Review: Point Source Audio CM-i5 & CM-i3
PSA has a different ‘no clamps’ take on headsets, bringing some comfort and customisability improvements along the way.
30 April 2025
Review:/ Christopher Holder
Point Source Audio, best known for its miniature microphone presentation headsets has turned its gaze to comms headsets. The key innovation is in the use of earphones rather than headphones.
By opting for earphones in the design it helps to streamline the whole assembly.
The headband fits around the back of the head rather than over. It’s a snug fit and being around the back of the head it means you can also more comfortably wear protective headwear or indeed your favourite baseball hat (or beret) if you so choose.
The weight is kept right down as well – well under 100 grams.
EAR EAR
Using earphones rather than conventional headphones will should give you better acoustic isolation. This is particularly important if you’re in a noisy environment, leading to a more comfortable day on the job – you won’t need to crank the volume so hard, which makes for better long-term ear health and less fatigue.
The headset comes with its own EM-X earphones. The supplied earphones disconnect, which is another design brainwave. It means each operator can have their own set, with their own inserts and their own earwax. The earphones use a MMCX connector which is pretty widespread in earphone world so you might find you can use your own earphones from another brand if you prefer.
For maximum customisation you can actually unthread the Point Source Audio earphones and thread your own into the headset assembly. If you’ve had IEM moulds taken and you’re wearing a headset day in/day out, I suspect that this is the ultimate solution.
MORE INFO
Point Source Audio CM-i5 & CM-i3
Comms Headset
CONTACT
Studio Connections: studioconnections.com.au
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investing in the right set seems to me to be the best tax deduction you’re likely to claim this year
TWO MODELS
There are two models in the range, either with a condenser mic (CM-i5) or a dynamic (CM-i3). Of course, the condenser set needs external bias voltage to operate, which many newer comms kits provide. Both are directional, offering 12dB of off-axis rejection.
The 1.2m cable terminates in a five pin XLR connector with to plug into the comms unit of your choice.
The Point Source Audio units are ruggedly built and ship in an eye-catching PSA-orange protective case.
SOUND INVESTMENT
No matter what aspect of production you work in, if headsets are a major part of your AV worklife then investing in the right set seems to me to be the best tax deduction you’re likely to claim this year. The Point Source Audio offering is priced about on par with other professional offerings and well worth seeking out for a demo.
RESPONSES