Preparation

General Prep
Physical Fitness
Route
Season
Direction
Safety
Food and Water
Bicycle Equipment
Camping Equipment
Bike Clothing
Sleep
Pace
Film Equip
Audio Equip
Support Team
Participation Forms

Documentary Audio Equipment

Audio Equipment

Audio equipment is an essential component of documentary filmmaking, and it is particularly important when recording dialogue or interviews. There are several types of audio equipment that you might consider using when filming a documentary of two people who are bicycling across the United States of America:

  1. Shotgun microphones: Shotgun microphones are directional microphones that capture sound from a specific direction. They are ideal for capturing clear dialogue or interviews, even in noisy or windy environments.
  2. Lavalier microphones: Lavalier microphones are small, discreet microphones that can be attached to a person’s clothing. They are ideal for capturing clear audio in situations where a person is moving around or where a microphone would be visible in the shot.
  3. Portable audio recorders: Portable audio recorders are compact devices that can be used to record high-quality audio without the need for a separate camera. They are ideal for capturing audio in situations where it might be difficult to use a microphone, such as when recording ambient sound or voiceover.
  4. Boom poles: Boom poles are long, telescoping poles that are used to position a microphone closer to a subject without it appearing in the shot. They are ideal for capturing clear audio in situations where a microphone cannot be placed directly on a person.

When choosing audio equipment, it is important to consider factors such as sound quality, ease of use, and compatibility with your camera and other equipment. You may also want to invest in accessories such as wind protection for your microphones, which can help to reduce wind noise when filming outdoors.

Lavalier microphones

Lavalier microphones are small, discreet microphones that can be attached to a person’s clothing, typically near their collar or lapel. They work by converting sound waves into electrical signals, which can then be transmitted to a recording device such as a camera or portable audio recorder.

Lavalier microphones are typically omnidirectional, which means that they can pick up sound from all directions. However, some models may have directional patterns that can help to reduce background noise or capture sound from a specific direction.

One advantage of using a lavalier microphone is that it allows the person speaking to move around freely without being tethered to a stationary microphone. This can be particularly useful in situations where the subject is engaging in physical activity, such as bicycling across the United States of America.

When using a lavalier microphone, it is important to position it correctly in order to capture clear, high-quality audio. The microphone should be placed near the subject’s mouth, but not so close that it causes distortion or popping sounds. Some lavalier microphones may come with accessories such as wind protection or clips to help secure the microphone in place.

Overall, lavalier microphones are a useful tool for capturing clear audio in a variety of documentary filming situations, including when bicycling across the United States of America.

lavalier microphone

There are many lavalier microphones available on the market, and the best one for you will depend on your specific needs and budget. Here are a few popular options to consider:

  1. Rode SmartLav+ – This is a popular choice for many filmmakers and content creators, as it offers high-quality sound and is compatible with smartphones and other devices. It also comes with a cable clip and storage pouch.
  2. Audio-Technica AT899 – This is a high-end option that offers excellent sound quality and a variety of mounting options. It is also very small and discreet, making it ideal for use in documentary filming.
  3. Sennheiser MKE 2-EW – This is a professional-grade lavalier microphone that is used by many broadcasters and filmmakers. It offers excellent sound quality and a variety of mounting options, and is designed to work with Sennheiser wireless transmitters.
  4. Shure WL185 – This is a budget-friendly option that offers good sound quality and is compatible with a variety of devices. It also comes with a cable clip and windscreen.

Ultimately, the best lavalier microphone for you will depend on your specific needs and budget. It’s a good idea to read reviews and compare specs before making a purchase.

Headsets

Sena bluetooth intercom system that fits inside a bicycle helmet

Sena is a popular brand of Bluetooth intercom systems that offer a range of products designed for use in various activities, including cycling. Sena’s Bluetooth intercom systems are designed to fit inside a bicycle helmet, making it easy for riders to communicate with each other while on the go.

The Sena intercom systems typically consist of two or more units that can be paired together using Bluetooth technology. The intercom units are built into the helmet lining, with microphones and speakers placed strategically for optimal sound quality. The units can be operated using voice commands or buttons, making it easy for riders to use while cycling.

Some of the key features of Sena’s Bluetooth intercom systems for cyclists include:

  1. Range: Sena’s intercom systems have a range of up to 1.6 km (1 mile), allowing riders to communicate with each other over long distances.
  2. Audio quality: The intercom units are equipped with noise-cancellation technology to filter out wind and other background noises, ensuring clear audio quality.
  3. Battery life: The units have a long battery life, typically lasting up to 10 hours of talk time.
  4. Compatibility: Sena’s intercom systems are compatible with a range of devices, including smartphones, GPS units, and other Bluetooth-enabled devices.
  5. Expandability: Sena’s intercom systems can be expanded to include more riders, allowing cyclists to communicate with a larger group.

Overall, Sena’s Bluetooth intercom systems for cyclists are a reliable and easy-to-use communication device that can enhance the riding experience for individuals and groups alike.

Please tell me more about the Cardo bluetooth intercom system that fits inside a bicycle helmet

Cardo is another popular brand of Bluetooth intercom systems designed for use in various activities, including cycling. Cardo’s intercom systems are designed to fit inside a bicycle helmet, making it easy for riders to communicate with each other while on the go.

The Cardo intercom systems typically consist of two or more units that can be paired together using Bluetooth technology. The intercom units are built into the helmet lining, with microphones and speakers placed strategically for optimal sound quality. The units can be operated using voice commands or buttons, making it easy for riders to use while cycling.

Some of the key features of Cardo’s Bluetooth intercom systems for cyclists include:

  1. Range: Cardo’s intercom systems have a range of up to 1.6 km (1 mile), allowing riders to communicate with each other over long distances.
  2. Audio quality: The intercom units are equipped with noise-cancellation technology to filter out wind and other background noises, ensuring clear audio quality.
  3. Battery life: The units have a long battery life, typically lasting up to 13 hours of talk time.
  4. Compatibility: Cardo’s intercom systems are compatible with a range of devices, including smartphones, GPS units, and other Bluetooth-enabled devices.
  5. Expandability: Cardo’s intercom systems can be expanded to include more riders, allowing cyclists to communicate with a larger group.

In addition to these features, Cardo also offers its unique “Dynamic Mesh Communication” (DMC) technology. DMC allows for a self-healing, fluid mesh network that can adapt to changing conditions, such as riders dropping out or coming back into range. This technology provides more reliable communication than traditional Bluetooth systems, and it allows for a more seamless riding experience.

Overall, Cardo’s Bluetooth intercom systems for cyclists offer a range of features and technologies designed to enhance the riding experience for individuals and groups alike.

Intercom systems

Fodsports is another brand of Bluetooth intercom systems that offer a range of products designed for use in various activities, including cycling. Fodsports intercom systems are designed to fit inside a bicycle helmet, making it easy for riders to communicate with each other while on the go.

The Fodsports intercom systems typically consist of two or more units that can be paired together using Bluetooth technology. The intercom units are built into the helmet lining, with microphones and speakers placed strategically for optimal sound quality. The units can be operated using voice commands or buttons, making it easy for riders to use while cycling.

Some of the key features of Fodsports Bluetooth intercom systems for cyclists include:

  1. Range: Fodsports intercom systems have a range of up to 1.2 km (0.75 miles), allowing riders to communicate with each other over long distances.
  2. Audio quality: The intercom units are equipped with noise-cancellation technology to filter out wind and other background noises, ensuring clear audio quality.
  3. Battery life: The units have a long battery life, typically lasting up to 8-12 hours of talk time.
  4. Compatibility: Fodsports intercom systems are compatible with a range of devices, including smartphones, GPS units, and other Bluetooth-enabled devices.
  5. Expandability: Fodsports intercom systems can be expanded to include more riders, allowing cyclists to communicate with a larger group.

Fodsports also offers a unique “Smart Intercom” feature that allows riders to connect and communicate with nearby Fodsports users automatically. This feature makes it easy for riders to find and connect with each other on the road.

Overall, Fodsports Bluetooth intercom systems for cyclists offer a range of features designed to enhance the riding experience for individuals and groups alike, including a relatively affordable price point.

HOw much do bluetooth intercom systems for bicyclists cost?

The cost of Bluetooth intercom systems for bicyclists can vary depending on the brand, model, and features included. Generally, prices can range from around $50 to over $300.

The more affordable options typically have a shorter range, fewer features, and may not be as reliable as more expensive options. The higher-end options often have longer ranges, noise-canceling technology, and other advanced features.

It’s important to note that some brands may offer different models with different features at different price points, so it’s important to do some research and compare options before making a purchase.

Overall, the cost of Bluetooth intercom systems for bicyclists can be seen as an investment in safety and convenience while riding in groups or communicating with other riders.

Recording The Audio Spoken on Headsets

It’s possible to add a digital recorder to a Bluetooth intercom system to record the conversations between cyclists as they ride. However, this would typically require a separate device or app to be used in conjunction with the intercom system.

Some Bluetooth intercom systems may have built-in recording functionality, while others may require a separate audio recording device or app to be connected to the intercom system. It’s important to note that recording conversations without the consent of all parties involved may be illegal in some jurisdictions, so it’s important to check local laws and regulations before using a recording device with a Bluetooth intercom system.

If you’re interested in adding a digital recorder to your Bluetooth intercom system, it’s a good idea to do some research to find a device or app that is compatible with your specific intercom system and meets your recording needs.

Which Bluetooth intercom systems have built-in recording functionality?

While most Bluetooth intercom systems do not have built-in recording functionality, there are some systems that offer this feature. Here are a few examples:

  1. Sena 10C Pro – This is a popular Bluetooth intercom system for motorcyclists that includes a built-in camera and audio recorder. It can record up to 2 hours of video and audio footage, which can be stored on a microSD card.
  2. FreedConn T-MAX – This is another Bluetooth intercom system designed for motorcyclists that includes a built-in audio recorder. It can record up to 30 minutes of audio at a time, which can be stored on the intercom’s internal memory or a microSD card.
  3. Lexin FT4 Pro – This is a Bluetooth intercom system designed for cycling that includes a built-in audio recorder. It can record up to 60 minutes of audio at a time, which can be stored on the intercom’s internal memory or a microSD card.

It’s important to note that while these intercom systems offer built-in recording functionality, it’s important to check local laws and regulations regarding recording conversations before using these features.

What are the cost of the 3 systems that you mentioned?

The cost of the three Bluetooth intercom systems with built-in recording functionality that I mentioned can vary depending on the retailer and any promotions or discounts that may be available. Here are the current approximate prices (as of my knowledge cutoff date of September 2021):

  1. Sena 10C Pro – This system typically costs around $350 to $400.
  2. FreedConn T-MAX – This system typically costs around $100 to $150.
  3. Lexin FT4 Pro – This system typically costs around $170 to $200.

Again, it’s worth noting that prices can vary and these are just approximate prices based on my knowledge cutoff date.

Synching Audio and Sound

To sync audio captured on a digital audio recorder with video shot on a mirrorless camera through a Bluetooth intercom, you will need to follow these steps:

  1. Start Recording: Start recording audio on your digital audio recorder and video on your mirrorless camera at the same time.
  2. Clap: Before you begin filming, clap your hands or make a loud noise that is visible and audible in both the audio recorder and camera footage. This will create a visual and audio cue that will help you to synchronize the audio and video later.
  3. Import Files: Import the audio and video files into your editing software. Create a new project and add the audio and video files to your timeline.
  4. Align Clips: Look for the point in the audio and video where you clapped or made the loud noise. Align the audio and video clips so that the clap or noise occurs at the same time in both clips.
  5. Adjust Sync: If the audio and video are not perfectly synchronized, you can adjust the sync by moving the audio clip slightly forward or backward in the timeline.
  6. Review and Fine-Tune: Review your footage to ensure that the audio and video are perfectly synced. If necessary, fine-tune the sync by making small adjustments until the audio and video are perfectly aligned.
  7. Export: Once you are happy with the sync, export your final video file with the synced audio.

There are also software tools available that can help you automatically synchronize audio and video, such as PluralEyes or Premiere Pro’s “Merge Clips” function. These tools can analyze the audio and video files and automatically sync them based on audio waveforms or timecode.