Sony ECM-W3S Black Digital camera microphone

Single-channel wireless microphone for high-quality digital recording
The ECM-W3S comprises a microphone-transmitter featuring high signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio microphone units, and a single-channel receiver. The transmitter and receiver process audio digitally and transmit it wirelessly, allowing the capture and recording of one speaker's voice with superb clarity and low noise.

Digital sound recording with superb quality

High-quality digital sound recording
High signal-to-noise ratio (S/N) microphone units are integrated into the microphone-transmitter, enabling clear voice recording with low noise.

High-quality digital transmission
Connecting the single-channel receiver to a camera from Sony that supports the Multi Interface (MI) Shoe, such as one of the α™ series digital interchangeable-lens cameras or vlog cameras, allows the digital audio signal output from the receiver to be recorded directly by the camera body, enabling high-quality sound recording with minimal noise contamination.

Noise-suppressing filter functions
A noise cut filter using digital signal processing to effectively remove noise, and a low cut filter that reduces noise in the low-frequency range, are provided on the microphone side. Less noise removal is needed post-production, making workflow more efficient.

A wide variety of sound recording methods

Multi Interface (MI) Shoe compatible
The receiver can be easily attached to a camera from Sony that supports the Multi Interface (MI) Shoe, such as one of the α™ series digital interchangeable-lens cameras or vlog cameras, without cables, allowing immediate sound acquisition and avoiding interference with the vari-angle LCD monitor even when it is opened horizontally for shooting. This allows a greater degree of freedom and mobility when shooting.

The convenience of wireless
The ECM-W3S comprises a microphone-transmitter and a single-channel receiver, allowing wireless sound capture of one speaker's voice. Communication is possible at up to 150 m in clear line-of-sight locations, with Bluetooth 5.3 (Bluetooth Low Energy) and LC3plus codecs providing low power consumption, low latency, and high sound quality. Power saving has also enabled a reduction in battery size.

Safety and attenuator functions
A safety function is provided that allows simultaneous recording of two audio signals, one at normal volume and the other 20 dB lower, reducing the risk of clipping during loud recording. An attenuator function is also provided, allowing the recording level to be set to one of three values according to the audio volume.

Microphone audio input/output
A 3.5 mm mini jack (monaural) is provided as an external microphone input terminal on the microphone side, and a 3.5 mm mini jack (stereo) on the receiver side serves as an audio output terminal. In addition to sound acquisition using a stereo-compatible lavalier microphone, output to devices not equipped with a Multi Interface (MI) Shoe is also possible.

USB digital audio output
Digital audio (48 kHz / 24 bit) can be output from the receiver via USB cable to a smartphone or PC, or to a USB audio input compatible device for recording.

Compactness, light weight and high reliability

Compact and lightweight design
Both the microphone-transmitter and receiver have excellent mobility and portability, and are compact and lightweight enough not to get in the way when carrying or shooting. Designed to be dust- and moisture-resistant, they can be used outdoors without worry.

Status notification functions
The LINK lamp indicates the status of the communication channel between the microphone and receiver to prevent recording errors. The POWER lamps on both the microphone and receiver indicate battery level to prevent recording errors due to dead batteries.

Battery Assist function
Power is supplied directly from the α™ series digital interchangeable-lens cameras or vlog cameras to the receiver

Compact charging case
A small charging case is included in the package, allowing you to continue shooting without worrying about running out of battery power. The microphone-transmitter unit can operate continuously for approximately 6 hours on a full charge.

Wind screen (included)
The included wind screen can be used to reduce the wind noise that may occur when the microphone is impacted by strong wind or breath. This allows stable and clear recording of the speaker's voice, even when shooting outdoors.

Sony ECM-W3S. Type: Digital camera microphone, Bit rate: 24 bit, Sample rate: 48 kHz. Connectivity technology: Wired & Wireless, Device interface: Bluetooth/3.5 mm, Maximum operating distance: 150 m. Product colour: Black, Control type: Slider. Power source: Battery, Battery life (max): 6 h. Number of products included: 1 pc(s)

How to use

Attach the receiver to a compatible Sony camera using the Multi Interface (MI) Shoe or connect the receiver to a device via 3.5 mm cable or USB. Turn on both transmitter and receiver and confirm the LINK lamp to ensure communication. For camera-mounted operation, the receiver can receive power from a compatible α-series camera. Place the transmitter on the speaker (or clip a lavalier mic into its 3.5 mm input) and use the included wind screen when shooting outdoors. Adjust attenuation or enable the safety function if recording loud sources to avoid clipping.

Recommendations

For best results, use the MI Shoe connection on compatible Sony cameras for direct digital recording, enable the low cut or noise cut filters on the transmitter to reduce unwanted noise, and keep a clear line of sight between transmitter and receiver when possible. Charge the transmitter in its compact case before extended shoots and attach the wind screen for outdoor recording.