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Super Compact Travel Field Recording Setup
I’ve been playing around with this setup for some time now and wanted to share what’s worked for me.
I often over pack when I go on my hikes or if im on holiday which leads me to not actually getting my recorder out and recording anything (because its too much kit and a pain in the arse). This smaller EDC (Every Day Carry) kit is much more useful for when I’m trying to capture sounds on the go.
Core Recorder: Sony PCM-M10
The heart of the setup is the Sony M10, known for incredible battery life and rock-solid reliability. Can’t find one second-hand? Try these alternatives too: Zoom H1, Sony A10, OM Systems LS-P5 or Tascam DR-05 there are plenty online for cheap.
Wind Protection
Bubblebee Windkiller SE (Small) is my go-to windshield for the M10. I occasionally swap it for the Radius version, though the Bubblebee packs smaller since it doesn’t use internal foam.
Microphones
I run Oaka Instruments Mini Verdi's. Clean sound with a low noise floor, an ideal match for ambience. I pair them with the Bubblebee Windbubble Pro (Large) or the Radius 12mm Fluffies. Bubblebee also stock the Windbubble Pro Extreme Long Haired which are excellent for very windy conditions. But these don't pack as small so I keep them in my backpack for planned field recording sessions.
Alternative Microphones (Similar to the Oaka Mini Verdi's):
- LOM Label Usi Pro
- LOM Label Micro Usi
- Serious Microphones
- Sonorus Objects
- Micbooster Clippy
- Immersive Soundscapes
I also pack a handful of Radius cable straps to keep all the cables tidy. It can become a noodle mess in the sling bag if you don't have any!
Mounting: Manfrotto Pixi Tripod
A compact, sturdy mini tripod that can even support a lightweight camera. I have used this tripod for around 2 years now and it's still rock solid. It can also be used as a pistol style grip to help eliminate handling noise on your handheld recorder.
Monitoring
A simple pair of Apple Earphones. Lightweight, replaceable, and great for reference. My usual pair of headphones are the Sony MDR-7506. Really clean sound but far too big for a sling bag. The Apple Earphones are super compact and I'm very used to the sound of them as they are also what I use to listen to music when I'm travelling too.
Carrying: 7L Red Equipment Sling Bag
Everything fits inside this waterproof, lightweight sling. Just enough room for the full kit including my travel camera too (Lumix S9). If I'm not planning on taking the camera, then another good sling bag I can recommend is the North Face Terra 3L. Nice chunky zips and lots of loops and atachments to clip the microphones onto. This bag isn't waterproof though, so bear that in mind.
Final Thoughts
That’s my minimalist, travel-friendly field recording setup. Small enough to bring anywhere, reliable enough to trust everywhere.
What’s your field recording setup? Drop it in the comments below!
We weren't sponsored to make this post. None of the links on this page are affiliate links. The information is based on real world use.