Lav mic termination issue

[fredrv]

Have decided to add on to my small audio equipment list by buying a lav microphone. I want to do some interior interviews of family members and have decided on a Countryman B6 or EMW.

However, sometime later this year (6 or 7 months) I plan on adding on a wireless system, possibly the Sennheiser G3.

My question is regarding the termination for the Countryman. Should I go with a hard wired XLR termination, which is suitable for my current needs. Or should I plan ahead and get it with the G3 wireless connection and then get a XLR adapter for the Countryman to use until I buy the G3 (if that is even an option for me).

What do you suggest to get the most use out of the lav?

Thanks for your help.

 

[Noel Evans]

The xlr adapters are handy to have and give you flexibility. I have one, it doesn't get used often but I'm always thankful I have it when I need it.

 

[Steve House]

Have decided to add on to my small audio equipment list by buying a lav microphone. I want to do some interior interviews of family members and have decided on a Countryman B6 or EMW.

However, sometime later this year (6 or 7 months) I plan on adding on a wireless system, possibly the Sennheiser G3.

My question is regarding the termination for the Countryman. Should I go with a hard wired XLR termination, which is suitable for my current needs. Or should I plan ahead and get it with the G3 wireless connection and then get a XLR adapter for the Countryman to use until I buy the G3 (if that is even an option for me).

What do you suggest to get the most use out of the lav?

Thanks for your help.

You could go either way. But consider if you get it with the GS wireless connector and an XLR adapter/power suppy. (Note: A simple XLR adapter won't work - you need the sort that converts the 48v phantom power to the 5v mic power the lavs require.) Then later you decide on a different manufacturer's wireless. Now you've got to rewire the thing. But if you get one hard-wired to an XLR phantom supply, when you get your wireless, for about $25 most pro audio shops like Trew or Coffey can cut the wire just above the power supply and insert an in-line breakaway connector appropriate to whatever wireless you've purchased.

By the way, don't think of the XLR adapter as a stop-gap until you get the wireless. Remember "Always use the cable whenever you are able." For sitdown interviews a hard-wired lav is much preferred. Better sound and less (like zero) chance of interference hits. Only go wireless when you really need the mobility.