The Song Meter SM5 is the latest generation acoustic recorder from Wildlife Acoustics and is available now as the flagship model for professional ecologists. With exceptional battery performance and flexible power options, the SM5 is ideal for long-term deployments and large-scale biodiversity surveys. It is the ultimate acoustic recorder for long-distance wildlife monitoring.
The recorder features a completely redesigned, rugged IP67 housing built to withstand harsh environmental conditions. The integrated acoustic stub microphones deliver clear two-channel recordings with excellent signal-to-noise ratio. For added flexibility, up to two wired SMM-A2 microphones can be connected.
The SM5 supports both lithium-ion and alkaline batteries and can also be powered by external sources such as solar energy. This makes it suitable for long-duration, low-maintenance deployments where reliability is essential. The optional Solar Power Kit provides consistent power during extended monitoring projects.*
An integrated GPS module records precise time and location data, simplifying the synchronization of multiple recorders and improving mapping accuracy of detections. The Song Meter Configurator app allows users to set configurations, build schedules and estimate deployment duration via an iOS or Android device.
The SM5 has been designed with future expansion in mind. A new expansion port supports an upcoming accessory for remote access. This will allow users to download data, check recorder status and adjust settings from a distance. The port also supports user-developed electronics for field analysis. More information on this feature will follow.
Backed by eighteen years of field experience and customer feedback, the SM5 offers improved audio capture, reduced weight and a streamlined workflow for modern ecological research.
Key features Song Meter SM5
- Weatherproof IP67 design for all environments: The rugged enclosure protects the recorder from rain, dust and extreme conditions.
- Flexible power options for long deployments: Operates on lithium-ion batteries, alkaline batteries or external power sources such as solar energy.
- Two integrated acoustic stub microphones: These provide high-quality stereo recordings and can be expanded with up to two wired SMM-A2 microphones.
- Durable microphones: This enables quick field checks and ensures consistent recording performance.
- Integrated GPS for accurate time and location data: Ideal for synchronizing multiple recorders and mapping detections with precision.
- Bluetooth-compatible with the Song Meter Configurator app: Configure settings and recording schedules easily via your mobile device.
- New expansion port for future accessories: Enables remote data access, setting adjustments and workflow automation in upcoming updates.
- Compatible with existing Wildlife Acoustics tools: The SM5 integrates seamlessly into current research workflows and software.
Comparison SM5/SM4
The Song Meter SM5 offers several significant advantages over the SM4, reflecting eighteen years of field experience and user feedback. One of the most notable improvements is its greatly extended battery life. With support for up to 1,330 hours on lithium-ion batteries and up to 700 hours on alkaline power. Despite offering more capabilities and supporting larger battery configurations, the SM5 is actually smaller and lighter than the SM4, making it easier to transport and install in the field.
The SM5 also introduces built-in GPS. This enables automatic location tagging and highly accurate GPS time synchronization within 30 microseconds, which is invaluable when coordinating multiple recorders across a study area. It also offers more configuration options, allowing users to set up the unit not only through on-device buttons but also through a dedicated iOS or Android app.
The SM5 is designed for future connectivity, with planned support for cellular remote access. This will be released later in 2026.
Specifications
| Acoustic channels | 2 (mono or stereo) |
| Built-in microphones | 2 (stub mics) |
| Built-in mic tester | Yes |
| Additional microphone ports | 2 (for SMM-A2 cabled mics; sold separately) |
| Recording format | 16-bit WAV or compressed W4V |
| Sample rates | 8, 12, 16, 22.05, 24, 32, 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96 kHz |
| Battery life (stereo) | Up to 1,330 hours (11 × 18650 Li-ion); Up to 700 hours (4 × alkaline D cell) |
| Built-in GPS | Yes |
| GPS time sync | Yes, within 30 microseconds |
| Memory/storage capacity | 2 SDHC/SDXC up to 2 TB each (4 TB total) |
| Battery tray capacity | 1–6 or 11 × 18650 lithium-ion; or 4 × D alkaline |
| Solar power compatible | Yes, Wildlife Acoustics’ Power Kit and others |
| External power compatible | Yes |
| Cellular remote access capability | Yes, accessory coming late 2026 |
| Microphone compatibility | Acoustic cabled mics (SMM-A2, SMM-A1); Acoustic stub mics |
| Configuration options | iOS or Android phone or tablet (Song Meter Configurator app) or on-unit buttons/screen |
| “Quick start” & custom scheduling | Yes |
| Enclosure material | Polycarbonate |
| IP67 weatherproof | Yes, including built-in mics |
| Operating temperature | −4°F to +185°F / −20°C to 85°C (batteries may have a narrower operating range) |
| Dimensions (h × w × d) | 7.5 × 6.9 × 2.5 in / 191 × 175 × 64 mm |
| Weight (with batteries) | 2.45 lbs / 1113 g (11 × 18650); 2.5 lbs / 1138 g (4 × D alkaline) |
| Warranty | 3 years |
Scope of delivery
The SM5 comes equipped with two built-in acoustic microphone stubs. Optional cabled microphones, the Power Kit, and other accessories can be purchased separately.
