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Sennheiser AVX Digital Wireless Combo Set

The Sennheiser AVX Digital Wireless Combo Set is a professional digital wireless microphone system designed for film, video, and electronic news gathering. It features a compact plug-on receiver that integrates directly into camera audio inputs, providing an automated and license-free audio solution for content creators.

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Overview

The Sennheiser AVX Digital Wireless Combo Set is a comprehensive audio solution designed for videographers and broadcasters. Unlike traditional wireless systems that require manual frequency coordination and gain staging, the AVX system is engineered for speed and simplicity. The set is distinctive for including both a handheld transmitter and a bodypack transmitter, allowing users to switch between interview styles or presentation formats as needed.

System Components

The 'Combo Set' configuration provides versatility through several key hardware pieces:

  • EKP Receiver: A miniature, rotatable receiver that plugs directly into the XLR input of a camera or recording device.
  • SKM AVX Handheld: A digital transmitter equipped with the MMD 835 dynamic cardioid microphone head, ideal for vox-pop interviews.
  • SK AVX Bodypack: A compact transmitter for use with the included ME 2 clip-on lavalier microphone, suitable for hands-free presenting.
  • ME 2 Lavalier: An industry-standard omnidirectional microphone designed for clear speech reproduction.

Operation and Automation

A primary feature of the AVX system is its high level of automation. The receiver is designed to synchronise with the camera's power state, switching on and off automatically when the camera is engaged to preserve battery life. Furthermore, the system handles frequency management by automatically selecting the best available frequency within the license-free digital range to avoid interference. It also features automatic sensitivity matching, which adjusts the output level to match the camera's input sensitivity without requiring manual gain adjustments.

Sound Quality and Performance

The system maintains Sennheiser's reputation for high-fidelity audio, delivering balanced, crystal-clear sound across its digital link. The inclusion of the MMD 835 head ensures that handheld recording benefits from a revered dynamic capsule, while the ME 2 lavalier provides the consistent, popular sound profile expected in professional video production. The digital transmission ensures a clean signal path free from the companding artifacts sometimes associated with older analogue wireless technology.

Comparison and Suitability

The AVX Combo Set is specifically suited for solo operators and small crews who require high-quality audio without the need for a dedicated sound engineer. While other combo products in the market, such as the Fender Mustang LTX50 or the Synergy SYN-20IR, cater to guitar amplification, the AVX is a specialised tool for audio capture in video environments. Its price point of approximately £946 reflects its professional build quality and the inclusion of dual transmitters, offering a more streamlined workflow compared to standard UHF wireless systems.

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Frequently asked questions

What is included in the Sennheiser AVX Digital Wireless Combo Set?
The set includes an EKP plug-on receiver, an SK AVX bodypack transmitter with an ME 2 lavalier microphone, and an SKM AVX handheld transmitter with an MMD 835 dynamic head.
Do I need a license to use the Sennheiser AVX system?
No, the AVX system operates in a license-free digital frequency range, allowing it to be used without the need for additional legal permits in most regions.
How does the AVX receiver connect to a camera?
The receiver features a compact XLR connector that plugs directly into the camera's audio input. It can also rotate to avoid obstructing other camera controls or accessories.
Does the AVX system require manual frequency tuning?
No, the system automatically selects the best available frequency and pairs the transmitter to the receiver upon startup to ensure a clean connection.
How does the system save battery life?
The receiver is designed to switch on and off automatically in sync with the camera, ensuring it only draws power when the camera is active.
Can I use both the handheld and bodypack transmitters at the same time?
While the set includes two transmitters for versatility, the EKP receiver is designed to link with one transmitter at a time for a single channel of audio.
What microphone head is on the handheld transmitter?
The handheld transmitter is equipped with the Sennheiser MMD 835, which is a revered dynamic microphone head known for clear speech reproduction.
What is the typical price of the AVX Combo Set?
The set is typically priced around £946, reflecting its professional-grade components and automated features.
Is the ME 2 lavalier microphone included?
Yes, the ever-popular ME 2 clip-on lavalier microphone is included in the box for use with the SK AVX bodypack transmitter.
How does the system handle input levels?
The AVX system perfectly matches the input sensitivity of your camera's input, providing balanced sound without the need for manual gain tweaking.
Is the AVX system suitable for professional broadcasting?
Yes, it is designed for professional use in film and video production where reliability and high sound quality are required.
How does the AVX compare to guitar combo amps like the Fender Blues Junior IV?
The Sennheiser AVX is a digital wireless microphone system for video production, whereas the Fender Blues Junior IV is a valve-based guitar amplifier for musical performance; they serve entirely different roles in the audio industry.