Some have asked whether boycotting products with built-in batteries is a good move. The question is whether continued reviews where we call out the built-in, non-user-replaceable batteries as a con would be more effective than just NOT reviewing the product at all. My experience tells me that after calling this out for several years, the product companies have only doubled down on built-in, non-replaceable batteries. Also, by not reviewing these products, time is freed up for me to cover products which are a better value in terms of long service life or at least the option to have the battery replaced. Also, we've set a VERY LOW, reasonable bar here. We'll still review products with built-in batteries, all the company has to do is disclose the battery replacement details on their site. If they refuse to do that, I really don't see that product as worth most peoples' time because that's a likely indicator that the company prioritizes profit over value to their customers.
Curtis, you are the hero we need but don't deserve :). Finnaly that someone is using his channel to try to make something good and somekind of change. Literaly 2 days ago I wrote a mail to RODE because right after warranty period my Rode Wireless GO II battery died again. This is the second set. Their support did not do anything and completely ingored me with stupid tameplate that they send to everyone. So basically i can throw away the set that i've payed 330€ and that is in mint condition with all the electronics except the battery. That is crazy. DJI is doing the same thing with their Mics, Pocket Cameras, and gimbals......terrible. I hope there will be more people like you who have a voice and try to make a change. Keep up the good work. Regards from Croatia!
For every 1 frustrated worker who speaks out, there will be 9 sponsored influencers who won't. Companies don't need to "pay attention", because they already did the math and studied their audience, and found that cool screwless gadgets sell better and more often.
@@curtisjudd I agree it's important to speak out, that pressure is needed for the industry. Just reminding the audience that this was a deliberate decision, and not an oversight.
This also applies to all mobile led lights, like rgb sticks and whatever. Inside are nearly always 18650 cells which are dirt cheap even for normal people
Thanks Curtis. This is one of the main question mark in my mind when I buy a device with built-in batteries. I'm very glad you raised this problem in a polite way.
Awesome, well said Curtis. I totally respect and support your stand on not reviewing products that don't meet your criteria for sustainability. Let's hope the manufacturers start to listen.
It is a very real problem and I’m grateful to you for calling it out in clear, diplomatic, yet firm language. Everything you said was and is correct and everyone who has commented before me knows it to be true. We spend our money on gear we expect to be reliable and capable of being maintained, and a hardware failure because of an in-built battery can torpedo an otherwise productive day (or more) of filming and/or recording. To say this is unacceptable is an understatement, and the only rational response is to steer clear of such products until the manufacturers get the message and abide by at least one of your sensible criteria. Thanks for speaking up Curtis, companies need to hear this and learn from it. Bravo!
Hi Curtis, totally agree. I had a DJI mike, but sold it anticipating the replacement battery issue. Ditto early versions of Deity lav transmitter kit. Now using Sony lav transmitters and Deity lav transmitters. Also started switching out supplied lav mikes for better quality Cos 11d units (but that's a different topic not related to batteries). However, if environmental considerations are the key concern then using li-ion AA and AAA cells are better than disposable alcaline batts. For my Sony transmitter/receiver packs they came with a removable 2x AA battery compartment. I found on Ali a li-ion compatible (ie same size, locking tabs etc) 'plug-in' pack. Bought several so can run, keep charged spares handy and/or recharge any drained pack. Easy and fast to replace. Low cost, convenient and better for environment too.
this also holds very true for many of the accent style lights/torches...think RGB tube lights, small RGB accent lights and on camera lights etc...once the battery no longer holds a charge or is able to be charged the product is useless and will go to landfill
Thank you, Curtis. I've always admired your straightforward reviews. But you're also a business person, and it takes real guts and character to voice an opinion that may be objectionable to some corporations. Just know that it's greatly appreciated by most consumers. Thanks again!
Huge props to you Curtis for advocating for sustainability and longevity. You were one of my favourite channels prior to this video. You've now shot to the top of the list. Thank you 🌱
Love the stand you're taking. You're doing everyone a service; not just by sending manufacturers a message and denying crippled products exposure, but also by filtering those products out for your viewers so it's one more thing they don't need to worry about. And you didn't even hammer the products on the obvious PRACTICAL failure of built-in batteries: When they die, your production day is over. Nobody should accept that.
Love it. And good on you for taking the stand to not review products if they don't meet your criteria. I can't ONLY use my Eneloops in my TASCAM unit... they want to be in various devices!
respect for this move. I hope more people and companies realize that it takes discipline, sacrifice, and collaboration to push for a cleaner world and cleaner practices
Thank you, Curtis, for making the time to create this important video. I agree with you completely. You have worked hard-with great integrity-to help the rest of us with our audio issues (and much more!). As a result, you have built a considerable following populated with many creatives who also have great influence (I’m not there yet!). Eventually, enough of us will refrain from purchasing products from those companies that affirmatively refuse to offer one of the three, quite reasonable, alternatives you have proposed in your video. Other companies, like Tentacle, will rise to the forefront and attract our $$. Thank you again for using your well-earned “microphone,” to do good for us all. 🙏🏼
Extremely important video! I’ve been thinking about this issue for more than a year, but at the moment have too small of a channel to actually reach people and companies, so it’s fantastic to see quite a big RUclipsr like you, Curtis, bringing this up! Now if only even bigger channels like LTT or mkbhd would do the same…😔 Also, imo, at this point we need EU gov (because, let’s face it, US gov can’t do anything properly really, definitely not to Big Tech) to force Apple to make AirPods with replaceable batteries, since they don’t do it on their own and are the worst offender, because of the amount they sell. Just like they forced them to switch to USB-C!
Hear, hear! A pertinent message eloquently delivered. Thank you for your support of a sustainable cause that has somehow been 'legitimately' exploited since the early 1990s by a huge range of companies of varying industries. Well done, Curtis, for standing up and informing people of this exploitative wastefulness.
Much respect, Curtis! I bought 2 sets of Rode WIreless Go II's and the first set has battery issues after about a year, I'm waiting for the second set to break down and it's exactly what you said. Unacceptable, gonna end up in a landfill somewhere while it's merely one component that makes one have to replace the entire unit.
This is great. I do feel that I will miss several reviews made by you until these companies fix this, but it will be worth it, especially if other reviewers follow suit.
Absolutely, Curtis. 1000% ! Thank you for highlighting this. I came across this problem with a timecode box recently. The company concerned happened to have a replacement unit to send me foc but that was a fluke that they had one to spare.
There are two factors at play here. First, is that after 3-5yrs the batteries are toast, and the product along with it if not replaceable. Ultrasonic welded cases that need to be cut to get inside is not ok. Second, is that having spare batteries is essential for maintaining a reliable workflow. We shouldn’t have to buy a whole extra device just in case the battery runs out mid shoot/recording/show. As curtis says, there are some cases I’m willing to excuse where it’s not practical (wireless earbuds being a prime example), but it should not be the norm.
Thank you sir, I hope they are listening. We appreciate your stance. I was getting ready to purchase but I think I will stick with my external devices and syncing them in post.
Before watching your videos I only looked for rechargeable products without user-replaceable batteries. Now I only buy products that work with rechargeable batteries (Zoom F3 and Deity PR-2). You convinced me with the environmental issue and the durability of the products.
Not just audio companies. I’m not even in the audio space to be honest but this is a huge issue for almost all tech companies. Apple is the biggest offender, but they are not alone by any means.
apple did a whole 180° switch! from being able to swap batteries and most of the things inside its laptop to blocking people from repairing parts due to their coding thingy that will block a hardware from working if not the original part
@ they’re very back and forth. They have those easy to replace batteries, but they also serialize parts. Find my iPhone is also very good at locking devices and parts but it means nothing if the original user can’t recover their devices. It just ends up in landfills.
you 1000% of my support on this. ALL products should have user replaceable batteries. it drives me nuts when i cant. i use the product less than i would if i could, cause i want it to last longer. i am less inclined to buy newer versions, this is great i hope we can get companies and consumers to support this. saddly some items i just need and am forced to get what is available, but i want to see this changed.
Thanks for calling this out! Sealed in batteries are the main reason I've stopped buying so much gear over the past couple of years. It's infuriating knowing that I'm paying good money for something that will have a finite lifespan (not to mention contribute to e-waste).
I just purchased a used Rodelink Filmmaking Kit for this reason. It cost me $25 on ebay in excellent condition. I've been burnt too much on these internal batteries. Even $200 is a lot to spend on something that could die on me within a year and a half, not to mention the e-waste. It's unacceptable and I'm glad that you've made this video. I hope others follow suit.
I couldn't agree more. I had a slew of products recently fail on me and no clear way to resolve the problem without buying a replacement product. This makes me livid, as I'm guilty of disposing of a poorly design product that was not worth the money I spent. Thanks for this Curtis!
I personally perfer option 2. I like smaller size batteries that can be recharged via usb c. And I'm not afraid of opening up my devices. I enjoy it infact. Also I'd add for option two. You can probably find a guide on RUclips today by some random person opening up and replacing the battery. These batteries are very cheap and easy to source. Also very interchangeable since they are simple batteries that charge slowly and are single cell designs, they don't need complex PMICs and can be replaced in the way a AA battery does (except its smaller and connects with a wire)
Spot on Curtis! You don’t review camera’s, but you could make the same statement for some brands that prefer to start sellling a mark ii of iii of a camera, instead of updating software of the mark i. Camera’s can often be used a few years longer with a good update policy. It’s a waste of still usable electronics, rare metals etc.
This is it! Thank you for taking this stand Curtis. Your suggested solutions are reasonable. And should be the same case with most products eg RGB tubes lights etc
Absolutely and completely agree! 🤗 Great move to not review integrated battery mics as a push back. From the start years ago, I decided to not buy such mics at all despite any attractive features or price.
fully support your opinion! and the general idea of making products reliable and certainly repairable, like it used to be, which is rational both in regards to my funds and nature.
OK. I’d like to add something here. One of the products that was wiped off the table was the Centrance Podcaster. I own the Mixerface. In the 4 or 5 years I’ve had it, the built in lithium battery hasn’t lost much of its power. Thats over 3 to 4 hours with phantom on. More without. Centrance has (or at least had at one point) a battery replacement program for 99 bucks. That to me is worth it considering the continued life of the battery itself. I also think it comes down to the battery itself and how and where it’s made. Buy cheap, get cheap (generally). While I understand the argument here (and I actually agree), I’m not going to dismiss a (good) product for internal batteries. Begrudgingly.
I support your decision Curtis. It is also a financial problem in low income countries. We can't afford to change the branded wireless mic every year or so.
I completely agree! A couple of months ago I was forced to replace the batteries on the Rodе Wireless Go 2 myself (at my own risk). Because the battery life dropped to 40 minutes, which is completely unacceptable. It would seem that replacing the battery is not difficult, but when I tried to unstick the case, one of the covers cracked. Of course, this only affects the appearance, but nevertheless - an unpleasant experience. I still don’t understand why you should glue the case with such an unreliable battery, if you can make latches. Now the kit works like new. However, two years of work, and then repairs - this is not what you expect from a purchase for $ 300.
Bravo! This is an issue in every tech field, including phones and lighting (and it's creeping into music gear). Products should comfortably last for 10+ years, not 2-3 years. It's bad for the user and bad for the environment.
Thanks a lot for the right words! I own all versions of Rode wireless microphones as well as some wireless microphones from other brands. The Rode Wireless Go II is now sitting unusable on my shelf even with the charging case. Imagine if they were made with detachable batteries, like using a smaller battery if you use the mic straight on your shirt or a larger battery if you have a lavalier mic plugged in and the transmitter is hidden in your clothes. This could open a lot of doors for content creators.
Well executed and a brilliant idea. If most of so called influencers would do half as much the companies would change their approach instantly. Regardless, it's a good start - all the best in your journey.
Hi Curtis. Well said. I really hope the message gets across. I hear there is a new system coming out from DJI tomorrow, but doubt it will have replaceable batteries. In the meantime a video with tiers of wireless systems you recommend for low end, mid range, high end work will be greatly appreciated!
Some have asked whether boycotting products with built-in batteries is a good move. The question is whether continued reviews where we call out the built-in, non-user-replaceable batteries as a con would be more effective than just NOT reviewing the product at all. My experience tells me that after calling this out for several years, the product companies have only doubled down on built-in, non-replaceable batteries.
Also, by not reviewing these products, time is freed up for me to cover products which are a better value in terms of long service life or at least the option to have the battery replaced.
Also, we've set a VERY LOW, reasonable bar here. We'll still review products with built-in batteries, all the company has to do is disclose the battery replacement details on their site. If they refuse to do that, I really don't see that product as worth most peoples' time because that's a likely indicator that the company prioritizes profit over value to their customers.
Saying what needs to be said. Thank you Curtis. This is very well said.
🙏
Awesome position you’re taking; 100% behind you!
Thank you Curtis for continuing to push audio companies towards a cleaner solution for batteries.
Very good points, and not only for audio companies.
Curtis, you are the hero we need but don't deserve :). Finnaly that someone is using his channel to try to make something good and somekind of change.
Literaly 2 days ago I wrote a mail to RODE because right after warranty period my Rode Wireless GO II battery died again. This is the second set. Their support did not do anything and completely ingored me with stupid tameplate that they send to everyone. So basically i can throw away the set that i've payed 330€ and that is in mint condition with all the electronics except the battery. That is crazy. DJI is doing the same thing with their Mics, Pocket Cameras, and gimbals......terrible. I hope there will be more people like you who have a voice and try to make a change. Keep up the good work. Regards from Croatia!
🙏
All Rode wireless go/pro users can understand this problem after two years practically !
All three options laid out here are very reasonable options. Much appreciated message, I hope companies are paying attention!
👍
For every 1 frustrated worker who speaks out, there will be 9 sponsored influencers who won't. Companies don't need to "pay attention", because they already did the math and studied their audience, and found that cool screwless gadgets sell better and more often.
@@LishtenbirdTech That's one perspective. I believe if enough speak out, we can change things.
@@curtisjudd I agree it's important to speak out, that pressure is needed for the industry. Just reminding the audience that this was a deliberate decision, and not an oversight.
This also applies to all mobile led lights, like rgb sticks and whatever. Inside are nearly always 18650 cells which are dirt cheap even for normal people
Thanks Curtis. This is one of the main question mark in my mind when I buy a device with built-in batteries. I'm very glad you raised this problem in a polite way.
Awesome, well said Curtis. I totally respect and support your stand on not reviewing products that don't meet your criteria for sustainability. Let's hope the manufacturers start to listen.
It is a very real problem and I’m grateful to you for calling it out in clear, diplomatic, yet firm language. Everything you said was and is correct and everyone who has commented before me knows it to be true. We spend our money on gear we expect to be reliable and capable of being maintained, and a hardware failure because of an in-built battery can torpedo an otherwise productive day (or more) of filming and/or recording. To say this is unacceptable is an understatement, and the only rational response is to steer clear of such products until the manufacturers get the message and abide by at least one of your sensible criteria. Thanks for speaking up Curtis, companies need to hear this and learn from it. Bravo!
Hi Curtis, totally agree. I had a DJI mike, but sold it anticipating the replacement battery issue. Ditto early versions of Deity lav transmitter kit. Now using Sony lav transmitters and Deity lav transmitters. Also started switching out supplied lav mikes for better quality Cos 11d units (but that's a different topic not related to batteries).
However, if environmental considerations are the key concern then using li-ion AA and AAA cells are better than disposable alcaline batts.
For my Sony transmitter/receiver packs they came with a removable 2x AA battery compartment. I found on Ali a li-ion compatible (ie same size, locking tabs etc) 'plug-in' pack. Bought several so can run, keep charged spares handy and/or recharge any drained pack. Easy and fast to replace. Low cost, convenient and better for environment too.
this also holds very true for many of the accent style lights/torches...think RGB tube lights, small RGB accent lights and on camera lights etc...once the battery no longer holds a charge or is able to be charged the product is useless and will go to landfill
Good point. All the reviewers should follow you.
Thank you, Curtis. I've always admired your straightforward reviews. But you're also a business person, and it takes real guts and character to voice an opinion that may be objectionable to some corporations. Just know that it's greatly appreciated by most consumers. Thanks again!
Huge props to you Curtis for advocating for sustainability and longevity. You were one of my favourite channels prior to this video. You've now shot to the top of the list. Thank you 🌱
🙏❤️
Love the stand you're taking. You're doing everyone a service; not just by sending manufacturers a message and denying crippled products exposure, but also by filtering those products out for your viewers so it's one more thing they don't need to worry about.
And you didn't even hammer the products on the obvious PRACTICAL failure of built-in batteries: When they die, your production day is over. Nobody should accept that.
Hell yea, way to be. Love that you're using your platform to affect change. Other creators, take note. This is the example!
Love it. And good on you for taking the stand to not review products if they don't meet your criteria.
I can't ONLY use my Eneloops in my TASCAM unit... they want to be in various devices!
respect for this move. I hope more people and companies realize that it takes discipline, sacrifice, and collaboration to push for a cleaner world and cleaner practices
I rant on this topic in my gear videos a lot. Glad to see your on the case! Valuable topic.
Thank you, Curtis, for making the time to create this important video. I agree with you completely. You have worked hard-with great integrity-to help the rest of us with our audio issues (and much more!). As a result, you have built a considerable following populated with many creatives who also have great influence (I’m not there yet!). Eventually, enough of us will refrain from purchasing products from those companies that affirmatively refuse to offer one of the three, quite reasonable, alternatives you have proposed in your video. Other companies, like Tentacle, will rise to the forefront and attract our $$. Thank you again for using your well-earned “microphone,” to do good for us all. 🙏🏼
Preach!!!! Seriously, this needs to be fixed. Thank you for taking a stand on this.
You just said what I have been saying for a long time. It can be done without limiting the end user. Kudos Curtis.
Well said Chris! This is the #1 reason I went with the Tentacle Track-E. (Second was 32-bit float). 😎
100%. Couldn't agree more and completely respect your stance on product reviews.
Great decision. Thanks Curtis.
you're a great human! thank you! let's follow your example!
Extremely important video!
I’ve been thinking about this issue for more than a year, but at the moment have too small of a channel to actually reach people and companies, so it’s fantastic to see quite a big RUclipsr like you, Curtis, bringing this up!
Now if only even bigger channels like LTT or mkbhd would do the same…😔
Also, imo, at this point we need EU gov (because, let’s face it, US gov can’t do anything properly really, definitely not to Big Tech) to force Apple to make AirPods with replaceable batteries, since they don’t do it on their own and are the worst offender, because of the amount they sell.
Just like they forced them to switch to USB-C!
100% agree with this. The automotive industry needs to adopt this with EV's, too.
💯
And this is why I love Tentacle! Thank you for putting this out there!
Hear, hear! A pertinent message eloquently delivered. Thank you for your support of a sustainable cause that has somehow been 'legitimately' exploited since the early 1990s by a huge range of companies of varying industries. Well done, Curtis, for standing up and informing people of this exploitative wastefulness.
Very true, this is a very bold and important decision. I hope more reviewers in the tech will follow your path.
I appreciate you saying this and caring about this issue. Thanks!
Bravo, Curtis. If more people took a stand on these issues we might actually get traction. 👏👏
Much respect, Curtis! I bought 2 sets of Rode WIreless Go II's and the first set has battery issues after about a year, I'm waiting for the second set to break down and it's exactly what you said. Unacceptable, gonna end up in a landfill somewhere while it's merely one component that makes one have to replace the entire unit.
3:12.... EXCELLENT! I back 100% your position. I hope more reviewers join that position
👍
huge huge respect!
thisa is the exact reason I didn't upgrade my 7yrsold wireless mic system, double A batteries never been so easy to replace
100% agree with your position and respect that you took the time to discuss with your audience and influence. Thank You!
🙏
This is great. I do feel that I will miss several reviews made by you until these companies fix this, but it will be worth it, especially if other reviewers follow suit.
Bravo!, Curtis. Thank you!
Excellent point! I really appreciate your views on sustainability and applaud your decision!
Absolutely, Curtis. 1000% ! Thank you for highlighting this. I came across this problem with a timecode box recently. The company concerned happened to have a replacement unit to send me foc but that was a fluke that they had one to spare.
👍
Good for you. I stopped offering non-recycled or "glazed" business cards to my design clients 10 years ago. We do whatever we can in our own way
I 100% agree, companies need to get their act together and do the responsible thing.
There are two factors at play here.
First, is that after 3-5yrs the batteries are toast, and the product along with it if not replaceable. Ultrasonic welded cases that need to be cut to get inside is not ok.
Second, is that having spare batteries is essential for maintaining a reliable workflow. We shouldn’t have to buy a whole extra device just in case the battery runs out mid shoot/recording/show.
As curtis says, there are some cases I’m willing to excuse where it’s not practical (wireless earbuds being a prime example), but it should not be the norm.
So much yes. Well said Curtis!
Thank you sir, I hope they are listening. We appreciate your stance. I was getting ready to purchase but I think I will stick with my external devices and syncing them in post.
👍
Agree! You have the attention of a lot of companies, and it is good to see you push for less landfill waste.
Before watching your videos I only looked for rechargeable products without user-replaceable batteries. Now I only buy products that work with rechargeable batteries (Zoom F3 and Deity PR-2). You convinced me with the environmental issue and the durability of the products.
👍
Love this eco-friendly approach to technology
Great point, wholeheartedly agree. We in the pro audio world don't want to add more E-waste to the already crowded landfill issues.
Or toss out an otherwise useful piece of gear.
Not just audio companies. I’m not even in the audio space to be honest but this is a huge issue for almost all tech companies. Apple is the biggest offender, but they are not alone by any means.
apple did a whole 180° switch! from being able to swap batteries and most of the things inside its laptop to blocking people from repairing parts due to their coding thingy that will block a hardware from working if not the original part
@ they’re very back and forth. They have those easy to replace batteries, but they also serialize parts. Find my iPhone is also very good at locking devices and parts but it means nothing if the original user can’t recover their devices. It just ends up in landfills.
you 1000% of my support on this. ALL products should have user replaceable batteries. it drives me nuts when i cant. i use the product less than i would if i could, cause i want it to last longer. i am less inclined to buy newer versions, this is great i hope we can get companies and consumers to support this.
saddly some items i just need and am forced to get what is available, but i want to see this changed.
Thanks for calling this out! Sealed in batteries are the main reason I've stopped buying so much gear over the past couple of years. It's infuriating knowing that I'm paying good money for something that will have a finite lifespan (not to mention contribute to e-waste).
RESPECT! We as consumers/prosumers are behind you on this one ❤
👍
Such a great way to put constructive pressure on the manufacturer. I totally agree and will support in any way I can!
Good for you Curtis!
I just purchased a used Rodelink Filmmaking Kit for this reason. It cost me $25 on ebay in excellent condition. I've been burnt too much on these internal batteries. Even $200 is a lot to spend on something that could die on me within a year and a half, not to mention the e-waste. It's unacceptable and I'm glad that you've made this video. I hope others follow suit.
🙏👍
You speak out of my heart , as we say here in Austria..
You are our hero Curtis!!!
I couldn't agree more. I had a slew of products recently fail on me and no clear way to resolve the problem without buying a replacement product. This makes me livid, as I'm guilty of disposing of a poorly design product that was not worth the money I spent. Thanks for this Curtis!
I personally perfer option 2. I like smaller size batteries that can be recharged via usb c. And I'm not afraid of opening up my devices. I enjoy it infact.
Also I'd add for option two. You can probably find a guide on RUclips today by some random person opening up and replacing the battery. These batteries are very cheap and easy to source. Also very interchangeable since they are simple batteries that charge slowly and are single cell designs, they don't need complex PMICs and can be replaced in the way a AA battery does (except its smaller and connects with a wire)
Bloody brilliant approach Curtis - well played taking this approach, and effecting change in the things that matter.
Thank you very much for your position! 🙏🙏🙏
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Awesome stance. Responsible influencing in the right direction :)
Thank you Curtis! Much appreciated!
You are absolutely right... thank you Curtis!
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It will be a clear market edge for the company that addresses this first. Thanks, Curtis.
100% agree with your position !
YES! Thank you!
Spot on Curtis! You don’t review camera’s, but you could make the same statement for some brands that prefer to start sellling a mark ii of iii of a camera, instead of updating software of the mark i. Camera’s can often be used a few years longer with a good update policy. It’s a waste of still usable electronics, rare metals etc.
I have been subscribed to you for years. Now my wife has the utmost respect for you. This issue with the batteries has bothered me too.
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As almost everybody here, I can't agree more with what you say here ! Thank you Curtis !
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I'm with you, Curtis! Thanks for making this video.
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200% agree. Thank you for using your voice!
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Yes please, thank you for bringing this issue up in a dedicated video :)
This is it! Thank you for taking this stand Curtis. Your suggested solutions are reasonable. And should be the same case with most products eg RGB tubes lights etc
Great advice! Thank you for beeing our voice!
👍
Absolutely and completely agree! 🤗 Great move to not review integrated battery mics as a push back. From the start years ago, I decided to not buy such mics at all despite any attractive features or price.
fully support your opinion! and the general idea of making products reliable and certainly repairable, like it used to be, which is rational both in regards to my funds and nature.
OK. I’d like to add something here. One of the products that was wiped off the table was the Centrance Podcaster. I own the Mixerface. In the 4 or 5 years I’ve had it, the built in lithium battery hasn’t lost much of its power. Thats over 3 to 4 hours with phantom on. More without. Centrance has (or at least had at one point) a battery replacement program for 99 bucks. That to me is worth it considering the continued life of the battery itself. I also think it comes down to the battery itself and how and where it’s made. Buy cheap, get cheap (generally). While I understand the argument here (and I actually agree), I’m not going to dismiss a (good) product for internal batteries. Begrudgingly.
I support your decision Curtis. It is also a financial problem in low income countries. We can't afford to change the branded wireless mic every year or so.
I completely agree!
A couple of months ago I was forced to replace the batteries on the Rodе Wireless Go 2 myself (at my own risk). Because the battery life dropped to 40 minutes, which is completely unacceptable.
It would seem that replacing the battery is not difficult, but when I tried to unstick the case, one of the covers cracked. Of course, this only affects the appearance, but nevertheless - an unpleasant experience.
I still don’t understand why you should glue the case with such an unreliable battery, if you can make latches.
Now the kit works like new. However, two years of work, and then repairs - this is not what you expect from a purchase for $ 300.
Well done, especially on your stand. 👍🏻
Thank you so much! I always thought that I am the only one requesting that from companies.
Bravo! This is an issue in every tech field, including phones and lighting (and it's creeping into music gear). Products should comfortably last for 10+ years, not 2-3 years. It's bad for the user and bad for the environment.
Yes I agree absolutely.
Thanks, Curtis. I agree completely! A built-in battery situation just immediately makes a product very difficult for me to embrace in pro audio.
THANK YOU!!
Long been waiting for this!
Thanks for sharing this video. That's the same reason of why I don't make video reviews of these products, even if I own them.
Thanks a lot for the right words!
I own all versions of Rode wireless microphones as well as some wireless microphones from other brands. The Rode Wireless Go II is now sitting unusable on my shelf even with the charging case. Imagine if they were made with detachable batteries, like using a smaller battery if you use the mic straight on your shirt or a larger battery if you have a lavalier mic plugged in and the transmitter is hidden in your clothes. This could open a lot of doors for content creators.
Well executed and a brilliant idea. If most of so called influencers would do half as much the companies would change their approach instantly. Regardless, it's a good start - all the best in your journey.
Couldn’t agree more about this. It is the right thing to do!
I would love to see more products with replacable batteries! Great points Curtis!
Thank you Curtis so important!
Agreed! This needs addressing. Glad you posted this.
Amen Curtis, thank you!!! 👏👏
Hi Curtis. Well said. I really hope the message gets across. I hear there is a new system coming out from DJI tomorrow, but doubt it will have replaceable batteries. In the meantime a video with tiers of wireless systems you recommend for low end, mid range, high end work will be greatly appreciated!