I recently got a Schoeps CMR. It is a single cable solution for connecting a bodypack to a Schoeps MK series capsule. [singlepic id=43 w=320 h=240 float=]
I’d like to start off by saying that if you love the sound of the Schoeps Modular MK series capsules as much as I do, and also use them for your primary plant microphones (in cars, on desks, etc.) you will LOVE what this product does! [singlepic id=42 w=320 h=240 float=]
There were two ways (before the CMR) that we would use the Schoeps as a plant with the following chain of gear:
Plug-on Transmitter: [singlepic id=41 w=320 h=240 float=]
- MK41 Capsule > GVC Swivel > Colette Cable > CMC6U Power-supply > Plug-on Transmitter
A fairly straight forward process and fairly simple chain of five pieces.
Bodypack Transmitter [singlepic id=30 w=320 h=240 float=]
- MK41 Capsule > GVC Swivel > Colette Cable > CMC6U Power-supply > Denecke P48 Box > XLR to TA-5 Cable > Lectrosonics SMV Transmitter
This works, but it get’s more complicated because of the need to introduce phantom power to the mic. The chain is eight pieces long.
Then you add paper tape & Joe’s Sticky Stuff (don’t have some? GET IT! Miracle product for plants).
As you can imagine, that can be a lot of different bits to grab, sometimes on a moments notice.
With the Schoeps CMR and the Bodypack Transmitter: [singlepic id=32 w=320 h=240 float=]
- MK41 Capsule > GVC Swivel > CMR Cable > Lectrosonics Bodypack.
This cuts the gack in half for bodypacks with a chain of four (or three if you prefer not to use the GVC Swivel). [singlepic id=33 w=320 h=240 float=]
How does it work? Are there tiny German unicorns on a miniature hamster wheel stirring up the phantom juices to make this amazing product work?
No, but that does paint a nice picture! (Bonus points for whoever actually PAINTS this picture, I’ll attach it to the blog.)
According to the manufacturer about the CMR:
- low power consumption: only about 1/20 to 1/48 that of a phantom-powered microphone
So, it seems they have found a way to use the small current that the Lectrosonics bodypacks output (that can also power a Sanken CUB-01 for example) and use it to power the mk41 capsule.
The Downside?
Are there any downfalls? Well, like all things, the Schoeps name does not come cheap. I’ve seen it retail for between $659 and $770. It may sound like a lot to pay, but when you consider you don’t need a expensive CMC6 to power the capsule when used as a plant, it is a pretty good deal and greatly simplifies a way to get that sweet Schoeps sound!
The CMR will NOT work with the CUT1, but does work with the DZC- pad and GVC swivel.
It will also not work with Zaxcom Transmitters.
Also, it is a little bit bigger at the connection to the capsule than a Colette, but considering everything in the chain that it eliminates, this is negligible. [singlepic id=36 w=320 h=240 float=]
Conclusion:
That being said, I’ve already put it into play on set. The CMR worked like a charm. I’m sold!
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Notes:
Some information about the CMR I found at Posthorn:
** For Sennheiser SK50 transmitters, the CMR must be ordered with the termination installed by Schoeps. It is only available with a 2 meter cable. We do recommend that all terminations are installed by Schoeps. Schoeps has confirmed compatibility with current and legacy Lectrosonics (TA5F) models, Audio Ltd. and Sennheiser SK 50. Other connector terminations available as a special order – exact wireless brand and model info is required. The Schoeps CMR will NOT work with known Zaxcom transmitters or the Sennheiser EW Series. The CMR also will NOT work with Colette Active accessories (e.g. CUT1, KC 5g) or the BLM 03 Cg. A DZC- pad or GVC swivel are the exceptions and can be used.
THANKS TO!:
(The Schoeps CMR was courtesy of Scott Bolland of Redding Audio & Christina Zofia Wittich of Gotham Sound. Many thanks!)
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UPDATE (Sept 10, 2014):
I’ve added a second CMR to my collection. I LOVE them!
Also, a wiring guide from Lectrosonics has come to my attention.
What are you using to mount the CMR for when being used for car interiors?
We most often use the visor and use Joe’s Sticky Stuff and paper tape to mount it. Often we’ll use the gasket when needed to hide cables along the door, but in this case with the new CMR, I’d put the transmitter in the visor too.