Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/1197255
supply from a colleague who chose the same as you (or vice versa). Need some extra earwigs? You remember the text convo you had with a colleague who has the same ones that you ended up buying? Need an emergency set of wireless transmitters? You know who has what's compatible with yours. Need some more timecode equipment? The list goes on. Sometimes with your recorder platform and wireless package, purchase decisions can be influenced by what peers have, but it's not absolute. I know I can fill in for them or do their second units even if I don't own their exact platform. But the bigger factor is this maintains a community aspect with a shared knowledge base, shared bug fixes, and shared innovation in how we use all of this equipment. Bottom line: it helps this community create a "binder" when we discuss and learn and use these tools in our platforms. And it doesn't hurt when we have similar pieces because others may have discovered what you were about to discover (for better or worse). We don't have to have carbon copies of each other's equipment packages, but having relatability can create growth and uphold high standards. CONCLUSION The underlying message of this article is threefold. First, though it's understandable that we want all of these tools because they are all amazing, buy what you need when you need it and don't worry about equipment FOMO because you'll never catch the dragon you're chasing. Secondly, I wanted to express that maybe, just maybe, we should have access to production sound tools with an increased level of longevity like we did in the old days (e.g., Nagra recorders and Cooper mixers). And finally, how much do we rely on our colleagues' perspectives in our choices? Do we follow the trends of what many are using or ignore the fluctuating equipment trend atmosphere? As crazy as it sounds, we sound mixers forge huge emotional connections and passionate perspectives when it comes to these buying decisions. These are the tools that have to earn our trust. They're financial investments sure, but they are reputation pillars most importantly. There is an unspoken pressure we often face with these critical decisions that need to be made when purchasing new equipment. I think it's worth drawing attention to that pressure and appreciate it as these decisions are never made lightly. I hope this article created a relatable discussion of points that have naturally been on your minds as many of the year's trade shows have come and gone and the end-of-the-year buying season is upon us. LEVEL UP to extreme performance Introducing the D Digital Wireless Mic System ® • 8 channels in a single RU • 24 Bit/48 kHz digital audio for studio grade sound quality • 3 receiver diversity modes • Backward compatible Digital Hybrid Wireless® transmitters! Leverage your current investment! Dante® is a registered trademark of Audinate Pty Ltd .