Sony has announced the ECM-778, a new shotgun microphone designed for filmmakers and content creators requiring high-quality audio in a compact and lightweight package.
Measuring 176mm in length and weighing 102g, the ECM-778 is designed for flexibility on set, whether mounted on a boom pole or directly on a camera. The microphone uses a newly developed capsule, a precision-machined brass acoustic tube, and a dedicated electronic circuit board to deliver clear high frequencies and stable mid-low frequencies, aiming to capture voices and ambient sounds with spatial detail.
Sony states that the ECM-778 offers sharp forward directivity by suppressing sound from the sides and rear across the frequency range. This can help isolate subjects during recording while reducing environmental noise—important when working in confined or acoustically challenging locations.
Features for varied environments
For practical on-set use, the ECM-778 includes a built-in low-cut filter to reduce low-frequency noise from wind or handling. Two windscreen options—a lightweight foam type and a fur type—are included to address different recording conditions.
The microphone’s machined aluminium exterior is designed to reduce external vibrations and electrical noise while maintaining a lightweight form factor. The ECM-778 connects via XLR and is compatible with external audio recorders and cameras with XLR inputs, including Sony Cinema Line and Alpha mirrorless cameras.
Developed with sound engineers
According to Sony, the ECM-778 was developed with input from film sound engineers, who provided feedback during the design and testing phases. The company highlights the microphone’s ability to maintain consistent tonal characteristics across varying distances, which is useful when shifting from close-up to wider shots during production.
Don’t forget to check our other coverage of microphones relevant for filmmakers.
The ECM-778 is positioned as part of Sony’s broader lineup of tools for professional and independent filmmakers looking to match high-resolution image capture with clear and precise audio recording.