About the Azden SWS-200 8" Foam/Furry Combo Windshield for Azden Shotguns
The Azden SWS-200 is a professional, large-diameter windscreen designed to provide maximum wind noise suppression for full-sized shotgun microphones, particularly those with barrels approximately eight inches in length. This model utilizes a proven two-layer acoustic design to effectively manage challenging outdoor recording conditions. The inner core consists of a dense, open-cell acoustic foam that provides the initial stage of wind deceleration and broadband absorption. This foam layer is permanently encased within an outer shell of long, synthetic fur, which acts as the primary barrier to disrupt and diffuse wind currents before they can reach the microphone's sensitive diaphragm. This combination is highly effective at eliminating the low-frequency rumble and distortion caused by wind, allowing the microphone to capture clear, usable audio even in moderate to strong breeze conditions.
Constructed for durability and precise fit, the SWS-200 features a sturdy internal plastic or wire frame that maintains its shape and ensures a snug, secure fit over the microphone's grille without exerting excessive pressure. The windscreen is engineered to slip on and off compatible models easily, facilitating quick deployment and storage during field work. The synthetic fur exterior is designed to be water-resistant, shedding light moisture and allowing the unit to perform in damp environments without compromising its acoustic properties. This robust build makes it an essential accessory for field recordists, documentary crews, and ENG (Electronic News Gathering) operators who rely on their shotgun microphones in unpredictable weather.
The acoustic design of the SWS-200 is carefully balanced to provide exceptional wind protection with minimal impact on the microphone's high-frequency response and directional characteristics. It preserves the critical off-axis rejection and tonal quality of the shotgun microphone while eliminating a primary source of unusable noise. By enabling clean dialogue and ambient sound capture in exterior shooting situations, this windshield directly enhances production value and reduces the need for costly audio repair in post-production. It represents a critical, problem-solving component for any audio professional requiring reliable performance from their shotgun microphone in real-world, outdoor recording scenarios.