Lectrosonics DBSMD-A1B1 Dual-Battery Digital Transmitter with Recorder

The Lectrosonics DBSMD-A1B1 is a dual-battery digital transmitter with a built-in recorder, developed for film production. Its two AA batteries carry it through long days, and it jams timecode so its files line up in post.

It tunes from 470.100 to 607.950 MHz in 25 kHz steps, at 10, 25, or 50 mW, with a 2 mW high-density mode for tight channel spacing. Audio is encrypted with AES 256 in CTR mode, with four key policies.

Recording

The DBSMD records 24-bit, 48 kHz BWF files to a microSDHC card, and a 16 GB card comes with it. A temperature-compensated crystal holds timecode to better than 1 ppm after a jam. On US models, recording and transmitting do not run together: when recording starts, the RF audio stops, though battery status still reaches the receiver.

Input and Setup

The TA5M input uses Lectrosonics servo bias circuitry for electret lavaliers, dynamic mics, and line-level sources. A DSP-controlled analog limiter ahead of the first preamp gives more than 30 dB of overload protection. Gain adjusts in 1 dB steps over a 44 dB range, and the low-cut sets anywhere from 20 to 150 Hz.

Build and Power

The housing is machined from solid aluminum, with a non-corrosive finish that resists salt water and sweat. Two AA batteries run it (lithium recommended), for 12 hours 10 minutes at 50 mW or 18 hours 20 minutes at 2 mW. It takes the same belt clips, pouches, and battery eliminators as the SMDWB, and it works with the Lectrosonics DSR4, DSR, and DCR822 receivers.

Features

• AES 256 CTR encryption with four key policies
• 10, 25, or 50 mW output, plus a 2 mW high-density mode
• 24-bit, 48 kHz recorder on a microSDHC card
• Timecode jam sync with a TCXO, under 1 ppm
• Servo bias TA5M input for lavs, dynamic mics, and line
• OLED display with a lockout option
• Two-way IR port for fast setup
• Lightweight, corrosion-resistant aluminum housing
• Runs on two AA batteries