With its truly phenomenal dynamic range of 134dB, Sennheiser's zero-interference digital EW-D series can handle even singers who like to give more during the performance than at the sound check – but also very dynamic acoustic events, right down to the smallest sonic detail, transmitting with complete transparency in the UHF band. Equally, its outstandingly low latency also makes it a pleasure to listen to. Imagining this experience multiplied by 90 – literally the number of channels that can be used simultaneously – should also give potential users an idea of the impact that these transmission systems can have on stage. The Sennheiser EW-D SK Base S1-7 set includes a pocket-sized transmitter, two stub antennas, a power cable with an international adapter, a rack mounting set, and a starter pack of batteries. There is a convenient app for managing the system, and many further optional accessories are also available.
To enable the high-end reproduction of performances that run the gamut from very gentle passages right through to the final forte fortissimo, Sennheiser has equipped the EW-D SK transmitter with a dynamic range of 134dB, and it transmits in the bandwidth between 606.2 and 662MHz. If potential users are curious to find out how this extraordinary unit sounds, all they need do is screw the two stub antennas onto the back of the receiver, hook it up to the power supply unit (which, usefully, comes with an international adapter), and insert the two AA batteries supplied into the handheld transmitter. Then, a microphone or instrument input can be patched in – these elements are sold separately. The EW-D Smart Assist app more or less takes care of configuration by itself, and a rack mounting set for permanent installation is included in the package as sold here.
The Sennheiser EW-D SK Base S1-7 is a wireless set for users who demand the best. Its dynamic range gives even the most intense vocal performers, be they singing or speaking, room to let rip – allowing them to take the performance further than the rehearsal. When used as a monitor, the system's low latency levels will really prove their worth, and the transmitter is particularly suitable for use in a rental context, as the belt pack can be used with capsule mics, headsets, instruments, and other audio sources . Novices will also find setup easy thanks to the EW-D Smart Assist app, which is compatible with iOS and Android. Concert venues and theatrical companies will find that the huge number of channels that can be used simultaneously make the Sennheiser EW-D set suitable for even the largest productions, enabling the use of a full complement of professional equipment.
In June 1945, Prof. Fritz Sennheiser founded the Wennebostel Laboratory, which initially produced measuring equipment. Commissioned by Siemens in 1945, the young company developed the MD-1 microphone, which was launched in 1946. After the development of further microphones, the company was renamed Sennheiser Electronic in 1958. Two years later, Sennheiser introduced the MD 421 dynamic microphone, which is still in production today and still held in high esteem by many sound engineers. Further groundbreaking developments, such as the HD 414 headphones and the classic MD 441 microphone, hugely enhanced the company’s international reputation, eventually making Sennheiser one of the leading manufacturers of microphone and headphone systems in the world.
The variety of capsule mics, headsets, and line-ins that can be attached to the transmitter is practically endless. When worn with a blazer or suit jacket, the ME 2-N (an omnidirectional microphone) and the ME 4 (cardioid) will both cut a very dashing figure. The range of headsets is also extensive, with the ME3-II, HSP Essential Omni, SL Headmic 1, HSP 2, and HS 2 models. To use the wireless link for instruments, the CI 1 cable with full-size jack plug, the CL1 (stereo mini jack), and the CL2 (XLR) are all excellent choices. In the long run, it is more sustainable to invest in the Sennheiser EW-D Single Charging Bundle, as the set – comprising as it does a battery pack and a charging station – will end up saving consumers from having to buy a lot of batteries, and the rechargeable units will also run for longer on a single charge than a pair of AA cells. For larger setups, the manufacturer also offers the Sennheiser EW-D AB U antenna booster and the Sennheiser EW-D ASA splitter.