Sound Devices Astral Mini Plus Adds IP67 Rating and Wider Tuning

Sound Devices has announced the Astral Mini Plus, a new compact bodypack transmitter for its Astral wireless system. It follows the original Astral Mini, keeping a similar shape while adding longer runtime, wider tuning, protection against water and changes meant to shorten setup.

Tuning and power

The transmitter uses Sound Devices' SpectraBand technology to tune across 169 to 1525 MHz. The company says this range lets crews find usable, legal frequencies in any country, which it presents as an advantage for productions that travel internationally.

Power comes from an XL-B14500 rechargeable cell, rated for up to 8 hours of operation, which Sound Devices says is meant for especially long or difficult shoots. The unit can also run from USB-C power.

Durability and operation

• IP67 rating: the transmitter resists sweat, humidity and rain, a feature Sound Devices links to requests from live theatre users.
• GainForward: gain is set at the mixer rather than on the transmitter, so the pack does not need to be touched once it is on the talent; Sound Devices says this prevents clipping from whispers to screams.
• ePaper display: a new screen, together with other interface changes, is intended to speed up setup and adjustments during a shoot.

Astral transmitters and receivers are used in location sound and live sound work, and the company cites their small size, reliability and ease of use as reasons for that. The Mini Plus is aimed at long and demanding productions in the same markets. Sound Devices calls the new features quality-of-life upgrades meant to keep the transmitter working without trouble regardless of event length, location or conditions.