During the 11th Longines Beijing Masters, CatalkStudios, a professional video production team from China, was tasked with filming the entire event. Over four days, their 8-person team delivered 25 high-quality videos — thanks in large part to their first-time use of the wireless intercom system, WiTalk9.
Throughout the challenging shoot, WiTalk9 impressed the team with its reliable communication, long battery life, and comfortable wearing experience.
Filming a large event with 380 riders from 14 countries and regions competing over four days is no easy feat.
How do you react quickly to last-minute video requests from the organizer? How do you reposition cameramen effectively inside a massive stadium? How do you respond instantly when unexpected situations occur?
CatalkStudios had previously relied on traditional walkie-talkies and rented intercom systems to coordinate. However, walkie-talkies often suffered from interference and cross-talk, while rental systems had poor battery health and questionable signal stability, particularly inside a steel-structured venue like the Bird's Nest Stadium.
“In critical moments, when immediate action is required, confusion from poor communication is the last thing you want,” said Jiang, director of CatalkStudios.
This time, CatalkStudios chose WiTalk9 wireless intercom headsets.Even inside the Bird’s Nest — a venue made of 42,000 tons of steel that could easily disrupt signals — WiTalk9 delivered stable and uninterrupted communication throughout the shoot.Jiang shared:"Even in such a complicated steel environment, WiTalk9 performed brilliantly. Instructions were delivered quickly and clearly, allowing us to respond instantly to sudden needs."
Thanks to the dual antenna design inside each headset, WiTalk9 ensured strong signal strength and exceptional transmission stability — a true game changer during critical moments.
Shooting nearly 10 hours a day puts enormous pressure on battery performance.Previously, CatalkStudios often had to deal with rental intercom systems whose aging batteries would die mid-shoot — and there are no second takes in a live sports event.WiTalk9, equipped with two batteries per headset — 9 hours of runtime for the master, and up to 15 hours for remotes — comfortably supported the entire day's work without interruption."We never had to stop for a battery swap during shooting. It truly reduced on-site stress," Jiang remarked.He also offered a suggestion:"If the headsets could have a battery level indicator in the future, that would make them even better."
In early October, Beijing experiences a wide temperature swing — warm during the day (up to 20°C) and chilly at night (as low as 8°C).WiTalk9’s interchangeable ear cushions helped the team stay comfortable throughout these shifts:
"Small design details like this made a real difference, allowing us to stay focused without discomfort," said Jiang.
WiTalk9 is ideal for larger teams (9 or more members) working across wide areas, heavy crowds, or complex signal environments.
WiTalk9 SE suits smaller teams (5 to 9 members) operating in open outdoor or simpler indoor settings.