Sign In / Sign Up
CoalaxTeam - Jan 12 2025
Field Recording in Costa Rica Using the Lancer300
we first came across Shannon Harris through a photo he shared from the field.
In the image, he’s hiking through the Osa Peninsula in Costa Rica with a Lancer300 on his back, Magic Arms extended and configured as a stereo microphone array. He’s wearing headphones, monitoring the environment as he moves — not documenting after the fact, but listening in real time.
Shannon is an Audio Pharmacologist™, an audio-visual anthropologist, and a full-time nature field recordist. His work involves capturing pure natural sound environments used in evidence-based mental and physical health protocols. He also documents indigenous cultures, researches ethnomedicine, and participates in species studies projects in Costa Rica.
Before recording could begin
For each expedition, he builds custom field recording rigs depending on the demands of the environment. Traditionally, this meant scouting locations without a full setup, identifying a promising site, and then returning to build a larger recording rig.
As he explained in his email to us:
“My smaller handheld recorders can be used while hiking, but that means I am physically carrying the device with the larger rig gear in my backpack. I will have to unpack the gear and set it up and break it down afterwards when finished.”
With the Lancer300, that process changed.
“The Lancer 300 allows me to use my microphones, windshields, and recorder from my bigger rig while hiking enabling me to preview the territories live. I can stand still to quickly capture an environment or lay the pack down in a matter of seconds and record. ”
Travel logistics also became simpler
“The other thing that is amazing about the Lancer 300 backpack is that it makes traveling via plane or car easier. I usually carry a separate Pelican case for my audio/video gear or stuff my luggage with my gear when flying.”
By consolidating equipment into a single modular system, Shannon is able to move more efficiently between locations.
“The Lancer 300 allows for everything to be in one place and its modular configuration makes it a perfect companion to my travels and in the field use case scenarios.”
For his work, that consolidation has practical implications beyond convenience. "I am now able to document the journey without needing extra hands or people which is key to my line of work. I often venture off alone to far away remote places and capturing those experiences while trying to focus on the quality of my audio recordings along with my safety has been a huge challenge.”
Over time, the system became more than just a way to carry equipment. “The Lancer 300 backpack is now my assistant. It can hold lights, cameras, recorders, mics, gear, Starlink, power devices, and you name it. This is very valuable in my line of work.”
Shannon also shared feedback based on extended field use. He noted that a more rigid metal chassis connection for the Magic Arms could allow heavier gear to be mounted more securely, particularly in high-wind conditions. He also suggested a detachable wheel system with a telescoping handle for airports and long transfers, which could be removed before entering the field. He expressed interest in participating in prototype testing for these ideas.
Make it easy to buy by eliminating stumbling blocks to purchase. Don’t assume customers know which item you’re talking about in your post. Provide a link directly to the product page or just link the product to your blog so they can buy if they want. If it relevant give readers more than one way to get to the product.
Shannon’s experience reflects what the Lancer300 is built for: supporting creators who work independently, move constantly, and rely on their gear in real conditions. By bringing recording, travel, and field use into a single system, the Lancer300 helps reduce friction so creators can stay focused on their work.
Every setup is different, and real-world use cases like this help guide how the system continues to evolve. If you’re using the Lancer300 in your own projects, we’d welcome the chance to learn from your experience as well.
