The Softie windshield is a 'slip-on' design, consisting of an open-cell acoustic foam base fitted with an integral synthetic fur (25mm) fabric cover. A robust and practical windshield, 70mm in diameter, it performs as well as a standard Rycote windshield (without Windjammer). Both the acoustic foam and synthetic fur are made from materials which are specially designed and manufactured for the purpose, which offer up to 36dB of wind-noise reduction without any adverse effect on high frequency. In addition the foam is not susceptible to UV or moisture damage, giving this product great longevity. The Softie provides a fast, flexible solution for ENG on-camera microphones.
Classic-Softies are available separately or together in a kit (see Classic-Softie Kit) with a Softie Lyre Mount Suspension on a pistol-grip handle, these systems provide a quick, simple, robust and cost-effective solution for modern day ENG and location recording environments.
The system is available as either fixed 19mm (031103) or 21mm (031104) microphone diameters, or to suit two nominal microphone diameters; a standard hole fits 19-22mm and a large hole fits 24-25mm. Each of these are offered in various internal depths. It is essential for correct operation that the Softie front section covers all the slots along the length of the microphone. The price lines below show the length of the internal hole, not the overall length, so that a suitable model can be chosen to suit a particular microphone. The following table shows compatibility with a range of microphones. If a microphone is not listed here, please check with Technical Support, as a Softie is probably available for it.
Softies can be used on camera mounted microphones, however care must be taken to avoid the 25mm fur length from appearing in shot. For details regarding choice of an appropriate model to suit a microphone please see Softie Windshields above, or see the table below for microphone/camera sizing.