Two new mics from Hollyland just launched, the LARK MAX 2 32-bit full-chain wireless microphone system, and the entry-level LARK A1.
Hollyland's new wireless mic systems service both ends of the spectrum, promising some interesting innovation at the high-end and pro-level audio at entry level pricing at the other.
LARK MAX 2
Hollyland claims five first-launched innovations for the LARK MAX 2, which are headed by low-latency wireless audio monitoring capability. This utilises 2.4GHz frequency hopping anti-interference technology to ensure stable and clear audio with rich dynamics, achieving an ultra-low latency of just 20ms (TX to RX).
Additionally, the new units feature broadcast-grade lossless audio quality with built-in 32bit float recording and full-link processing, offering a recording duration of up to 14 hours. The company has also integrated AI noise reduction technology to dial out unwanted sounds such as wind noise, traffic, and room reverb with a distortion level of less than 1%. The noise reduction depth is finely adjustable, allowing for levels of up to 25dB without the need for post-processing.
One-button gain dynamic adjustment simplifies audio setup, automatically adapting output gain based on volume for a smoother recording experience.
For seamless integration into production workflows, the LARK MAX 2 features a built-in frame-level timecode system that synchronizes video and audio recordings through both 3.5mm and UAC outputs. This ensures alignment between camera footage and internal audio, saving time during post. Furthermore, the 4 Transmitter & 1 Receiver model allows for simultaneous usage by multiple users, perfect for different scenarios such as group interviews or live broadcasts.
Battery life is up to 36 hours and the mics have a 1115ft (340 metre) operational range.
Attention has also been paid to their usability. They are coated in what Hollyland says is excimer nano-coated skin-friendly material, minimizing discomfort during long use. A hover-clip mechanism allows for easy clothing attachment while maintaining a discreet profile, while the backclip design conceals the device for a professional look during recordings.
LARK A1
The LARK A1 features 48kHz/24-bit high-fidelity audio and a high sound pressure level of 120dB SPL, allowing it to manage sudden loud noises, effectively minimizing distortion.
It offers customizable audio with adjustable EQ (balance, low and bright) and reverb (small, medium or large). Users can tailor the sound precisely and sculpt clarity, depth, and texture through EQ and reverb.
It also features a 6-level gain control and flexible noise cancellation system that adapts to many settings. Hollyland says the Lark A1 effectively filters out ambient noise, including wind, traffic, honking, air conditioning hum, and room reverberation, with three levels of noise reduction (weak, medium and strong) adapting to different environments.
It offers stable audio transmission over distances of up to 200 meters, weighs just 8 grams and, with the charging case, two TX can alternate seamlessly for up to 54 hours of continuous operation. With a single charge in the TX mode, the wireless microphone can work up to 6.5 hours with noise cancellation on and 9 hours without.
Pricing and availability
Both products will be available by the end of June in a staggered global roll out. There are a wide range of bundles and pricing options.
LARK MAX 2
- LARK MAX 2 Combo 4-Person Version (Space Gray, with Camera RX + USB-C RX) --- $319
- LARK MAX 2 Ultimate Combo (Space Gray, with OWS Monitor Earphone + Camera RX + USB-C RX) --- $279
- LARK MAX 2 Combo (Space Gray, with Camera RX + USB-C RX) --- $249
- LARK MAX 2 Solo (Space Gray, with Camera RX) --- $169
- LARK MAX 2 Transmitter (Space Gray) --- $61.99
LARK A1
- LARK A1 Combo (Space Gray, with USB-C RX + Lightning RX + Charging Case) --- $69.99
- LARK A1 Combo (Ivory White, with USB-C RX + Lightning RX + Charging Case) --- $69.99
- LARK A1 Duo (Space Gray, with USB-C RX + Charging Case) --- $49.99
- LARK A1 Mini Duo (Space Gray, with Lightning RX) --- $39.99
- LARK A1 Mini Duo (Space Gray, with USB-C RX) --- $34.99