Topic: New OM System LS-P5

[vwmule]

> One thing that is useful for future readers would be if these mini reviews were accompanied with information about firmware version and app version.

The value of these threads -- and this site, vs. more visually pleasing and spontaneous Facebook hobby groups -- is that's what you get, a rolling yet static assessment of a piece of gear, with early advance and field tests of firmware.

That is why across TS the reliance on an established thread is best. Always check before starting a new one, especially in the open/stealth realm, where duplication creates confusion and inaccuracy.

[Sebastian]

I took the LS-P5 out to its first show last night and had even more problems with the Bluetooth connectivity than I had had at home. Sometimes it took over 10 seconds for the app to become responsive. I ended up pulling the recorder out of my pocket to check and set levels. The recording sounds good, though.

Also, I have contacted OM technical support. They did not seem to understand the problem and assured me that recording still continues on the device even when the recorder displays "Disconnected". I never questioned that. I followed up with a more detailed bug report, including screenshots. Let's see what they're saying. If they can't fix this, I will return the recorder.

[Sebastian]

I just got another demoralizing e-mail from OM support in which they refuse to recognize a problem. That is really too bad because this recorder has a lot of potential. However, I cannot use it with their current Bluetooth implementation. And I have zero confidence in their customer support. So I'm going to return mine and order a Sony A10 as a backup from B&H in the U.S. instead, even if this means paying 100 EUR more and not having replaceable batteries.

[thebigredone]

Took the LS-P5 to its first gig on Saturday. Recording came out great, but the BT connectivity, horrendous. After connecting the first time so I could kick the recording off, it never connected again 'til after the show when I was in a cab home. This was the same on two different phones (Samsung S20 & S21). Fortunately, I'd set the level fairly low ( 8 ), just in case I had this issue as mentioned further up this thread.

[thebigredone]

Took the LS-P5 to its second gig last night. This time I used an iPhone 6S for the BT connection instead of my Samsung. As much as I hate iPhones, I have to say, it worked very well. 5-6 seconds to connect (not perfect, I know, but so much better than with the S20 & 21). So, my personal recommendation is to use an iPhone for this particular purpose if you can.

[Teppka]

Could someone suggest if tripod thread is steel or plastic?

[PhxHorn]

I needed a new stealth rig and found this thread. My Zoom H2 is falling apart and the Sony A10 is too expensive now, so I bought the Olympus LS P5.  First test last night at Rod Stewart using my Church CAFS mics and the P5's internal power (no battery pack).  These days every venue is being more restrictive with bags, and I needed something that would be unobtrusive with a clear bag.  I found a carrying pouch that fits it just fine.  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BF9KW1K4?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1

I  used a Sharpie to cover up the words Record & Erase on the P5. I stuck it in the pouch mics-first and then left the pouch unzipped so security could see the bottom half of the unit. It was not a problem. As mentioned previously, the Bluetooth connection doesn't hold for all that long, so I paired the unit to my Android phone shortly before showtime.  When the music started, I made sure I had the recording levels dialed in.  I lost the connection after about 15 minutes, but I knew it would keep recording.  After the show, I just hit the Stop button.  Internal power worked just fine for the external mics, so no need for the battery pack.  Audio quality was just fine. 

Before the show, I tested the Olympus by placing it a foot in front of my stereo with the volume cranked.  The internal mics perform very well for high volume, though the audio quality is not quite as good as using externals. My old Zoom H2 really couldn't handle even medium-loud volume before distorting. Anyway, I think this will do the job for a stealth rig. I will say that the menu is confusing, and I still haven't got it figured out.  Sometimes you have to hit up or down to select a setting, and other times you hit left or right. I'm hoping I don't hit the wrong setting at some point. The Bluetooth instability is annoying, but all I need is for it to hold long enough to get the recording levels dialed in, so I can live with it.