Flash Memory in a Mic
A UK-based pro audio magazine, Audio Media recently reviewed the HHB FlashMic which was introduced earlier this year. The FlashMic is an omni-directional interview microphone that records sound to onboard flash memory – and makes recording audio simpler than we’ve ever seen.
In brief, the FlashMic is built around a Sennheiser omni-directional capsule, and has 1GB of on-board memory, which translates to up to 18 hours of audio at 32kHz – or 3 hours at 48kHz. The mic includes a USB port for data transfer to your PC, and a headphone jack. The street price of the FlashMic is around $1299, making this a decidedly professional device.
The FlashMic looks like Sennheiser’s wireless Evolution G2 100 handheld mic, which has a street price of around $500, so the question is why shell out the extra 800 bones for a little flash memory? In a word, simplicity. The FlashMic can operate as a self-contained unit, with Record and Play buttons, headphone and USB jacks, and sound settings right on the grip.
This stand-alone performance will appeal to users who only want to grab audio with a minimum of fuss, but the headphone jack also functions as an analog audio output. This enables the mic to do double-duty as an external mic that can be attached to any camcorder with a standard 3.5 mm audio jack. Still, $1299 is a steep price to pay for an external mic that records to flash media unless you’re a serious gadget freak with money to burn.
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