Sennheiser has announced its fifth generation of Evolution Wireless systems for filmmaking and video applications. Purpose-built for content creators, filmmakers, and broadcasters, EW-DP is a fully digital UHF wireless microphone system with a new portable design and high audio quality.
A compact intelligent receiver that allows easy setting up, the EW-DP EK receiver features an innovative magnetic stacking system, and can be controlled remotely via the Smart Assist app. ‘On set time is the most valuable asset,’ says Tobias von Allwörden, head of Sennheiser’s Audio for Video portfolio. ‘Therefore, we designed EW-DP such that it is intuitive and fast to set up and helps you to troubleshoot your system. EW-DP provides the reliability and consistency that you need in stressful filming situations and time-sensitive working scenarios.’
The series includes a bodypack transmitter for clip-on mics (EW-D SK), a handheld transmitter (EW-D SKM-S) and a plug-on transmitter (EW-DP SKP). As part of the larger Evolution Wireless Digital family, EW-DP inherits family features such as exceptionally low latency of 1.9ms and 134dB dynamic input range.
Three sets are available: The EW-DP ME 2 SET comes with a bodypack transmitter and the ME 2 omnidirectional clip-on (lavalier) microphone, while the EW-DP ME 4 SET includes a cardioid clip-on microphone for noisier environments. The EW-DP 835 SET contains a handheld transmitter with cardioid MMD 835 dynamic microphone head.
All sets come with a magnetic mounting plate kit, a BA 70 rechargeable battery, two standard AA batteries, a locking 3.5mm TRS to 3.5mm TRS cable, a locking 3.5mm TRS to XLR cable, and a USB-C charging cable for the receiver.
‘Though sound is decisive for the overall quality of a production, it is usually not the first priority on set. More often than not, freelancers will work without a dedicated audio person. There are enough challenges on set, so we embarked on developing a UHF audio system that would require minimal attention and give the videographer peace of mind,’ explains von Allwörden. ‘For this, we collaborated with a peer group of filmmakers, camera operators and content creators. The outcome is EW-DP, which I like to call a UHF system with 2.4GHz simplicity.’
EW-DP is the first portable wireless system that has magnetically stackable receivers with a user-facing OLED display and ergonomically designed controls. Thanks to EW-DP’s automated frequency coordination, videographers can get up and running quickly: The receiver finds a free frequency (which can also be initiated via the Smart Assist app), then the transmitter is synced via Bluetooth.
with Smart Notifications that give tips for troubleshooting and show them where to fix a problem. The system sends alerts for audio clipping, low battery, occupied frequencies, muted transmitters, and unlinked devices – and all come with a suggestion of how to quickly solve the issue. ‘This guidance makes all the difference when audio isn’t your only responsibility on set,’ says von Allwörden.
The EW-DP receiver can be powered by a BA 70 lithium-ion rechargeable battery, two standard AA batteries, or via USB by a power bank, for example. Added to the variety of powering options is an exact read-out of battery runtime in hours and minutes to avoid surprises. Battery life is up to 12 hours on the transmitters, and up to seven hours on the receiver with the included BA 70 rechargeable battery.
Automated set up, operation and monitoring can also be achieved at a distance from the camera receiver via Bluetooth using the Smart Assist app on nearly any iOS or Android device. In the app, auto frequency coordination creates reliable wireless connections for up to 16 systems on set, no wireless expertise required. Videographers can quickly and discreetly alter system settings across the room, and remotely override an accidentally activated mute button on the transmitter. The app also includes a support hub with video tutorials and detailed manuals.
In October, a plug-on transmitter will be added to the series. With +48V phantom power onboard, the EW-DP SKP will be able to turn any wired XLR microphone into wireless, such as an MKH 416 on a boom pole. In addition, the plug-on transmitter features a locking 3.5mm mic input for lavaliers – making it a versatile tool that can act as a real problem solver.
‘In our conversations with the peer group, many expressed the wish to have some sort of safety net for their audio,’ von Allwörden says. ‘So we fitted the plug-on with a micro SD card slot for 48kHz, 24-bit onboard recording.’
The plug-on transmitter will be part of the EW-DP ENG SET, which will include the receiver, a bodypack transmitter, the ME 2 lavalier mic and the SKP plug-on transmitter.
