the t.bone TWS One Headset

I've tested the critter connected to a Zoom F2-BT recorder (32-bit float 48kHz, mono, no input level adjustment possible). Compared the t.bone to the Zoom LMF-2 omnidirectional mic included with the recorder.

For my voice, I prefer the t.bone sound. FFT Analysis of recordings indicate a more smooth/linear fall-off of frequencies above 500 Hz (less significant drops and peaks, but more small fluctuations) and without peaking around 7kHz and up, that is seen in the Zoom lavalier. The low frequencies are characterised by an around +5dB proximity effect (cardioid) compared to the Zoom (omnidirectional), but the "flow" is very balanced down to the deepest frequencies. At around 80 Hz both microphones behaves similarly, but the Zoom tapers 5dB off towards 20Hz.

Sensitivity is roughly 2 dB higher for the t.bone in my sampling, but that is probably caused mainly by slightly different placements (due to the Zoom clip-on nature).

The general impression is a varm, balanced rendering of my voice, with phenomenal suppression of noice from the front and environment in general (as expected), compared to the Zoom lavalier.

I tested "noise suppression" by playing choir music and a selection of voices at roughly double normal levels in a distance of 2 m (6 feet) stereo sound in front of my seat, as well as several loud voices (children, woman, men); the t.bone suppression was surprisingly good for all kinds of voices and general noise in the environment. To the degree, that lower level choir passages nearly vanished completely. The Zoom omnidirectional lavalier is simply not in the same class.

Both microphones used the supplied foam covers.

For my voice and for my use, the t.bone headband just works. For the price really good value (most benefits caused by the cardioid microphone characteristic).

In connection with the Zoom F2-BT you get the added benefit, that there are no input levels to care about. The base noise level is negligible, and you'll probably damage your microphone, before clipping the recorded signal. If you decide on the same approach, the extra cash for the Bluetooth version is well used. Even if you have no need for time codes.