News

Freqs Out!

01/26/2015

Our brand new radio frequency scan repository, online at gothamsound.com/rfdb, is designed to help sound mixers and other technicians find the clearest wireless frequencies wherever they go by providing an easy to navigate archives of scans from all over the world.

The dataset is small right now, but we'll keep collecting and posting. We'd love to add whatever scans you happen to have lying about to the database; instructions on how to submit can be found here.

We're in early days yet, so let us know at [email protected] if you have ideas for features you'd like to see or run into problems.

Please note that these scans only present a snapshot of the radio frequency activity at that moment and should be regarded as guides rather than gospel.

Rycote vs. Rycote

01/16/2015

Matthew Sonnenfeld of fourB Productions does a side by side comparison between the Rycote Cyclone and Rycote WS4 Windscreen, comparing handling noise, wind resistance, and acoustic transparency!

His conclusions begin at 3:48, if you're the impatient type.

Rycote Cyclone versus Rycote WS4 from Matthew Sonnenfeld on Vimeo.

Simon Davies from Rycote responds to the review:

1) Windjammer

We do have an optional Windjammer for the Cyclone, for use in high wind conditions. One of the key objectives of the Cyclone was to achieve equal wind performance to that of the WS4 + Windjammer, while improving the acoustic transparency. This goes not only when the kit is new, but after months & years of use.

Fur is a fantastic material, which is exceptional at reducing wind noise. However, over time its acoustic transparency will reduce the dirtier and more matted it becomes and is particularly affected when wet. 3D-Tex is far more predictable over a longer period from new and will maintain its performance even when wet.

The magnetic idea for the low pile Windjammer is a very cool idea and something we'll certainly look at. We've got a ~couple~ of magnets in our inventory now :-)

2) Cable length

The length of the Mogami star-quad cable used on the Cyclone has been set to ensure that the XLR is always in the right spot in the basket when the mic is fitted. There is some slack in the cable around the entry point to the lower basket suspension. This could be adjusted into the basket is slightly more length is needed.

3) XLR connector

We have considered a shorter XLR for the Cyclone, but opted instead at this time for the industry leading gold pin Neutrik XX-series, as it's a truly excellent connector. We do have protected designs for a short XLR connector (with Neutrik inners) that can be both right-angled & inline, however this will come down the track.

4) Lyre suspension

The Cyclone comes fitted with a pair of our Universal Lyres (72-shore), which are perfect for the likes of the Sennheiser MKH 416 or the Sanken CS-3e. It's also supplied with spare pair of softer Universal Lyres (62-shore) which give better handling isolation for lighter mics like the Schoeps CMIT-5U. The Lyres are all soft-grip on their internal surfaces for maximum grip, and to reduce twisting. They can be moved into multiple different positions along the suspension bar with use of the supplied hex key.

NY Wireless Frequency Warning

01/15/2015

If you're shooting night exteriors in the NY area over the next few weeks, be aware your block 22 radio mics might experience intermittent interference.

The Metropolitan Television Alliance, which represents 12 of the major television stations in New York City, is planning to test the signal strength and broadcast coverage of DTV signals originating from atop One World Trade Center.

The MTVA comprises television stations WABC, WNBC, WCBS, WNJU, WNYW, WWOR, WPIX, WPXN, WFUT, WXTV, WNET and WNYE.

The installation of DTV transmitters, antennas and ancillary RF components is set to begin on 1/19/15 with a series of transmission tests to commence approximately six to eight weeks after that.

The initial DTV transmission tests from World Trade Center will take place on UHF TV Channel-32 (578-584 MHz) aka: Lectrosonics BLOCK-22 along with VHF TV Channel-12 (204-210 MHz).

Please note that some items may not be available for shipping immediately.

True Tales of Audio Problems Solved with a 3D Printer

01/13/2015

Jason Kuppig wanted to use his WisyCom MCR-42US Receiver with his Lectrosonics Octopack, but was concerned about the small gap left by the size difference from the SRb. The screw holes were also exposed and his impending trip to India and East Africa promises an abundance of sand and dirt.

Enter Natalie Lowe, Gotham 3D Printmistress.

Tools: