Saramonic K9 Audio System Debuts with Ultra-Wide UHF Transmission

The Saramonic K9 System represents the company’s entry into higher-end professional audio. The K9 system transmits in the UHF band instead of the 2.4GHz band commonly used by creator-oriented products.

Crowded environments and signal-jammed film sets require a more robust protocol than the 2.4GHz spectrum can provide. That’s why Saramonic chose to use UHF (Ultra High Frequency) for their new microphone platform. They are also touting 130 dB of dynamic range to better handle loud sounds and quiet whispers.

Saramonic K9 Audio System uses ultra-wide UHF

When you have a film set full of wireless signals, it can be easy to encounter interference. This is why mics that operate on the increasingly popular 2.4GHz frequency can run into issues in crowded environments. The Saramonic K9 Audio System uses the “ultra-wide 550–960 MHz UHF spectrum” and proprietary “LNA” technology to achieve what they claim as “global compatibility and superior interference resistance for reliable audio transmission.” This beefed-up signal is accompanied by a robust physical construction, as well.

Industry-leading dynamic range and 32-bit float

Dynamic range is the next big feature on the list. Saramonic claims the system delivers 130 db of dynamic range. On their website, they show a video being shot where a woodworker uses a bandsaw and then hand tools. The system is designed to capture both high and low sound levels without distortion or loss of detail. By combining this dynamic range with the 32-bit float recording, operators should be able to work without the stress of worrying about clipping.

Onboard recording

The K9 features a 32GB memory card (switchable up to 128GB) for on-board recording in the TX unit. However, because of patent issues in the US, you can’t use wireless transmission and internal recording simultaneously, but you can use them independently. Also, if you take the kit outside of the US, the app recognizes the GPS, and you can use these two features simultaneously.

Minature Lav Mic – 3mm

Saramonic wanted to include a mic that worked well for sound recordists who needed to hide lavs. The tiny 3mm “Miniature Lav Mic” is dust, water, and pull-resistant and is easy to hide under a costume. It also features IP67 dust and water resistance and Kevlar®-reinforced cabling.

Saramonic system app and timecode

Saramonic has put together an app that connects to the K9 system and generates a timecode. The app can control up to 48 devices. You’ll be able to sleep K9 devices and even update their firmware through the app, but it is important to remember that “K9 systems sold and operated in the US cannot transmit wirelessly and record simultaneously.”

Universal cable compatibility

The K9 System offers solid compatibility for connections. You can use USB-C to USB-C, 3.5mm TRS to XLR, or 3.5mm TRS to TRS. It’s good to see that Saramonic has worked to make their gear as broadly compatible as possible.

Price and availability

The Saramonic K9 Audio System will retail for $999.99 in the US. The Global Version will sell for €999.00 (including 19% VAT) / GBP £949 (incl. VAT)

It is available now for pre-order through B&H. Saramonic anticipates shipping around April 11th. For more information, visit Saramonic.

What do you think about the K9 system? For potential US users, do the restrictions caused by patent limitations give you pause? Let us know in the comments!