Professional Magnetic Windshield System
The Mini-ALTO 250 windshield system represents a specialised approach to wind protection for location sound recording. This complete kit combines a compact magnetic windshield with the RAD-2 shock mounting system and pistol grip handle, designed specifically for small condenser and short shotgun microphones.
The windshield operates on a two-part magnetic pod design that enables rapid attachment and removal. The 250-sized housing accommodates microphones including the Audio-Technica BP4073, DPA 4017B, Neumann KMR 81 series, and several models from Rode, Sanken, and Sony professional ranges.
Wind Noise Reduction Performance
Wind attenuation reaches up to 40dB when the included black fur windcover is deployed. This reduction level matches the performance characteristics of larger conventional windshields while maintaining the compact 85mm diameter profile. The windshield provides effective protection in moderate to strong wind conditions typical of exterior recording environments.
For interior applications, the windshield operates without the fur cover to address air movement from HVAC systems, boom handling noise, and other sources of airflow interference. The acoustic transparency remains high in this configuration, preserving the natural frequency response of the mounted microphone.
RAD-2 Shock Mount Integration
The included RAD-2 shock mount provides isolation from handling vibrations and mechanical transmission through the boom pole. The suspension system utilises three pairs of hoops with different tension characteristics: soft, standard, and extra firm. This range allows matching the suspension response to specific microphones and recording conditions.
The shock mount accepts microphones through a standard 19-25mm diameter range using the included adapters. Professional microphones such as the Neumann KMR 81 series, Rode NTG1 and NTG5, and Schoeps CMC6-KMIT configurations mount securely within the suspension system.
Pistol Grip Configuration
This variant includes a pistol grip handle without integrated XLR cable connections. The handle provides ergonomic control for handheld recording applications and allows independent cable management. Sound recordists can utilise their existing microphone cables or select cables specific to their workflow requirements.
The grip connects directly to the RAD-2 shock mount through a standard threaded interface. Weight distribution remains balanced for extended handheld recording sessions typical of documentary, interview, and field recording work.
Complete Kit Components
- Mini-ALTO 250 magnetic windshield housing
- RAD-2 shock mount with adjustment mechanism
- Three suspension hoop pairs (soft, standard, extra firm)
- Black synthetic fur windcover
- Smiley face adapter for microphone compatibility
- Pistol grip handle
- Magnetic stowage holder with carabiner clip
- Pair of RAD cable management straps
Microphone Compatibility Range
The 250-sized windshield accommodates specific microphone models within the small condenser and short shotgun categories. Compatible models include the Audio-Technica BP4073, DPA 4017B, and Neumann KMR 81 variants. Rode microphones such as the NTG1 and NTG5 fit within the suspension system, along with the Sanken CSS-50 and selected Sony professional models.
The Shure VP89S stereo microphone also operates within this windshield size, making the system suitable for stereo field recording applications. Proper microphone positioning within the suspension ensures optimal isolation and wind protection performance.
Field Recording Applications
Location sound professionals use this system for documentary production, news gathering, and environmental recording where compact equipment and rapid deployment are required. The magnetic windshield design allows quick transitions between interior and exterior recording environments without complete system reconfiguration.
The system performs effectively in broadcast acquisition, where consistent audio quality and minimal handling noise are essential. Sound mixers can deploy the kit for boom operation or handheld recording depending on the specific production requirements and acoustic environment.
Storage and Transport
The magnetic stowage holder with carabiner clip provides secure transport and quick access during production. The holder attaches to equipment bags, belts, or boom poles for immediate availability. The compact design reduces the overall footprint of location recording packages.
Care protocols include regular cleaning of the fur windcover and inspection of the magnetic pod alignment. The RAD-2 shock mount requires periodic examination of the suspension hoops for proper tension and wear characteristics.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.