Blocktek

Denecke did make a brief venture into the world of app-connected remote-synced slates with the TS-TCB. I have one that I bought in 2016. It was a joint venture with Timecode Systems, and syncs with their UltraSync One sync boxes (now made by Atomos). I loved the promise of the workflow - I had hoped to be able to set the Scene/Take info on my Sound Devices mixer, and have that mirror on the slate. At best, I was able to change the display from my iPhone or iPad using MovieSlate, but it was always too time consuming and kludgey. It would also all stop working every time Apple upgraded their OS, and I would have to spend way too much time troubleshooting. 99% of my work is done in Time of Day freerun mode, so jamming usually makes more sense than dealing with syncing all of the devices via RF. I ultimately had Tap Plastics make me a piece of acrylic to cover the extra display on the slate that I can write the missing info on. I recently bought a used TS-3, and haven't pulled out the TS-TCB since.

Tim, Do you know the trick of sending TC to the SYNC output? When you do that you have the ability to boost the output level (O/P). I’ve used that in a few situations where certain cameras or recorders wouldn’t lock to code. I wonder if that might help you? Louis

Hey Phil! I have a couple of the "UltraSync One" boxes that were made by Timecode Systems before they were acquired by Atomos. The design doesn't seem to have changed at all. I've always found them easy to use and reliable. Although I rarely use the functionality, they'll talk to each other via RF, as well as with my (now discontinued) Denecke TS-TCB slate. I almost always simply jam them and go, though. I really like their OLED displays and the ability to send sync as well as TC. My only complaint is that there is virtually no way to attach them via velcro without also purchasing their silicon sleeves. And even then, the velcro plates have started to pull away over time. I've recently started supplementing them with Deity TC-1s. As I said, I very rarely use the RF sync capability, and I find the Deity's build quality just a little nicer (and the velcro mount works much better also). Also, I've had to replace the mini DIN adapter cables several times, and they're never easy to find in a pinch. The Deity TC-1's use a more standard locking 3.5mm mini connector. Best not talk to about Deity's customer support, though I haven't needed to try to contact Atomos for these legacy products either. I haven't used any of the Atomos Bluetooth enabled UltraSyncs. Louis

100 mW.

Evidently, these are no longer being produced. The machinist that they were using has retired. I recently purchased a used TS-3, and would love to put a handle on it. I've had one on order at Trew for a couple of months now, but I suspect they won't be able to rustle one up. Do any of you have a spare, or know of someone that still has stock? Thanks! Louis

I’ve only ever gotten replacement of my mics and adapters, never repair. It does seem that Deity, as a company, is not actually located in the US, which may have something to do with their inability to respond quickly. Their US offices may only handle sales and distribution. This is all only conjecture.

Unfortunately, this has been my experience with Deity support in the US up to this point. Every interaction I've had with them has taken months to resolve. Hopefully their service will improve. I own 6 of their lavalier mics and associated microdot connectors, and 3 TC-1's. I'll stick with my Denecke slates until I know I can get reliable service.

It's been a month now since I first emailed Deity for a source of replacement windscreens. I received one response on October 4 asking for my contact info "...before we get you over to our Small Parts and Replacement Department", but silence ever since. Deity’s slow customer support response is the main reason I still hesitate to replace my gear with their equipment. The windscreens supplied with the mics are pretty simple foam-only "pellets." That's why they're so easily lost. I can't imagine paying more than a few dollars apiece for them. The COS11 windscreens I've been able to find (https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/350622-REG/Sanken_FW_11BK_Foam_Windscreen_for_Sanken.html) seem much too expensive at $75 for 10.

Can anyone here point me to a source for replacement foam windscreens for Deity's w.lav Pro and w.lav Micro? I keep losing the damn things, and attempts to find replacements online have resulted in a lot of oversized windscreens. Deity send me a few the last time I asked, but have so far been unresponsive to my emails and support requests. Thanks! Louis

I decided to test the Eneloop Pros based on an anecdotal recommendation from Gerald Weesner at Lectrosonics. After a weeklong studio gig, my cart was littered with spent Energizer Lithium batteries at $3.00 each. On this job, I was able to pass that cost on to the client, but that isn’t always the case. For studio/stage gigs, the Eneloops will suffice. I’ll have to default to the disposable lithiums for any kind of live or documentary work. I’m still surprised by the lack of battery innovation in the prosumer market, consider the recent advances in car and energy grid solutions. Also, that I have to resort to a “best guess” estimate for transmitter life on set, rather than having a truly accurate meter representation. Even the lithium batteries “lie” on the SRc battery life display; one minute they show 50%, the next they’re at 100%. Louis

Yes. I recorded tone with record run TC and checked the file for when the tone stops. On the NiMH, that was confirmed by the timer on the SRc. And I just tested a second Eneloop Pro fresh off the charger and got the same time, within a minute. Louis

A little late to the party, but I just tested 1x Energizer Lithium vs Eneloop Pro AA in my SMWB. Results: Eneloop Pro: 03:42:30 Energizer Lithium: 05:39:00

Use the DA5 adapter for older Lectro 400 (non servo). Use the DA5S adapter for either either older or newer mics.

Thanks, Vincent. I received word this morning that a new unit will be shipped to me from China. Like I said, Deity Support always eventually makes good, but I wish the process were quicker/smoother. I'm interested to hear what experiences are like with the TC-SL1.

Well, looks like I was just approved. As of this morning, though, it was still pending. I’ve bought 3 w.lav micro lavaliers directly from Deity, aside from my first, which I ordered from B&H (after Deity lost my order). The mics are covered by a 1.5 year warranty, so of course, I’m looking to them for support.

After almost a month now, I've just received a replacement microphone. Unfortunately, it's the WRONG model. They sent a W.Lav Pro instead of a W.Lav Micro. I'm beyond frustrated with Deity's customer support. Each time I've dealt with them, it's been a comedy of unacknowledged and unreceived emails, unshipped items, and shipping mixups. Each time they've eventually made good, but not until after a LOT of ignored emails and stress. I can't find a phone number listed anywhere online to speak to a real person. I've tried to join the Facebook Deity Microphone Users Group, but after several weeks, my membership is still pending. I understand that they're basically a Prosumer manufacturer (at least in the audio realm), and their mics are damned inexpensive for the quality. I guess you really do get what you pay for. I'm really interested in their new timecode slate, but can't imagine going through the same hell if I need support for a $1k item. Any one else have similar experiences with Deity, or have an inside line to someone I can actually speak to?

Does anyone know what the correct wiring would be for a Deity w.lav Micro for both servo and non-servo Lectrosonics (5-pin) transmitters? The cable is 2 wire. I know that their DA5S microdot adapter works best for me on both my Lectro SMWB and UM400 (not A) transmitters. I can't seem to take apart their microdot connectors to see what magic is happening inside.

Update: I did receive an email today from Deity/Aputure support, with an RMA. The email claimed that they had responded to the request "several times." I'm really OCD about my spam folders, and nothing is present there, but there is always a chance that my custom domain might have bounced their emails. I'll use my burner gmail address next time. I did order another mic in the meantime. Can't beat the price for the size and quality. $110 right now, plus the microdot adapter (though the DA5s adapters have been backordered forever at Deity's site, B&H has them now).

One of my Deity w.lav Micro lavaliers got yanked on a shoot last week, and is shorting at the Microdot connector. It's been 6 days, I'm having no luck getting any kind of support response from Deity, either through their web support form, or direct emails to their support department. Anyone have any experience with their repair/support department? A phone number? Or, does anyone know if it's possible to dissemble and repair the connector myself? I do have soldering skills, but can't figure out how to get into the connector.

I may be looking to sell my Denecke TS-TCB. Are you still looking?

Yeah, I think antenna distro is overkill for most of the work I do. Although the 822 is a nice looking piece of gear, I'm pretty sold on the size and price of the SRc.

My 2 Lectrosonics 411/400 Block 22 systems have been very dependable workhorses for many years in the San Francisco Bay Area. For the past year, most of my work has been boom only, due to COVID safety constraints. Now my work is picking up again, I'm vaccinated, and my clients are once again getting comfortable with me placing wireless lavalier microphones. I feel like I'm coming out of hibernation. I've gotten caught unexpectedly several times recently when there have been NO open frequencies in my block. All of these experiences were in outdoor locations, mostly on the peninsula. I can see that I need to enter the present day and upgrade my systems. I'm looking at an A1 SrC receiver. I use a Sound Devices 833, and the idea of getting a slot adapter at some point down the road is very attractive. I rarely have a need for more than two mics, but four seems like a good idea for adaptability and versatility. I'd probably start with 2 transmitters/1 SrC, backed up by my 411s, and sell those down the road to buy a second SrC system. My confusion is over transmitters. I think my choice is between the LT and the LMb. I like the feature set of the LT, particularly the option to bump the output power, but they seem rather bulky. Most of my work is talking head corporate interviews, but occasionally I do dramatic and documentary work. Maybe the transmitter size isn't all THAT critical. I also really like the idea of being able to remotely change frequency, either via IR or dweedle tone. My system is based on 9volts batteries now - I realize I'll need to adapt to AAs. At the risk of sounding massively uninformed, what would you folks recommend? Honestly, I haven't needed to worry about my wireless systems for years, as they just worked. Are there other transmitters I should be looking at? Thanks for any and all advice.