end, for me, even if a tool does not excel in one area than others, that does not mean its not worth it. For this project I have completely changed my normal equipment roster that I used in the last 3 features films I was apart of because it was the better option. In the end you only use these tests as a guide for your situation, no one is going to ask their audio recording engineer to be three rooms away with walls blocking the wireless audio signal. So the max test threshold that I did is not truly realistic of a typical film situation. In which case, all these mics perfect very well, you just need to determine which one is the best for your situation. Sorry for the long reply, but I hope this makes sense. Thanks again for stopping by and I’ll see you in the next one!

[@germanevision]

@@TLDR_filmmaker thanks. Your point is well taken. It's true no one will shoot with three walls in between. I am only worried that if the performance is not strong enough even a 15 feet distance can make sound weak and unusable. Actually it might sound amateurish. You can get away with bad quality lenses but not with bad quality sound. My travails with sound have been never ending. I have half a dozen mics yet my biggest stess point during shoots remain sound. And most often sound fails miserably. When I am back from shoots the first thing I download is the sound to check interference and breaks. Even lapel mics attached to zoom h1 can give terrible interference noise which cannot be corrected in post. That's why I am desperate to find a solution. I have a zero defect sony wireless mic but unfortunately it has a strange hot mount which cannot be used on my d3300 or g85. And thereby hangs a tale. Thanks for everything.

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Ah I see, I wasn't sure of your use case compared to mine. It sounds like the areas you film in have a lot of RF activity. I wonder if maybe you'll need a higher quality lav mic going into your Zoom H1 to try and negate the RF, or if for some reason the Zoom H1 is the problem, not sure. But I'm assuming you would much rather have audio going straight into your camera instead of needing to sync it later. For me, at least in the USA, If I had some crucial sound applications I would opt to get a Sennheiser G3 for its tried and true performance. But if using the 2.4ghz frequency is more desirable for your needs and travel, then either the RODE Link or Sennheiser AVX do quite well as they have much more powerful antenna signal compared to the smaller RODE GO and Picomic. Not sure if this information will help, but hope it does!

[@lifebidesign]

Nahh you weren't the first to review it.

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey Jose Davila! Thank you so much for checking out this video and commenting! I definitely wasn't the first one to release to youtube, Tom and Scott beat me to it :D But it's all good, I'm just glad I was able to chat with PicoGear for two weeks into receiving my unit to try and figure stuff out for DSLR users. I can't imagine what would have happened if this was unable to perform well for a DSLR and needed a recorder to get the best quality possible, the investment would not be as great. I'm pretty excited for PicoGear, I can't wait to see how they continue if they are putting this much though to critiques this early on. Their XLR Module could be a game change if the price point is competitive and we see the same near 20 hours of operation time! Time will tell! Until then, thank you so much for stopping by and I'll see you in the next one!

[@ArturoBallardo]

I see no sense to waste so many minutes in testing walking long distance away or walking between rooms, come on! You lose precious time instead of showing how to setup the receiver or how to use it in the right way. Try to think about it.

[@TLDR_filmmaker]

Hey hey Arturo! Thank you so much for checking out this video and commenting! I actually did do a menu walkthrough here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/kIvJmZ5rq8-si80 However its outdated as they've since updated their firmware to a different menu setup. The reason I don't go over the setup in my audio review is because there is a certain procedure you do thats pretty much identical across the board. Thats a video I will be making as part of a beginners filmmaker series. As for the tests, trust me the distance test are the least of my own personal concerns when I look at purchasing wireless audio products as it doesn't fit my filming situation. But for someone thats in those situations, these are the tests I do to make sure they get the information they need. I don't try and cater to one group, I try to make sure anyone who was curious about something will get the information they need to determine if they'd like to invest in a certain film gear product. I'm sorry that you don't find it useful for your needs, and thats totally fine, but I'll continue doing what I feel is best for multiple different types of filmmakers that may be searching for specific tests that others don't perfom. Thanks again for stopping by! Stay safe, healthy, and I’ll see you in the next one!