Sennheiser Debuts Microphone Custom Built for GoPro Action Cams
At the IBC Show, Sennheiser presented its new action camera microphone at the joint Sennheiser/Neumann stand, and at the IBC Future Zone. This new microphone will allow GoPro users to match the footage they capture at the extremes with high-quality audio. Demonstration videos recorded with a prototype highlight the microphone’s sound in scenarios where audio recording currently yields poor results or is not possible at all. Commercial availability is planned for March 2017.
Sennheiser’s forthcoming microphone for action cameras has been designed to be the ideal audio partner to a GoPro.
“Achieving uncompromising sound quality for extreme sports footage has always been a challenge, and more often than not, extreme athletes had to tone down their expectations regarding audio quality,” says Kai Lange, product manager, Broadcast and Media. “Our forthcoming action microphone will solve these audio issues and allow users to create compelling videos.”
Taking excellence in sound recording into adventurous new territory
Developed within the framework of the GoPro Developer Program, the forthcoming action camera microphone is based on a professional Sennheiser miniature microphone that features an internal protective diaphragm, a so-called Umbrella Diaphragm, which is located above the acoustically active membrane.
A newly developed windshield makes the mic waterproof and nearly immune against snow, ice, and wind. As a result, it will be able take on virtually anything the elements can throw at it, enhancing GoPro footage with incredibly high-quality audio even during extreme sports activities such as surfing, climbing or mountain biking.
“We use a special foam material for the windshield, which ensures that the mic can even be used for water sports while fully retaining its wind protection properties,” explains Kai Lange. “A classic hairy windshield or a classic foam windshield could not do the job – if they get wet, there will be no protection whatsoever against wind noise. We have taken on this challenge with an innovative new design.”
Currently, the windshield is in the later stages of development, fine-tuning it in readiness for the commercial availability of the microphone, which is expected for March 2017.