Sony ECM-W5 Wireless Microphone brings 32-bit float audio to compatible cameras. The $398 kit and $188 receiver are available to preorder.
A two-microphone kit and a separate receiver
The Sony ECM-W5 Wireless Microphone Kit includes two microphone transmitters, a receiver and a charging case. It is intended for video creators and podcasters. For a two-person interview, the included transmitters let each speaker wear a microphone rather than share one pickup position.
Launching alongside it is the Sony ECM-W5R Wireless Audio Receiver, sold separately from its transmitter microphones. Both listings center on high-resolution digital audio and recording directly into compatible cameras. The important distinction is the package: the ECM-W5 kit supplies the microphones and case, while the ECM-W5R listing is a receiver-only purchase.
96 kHz/24-bit audio or 48 kHz/32-bit float
Sony lists recording at up to 96 kHz/24-bit, plus a 48 kHz/32-bit float option. The latter is useful for speech that moves from a quiet answer to a sudden raised voice. It preserves a wide range of recorded levels for adjustment during editing, rather than making every change in speaking volume a gain-setting decision during the take.
On compatible Sony cameras, 32-bit float audio records directly into the video file. That puts the camera picture and its audio together, reducing separate audio-file management and synchronization work. For an interview edit, it means fewer files to match before cutting.
The compatibility qualification matters. Sony specifies direct-to-video 32-bit float recording for supported camera models; it is not a blanket feature claim for every camera connection.
64 GB storage, separate channels and timecode
Each transmitter in the kit has 64 GB of built-in storage. Sony also lists compatible in-camera WAV backup. These provide backup recording options alongside the main camera recording, useful when an important conversation cannot simply be repeated. The microphone's onboard storage and the camera's WAV backup are distinct recording locations.
The system supports up to four separate in-camera audio channels on compatible cameras. Separate channels matter when voices need different treatment in the edit: changing one speaker's level need not mean applying the same change to another speaker's channel.
The ECM-W5R also includes timecode synchronization for multi-camera workflows. Timecode gives recordings a shared timing reference, helping an editor line up footage from different camera angles. That addresses a different job from keeping audio inside a single camera's video file.
Microphone pickup, 500-meter range and monitoring
The kit's microphones have an omnidirectional pickup pattern and a listed frequency response of 20 Hz to 20 kHz. Omnidirectional means pickup comes from around the microphone, not a narrow forward-facing area. Placement near the speaker still matters because that pattern also admits surrounding sound. Sony lists gain adjustment from -12 to +12 dB.
Sony rates wireless transmission at up to 500 meters, or 1,640 feet, with line of sight, and describes it as low latency. Line of sight is the important condition here. That distance rating is not a promise of the same reach through walls or other obstructions.
Wireless monitoring works through Sony's compatible Bluetooth LE Audio headphones. This removes a headphone cable from the monitoring connection, but it calls for compatible headphones rather than just any Bluetooth pair. Monitoring lets the operator listen during recording instead of relying only on the backup options.
MI Shoe connection, USB-C and receiver power
With a compatible Sony camera's Digital Multi Interface Shoe, the receiver connects without an audio cable and can draw power from the camera. Sony lists approximately seven hours of receiver battery life. Camera-supplied power offers another way to run the receiver, rather than depending solely on its own battery.
The kit includes a USB Type-C adaptor for recording with a compatible smartphone or PC. The separate receiver also has USB-C connectivity and a 3.5 mm TRS microphone input for an external microphone. These connections give it uses beyond the direct MI Shoe setup, while the advanced in-camera recording modes remain compatibility-dependent.
Opening the kit's charging case powers the system; the units automatically pair when removed. Sony lists the receiver at 35 g and each transmitter at 27.1 g, useful figures when planning camera mounting and microphone placement on clothing.
Black shoe-mounted options, prices and preorder status
Both listings are black and specify shoe mounting with an included adapter. The kit is the starting point for someone who needs two microphone transmitters and the charging case. The receiver-only option does not substitute for that package: its transmitter microphones are sold separately.
| Product | Package | Color and mounting | Price | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sony ECM-W5 Wireless Microphone Kit | Two transmitters, receiver and charging case | Black; shoe mount with included adapter | $398 | Available to preorder |
| Sony ECM-W5R Wireless Audio Receiver | Receiver; transmitter microphones sold separately | Black; shoe mount with included adapter | $188 | Available to preorder |
Both products are available to preorder from Unique Photo.
Prices at Unique Photo
- Sony ECM-W5 Wireless Microphone Kit: $398.00 (preorder)
- Sony ECM-W5R Wireless Audio Receiver: $188.00 (preorder)
Prices as of November 5, 2026. Browse more: Microphones, Sony at Unique Photo.
Frequently asked questions
How much does the Sony ECM-W5 Wireless Microphone Kit cost?
The kit costs $398 and is available to preorder. It includes two microphone transmitters, a receiver and a charging case.
Does the Sony ECM-W5 record 32-bit float audio?
It supports 48 kHz/32-bit float recording directly into a compatible Sony camera's video file. Sony also lists recording at up to 96 kHz/24-bit.
Does the Sony ECM-W5R include transmitter microphones?
The $188 ECM-W5R is the separate receiver listing. Its transmitter microphones are sold separately.
What is the Sony ECM-W5 wireless range?
Sony lists transmission up to 500 meters, or 1,640 feet, with line of sight.