Best Blimps for Wind Protection in Outdoor Recordings
Wind noise can completely ruin your outdoor recordings, and for sound professionals, wind protection is essential.
Over the years…
I’ve used a variety of blimps, and there’s a lot to consider when selecting the right one for your setup. While there are some familiar brands that have dominated the market, I’m excited to introduce a new player that’s already creating a buzz: Radius Windshield.
Radius Windshield and the Mini-ALTO Blimp Prototype
One of the most exciting developments in the world of wind protection comes from Radius Windshield, a new company founded by former Rycote members. Despite being new to the market, the team has over 20 years of experience in the industry, and this is evident in the quality and innovation of their newest products.
They’ve already made an impression by showcasing their Mini-ALTO Blimp prototype at several audio conventions. Though it’s not available for purchase yet, it’s definitely something to keep on your radar. What’s even more exciting is Radius’s transparency—they’re very open about their development process, and if you follow them on Instagram, you’ll get behind-the-scenes insights on their upcoming products.
While I’ve used Rycote products in the past (because there weren’t many high-end alternatives apart from Cinela), it’s refreshing to see Radius taking wind protection in a new direction. With Rycote’s long-standing reputation possibly shifting, Radius could become the next go-to brand. And while the Mini-ALTO is still in development, be sure to check out the range of products they already offer on their website.
Things to Consider Before Buying a Blimp
If you’re just starting out and you’ve heard about the need for a blimp for wind protection, don’t rush into ordering one without understanding your exact needs.
There are a few crucial things to think about before making a decision:
• What is your setup? Do you need a blimp for mono, stereo, DMS, or VR recordings? Different types of audio setups require different wind protection systems, so knowing your recording configuration is key.
• Microphone Compatibility: Not all microphones are equal. Do you have microphones with Lemo connectors or XLR? For example, with my Cinela Pianissimo setup, I use two Schoeps CCM 4 and one Schoeps CCM8 with lemo connectors plus a custom 8-pin XLR cable made by Ambient. Cinela offers 37 different options for the Cinela Pianissimo to choose from, so it’s always a good idea to contact the manufacturer for guidance.
• Microphone Size and Length: Microphones come in various sizes, so make sure your blimp fits your microphone. Buying the wrong size could lead to poor wind protection or improper fit.
My Top Microphone Blimp Picks
Cinela Albert
For stereo recordings, especially in ORTF, the Cinela Albert is my long-time favorite. I use it with the Sennheiser MKH 8040, and even with Cinela, they offer multiple custom options. I used this wind protection setup in Iceland as shown in the video above.
Cinela Pianissimo
The Cinela Pianissimo is our newest purchase and we make a review about it soon on our YouTube channel. It is trusted by my field recordists, sound engineers or boom operators all over the world and whenever you watch behind the scenes for movies or reality shows you may see this one on top of a boom.
DPA 5100
If you’re into 5.1 surround sound recording like I am, the DPA 5100 is an all-in-one solution that works well in windy environments with their outdoor cover. I did have some interference issues when I first bought it, but after an exchange, it’s been working flawlessly. This is a fantastic setup that doesn't weigh much and fits in every bag however the heavy part is the cable and you would need a recorder that is capable of having 6 channels that can be linked together. We're using the Sound Devices Mix Pre 10ii and it works perfectly together.
Rode Blimp - the budget Option
For those on a budget, the Rode Blimp is still a solid choice. It’s good for mono and some stereo recordings, though it might struggle with heavier mics like the Audio Technica 4025 but If you’re looking for something reliable but affordable, it’s worth considering.
Movo BWS1000 Blimp
Although I haven’t personally used the Movo BWS1000 it's worth considering if you’re looking for a blimp under $100. Check out the Amazon reviews to see if it’s right for you.
Conclusion
As someone who makes a living from sound recordings, high-quality wind protection is non-negotiable. I believe in recording the best possible audio with minimal editing, which is why I invest in gear that works. For instance, our sounds in our All In One Bundle, come as close to the original recordings as possible. The fewer adjustments I need to make, the better it is for creators using our sounds. If you’re serious about outdoor recordings, getting the right blimp is crucial. It’ll save you time in post-production and ensure your recordings are as clean and professional as possible.