Saramonic has launched the TC‑NEO, a compact wi-fi timecode generator designed to maintain multi-camera and recorder setups in sync on skilled shoots. Its standout characteristic is a high-precision oscillator rated at ±0.05 ppm, or lower than one body of drift over 48 hours, and an elective 3-unit package, which features a charging case that powers and syncs all three units directly. The Saramonic TC-NEO helps a number of sync strategies, offering flexibility throughout varied workflows, and integrates with the Saramonic K9 wi-fi audio system, bringing timecode right into a full location sound setup. Let’s take a better look.
Saramonic is a world audio model established in 2012, specializing in sound, pure and easy. Simply final week, the Saramonic Air was launched – a dual-channel, wi-fi microphone for fast shoots, which we mentioned within the newest Focus Test podcast. Additionally launched this yr was the Saramonic K9 Audio System, which transmits within the ultra-wide UHF band as an alternative of the usually used 2.4 GHz band.
A number of syncing choices
As much as 48 models may be paired wirelessly over Bluetooth utilizing the Saramonic System app or synced with the K9 UHF audio system. If Bluetooth isn’t obtainable, models can pair immediately over native 2.4 GHz wi-fi, which may be helpful in environments the place telephones aren’t permitted or battery life is restricted. Wired jam sync can also be supported through 3.5 mm enter from an exterior supply, and the TC‑NEO integrates with the K9 Audio System for customers already working with that setup.
A number of sync choices. Picture credit score: Saramonic
Along with sync strategies, the TC‑NEO affords three operational modes: Grasp Run, Auto Jam, and Jam As soon as and Lock. This provides customers management over how timecode is maintained all through the day. As much as eight user-selectable sync teams are supported, which may be useful when working throughout a number of groups or parallel productions. The Bluetooth app affords distant management at distances as much as 250 toes (76 meters), whereas 2.4GHz native syncing works reliably inside a 40-meter vary.
Constructed for precision
The TC‑NEO outputs SMPTE‑12M timecode (based mostly on the SMPTE-12M customary) as both linear LTC or audio TC and is appropriate with most cameras and recorders. A locking 3.5 mm TRS cable is included for traditional connections, whereas elective adapters, reminiscent of BNC, LEMO, USB-C, or Sony Multi, are additionally obtainable. It handles a broad vary of manufacturing body charges, together with 23.98, 24, 25, 29.97, 29.97DF, 30, 47.95, 48, 50, 59.94, 59.94DF, and 60 fps, making it adaptable to each cinematic and broadcast workflows.
The unit contains a built-in microphone that data ambient reference audio to the precise observe whereas sending timecode to the left, offering a pure sync level in publish when wanted (when working with claps, slates, or different visible cues, this may be fairly useful). The interior TCXO is rated at a remarkably correct ±0.05 ppm, leading to lower than one body of drift over 48 hours, which locations it among the many extra exact compact timecode turbines at the moment obtainable.
Clear OLED show. Picture credit score: Saramonic
Show and controls
The TC‑NEO contains a front-facing 1.1-inch OLED display screen that shows sync standing, battery stage, body charge, and different fundamental info. Navigation is dealt with utilizing a textured dial on the facet of the unit, which helps you to management the settings immediately with out requiring an app connection.
Distinctive charging package
The Saramonic TC-NEO is on the market as a single unit or in a package that features a charging case for 3. The case provides energy and syncs all three units with the press of a button. Every TC‑NEO has a 1150 mAh lithium‑polymer battery for as much as 22 hours of runtime. The 6000 mAh case battery can recharge all three models in about 5 hours and gives roughly 1.4 full cost cycles when used unplugged. With USB‑C passthrough, runtime extends as much as 48 hours (the utmost when all three models are docked). This bundled charging and sync strategy is uncommon in timecode methods, which generally depend on particular person charging and handbook sync.
High of unit. Picture credit score: Saramonic
Key specs
TC – NEO
Timecode Commonplace: SMPTE‑12M (Linear TC & Audio TC)
Accuracy: ±0.05 ppm (lower than 1 body drift over 48 hours)
Sync Strategies: Bluetooth (Saramonic App), Native Wi-fi (2.4 GHz), Wired
Battery Life: 22 hours (1150 mAh Li‑Po)
Charging Time: 2 hours (through USB‑C)
Inputs/Outputs: 3.5 mm port
Show: 1.1″ OLED
Weight & Measurement: 42.5 g (1.5 oz); 49 × 37 × 19 mm (1.93 × 1.46 × 0.75 in)
Constructed-in Mic: Omnidirectional
Charging Case – TC‑NEO package
Battery Capability: 6000 mAh (Li‑ion)
Energy Provide: USB-C Port
Recharges: 1.4 full cycles for 3 models
Charging Time: 5 hours (5 V 2 A through USB‑C)
Working Temperature: 0°C to 50°C
Weight & Measurement: 265 g (9.35 oz); 182.7 × 65 × 41.5 mm (7.19 × 2.56 × 1.63 in)
Adhesive hook-and-loop for attachment. Picture credit score: Saramonic
Included equipment and expandability
The package ships with TRS-to-TRS and USB-C-to-USB-C connections, in addition to two timecode cables that cowl the commonest use circumstances. For extra superior setups, extra cables can be found individually. Mounting choices embody chilly shoe adapters, threaded 1/4″-20 mounts, and adhesive hook-and-loop strips. Every system comes with a silicone sleeve for impression safety and fast identification (three are included within the package, and 5 extra colours are offered individually).
The three-pack package with charging case. Picture credit score: Saramonic
It will likely be fascinating to see how this Saramonic timecode generator stacks up in opposition to established options from Tentacle Sync, Deity or Ambient.
Worth and availability
The Saramonic TC-NEO Timecode Generator is on the market now for preorder and is priced at $149 for a single unit and $494 for the 3-pack package. For extra info, please go to the Saramonic web site.
Is timecode integration with a wi-fi audio system one thing you’ve used? What’s your largest frustration with present timecode setups? Tell us within the feedback beneath.
