Saramonic K9 Q&A

Q1

What is the frequency spectrum of the Saramonic K9?

The K9 operates on a reliable MHz UHF spectrum, with GPS-based frequency updates for global compatibility.

Q2

What is the difference between digital UHF and 2.4 GHz wireless systems?

· Stronger interference resistance: UHF is more stable and less affected by Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.

· Better transmission in complex environments: UHF can penetrate most materials, while 2.4 GHz is easily blocked by walls.

· Better audio quality: UHF supports uncompressed or low-latency codecs, offering a wider dynamic range and lower noise.

Q3

Why are the transmitter and receiver not pre-paired? How do I pair them?

To ensure stable performance, you should scan for the best frequency in your environment before first use. There are three pairing methods (turn on both transmitters and the receiver):

· Use the auto-scan function on the receiver to assign the best frequencies to both transmitters.

· Manually select Pairing 1 or Pairing 2 on the receiver, then set the transmitter frequency.

· Set the same frequency manually on both the transmitter and receiver.

Q4

What kind of batteries does the Saramonic K9 use?

The K9 transmitter and receiver support AA batteries (NiMH/alkaline) or USB-C external power. This allows quick battery replacement or continuous power from a power bank or adapter.

Note: The K9 transmitter and receiver will default to the standard lithium-iron AA battery when powered on for the first time. If switching to a different battery type, update the battery settings in the device for accurate battery level display.

Q5

How do I connect the Saramonic K9 to a recorder, mixer, camera, or phone?

To a camera: Use a 3.5 mm TRS to TRS cable (OUT-A or OUT-B → MIC IN).

To a phone: Use a USB-C to USB-C audio cable (USB-C → USB-C).

To a recorder/mixer: Use a 3.5 mm TRS to XLR cable (OUT-A or OUT-B → XLR input).

Q6

Can the Saramonic K9 record audio directly?

Yes. The Global and U.S. versions support 32-bit float onboard recording via TF card.

Note: K9 systems sold and operated in the US cannot transmit wirelessly and record simultaneously.

Q7

What are the Saramonic K9's shortcut keys?

Transmitter

· Short press POWER: Mute/unmute.

· Long press UP: Open the recording menu (start/stop recording, check duration, storage).

· Long press DOWN: Open the timecode menu (sync, frame rate, grouping, mode).

Receiver

When B-channel is not in monitoring mode:

· Long press UP: Adjust A-channel output gain.

· Long press DOWN: Adjust B-channel output gain.

When B-channel is in monitoring mode:

· Short press UP/DOWN: Adjust headphone volume.

Q8

What is gain staging? How should I set the gain on the Saramonic K9?

Gain staging ensures optimal audio levels without noise or distortion.

Steps to set gain:

· Set transmitter input gain to +15 dB and speak into the mic.

· Adjust gain so that peak levels reach around -12 dB on the VU meter (loud but not clipping).

· Set receiver output gain based on the connection type:

To a recorder (TRS to XLR) → Select RX1 (single-channel output), set gain to 0 dB.

To a camera (TRS to TRS) → Select RX1+RX2 (mixed output), set gain to -20 dB.

Q9

How do I set up IFB return audio on the Saramonic K9?

Transmitter setup:

Connect the transmitter to the recorder's main or sub-output.

Note: Please set the transmitter input to Line-In. Use a different frequency range than the actor’s wireless mic (or at least 10 MHz apart). Clip the transmitter outside the sound bag for better signal transmission.

Receiver setup:

Match the receiver frequency to the transmitter.

Set Output A to RX1 and Output B to Monitor (mirrors A’s audio to headphones).

Adjust monitor volume using the receiver’s UP/DOWN keys (12 levels).

Q10

How does timecode work on the Saramonic K9?

The transmitter has timecode; the receiver does not but displays a “TC” icon when sync is enabled. K9 only supports slave timecode (it can sync but not generate a master timecode).

3 ways to sync timecode:

Wired sync:

· Set Auto/Jam mode and connect a 3.5mm TRS cable to the K9 TX MIC IN.

· Works with Tentacle Sync, DEITY TC-1, UltraSync ONE, etc.

· Syncs timecode from cameras or recorders via TRS/LTC cable.

Local wireless sync:

· Use a Saramonic timecode generator TC-NEO as the master one. Ideal for professional film workflows without phone/network signal.

App sync:

· Connect to Saramonic System app for simultaneous sync. Best for multi-device setups.

Q11

How do I update the Saramonic K9 firmware?

· Power on the transmitter and receiver.

· Open the Saramonic System app and add your device. If it doesn’t appear, reset Bluetooth.

· Go to Monitor > Batch Update. If an update is available, a red dot will appear.

· Ensure stable network connection, then tap Update Now.

· If any devices fail to update, retry with Re-upgrade.

Q12

Why can’t my Tentacle Sync E sync timecode with the Saramonic K9?

In the Tentacle App, turn off Auto and switch to LINE mode.