An audio recorder is a core piece of equipment for any video creator. Whether you’re starting a vlog, podcast, or YouTube channel, one of the first things you’ll need is a microphone system that delivers professional sound. If you’re planning on recording outside of a YouTube studio, you’ll need a recording device that’s portable, cable-free, and still delivers great audio quality.
In this review, we’ll be testing out Maono’s WM821 dual wireless microphone system, which is everything it says on paper, to see if it delivers on its promises.
Maono WM821 Dual Wireless Microphone System: First Impressions and Specifications
Wireless microphone systems are a new technology trend. They come with a transmitter that captures audio and then transmits it to a receiver via a specific radio frequency band (2.4 Hz in the case of the Maono WM821) and synchronizes it with a camera that records video. The WM821 allows two people to record simultaneously using one receiver and two transmitters. When
you first get your hands on the Maono WM821, you will notice how stylish all the parts (including the charging case) are. Inside the case, there are two transmitters and one receiver. Each is lightweight and has a clamp on the back that can be used to attach it to clothing.This design is complemented by the WM821, a wireless system that can be used without cables. With this in mind, moving around while recording is not a problem, so the WM821 is perfect for conducting interviews and recording outdoors.
Before we get into the details, let’s take a look at the full technical specifications list of the Maono WM821 dual microphone system.
- Transmission Type: 2.4GHz Wireless
- Polar pattern (built-in microphone): Omnidirectional
- Built-in microphone frequency response: 80Hz – 16kHz
- External microphone frequency response: 50Hz – 18kHz
- Maximum output level: Line output – 10dBu, Headphone output – 3.2dBu
- Max SPL: 105dB SPL(1kHz @1m)
- Audio Input: 3.5mm TRS lavalier mic input (transmitter)
- Audio Output: 3.5mm TRS (receiver)
- Range: Visibility 100 m (328 ft)
- Battery: 350mAh/3.7V, 2500mAh/3.7V, battery life 20 hours
- Charging port: Type C, DC 5V
- Price: Starting at $189 on Amazon
Out of the box, you’ll be amazed at how Maono has thought of everything when creating the WM821.
It’s a simple audio recording system consisting of two transmitters and one receiver for 1-2 people. Both the transmitter and receiver feature excellent battery life and a charging case to extend battery life. The loudspeaker and windshield protector are nice extras to make recording even more flexible.
Design and Unpacking
The build quality of the Maono wireless microphone system gives a premium feel right from the moment you open the box. The various parts of the kit are packed separately in small boxes with clear labels. The transmitter with receiver is easily portable in the Maono charging case, and all accessories can be stored and carried using the special carrying pouch included in the package.
What's in the box
When you unpack, here are all the items in the box:
- Maono WM821 receiver
- 2x Maono WM821 Transmitters
- Charging Case
- Audio Cable for Camera
- Audio cable for smartphone
- USB-A to USB-C Cable
- 2 x Lavalier Microphones
- 2 fur windshields
- Maono storage bag
transmitter has a power button, a mute button, a pairing button, a low-cut button to remove low frequencies and unwanted echo, and an indicator that shows when the transmitter is on or off.The receiver has a power button and a volume control button that also functions to switch from mono to stereo mode. On the side of the receiver are a headphone jack and an output jack for connecting a headset.
Audio quality and features
Typically, people choose condenser and dynamic microphone models when they first buy an audio recording setup. If you plan on recording static video in one room, this is a fair choice. However, if you need a recorder that can be used on the go to capture dynamic footage, or if you frequently need to move your recording setup to different locations, a wireless microphone system like the WM821 is a better choice.
Of course, you don’t want to sacrifice sound quality when switching from a standard condenser to a wireless microphone. With the WM821, you don’t have to. Audio recorded with the built-in microphone sounds natural and clear.
Thanks to the built-in omni microphone, it’s best to add a windshield protector when the shooting location is windy. It reduces background noise without affecting the clarity of your recording.If you don't like how the transmitter looks on camera (especially with the padded shield on), you can use an external lapel mic (or lavalier mic) when recording. The Lav mic included in the kit is very basic, but gets the job done. It's shorter, but long enough to attach to the transmitter and fit in your pocket.
The dual transmitters are great for a variety of situations. For example, if you need to record two people at the same time. One person is speaking softly and the other is speaking louder, you can set up the transmitters for two separate channels with different gains. Or, if you only have one opportunity to record, you can record a backup copy of the same audio using another transmitter.
Range
The most impressive feature of the Maono WM821 microphone system is its range. Maono promises an extended transmission range of up to 100 meters (328 feet) in normal conditions and up to 400 feet (400 feet) in an open environment when there are no obstacles blocking the transmission signal.
During our testing, we were impressed with the 100-meter range. The recording quality did not deteriorate no matter how far away you were from the receiver. The only requirement is that you have line of sight, meaning there should be no walls or anything between you and the receiver.
Compatibility
The Maono WM821 is compatible with any device that has a 3.5mm port. The microphone kit comes with two connector cables, labeled Phone and Camera, so you can’t get them mixed up.This cable allows you to connect the WM821 to a video camera, DSLR camera, or smartphone. The only exception to this is the iPhone. You will need a Lightning adapter cable to connect the Maono WM821, which is not included in the box.
Battery Life
We’ve already mentioned the WM821’s excellent battery life, which is rated for up to 10 hours of operation. According to Maono, the transmitter can last even longer, up to 12 hours on a single charge. Thanks to the charging case, you can double that number before needing a real charger.
Battery-related life hack: If you’re only using one transmitter, you can swap the transmitter in the charging case for the other transmitter and continue recording.
Should You Buy the Maono WM821 Dual Wireless Microphone System?
The Maono WM821 is a great, versatile microphone kit that any content creator on a budget will love. This microphone is perfect for both vloggers shooting dynamic shorts and gamers looking to record their live streaming sessions.
While the Maono WM820 A2 is more of an entry-level option, the WM821 offers more features, better audio, range, better battery life, and more complex video and audio projects for advanced users.
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