We recently tested the Hollyland Lark M2 wireless lavalier microphone in three scenarios: using the camera receiver, the iPhone Lightning receiver, and the USB-C receiver (which also supports newer iPhones). These tests aimed to determine the mic’s effective range and performance in a real-world setup. Here's what we found.
Distance Test Results
The Lark M2 microphone performed impressively, achieving a range of up to a football field (100 yards) in line-of-sight conditions. However, we noticed some important caveats:
Line-of-Sight Is Critical: The mic maintained a stable signal as long as there was a clear line of sight between the transmitter and receiver.
Body Interference: If the user turned around, the signal dropped out due to the human body obstructing the transmission. This highlights the importance of keeping the transmitter unobstructed during use.
These findings align with the Lark M2's claim of a 1,000ft maximum range under ideal conditions, although practical use is typically limited by environmental factors.
Key Features of the Lark M2
While the distance test is a highlight, the Lark M2 boasts several standout features that make it an excellent choice for filmmakers, vloggers, and podcasters:
Ultra-Light Design: Weighing just 9g, it's the lightest mini wireless mic on the market.
High-Quality Audio: With a 48kHz/24bit audio format and 70dB signal-to-noise ratio, it delivers studio-grade sound.
Extended Battery Life: The system offers up to 40 hours of operation with its charging case, ideal for long shoots or multiple recording sessions.
Versatile Noise Control: Features one-click noise cancellation for clear recordings, even in noisy environments.
Mono & Stereo Options: Easily switch between mono and stereo modes for different recording setups.
Plug-and-Play Functionality: Pre-paired out of the box, making setup effortless.
Receiver Comparisons
During our tests, the different receivers worked seamlessly with their respective devices, ensuring flexibility for creators using cameras, iPhones, or USB-C devices. Each receiver retained the mic’s core features and delivered consistent performance.
Conclusion
The Hollyland Lark M2 is a robust and versatile wireless lavalier microphone system with exceptional range and sound quality. While it excels in line-of-sight conditions, users should be mindful of potential signal interference caused by obstructions, such as the human body. Its portability, ease of use, and professional-grade audio make it an excellent tool for a variety of content creation needs.
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