1. Introduction
The Ordro CM-550 is a high-quality cardioid microphone designed for clear and pure sound recording, featuring sensitive noise reduction and a low-cut function. It is ideal for a wide range of applications including interviews, short videos, live streaming, vlogging, makeup tutorials, online teaching, and general video recording with various devices.
2. Key Features
- Accurate Cardioid Pickup: Designed for magnifying major sounds and minimizing off-axis noise.
- Sensitive Noise Reduction: Provides clear and pure audio by reducing ambient noise.
- Low Cut Function: Can be enabled to output purer sounds, especially in noisy conditions.
- Adjustable Audio Gain: Features 0dB and +10dB adjustment options for optimal sound recording in various environments.
- Integrated Shock Absorber: Effectively lowers noises resulting from vibrations, ensuring stable audio.
- Wind Cover: Prevents external wind noise for clearer sound, particularly useful outdoors.
- Versatile Compatibility: Equipped with a standard 3.5mm jack plug, compatible with DSLR cameras, video camcorders, smartphones, and computers.
- Long Battery Life: Built-in 230mAh battery provides approximately 50 hours of operation on a 2-hour charge.
3. Package Contents
Please check the package to ensure all items are present:
- Ordro CM-550 Cardioid Microphone
- Shock Absorber Mount
- Wind Cover (Foam)
- 3.5mm TRS to TRS Coiled Audio Cable (for cameras/camcorders)
- 3.5mm TRS to TRRS Audio Cable (for smartphones/computers)
- USB Charging Cable
4. Setup Guide
- Charge the Microphone: Before first use, fully charge the microphone using the provided USB charging cable. The indicator light will show red during charging and green when operating. A blue light indicates low battery.
- Attach Shock Absorber: Mount the microphone onto the shock absorber. The shock absorber helps to isolate the microphone from vibrations and handling noise.
- Mount to Device: Slide the shock absorber's cold shoe mount into your camera's hot shoe or a compatible mounting bracket on your camcorder, smartphone rig, or tripod.
- Attach Wind Cover: Gently slide the foam wind cover over the microphone capsule. This reduces wind noise during outdoor recordings.
- Connect Audio Cable:
- For DSLR/Camcorder: Use the 3.5mm TRS to TRS coiled audio cable. Plug one end into the microphone's output jack and the other end into your camera's microphone input.
- For Smartphone/Computer: Use the 3.5mm TRS to TRRS audio cable. Plug the TRS end into the microphone's output jack and the TRRS end into your smartphone's headphone/microphone jack or computer's microphone input.
5. Operating Instructions
- Power On/Off: Locate the power switch on the microphone body and slide it to the 'ON' position to power on. Slide to 'OFF' when not in use to conserve battery.
- Adjust Audio Gain: The microphone features a gain switch with '0dB' and '+10dB' settings. Select '0dB' for standard recording levels. Choose '+10dB' to boost the audio signal, which can be useful for quieter sound sources or to achieve better recording effects.
- Enable Low Cut Noise Reduction: If recording in a noisy environment, activate the low-cut filter switch. This will help to filter out low-frequency background noise, resulting in purer sound.
- Monitor Indicator Light:
- Red: Microphone is charging.
- Green: Microphone is operating normally.
- Blue: Battery is low and requires charging.
6. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the microphone body. Do not use liquid cleaners or solvents. The foam wind cover can be gently hand-washed with mild soap and water, then air-dried completely before reattaching.
- Storage: Store the microphone in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Battery Care: To prolong battery life, avoid fully discharging the microphone frequently. Charge the microphone regularly, even if not in constant use.
7. Troubleshooting
- No Sound or Low Volume:
- Ensure the microphone is powered on and the indicator light is green.
- Check all cable connections to ensure they are secure and correctly plugged into both the microphone and your recording device.
- Verify that the correct audio cable (TRS for camera, TRRS for smartphone/computer) is being used.
- Adjust the audio gain switch to '+10dB' if the sound source is quiet.
- Check the microphone input settings on your recording device (camera, smartphone, computer) to ensure the external microphone is selected and input levels are adequate.
- Ensure the microphone battery is not low (blue indicator light). Charge if necessary.
- Poor Sound Quality / Excessive Noise:
- Ensure the wind cover is properly installed, especially in windy conditions.
- If recording indoors, try disabling the low-cut noise reduction if it's not needed, as it might affect certain frequencies.
- Check for any loose connections or damaged cables.
- Ensure the microphone is not too far from the sound source.
- Minimize external vibrations by ensuring the shock absorber is correctly installed and the mounting is stable.
- Microphone Not Charging:
- Ensure the USB charging cable is securely connected to both the microphone and a working USB power source.
- Try using a different USB cable or power adapter.
- Check if the charging indicator light turns red.
8. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Name | CM-550 Cardioid Microphone |
| Polar Pattern | Supercardioid |
| Frequency Response | 50Hz-16kHz |
| Sensitivity Gain | +10dB ±2dB |
| Sensitivity | -35dB ±3dB (0dB=1V/Pa at 1kHz) |
| Equivalent Noise Level | 24 dB A |
| Output Impedance | 200Ω ±30% (at 1kHz) |
| Battery | 230mAh (Built-in) |
| Battery Life | About 50 hours |
| Indicator Lights | Red: Charging; Green: Operating; Blue: Low battery |
| Transducer Type | Condenser Microphone |
| Communication | Wired |
| Use Case | Pro Studio |
| Style | Hanging Microphones |
| Certification | CE, FCC |
9. User Tips
- For optimal sound quality, always position the microphone as close as possible to the sound source while remaining out of frame.
- Experiment with both 0dB and +10dB gain settings to find the best level for your specific recording environment and device.
- When recording outdoors or in environments with significant background rumble (e.g., traffic, air conditioning), ensure the wind cover is on and the low-cut filter is engaged.
- Regularly check the battery indicator to avoid interruptions during recording sessions.
- Keep the microphone and its accessories clean and stored properly to ensure longevity and consistent performance.
10. Warranty and Support
This product comes with a full one-year warranty from the date of purchase. During this period, buyers are not required to pay extra repair fees, excluding shipping expenses. For technical support or warranty claims, please contact your retailer or the manufacturer directly.
