Sony ECM-W3 Reference guide

Help Guide
Wireless Microphone
ECM-W3 / ECM-W3S
Use this Help Guide when you have issues or questions on how to use your wireless microphone.
This Help Guide is provided commonly for two models: ECM-W3 and ECM-W3S. For illustrations applied to the
descriptions common to both models, those of ECM-W3 are used.
Compatible cameras
This unit is compatible with a camera that has a Multi Interface Shoe such as a Sony Interchangeable Lens Digital
Camera.
- Even if your camera has a Multi Interface Shoe, you may be unable to use it with this unit or some functions may not
work.
- The receiver and the microphone of this unit are factory-set to communicate with each other. Therefore, operations
usually needed for Bluetooth devices such as pairing and passkey entry are not necessary. With any Bluetooth device
other than the receiver and the microphone of this unit, on the other hand, communication is not possible.
For camera models compatible with this unit, view the following. (Another window will open.)
- Compatible models with ECM-W3
- Compatible models with ECM-W3S
When the message “This accessory is not supported by the device and cannot be used.” is
displayed on the camera:
View here.
Locating parts and controls
Preparations
Unpacking
Charging the built-in batteries
Attaching the receiver to a camera
Connecting the receiver to a computer or a smartphone
Attaching the microphone to clothing
Attaching the wind screen
Attaching the connector protect holder/stand
Recording
About the mode switch (ECM-W3)
About the SAFETY button
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Recording
Recording with an external microphone
Lamp indications
About the pickup pattern and the frequency response
About this unit
Notes on use
Bluetooth® Wireless Communication Technology
Specifications
Trademarks
When the message “This accessory is not supported by the device and cannot be used.” is displayed on
the camera:
When the receiver and/or the microphone does not start working or cannot be charged
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Help Guide
Wireless Microphone
ECM-W3 / ECM-W3S
Locating parts and controls
Receiver
ECM-W3
ECM-W3S
Slide switch (ANALOG/OFF/DIGITAL)
Select “ANALOG” (analog audio output), “OFF” (power off), or “DIGITAL” (digital audio output).
If your camera is compatible with the digital audio interface of the Multi Interface Shoe, set the switch to
“DIGITAL.”
Digital signal transmission from the receiver to the camera has the following merits over analog signal
transmission that is enabled by the switch being set to “ANALOG.”
Audio recording with less noises
Less audio delay during recording
Recording with 24-bit audio (only available in combination with the compatible camera)
Note
1.
3

Movies recorded with 24-bit audio may not be played back normally on devices or software incompatible with 24-bit
audio, resulting in unexpectedly loud volumes or no sound.
If your camera is not compatible with the digital audio interface of the Multi Interface Shoe, set the switch to
“ANALOG.”
When the message “This accessory is not supported by the device and cannot be used.” is displayed on the
camera, set the switch to “ANALOG.”
If this does not help, see here.
When a TRS audio cable with the 3.5 mm diameter plug (commercially available) is connected, the receiver
outputs analog signals via the cable.
When a device with a USB audio input capability is connected, the receiver outputs digital signals.
When you do not intend to use the receiver, set the switch to “OFF” to conserve the battery power.
Mode switch (SEP/MIX) (ECM-W3)
By selecting a receiver mode with this switch before you start video recording with the camera, you can make
recordings with audio from either of the two microphones individually as the left or right channel audio; or recordings
with mixed audio from the two microphones.
2.
Multi Interface foot3.
LINK (LINK1/LINK2) lamp (ECM-W3)
LINK lamp (ECM-W3S)
Indicates the connection state between the receiver and the microphone.
Hint
On the nameplate under the clip of the microphone, you will find either the number “1” or “2” indicated for microphone
identification. The number “1” indicates the microphone No. 1; and the number “2” indicates the microphone No. 2. To identify
which microphone connection is active with the receiver, check the state of the LINK1 lamp for the microphone No. 1 and the
LINK2 lamp for the microphone No. 2 on the receiver. (Applicable to ECM-W3)
4.
Power lamp (Green: Powered, Orange: Charging the battery)
Indicates the power state of the receiver or the battery charge state.
When the power lamp stays blinking in orange, battery charging is needed.
5.
Charging connector
Supplies power to the receiver for battery charging via the charging case.
6.
SAFETY lamp
Lights in yellow when the receiver goes into SAFETY mode and goes out when the receiver comes out of the mode.
7.
SAFETY button
Pressing and holding the SAFETY button for about 2 seconds places the receiver into SAFETY mode.
For details, see About the SAFETY button.
8.
USB Type-C® port
Connect to a power source with a USB Type-C cable (commercially available) for charging the built-in battery of the
receiver and/or for supplying power to the receiver.
This port can be connected to a device with a USB audio input capability, such as a computer or a smartphone, for
audio recording as well.
9.
Microphone out jack
Connect to the microphone in jack on the camera with a TRS audio cable with the 3.5 mm diameter plug
(commercially available) for audio recording.
10.
Connector Protect Holder/Stand
Attached to the receiver at the time of purchase.
11.
4

Microphone
Screw hole for tripod attachment (1/4 in. in diameter)12.
LINK lamp
Indicates the connection state between the receiver and the microphone.
Hint
On the nameplate under the clip of the microphone, you will find either the number “1” or “2” indicated for microphone
identification. The number “1” indicates the microphone No. 1; and the number “2” indicates the microphone No. 2. To identify
which microphone connection is active with the receiver, check the state of the LINK1 lamp for the microphone No. 1 and the
LINK2 lamp for the microphone No. 2 on the receiver. (Applicable to ECM-W3)
1.
Power lamp (Green: Powered, Orange: Charging the battery)
Indicates the power state of the microphone or the battery charge state.
When the power lamp stays blinking in orange, battery charging is needed.
2.
Power switch
When you do not intend to use the microphone, select “OFF” with this switch to conserve the battery power.
3.
ATT switch
Select the option suitable for the audio recording volume. To record loud sounds while minimizing distortion, select
“20dB.” To record quiet sounds, select “0dB.” “10dB” is the recommended volume level for recording human voices. It
is recommended that you select an option while monitoring the volume level meter on the camera or the audio
recording volume with headphones.
4.
Internal microphone5.
External microphone input jack (monaural)
Connecting an external microphone (not supplied) to this jack automatically switches the audio input source to the
connected external microphone.
6.
Filter switch (NC/LC/OFF)
NC: Select this option to use the noise cut filter function. Unpleasant noises are effectively eliminated by digital signal
processing. If the sound quality does not seem appropriate, select “OFF.”
7.
5

Charging case
ECM-W3
ECM-W3S
Note
LC: Select this option to use the low cut filter function. Unwanted noises, such as wind noises, air-conditioning
noises, and vibration noises, are minimized.
OFF: Select this option to disable either of the filter functions.
Charging connector
Supplies power to the microphone for battery charging via the charging case.
8.
Clip
Use this clip for attaching the microphone to your clothing.
9.
Wind screen
Attach the wind screen to the microphone to reduce noises caused by breath or strong wind.
10.
Detection pin
Detects when the receiver and the microphone are both housed in the charging case.
1.
Charging connector2.
Charging lamp
Indicates the battery charging state of the charging case.
3.
USB Type-C® port
Connect to a power source with a USB Type-C cable (commercially available) for charging the built-in batteries of the
charging case as well as of the receiver and the microphone housed in the case.
4.
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To prevent a malfunction, do not deliberately push in the detection pin and/or any of the charging connectors unless you intend to
place the receiver and the microphone in the charging case.
Related Topic
Charging the built-in batteries
Attaching the wind screen
Attaching the connector protect holder/stand
About the mode switch (ECM-W3)
About the SAFETY button
Recording
Lamp indications
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Help Guide
Wireless Microphone
ECM-W3 / ECM-W3S
Unpacking
If you find anything missing, please contact your dealer.
The number in the parentheses indicates the quantity.
ECM-W3
Receiver (1)
Connector Protect Holder/Stand (attached) (1)
Microphone (2)
Charging case (1)
Wind screen (2)
Pouch (1)
Set of printed documentation
ECM-W3S
Receiver (1)
Connector Protect Holder/Stand (attached) (1)
Microphone (1)
Charging case (1)
Wind screen (1)
Pouch (1)
Set of printed documentation
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Help Guide
Wireless Microphone
ECM-W3 / ECM-W3S
Charging the built-in batteries
Each of the receiver, the microphone, and the charging case contains a built-in lithium-ion rechargeable battery. Connect
the charging case and a power source with a USB Type-C cable (commercially available) for battery charging.
Note
Before charging the built-in batteries, be sure to turn off the receiver and the microphone.
Battery charging can go on while the receiver and the microphone are turned on. However, placing the receiver and the
microphone in the charging case automatically turns them off. This means that the next time you use the receiver and the
microphone, you must select “OFF” once with the slide switch on the receiver and with the power switch on the microphone, and
then turn them back on.
In the event that the receiver and the microphone are removed from the charging case after battery charging is conducted while
the receiver and the microphone are turned on, placing them back in the charging case without changing the switch selection
does not start battery charging.
Place the receiver and the microphone in the charging case.
Note
Be sure to push in the microphone until it clicks into place. When the microphone is properly seated, its power lamp lights in
orange, indicating that the battery charging has started.
ECM-W3
ECM-W3S
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About the battery charging time
In the event of charging the built-in batteries while the receiver and the microphone are housed in the charging case, the
built-in batteries of the receiver, the microphone, and the charging case are simultaneously charged via the USB
connection.
About 10 minutes of battery charging enables about 30 minutes of use of the receiver and the microphone.
Time period required to fully charge the built-in batteries of the receiver and the microphone: about 2 hours*
Time period required to fully charge the built-in battery of the charging case: about 2 hours and 30 minutes*
Charging the built-in batteries of the receiver and the microphone while on the go
The charging case contains a rechargeable battery. By having it charged in advance, you can charge the batteries of the
receiver and the microphone when you have no access to a power source, for example, while you are on the go.
ECM-W3
The fully charged battery power of the charging case is sufficient for about 1 time charging for all the built-in batteries
of the receiver, the microphone No. 1, and the microphone No. 2 from the empty state to the fully charged state.
ECM-W3S
The fully charged battery power of the charging case is sufficient for about 2 times charging for the built-in batteries
of the receiver and the microphone from the empty state to the fully charged state.
Notes on charging the built-in batteries of the receiver and the microphone while on the go
In the event that the charging lamp on the charging case is blinking in orange when the receiver and the microphone are
removed from the charging case, the rechargeable battery of the charging case is running out of power. Charge the
battery of the charging case.
When the receiver and the microphone are properly housed in the charging case, close the lid of the case.
Connect the USB Type-C port on the back of the charging case and a power source with a USB Type-C
cable for battery charging.
The charging lamp ( ) on the charging case lights in orange, indicating that battery charging has started.
When the built-in battery of the charging case is fully charged, the charging lamp on the charging case goes out
regardless of the battery charging states of the receiver and the microphone housed in the charging case. When
the USB Type-C cable is disconnected at this point, battery charging for the receiver and the microphone continues
with the battery power of the charging case.
2
Time period required for charging the empty rechargeable batteries via the USB charging port (CDP - Charging Downstream Port) on the
computer to full capacity. It may vary depending on the using condition.
*
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Hint
To check the battery states of the receiver and the microphone, open the lid of the charging case and see the indication of each
power lamp.
For details, see Lamp indications.
To charge the built-in battery of the receiver with the USB Type-C cable
You can alternatively charge the built-in battery of the receiver without using the charging case as described below.
Note
Do not apply excessive force to the receiver when you connect the receiver to a computer. This may cause damage to the
receiver or the computer.
Connecting the receiver to a laptop computer that is not connected to an AC power source may deplete the battery power of the
computer. Do not leave the receiver connected to the computer for an extended period of time.
Use of any customized or hand-built computer is not guaranteed for battery charging or for connection with the receiver.
Depending on the type of USB device used in combination with the receiver, the receiver may fail to operate.
Not all the computers are guaranteed for operation with the receiver.
Battery charging via the USB connection may not be possible when the connected computer goes into standby (sleep) or
hibernate mode. If this is the case, change the computer settings and then charge the battery all over again.
In the event that this unit is kept unused for an extended period of time, the amount of power that each rechargeable battery can
charge may be reduced. To make the battery capable of charging sufficient power, let the battery charge and discharge the power
repeatedly for a few times. In the event that you store this unit for an extended period of time, charge the batteries once every 6
months to protect them against over-discharging.
In the event that this unit is kept unused for an extended period of time, it may take longer to charge the built-in batteries.
In the event that any of the rechargeable batteries of this unit fails and the failure is detected while battery charging is in progress,
the charging lamp on the charging case stays blinking in orange.
It is recommended that the battery be charged when the ambient temperature is in the range of 15 °C to 35 °C (59 °F to 95 °F).
Efficient battery charging may not be possible when the temperature is outside this range.
If the failure persists, consult your nearest Sony dealer.
In the event of charging the built-in batteries after this unit is kept unused for an extended period of time, the power lamp or the
charging lamp may not immediately light in orange. Wait for a while until the power lamp or the charging lamp lights in orange.
A significantly short battery life indicates that the rechargeable battery should be replaced with a new one. Consult your nearest
Sony dealer.
Keep this unit against exposure to extreme temperature changes, direct sunlight, moisture, sand, dust, and electrical shocks.
Never leave this unit in a parked vehicle.
When connecting the receiver or the charging case to a computer, be sure to use only the USB Type-C cable and connect them
directly. Indirect connection, for example, via a USB hub fails to charge the built-in battery.
Related Topic
Lamp indications
Open the lid of the USB Type-C port and connect a USB Type-C cable to the port.1.
Connect the cable to a power source, such as a computer that is up and running, for battery charging.
The power lamp on the receiver lights in orange.
2.
When battery charging is finished, disconnect the USB Type-C cable from the receiver.
Wait until the power lamp goes out to indicate that charging is finished (the battery is fully charged).
3.
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Help Guide
Wireless Microphone
ECM-W3 / ECM-W3S
Attaching the receiver to a camera
Attach the receiver to a camera.
Note
Before attaching the receiver to the camera, charge the built-in battery of the receiver sufficiently enough.
Before attaching/removing the receiver to/from the camera, be sure to turn off the receiver and the camera.
Remove the connector protect holder/stand from the receiver.
Slightly push down and hold the retention latch ( ) on the connector protect holder/stand, and then pull out the
receiver.
1
Align the Multi Interface foot of the receiver with the Multi Interface Shoe on the camera and attach the
receiver.
Note
Firmly insert the receiver all the way into the Multi Interface Shoe of the camera.
If the built-in flash on the camera is popped up, put it down.
2
Check the position of the slide switch on the receiver.
3
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To remove the receiver
Slide the receiver in the direction opposite to the one for attachment.
Related Topic
Charging the built-in batteries
5-055-395-11(1) Copyright 2023 Sony Corporation
If your camera is compatible with the digital audio interface of the Multi Interface Shoe, make sure that the switch is
set to “DIGITAL.” If not, set the switch to “ANALOG.”
If the switch is not set correctly, a compatibility message will be displayed on the camera. For camera models
compatible with the digital audio interface of the Multi Interface Shoe, visit the website at:
ECM-W3
https://www.sony.net/dics/ecmw3/
ECM-W3S
https://www.sony.net/dics/ecmw3s/
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Help Guide
Wireless Microphone
ECM-W3 / ECM-W3S
Connecting the receiver to a computer or a smartphone
Connect the receiver to a computer or a smartphone.
Note
For operations on the computer or smartphone, refer to the operating instructions of your device.
For audio recording with the receiver and the connected computer or smartphone, your device must be compatible with USB
Audio Class 1.0.
When connecting the receiver to the computer or smartphone, be sure to check the port type on your device and use a
compatible cable or an appropriate adaptor.
Before attaching the receiver to the computer or smartphone, charge the built-in battery of the receiver sufficiently enough.
Before attaching/removing the receiver to/from the computer or smartphone, be sure to turn off the receiver.
Related Topic
Charging the built-in batteries
5-055-395-11(1) Copyright 2023 Sony Corporation
Connect the receiver and the computer or smartphone with a USB Type-C cable (commercially available).
1
Select “ANALOG” or “DIGITAL” with the slide switch (ANALOG/OFF/DIGITAL) on the receiver.
When the receiver and the computer or smartphone are connected via the USB connection, the receiver outputs
digital signals regardless of the switch selection: “ANALOG” or “DIGITAL.”
2
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Help Guide
Wireless Microphone
ECM-W3 / ECM-W3S
Attaching the microphone to clothing
Attach the microphone to your clothing.
Note
Before attaching the microphone to your clothing, charge the built-in battery of the microphone sufficiently enough.
Related Topic
Charging the built-in batteries
5-055-395-11(1) Copyright 2023 Sony Corporation
Attach the microphone to your desired location on the clothing, such as a breast pocket, with the clip.
Be sure to attach it to the location best-suited for the recording or sound conditions.
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Help Guide
Wireless Microphone
ECM-W3 / ECM-W3S
Attaching the wind screen
Attach the wind screen to the microphone to reduce noises caused by breath or strong wind.
When carrying around the wind screen (ECM-W3)
As illustrated below, you can couple two wind screens together for carrying around.
Note
If the wind screen is wet, remove it from the microphone and let it dry in the shade.
When attaching or removing the wind screen, be sure to hold its chassis.
5-055-395-11(1) Copyright 2023 Sony Corporation
Fit the projected portion of the wind screen into the external microphone input jack on the microphone.
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Help Guide
Wireless Microphone
ECM-W3 / ECM-W3S
Attaching the connector protect holder/stand
Before carrying around the receiver, attach the connector protect holder/stand (supplied) to the receiver.
To remove the connector protect holder/stand
Slightly push down and hold the retention latch ( ) on the connector protect holder/stand, and then pull out the receiver.
Hint
When placing the receiver away from a camera, attach the connector protect holder/stand to the receiver. Then you can place
and use the receiver on a flat surface.
The connector protect holder/stand can be screwed to a tripod through the screw hole for tripod attachment (1/4 in. in diameter)
on the connector protect holder/stand as well.
To screw the connector protect holder/stand to the tripod, use a tripod with the screw that is shorter than 5.5 mm (7/32 in.) in
length. To a tripod with the longer screw, the connector protect holder/stand cannot be secured firmly and may be damaged by
the screw.
Note
When you do not intend to use the receiver, attach the connector protect holder/stand to the Multi Interface foot for connector
protection.
Slide the Multi Interface foot of the receiver into the connector protect holder/stand until it clicks into place.
Slightly push down and hold the retention latch ( ) on the connector protect holder/stand, and then slide the
receiver into the connector protect holder/stand.
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Help Guide
Wireless Microphone
ECM-W3 / ECM-W3S
About the mode switch (ECM-W3)
Before you start video recording with the camera, select a receiver mode with the mode switch.
SEP mode
Makes recordings with audio from either of the two microphones individually as the left or right channel audio.
The audio from the microphone No. 1 is output to the left channel; and the audio from the microphone No. 2 is output
to the right channel.
When a single microphone is used for sound pickup, the audio is output as follows:
When only the microphone No. 1 is in use: The audio is output only to the left channel; and no audio is output to
the right channel.
When only the microphone No. 2 is in use: The audio is output only to the right channel; and no audio is output to
the left channel.
Hint
On the nameplate under the clip of the microphone, you will find either the number “1” or “2” indicated for microphone
identification. The number “1” indicates the microphone No. 1; and the number “2” indicates the microphone No. 2. Use this
number to distinguish the microphone No. 1 and the microphone No. 2.
MIX mode
Makes recordings with mixed audio from the two microphones.
Related Topic
Recording
Recording with an external microphone
Lamp indications
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