We first encountered the Saramonic BlinkMe B2 at the TechFluence virtual event, where this lesser-known gem caught my attention among the sea of innovative audio products. What struck me was its unique feature—a built-in touchscreen, an uncommon sight in microphone systems. Intrigued by its potential, I decided to delve deeper and requested a sample for review. While Saramonic kindly provided this unit at no cost, rest assured that my opinions and reviews remain entirely honest and unbiased. Now, the question lingers: is the Saramonic BlinkMe B2 truly a valuable asset or just another gimmick?
BlinkMe B2 Delivers Exceptional Audio Quality
However, I was pleasantly surprised when I tried out this microphone. The sound quality was exceptional, exceeding my expectations by far. The clarity and depth of the audio produced by this microphone were remarkable. It captured every nuance and detail of my voice, making it sound crisp and professional.
This microphone proved that it was not just another gimmicky product but a top-notch device that excelled in its primary function. The importance of sound quality cannot be overstated, especially when it comes to microphones, and this product delivered in that aspect admirably. Overall, I am highly impressed with this microphone and would recommend it to anyone in need of excellent sound quality.
Despite not reaching broadcast-quality levels, the audio quality of the Saramonic BlinkMe B2 microphone system is surprisingly good. It may not be suitable for professional broadcasting, but it certainly exceeds expectations for other purposes. In fact, it can be a great option for vlog channels or similar projects where high-quality audio is desired, but not necessarily at industry standards. With its decent sound reproduction, the Saramonic BlinkMe B2 microphone system proves to be a reliable choice for those seeking an affordable and practical solution for their audio needs.
After conducting some extensive testing comparing the audio quality of my AirPods Pro and MacBook Pro microphones, I was genuinely impressed with the performance of the Saramonic BlinkMe B2. The difference in sound quality between the AirPods and the BlinkMe B2 was like night and day. The BlinkMe B2 outshined the AirPods Pro in terms of clarity, depth, and overall audio fidelity. However, it is worth mentioning that the MacBook Pro microphone stood on a whole different level altogether. Its exceptional audio capture capabilities surpassed both the AirPods and the BlinkMe B2, delivering an unparalleled recording experience.
While the Saramonic BlinkMe offers several impressive features, it does have a drawback when it comes to handling plosives. In comparison to other devices such as the AirPods, MacBook Pro, and even the Hollyland Lark M1 Duo, the BlinkMe falls short in effectively managing plosive sounds during recording. This means that users should exercise caution and be mindful of this limitation when using BlinkMe for recording purposes.
Intuitive Touch Controls on Saramonic's BlinkMe B2
The standout feature of the Saramonic BlinkMe B2 is its innovative touchscreen system. This cutting-edge technology is showcased in both the transmitters and the receiver, offering users a seamless and intuitive experience. With the built-in touchscreens, navigating and customizing the display menus on each device has never been easier. Whether adjusting audio levels, selecting frequencies, or managing other settings, the touchscreen system ensures effortless control and customization. This feature sets the BlinkMe B2 apart from its competitors, making it a must-have for professionals and enthusiasts alike.
Initially, I was skeptical about the touchscreen, considering it to be just another gimmick without any real benefits for the user. I believed it would only add another screen to look at, complicating the user experience. However, to my surprise, I gradually adapted to and even preferred the touchscreen over conventional buttons with varying LED colors indicating active settings.
The touchscreen offers a more intuitive and user-friendly interface, allowing for easier navigation and control. It eliminates the need to memorize the functions of each button and simplifies the overall operation. While my initial skepticism may have been unwarranted, I now appreciate the convenience and efficiency that the touchscreen provides.
The ability to swipe up or down to change settings and adjust the gain slider directly on the transmitter has turned out to be a surprisingly useful feature. However, the concern about accidentally touching it while recording is valid. Fortunately, Saramonic has thoughtfully included a screen-lock feature to prevent such mishaps. It is clear that I will need to make it a habit to activate this screen lock to ensure uninterrupted recording sessions.
The Saramonic BlinkMe B2 is an exceptional recording device that offers users the flexibility to record in various channels, such as stereo, mono, and a safety channel. The inclusion of a safety channel is a remarkable feature as it ensures that the audio remains undistorted and free from clipping. These separate track records at a lower volume, acting as a safeguard against any potential audio distortion. With the BlinkMe B2, users can effortlessly switch between different channel options, allowing for greater control over their recordings and ensuring optimal audio quality.
I truly appreciate the inclusion of a safety channel in the Saramonic microphone system. This feature often goes unnoticed in other microphone systems, but it proves to be invaluable, particularly for novice videographers. The safety channel acts as a backup, ensuring that even if the main audio recording encounters issues or fails, there is still a secondary audio source available. This can save the day in situations where capturing clear and reliable audio is crucial. Kudos to Saramonic for recognizing the importance of this feature and including it in their microphone system.
In addition to the channel selection, one can also activate the auto-recording function, which initiates the system's onboard recording as soon as the transmitter is powered on. While this feature is convenient, I personally don't anticipate it being utilized extensively since most individuals would likely prefer to adjust their audio settings prior to recording. However, I can envision it being particularly useful in spontaneous and time-sensitive situations where immediate recording is necessary.
BlinkMe B2 – Long-lasting Power for Uninterrupted Recording
Saramonic, a leading audio equipment manufacturer, has recently introduced a remarkable feature in its transmitters and receivers. With an impressive battery life of up to nine hours for the transmitters and 24 hours for the receiver, users can now enjoy uninterrupted audio recording for extended periods. Additionally, the receiver has the unique capability of extending each transmitter's battery life by an additional 4.5 hours.
This innovative feature not only ensures that users can capture high-quality audio without any interruptions but also provides convenience and flexibility. Moreover, the receiver serves as a charging dock for each transmitter, allowing for both efficient charging and compact storage. With Saramonic's advanced technology, professionals and enthusiasts can now be ready to capture audio at a moment's notice.
Although I haven't had the opportunity to exhaust the system's battery completely, I must admit that it charges quite rapidly. Once connected to a power source, the receiver's display conveniently showcases the current battery percentage for all three devices. Additionally, it uses a clever visual indicator, displaying a red or green icon based on the level of charge each device currently holds. This thoughtful addition adds a touch of convenience and user-friendliness that I wouldn't have anticipated.
Saramonic BlinkMe B2 – Compact Convenience on the Go
I am quite disappointed with the storage system design of the BlinkMe B2 by Saramonic. While I appreciate the convenience of the receiver doubling as a charging hub for the transmitters, I find the need for an additional case to be excessive. The size of this extra case is disproportionate to the actual equipment it is meant to hold. It would have been more practical and user-friendly if the storage system had been designed to be more compact and efficient.
One major drawback of the system is the need for more functionality in the included case. While it provides a space to store cables and accessories, it fails to offer additional features. This is a significant flaw as it limits the portability of the system. Although the actual device can easily fit in a pocket, it is not advisable to carry it around without any protective covering. Thus, the case's lack of usefulness is a major inconvenience for users who require a convenient and portable solution.
Enhanced Versatility with Saramonic BlinkMe B2
Saramonic has gone above and beyond in providing additional accessories for their BlinkMe B2 wireless microphone system. One notable inclusion is a set of magnetic clips that effortlessly attach to the back of the transmitters. This feature provides users with the flexibility to either clip the transmitters securely onto clothing or attach them discreetly with a magnet through a shirt.
Moreover, Saramonic has also included a cold shoe mount for the receiver, enabling users to mount it conveniently on a camera or other compatible devices. These thoughtful additions enhance the overall user experience and demonstrate Saramonic's commitment to providing practical and versatile solutions for its customers.
While I appreciate the concept of using clips to secure the transmitter, I have to admit that I am not a big fan of them. In my experience, the transmitter seems to be a bit too heavy for the clips to realistically keep it in place. There have been instances where the transmitter has slipped out of the clip and caused inconvenience. However, I must commend the designers for the magnetic attachments they have provided as alternatives.
These attachments are incredibly well-designed and ensure that the transmitter stays exactly where it is supposed to be. The magnets are strong and reliable, giving me peace of mind that I won't have to worry about the transmitter coming loose during use. Overall, while the clips may not be ideal, the magnetic attachments more than makeup for it.
The inclusion of a windscreen for each transmitter by Saramonic is a feature that I find incredibly frustrating. Despite their intention to reduce wind noise, these windshields prove to be unnecessarily difficult to attach to the microphone. The process of aligning them in the slot is quite challenging due to their lack of visibility, making it a cumbersome task. In my opinion, these windshields are among the least user-friendly accessories I have encountered. I strongly suggest that Saramonic consider making some adjustments for the next version in order to enhance the user experience.
Value and Alternatives for Saramonic BlinkMe B2
The Saramonic BlinkMe B2, priced at around $250, may not fit everyone's budget. However, for an additional $100, the DJI mic is considered the gold standard among wireless mics. While the Saramonic BlinkMe B2 may be a more affordable option, the DJI mic offers superior quality and performance, making it worth the extra investment. It is widely regarded as the top choice for those seeking professional-grade wireless audio solutions. Therefore, if budget allows, the DJI mic is highly recommended for those who prioritize exceptional audio quality.
If you're looking for a more affordable option, the Hollyland Lark M1 DUO is a great choice. Priced $100 less than its competitors, this wireless microphone system not only offers significant improvements in sound quality but also provides excellent portability. With its compact design, the M1 DUO is incredibly easy to carry with you wherever you go. While it may lack some features like displays or a touchscreen, it still delivers impressive performance without breaking the bank. For those on a budget, the Hollyland Lark M1 DUO is definitely worth considering.
BlinkMe B2: Touchscreen Excellence by Saramonic
In my opinion, I would definitely recommend the Saramonic BlinkMe B2. While there may be other options available that are superior or more affordable, Saramonic stands out from the crowd by incorporating a unique feature that I have yet to see in other wireless microphone devices – a customizable touchscreen. This addition adds a new level of convenience and control, allowing users to easily adjust settings and customize their microphone to suit their specific needs. Despite the presence of better and cheaper alternatives, the Saramonic Blink B2's innovative touchscreen functionality sets it apart and makes it worth considering for those seeking a wireless microphone solution.
The Saramonic BlinkMe B2 may not be suitable for everyone, but it is definitely worth considering if you are someone who enjoys having a screen to look at and flip through. Priced at $250, this device offers a solid and innovative option. Its screen provides a convenient and user-friendly experience, allowing users to easily navigate through the device's features. Whether you are a content creator or simply enjoy capturing moments, the Saramonic BlinkMe B2 can enhance your overall experience.
