Are you tired of manually syncing audio and video in post-production? Say goodbye to those headaches with the Tentacle Sync E MK II (Sync E) and Tentacle Sync Track E Pocket Audio Recorder (Track E). These devices provide precise and reliable synchronization of audio and video devices, making your post-production workflows more efficient and less prone to errors.
When it comes to professional audio recording and syncing, the Sync E and Track E are two powerful tools that can help you achieve high-quality results. In this post, I’m going to be taking a closer look at the pros and cons of these two tools and how they can work together to improve your audio workflow.
Lately, I’ve been focused on creating new and engaging content. From Instagram Reels to Youtube videos. When I began working on this new content, I knew I needed to purchase an efficient lavalier microphone to help record high-quality audio. I needed an audio recording device that was user-friendly, sped up my video production workflow, and was able to effortlessly sync with my camera’s video using a timecode. During my time searching for the best product, one product kept on crossing my path. Tentacle Sync’s Track E.
Track E Review: Pros and Cons
The Track E is a lavalier microphone that can embed timecode into an audio track and sync with the Sync E to provide a precise and reliable way to synchronize audio and video devices. Here are some of the pros and cons that have seen while using the Track E:
Advantages:
Precise synchronization: The Track E provides accurate synchronization of audio and video devices when paired with the Sync E, which is essential in multi-camera productions or when working with multiple audio sources. Audio synchronization can help improve your workflow efficiency during the post production.
Easy to use: The Track E is extremely user-friendly and easy to set up, even for those who are new to timecode syncing. The companion applications are compatible with the windows and ios operating systems. However, there are some issues that I will discuss later.
Compatibility: The Track E is compatible with a wide range of cameras, audio recorders, and other devices, making it a versatile tool for any production.
Battery life: The Track E has an impressive battery life of up to 35 hours, which means you can use it for extended shoots without having to worry about running out of power.
32-bit float audio: For all intents and purposes, the audio that is captured by this microphone cannot be clipped. Meaning you never have to worry about monitoring your audio levels. And as a solo-creator, this vastly improves your workflow efficiency.
For a solo content-creater, these advantages take the stress and pain out of creating videos. Additionally, I also use the lavalier microphone during wedding ceremonies. For example, as an audio backup, I will tend to mic up the officiant during the ceremony. Furthermore, if I am recording an interview, the Track E can be placed on your talent discreetly to capture high-quality audio.
Disadvantages:
Price: The Track E and Sync E is a bit pricey, which may make it difficult for some filmmakers or content creators on a tight budget. As of the time of writing this, the Track E is priced at $350 and the Sync E is priced at approximately $229.99. And to get the most out of your Track E, I highly recommend purchasing both together.
Limited features: While the Sync E provides accurate syncing, it lacks some of the advanced features of more expensive timecode generators.
Lavalier Microphones: Pros and Cons
Lavalier microphones, also known as lapel microphones, are small, discreet microphones that can be clipped onto clothing or other objects to capture high-quality audio. Here are some of the pros and cons of using lavalier microphones:
Pros:
Improved sound quality: Lavalier microphones are designed to capture clear and natural sounding audio, which is especially important when recording dialogue for film, TV, or video production.
Hands-free operation: Lavalier microphones allow the speaker or performer to be completely hands-free, which can be especially useful in situations where the speaker needs to move around or use their hands.
Discreet and unobtrusive: Lavalier microphones are small and can be easily hidden on clothing or other objects, making them ideal for situations where a microphone needs to be discreet or unobtrusive.
Versatility: Lavalier microphones can be used in a wide range of settings, including film and TV production, live performances, corporate presentations, interviews, podcasts, and more.
Cons:
Background noise: Lavalier microphones can pick up background noise, which can be distracting or reduce the overall quality of the recording.
Limited range: Lavalier microphones have a limited range, which means they may not be suitable for capturing audio from a distance.
Using the Sync E and the Track E together
While the Sync E and Track are powerful tools on their own, they can work together to improve your audio workflow even further. By using the Sync E to synchronize multiple Track E lav microphones, you can ensure that all audio sources are perfectly in sync, even in multi-camera productions or when using multiple audio sources.
Additionally, by using the Track E with a Sync E, you can capture high-quality audio that is precisely synchronized with your video footage, making post-production workflows more efficient and less prone to errors.
Who is the Track E & Sync E even for?
Since I’ve been using the Track E for so long, this has been a question that has plagued my mind. Although it is an amazing product, that I highly recommend, you have to ask yourself, is this truly needed in your workflow? If you use one camera, and record one subject, then absolutely not, this setup is a little heavy handed and not necessary! Do yourself a favor and get a simple Rode or DJI transmitter to receiver, hook it up, and call it a day. But if you find yourself multicamming frequently or you wish to place a lav microphone on numerous different talents, then the Track E and Sync E are essential tools to have in your kit!
Conclusion
Overall this is an excellent lav mic that completely changed my ability to record videos with great sounding audio. The Track E and Sync E is truly a versatile tool that should be in every creator’s bag. If it’s within your budget, I highly recommend purchasing the Track E and Sync E as soon as possible!
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