1. Introduction
The Sony Wireless Streaming Microphone ECM-S1 is a compact and lightweight, high-performance unit designed for clear, low-noise, and high-quality audio recording and live-streaming. It supports both wireless and wired connections, making it versatile for indoor and outdoor use. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your ECM-S1 microphone.
2. What's in the Box
Verify that all the following items are included in your package:
- Microphone (ECM-S1)
- Receiver
- Pop Guard
- MI Shoe cap
- Carrying Pouch
3. Product Overview
The ECM-S1 microphone system consists of a microphone unit and a receiver unit, designed for seamless integration and high-fidelity audio capture.
3.1 Microphone Unit

Image Description: Front view of the Sony ECM-S1 Wireless Streaming Microphone. It features a black grille covering the microphone capsules, a mute button, a power/link indicator, and LED level indicators on the side. A small stand is attached to the base.
- High-quality microphone capsules: Ensures clear voice recording.
- Low intrinsic noise levels: Delivers clean sound.
- Directivity selectable: Adjusts to suit the recording scene (e.g., omnidirectional).
- Noise-suppressing filter functions: Reduces unwanted background noise.
- Pop guard: Suppresses popping noise due to vocal plosives.
- Mute Function: Quickly mute/unmute audio.
- Volume Control: Adjust audio input levels.
3.2 Receiver Unit

Image Description: Close-up view of the compact Sony ECM-S1 Receiver unit. It is black with a textured surface and features a 'LINK' indicator light. The unit is designed to attach to a camera's Multi Interface Shoe.
- Connectivity: Sony Multi Interface (MI) Shoe, USB Type-C, 3.5 mm Jack.
- Wireless Connection: Pairs wirelessly with the microphone unit.
- Battery Indicator Light: Provides status of the receiver's power.
4. Setup
4.1 Charging the Units
Ensure both the microphone and receiver units are fully charged before initial use. Use the provided USB Type-C cable to charge the units. The battery indicator lights will show charging status.
4.2 Connecting to a Camera (MI Shoe)
- Slide the receiver unit onto the Multi Interface Shoe of your compatible Sony camera.
- Ensure the receiver is securely attached.
- Power on both the camera and the receiver. The units should automatically pair.

Image Description: A close-up view of the Sony ECM-S1 Receiver unit being slid into the Multi Interface Shoe on top of a camera. This connection allows for direct audio input without additional cables.
4.3 Connecting to a Smartphone/PC (USB-C)
- Connect the receiver unit to your smartphone or PC using a USB Type-C cable.
- The device should recognize the microphone as an external audio input.

Image Description: A close-up view of the Sony ECM-S1 Receiver unit, highlighting its USB Type-C port. This port is used for wired connection to compatible devices like smartphones or PCs.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1 Powering On/Off
Press and hold the power button on both the microphone and receiver units to turn them on or off. The 'LINK' indicator will illuminate when a connection is established.
5.2 Adjusting Directivity
The ECM-S1 offers selectable directivity patterns to optimize audio capture for different scenarios. Use the switch on the microphone unit to select between:
- Omnidirectional: Captures sound from all directions, ideal for group discussions or ambient sound.
- Cardioid: Focuses on sound directly in front of the microphone, reducing side and rear noise, suitable for single speakers.
5.3 Noise Suppression
Activate the noise-suppressing filter functions on the microphone unit to reduce unwanted background noise, such as wind or ambient hum. This enhances clarity, especially in challenging environments.
5.4 Using the Pop Guard
Attach the included pop guard to the microphone when recording vocals or speech. This accessory effectively suppresses plosive sounds (e.g., 'p' and 'b' sounds) that can cause popping noises in recordings.

Image Description: The Sony ECM-S1 microphone with its black foam pop guard attached to the top grille. The pop guard helps to reduce plosive sounds during speech recording.
5.5 Monitoring Audio
Connect headphones to the 3.5mm jack on the receiver unit to monitor your audio in real-time. This allows you to verify sound quality and adjust settings as needed during recording or streaming.
6. Maintenance
To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your ECM-S1 microphone:
- Keep the microphone and receiver clean using a soft, dry cloth.
- Avoid exposing the units to extreme temperatures, moisture, or direct sunlight.
- Store the units in the provided carrying pouch when not in use to protect them from dust and physical damage.
7. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your ECM-S1 microphone, refer to the following common solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No audio output | Units not powered on or paired. | Ensure both microphone and receiver are powered on and the 'LINK' indicator is solid. |
| Poor audio quality/static | Interference or low battery. | Move away from sources of interference. Charge both units fully. |
| Popping sounds in audio | Plosive sounds during speech. | Attach the Pop Guard to the microphone. |
8. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Name | ECM-S1 |
| Brand | Sony |
| Item Weight | 182 Grams (6.4 ounces) |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 10.4 x 6.6 x 8.2 inches |
| Microphone Form Factor | Boundary |
| Power Source | Battery Powered |
| Material | Plastic |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | 80 dB |
| Hardware Platform | Camera, PC, Smartphone |
| Number of Channels | 1 |
| Frequency Response | 20000 Hz |
| Connectivity Technology | Auxiliary, Sony Multi Interface (MI) Shoe, USB |
| Connector Type | 3.5 mm Jack, USB Type-C |
| Special Feature | Battery Indicator Light, Mute Function, Stand, Volume Control |
| Compatible Devices | Audio Interface, Camera, Headphone, Laptop, Voice Recorder |
| Color | Black |
| Polar Pattern | Omnidirectional |
9. Official Product Videos
Sony ECM-S1 Microphone Product Feature Video
Video Description: This official product feature video from Sony Electronics demonstrates the key functionalities and benefits of the ECM-S1 Wireless Streaming Microphone. It showcases its compact design, wireless connectivity, audio quality, and ease of use with various devices like cameras and smartphones.
10. Warranty and Support
For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to the official Sony website or contact Sony customer service directly. Keep your purchase receipt for warranty validation.