Lectrosonics handles the heat in the rainforest
Published: ASIA
BORNEO: When called upon for a project with the Smithsonian Channel in Borneo’s equatorial rainforest, Fauzan Lukman was confident that Lectrosonics digital hybrid wireless devices could withstand the humidity and temperatures of up to 39-degrees Celsius. An experienced sound mixer, Mr Lukman has been utilising Lectrosonics equipment for over a decade, working on corporate videos, commercials and film.
‘For me, Lectrosonics equipment is the right choice for any environment as it’s tough,’ said Mr Lukman. ‘I've probably used it in the hottest of temperatures, and in the rainforest it can pretty much turn from hot sun to heavy rain in an instant. Reliability is critical when you are deep in the jungle. I don’t have to worry when using Lectrosonics equipment.’
For this project, Mr Lukman brought along a Lectrosonics Venue, using it in ratio diversity mode, which he stated allowed him to gain more critical reception, as it was configured with six VRT modules to enable radio diversity across three channels. He also made use of Sanken COS-11 lavalier microphones that were paired Lectrosonics UM400 wireless belt pack transmitters and for use on a boom pole, he employed a Sanken CS-3e shotgun mic with a UH400 plug-on transmitter fitted. ‘The older Lectrosonics U series transmitters are still rock solid,’ Mr Lukman noted.
‘I was first introduced to Lectrosonics gear at my previous employer in 2005,’ Mr Lukman continued. ‘When I left in 2012 to start my own company, I knew nothing else would do for my wireless use because of Lectrosonics’ reliability and availability. On this project, even in high temperatures, the Venue stayed up and running and I had zero problems with it. It can give me up to six receivers and I don't need to fill my bag with an antenna distribution system that adds the weight advantage, compared to having six individual receivers in my bag. I also use a power distribution system so I can power up my recorder and my Venue with the same battery.’
Also taking along an ALP650 amplified directional antenna and two SNA600 passive omni antennas, Mr Lukman found that he didn’t need to use the ALP650. ‘The two SNA600 passive omni antennas were enough for the job,’ he added.