Saramonic Blink 500 Pro (B1-B2-B3-B4-B5-B6) Review
Digital Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System
Highlighted Customer Reviews
Showing 1 to 20 of 62 Reviews
Rode Kill-er
Saramonic Blink 500 Pro B2 2-Person Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz, Black)
Reviewed by Dave on B&H Photo Video
If you are comparing this unit to the Rode Wireless Go, I'll keep this simple: get this one! (and I am a huge Rode fan; I have many of their mics.) If you'd like more detail... I find three compelling reasons to go with the Blink500 Pro B2 system over the Rode-if you think you'll EVER want to have TWO different people on wireless mics at the same time. (1) PRICE: for two people you would need two Rode systems, costing $400; Blink B2 is $300. And if you consider the two lav mics *included* with the Blink B2, you save even more $ (two Rode SmartLav+ mics would cost an additional $180). Granted, you could get cheaper lavs that sound just fine for about $25 each, but that still means you're spending $150 more for a two-mic wireless system with Rode than with Blink. (2) SEPARATE AUDIO LEVELS: the selectable mono/stereo output on the blink receiver means you can ride each person's audio level separately. (a) if you're recording into a DSLR camera, just use the stereo mic input on the camera and you'll have each person on a separate channel (L-R), then you can mix them in your editing software-no cables or connectors needed besides what Blink gives you; if you use Rode, you'd have to attach two receivers to your camera (bulky/messy) and then you'd need some Y-connector to join the two receiver cables into the one camera input. (b) If you're recording into an audio recorder, like the Zoom H6 pictured in my attached photos, you can control and ride the mic levels in real time (I recently did a live broadcast using the Blink B2 into the Zoom H6 into livestreaming software on my computer and was able to adjust each person's mic level on the fly). Admittedly, you will need a Y-connector not included with the Blink in order to split the stereo output of the Blink receiver into two distinct inputs on the recorder, but those cost less than $6 (pictured is the Hosa Stereo Mini 3.5mm Female to 2 x 1/4 Mono Male Y-Cable - 6). (3) MOBILE: if you'll be recording or going live from a smartphone or iPad, the inconvenience/bulkiness and connectivity issues mentioned in (2)(a) above are even worse when using your phone/tablet (where you gonna attach/dangle all that stuff from your iPhone?); with Blink, all you need is the standard little dongle that converts from audio plug (TRRS headphone/mic) to lightning or USB-C, which likely came with your mobile device, to plug the one Blink receiver in and get a signal from both wireless mics into the mobile device. And something else that can help with this, because it might be difficult on some devices/mobile apps to set different levels for each of the two channels: with the Blink 500 Pro, each mic transmitter has a 6-step volume level adjustment-the Rode only has 3 different steps-so you could set your loud person on 2 or 3 and your quiet person on 5 or 6 and you don't have to worry about doing that in an app or adding more hardware. But if you NEVER foresee needing more than one mic, might as well save $100 and quite a bit of bulk and go with the Rode Wireless Go. Other "pros": 1. The charging case is GREAT! It's like the little case that comes with Bluetooth earbuds that give them a full extra charge or two while in your pocket. This probably gives you a full day of using this wireless system (pop all three items back in the charging case at lunch time-without having to plug it in). 2. Mic or Line level input on both mic transmitters and both line-out and headphone-out from the receiver. Really versatile. 3. The LED displays on both transmitters and the receiver give much more info than the Rode and have several settings menus, AND they can be set to stay illuminated or auto turn off after a few seconds (so that they don't distract on camera). 4. Saramonic gives you tons of extra stuff: two lavs with foam windscreens, two fuzzy mic windscreens (for the mic-transmitters themselves), two usb-c cables for charging, two types of 1/8" audio connector cables (TRS-TRS and TRRS-TRS), and even a protective outer carrying case for the charging case. The only "con" I can think of is size/bulk (both the total package, plus each individual mic transmitter). The Rode Wireless Go comes with a very small neoprene pouch which fits everything. For the Blink 500 Pro B2, all 3 main parts (the 2 transmitters and 1 receiver) fit snuggly in the charging case, which then goes inside a carrying case, making it larger to carry. Other reviews of this Blink system have griped that Saramonic doesn't include any pouch or case in which to carry all the accessories they give you, like the two lav mics, audio connector cables and charging cables. I agree, so once you find something to stow those in (I re-use a leftover airline amenities pouch, pictured), you are definitely carrying a bigger load than with the Rode. But if you really wanted to downsize for a shorter shoot, you could just grab one transmitter, one receiver, and a short connector cable, all of which would fit in one pants pocket, and you'd be all set. Also, each individual mic transmitter is a bit larger with the Blink system than with the Rode, which will only make a significant difference if you plan to clip them on someone's shirt who will be on camera, as both companies show in their advertising. Frankly, I think that looks goofy, even with the smaller Rode mic (super goofy when adding on the fuzzy windscreens), and since Saramonic includes lav mics, you'll likely go with those for on-camera talent to look more professional. And let's remember, even the slightly larger Blink transmitters are still WAY smaller and lighter than, say, the Audio Technica System 10 mic transmitters (pictured, which I have used a lot) that are loaded with two AA batts. The latter would have to clip to your belt or go in a big side or jacket pocket; both the Blink and Rode are so small they can easily go hide in a shirt pocket and are so light you forget they're there. All in all, this is a five-star product from Saramonic. (If you haven't yet, watch the video in the description; it's far more helpful than the product photos.) ... More
They Finally Created The Mic System I Needed!
Saramonic Blink 500 Pro B2 2-Person Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz, Black)
Reviewed by Jennifer on B&H Photo Video
I've been using a mini shotgun mic for a few months with my Sony ZV1, but needed to step the sound up. I was getting too much background noise and I wasn't happy with the audio when I was further than 5 feet away because it sounded thin and distant. Everything I read online told me to get a wireless lavalier microphone system to fix the issue. Lots of people suggested the Rode Wireless Go, but I needed two microphones, and to use two of those I would need an additional cable and a mount. I was ready to pull the trigger until I realized I would also need to buy two lavaliers. That was getting close to the price of my camera and I took a step back. A few friends had mentioned the Saramonic Blink 500 system. I didn't know Saramonic, but I knew Rode and Sennheiser well, so did a little research to find out more. While I was checking out videos on YouTube about it, I saw there was a new version coming, so I waited a few weeks for it to arrive. I got mine from another retailer, but since it's so new, I thought it could be beneficial to share my thoughts here too. I am so happy I did my research and found this system. It's exactly what I wanted. Now I have two wireless mics with lavaliers and only a single receiver. I love how I can mix the audio from the two mics or separate it for mixing later in Final Cut. I also love how the receiver has a headphone output, which I desperately needed on my camera. It's so small and light that it doesn't add any weight to my camera to speak of. And by the way, IT SOUNDS GREAT!!! I finally have the separation and focus on my on camera talent that I've been looking for and I can get those wider shots that I've been trying to get without having to worry about the sound being too thin and noisy. Just to play, I also tried them today with my Android Google Pixel 2 smartphone video camera and they worked perfect. I definitely suggest this to anyone who's looking for a better sound for their videos, doesn't want to spend a lot of money and want something easy to use! ... More
The ideal mic system for both pros and prosumers
Saramonic Blink 500 Pro B2 2-Person Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz, Black)
Reviewed by Brandon on B&H Photo Video
I'm a bit of a gear head, and I have used many different types of wireless audio. Before purchasing this, I owned 4 different wireless mic systems, each with a specific use case (professional use for projects, weddings, etc). After one of my units failed on set, I came back to purchase the original Blink 500 to give it a shot as a last resort for a small wireless mic system, despite the drawbacks that people spoke of in reviews. Then I saw a video that was released the day prior advertising a new version with a screen! Decided to wait until it was available before buying the original. I'm glad I held out! This Blink500 Pro answers all the shortcomings that people brought up in reviews or comparisons. Screens on both transmitter and receiver takes the guesswork out of what each one is doing, and gives the ability to change settings. Easy USB charging (though microUSB, wish it was USB-C!). Mic and line in on transmitters w/built in mics; Headphone and line out on receiver as well. And the biggest upgrade in my opinion - the ability to send a stereo mix out or a mono out signal to the camera! This allows me to use this in more professional settings where I can independently mix audio from both transmitters. This alone is a great reason to upgrade. But we buy wireless audio not only for convenience, but for audio quality. I'm happy to report that this thing shines with crystal clear, low noise output with no dropouts in my tests and shoots. This will be my go-to system for most of my shoots going forward. I can't wait for the updated RxDi and RxUC mobile phone receivers to really expand this system for use on phones and tablets. ... More
Great Wireless Mic!
Saramonic Blink 500 Pro B1 Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz, Black)
Reviewed by Christian on B&H Photo Video
I'll first say that I'm not a professional photographer and haven't used many of these wireless mics from different manufacturers so my expertise is limited. I will say that these work fantastic for the setup that I have. The setup I mainly use this for is with my GoPro multiple camera system. I also use this with my Sony ZV1. For the GoPro, I've always hated the audio and wanted an option for recording quality outdoor action video with quality audio as well. And that is where the Saramonic Blink 500 Pro has come in so handy. I've done some modifications to my GoPro main camera to allow a microphone 'in' line which I hook up to the Saramonic receiver. Then I use the lav and transmitter for the wireless aspect. Having filmed about 30 videos I've noticed a huge difference in the audio and love that you can hear me when I'm 20 feet away from the camera. I'm also filming on a boat so the wind noise hasn't been a problem with the lav taped under my shirt. I've tested the wireless system in a couple settings and haven't had any audio cut out or had any strange echoes like I've seen in the reviews. I've used with and without the lav and have found that I can be more mobile when I use the lav. I'd highly recommend this for people who are wanting better quality audio with their GoPro or who just want better audio when they are filming further from the camera. I haven't been paid for this review and bought the system myself. ... More
Inconsistent audio, cuts in and out
Saramonic Blink 500 Pro B1 Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz, Snow White)
Reviewed by Thomas on B&H Photo Video
The audio on this is phenomenal. Unfortunately, it cuts out from time to time, rendering an entire recording session useless, or, I have to attempt to splice in audio, using the talk over feature in my video editing software to fill in the gaps where the Saramonic failed. Please be sure to use a backup redundant reliable mic if you plan to use this at all, so that you can splice in the audio for those moments when the Saramonic fails. You'll find gaps in your audio that you'll spend a lot of time attempting to fill. If you're gonna use this for interviews, buyer beware. When you discover gaps in your interview, you'll either have to reshoot it (with a reliable mic system) or, get all subjects in the interview to commit to doing voice overs for the parts of the interview that have gaps in audio, or, have a second reliable mic that will fill in the audio gaps. This adds a lot of wasted time to post production. This is definitely not ready for prime time. Which is very unfortunate as I really love how the audio sounds... Looks like I'll have to try the Rode next... what a waste of money... too bad it's not returnable anymore. ... More
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Great Affordable Kit
Saramonic Blink 500 Pro B1 Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz, Black)
Reviewed by Roger on B&H Photo Video
If you're looking for quick and easy this is the unit to buy. All in one package includes the transmitters and receivers as well as a storage case that doubles as a charger. Now the only rub is that all of it does not fit in the soft case that is supplied but it does hold all the peripherals, leaving the TX and TR's for the hard shell charger case. The app is used to control the settings and although such can be done from the TX/TR themselves, the process isn't as easy as just click, click, more professional devices, for the money and for most applications, works great. Also, unlike some have complained of dropout we've not seen that, but then we aren't out there testing them either, we just use them as they are. Moreover, we take into consideration that we don't plan to shoot signal through walls, floors, or film talent at the other end of a ball field and expect the audio to make it to us. We shoot 99+% of our shots within 10 to 30 feet. ... More
Best Wireless Mic System in this Price Range
Saramonic Blink 500 Pro B2 2-Person Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz, Black)
Reviewed by lionel on B&H Photo Video
Transmitters and receiver are tiny and lightweight, smaller than the Sennheiser and even the Lectrosonics. They come in a sturdy case that also charges them and syncs them. I need something fast and easy to setup, and I was up an running in no time with these. The hardest part was trying to figure out how to turn them on! (It turns out the mute button doubles as the on/off switch when pressed for 3 seconds.) Other than that I was good to go in seconds. I used the receiver on a portable audio recorder and the quality was terrific. My subjects were about 10 feet away, and the sound was clean with zero interference. Would highly recommend this system. ... More
This is a great wireless mike kit!
Saramonic Blink 500 Pro B2 2-Person Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz, Black)
Reviewed by Jacques on B&H Photo Video
This kit improves tremendously over the previous Blink 500 B2 for a few reasons. The charging battery case is innovative and a good way to keep the units fully charged on the set without having to connect each module to a separate cable and power source. But there's a mini USB connector on each module in case you need to power modules on the go. I would have prefered a USB C connector on the modules, but this is a minor inconvenience. The sound quality of this set is very good and I would say the noise level is very low; I could not hear any interference artifacts due to the use of the 2.4 GHz frequency. The latency is excellent and I could not detect loss of signal within 10 feet, even when people wearing the microphones move or do not face the receiver. Another improvement over the previous model is the possibility to record stereo, so one microphone per channel. The charging case unfortunately does not have room to put the lavaliers and cables; you will need a separate pouch for those. Overall, I am very pleased by this kit that rivals ones costing much more. ... More
Small, but Perfect
Saramonic Blink 500 Pro B2 2-Person Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz, Black)
Reviewed by Sean on B&H Photo Video
Have loved getting to use these new transmitters and receiver for the past two weeks. They are super easy to use, and offer easily enough battery life to tackle a full day shoot. I love the ease of being able to turn any of the units off, and have them pair up immediately once they power back on. More than that there is so much in this package! I was amazed at all the gear that comes with these guys for so cheap. Not only can you snag 2 transmitters and 1 receiver for $300 (good luck finding a deal like that with Sennheiser or Rode), but the added bonus of having a charging case, a hard case for all the extras, and two lav mics makes this kit a great buy. Yeah you might not get the range of other top end audio kits, but this is more than perfect for a conference room (and even a church from my tests). Audio is super crisp, and hasn't failed me yet in the field. My only minor complaint is that the windscreens don't stay locked onto the transmitter mics very well. They fall off pretty much instantly if anything grazes them. But running the mics without the screens wasn't much of an issue for me. I mostly use the lav mics anyways. ... More
You get what you pay for
Saramonic Blink 500 Pro B1 Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz, Black)
Reviewed by Gustavo J. on B&H Photo Video
I purchased this unit hoping that I could use it for the rare occasions where I don't have a sound person with me (I'm a camera owner/op) and I would like to have lavs as well as the on-camera mic which is a Sanken CS-M1. My other wireless are Sennheiser G3s. The setup of the Saramonic system is straightforward and the receiver can indeed receive both channels. These things are tiny, which would be great. But here are the BIG drawbacks. The LATENCY of the 2.4GHz system is enough that you have to slide audio in post. This system LOSES SIGNAL in all but the most basic setups. I tried it at a yoga class and if I was in the back of the room, or the instructor turned in a certain direction, signal was gone. These might be OK for vloggers, but I wouldn't recommend to anyone else. Other things to note: the transmitters are tiny, but the mics have a relatively large capsule that is difficult to hide. Also, this comes with a slick case for charging, but the mics don't fit in it. They should have had an extra pouch for cables and mics. ... More
A wonderful set for someone needing a basic s
Saramonic Blink 500 Pro B1 Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz, Black)
Reviewed by Jonathan on B&H Photo Video
The kit isn't something on par with a Sennheiser setup, but comes really close. The size of the TX and RX units are about the same size as a car key fob. Meaning it isn't annoying or odd for those you interview. The windjammers are of decent build, I wasn't expecting them to work as well as they do. The lavs have a nice pick but the default foam on the lavs is nothing to write home about. Range indoor with multiple wall types and electrical gear (including existing WiFi networks) was about average, I would say. Getting reliable signals over 100' away. Outside range is much greater, but that makes sense). ... More
Great for the price - digital has downsides
Saramonic Blink 500 Pro B2 2-Person Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz, Black)
Reviewed by Bradford on B&H Photo Video
Really love how compact these are - I'm happy I didn't spend $1K+ on a UHF system because I do such short (distanced) interviews and this is great for travel-based work - small and conveniently charges in its carrying case. The sound quality was pretty darn good out of these when hooked up to my H5. I ran into some frequency banding possibly due to other cell phones in close proximity or maybe WiFi routers being close by. If you use 2.4GHz digital in places like NYC, you may run into the same issue. After some moving around, they were fine. But I did lose signal for the first 10 minutes of interviewing and my client wasn't happy to wait. ... More
Faulty Output Jack & Lapel Mic
Saramonic Blink 500 Pro B1 Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz, Black)
Reviewed by Gary on B&H Photo Video
Pretty slick setup that charges and pairs easily. Upon first testing I realized through the monitor that one of the two provided wired mics didn't work (though the transmitter itself works as a mic and worked fine). At the end of the first day of testing it, I loaded my video to discover that the provided output cable from the receiver to the camera was faulty and I hadn't recorded any audio to the camera. After swapping out cables, it worked fine. Seems like a good product with bad accessories. Too bad that those accessories are key to its functionality. Definitely test yours before taking it out. ... More
Work Astonishingly Well
Saramonic Blink 500 Pro B1 Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz, Black)
Reviewed by Brett on B&H Photo Video
I'm using the transmitter mic, to my Sony A7III and the receiver...then streaming via HDMI to various meeting apps, vMix and OBS. I'm very picky about mic quality, but nice not to have my giant Mojave tube condenser mic not in the shot, and blocking my screen! My room is very highly acoustically treated, so the omnidirectional nature of the mic is not much of a negative (and Accusonus offers a nice vst plug in to remove reverb as well). Great battery life, excellent build quality. The one minor issue has been the case charging ONLY works with the short USB-C cable provided. Have tried 4-5 others, nothing! ... More
Looks Like a Sound Winner
Saramonic Blink 500 Pro B1 Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz, Black)
Reviewed by Paul on B&H Photo Video
Just got kit and initial tests meet expectations. Picked this B1 model up at a sale price from B&H, checked out ratings and comparison with others out there. I use a Sarmonic Vmic mini unidirectional on my a6400 and works well in the right situation. But close dialog, vlogging and performances it's not focused enough on the subject. Upon a couple hours testing the Blink is big improvement. Other consideration was that I wanted to get the B2 (2 mic) system but was gun-shy on the price. Found out I can add the 2nd mic later, although the charging case and sync will not be as convenient. Still, I recommend this as a good way to equip for a lapel or distant shot situation. ... More
Absolutely love these wireless mics
Saramonic Blink 500 Pro B1 Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz, Black)
Reviewed by Craig on B&H Photo Video
If you are novice or just filming social content these thing are the absolute way to go. I don't ever write reviews, but felt compelled to after about a year of using them. They sound great, are reliable, and are the simplest way to record audio. You can lav up two subjects or you can pass around one as a handheld. They fricken rock. Also adore the charging case. Never have I ever had to think about synching them, they are always ready to go. So worth the $$!! Work perfect with both my iphone and my Sony A7III - just remember to turn down the camera mic volume and keep them on Stereo mode. ... More
Worst Purchase I've Ever Made
Saramonic Blink 500 Pro B1 Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz, Snow White)
Reviewed by Joseph on B&H Photo Video
As a professional cinematographer, I held a lot of promise for this unique wireless lav system, which replaced my previous Sennheiser units. It was initially fully charged but on the day before needing it for a big shoot with a client, I could not get the individual units to turn on, and the entire battery system between case and individual units was not functioning at all. Basically, I cannot get any part of this unit to function as described. The battery system seems unique and cleverly designed, however, in hindsight at least double-AA batteries work when you need them to. Sending this unit back for something that actually works. ... More
Great for the price even if not on sale
Saramonic Blink 500 Pro B1 Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz, Black)
Reviewed by Mr on B&H Photo Video
I purchased these on sale here at B&H and now regret not purchasing more of them. Line output is just a tiny bit lower (0.5-1db) than the Rode Go I have but still more than enough to use without a problem. I actually like them more than the Rode Go I have because the weight distribution when hanging on a t-shirt keeps the on transmitter mic facing up. The lavaliere mics work great. and sound just as good as any other wireless mics I have ever used. I definitely recommend these.
Saramonic Wireless Lavalier Mic System
Saramonic Blink 500 Pro B2 2-Person Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz, Black)
Reviewed by Dennis on B&H Photo Video
I called into B&H photo to help me with selecting a wireless microphone system for shoot video with my Nikon D-850. I had absolutely no knowledge of wireless mic systems. I was a little leery fully basing my purchase on advice from a phone call. But the B&H rep was fantastic. He didn't just make a recommendations, he asked a number of question on how I planned to use such a system, etc. Afterwards he suggested two systems and I went with the Saramonic Blink 500 Pro B2 setup. I have now used it once for a interview video, and it worked like a champ! I've only used it that one time, and just purchased the Saramonic two weeks ago, but it is a thumbs up. ... More
A solid performer
Saramonic Blink 500 Pro B1 Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz, Black)
Reviewed by Paul on B&H Photo Video
We use this system paired with a front end mic into our Sony ZV-E10. Our setup is used for theme park vlogging. The mic system has been a solid performer every time we have used it. We don't keep much distance between the transmitter and receiver but that said, there have been no dropouts. We don't use the lav, just the built in mic. The audio is clean. The units are durable and work well whether clipped on to clothing or handheld. The battery life is very good. We usually just turn it on and leave it on while we are in the park. Considering getting a second transmitter so we can do a two person setup. ... More
