What is included in the Sennheiser AVX-MKE2-3 set?

The set includes a compact XLR receiver, a bodypack transmitter, and a professional MKE 2 lavalier microphone.

How does the self-configuration feature work?

The system automatically scans for available frequencies and pairs the transmitter and receiver within seconds of activation.

Does the receiver require a cable to connect to the camera?

No, the ultra-compact receiver is designed to plug directly into a standard XLR audio input.

What is the typical price for this microphone set?

The typical price for the Sennheiser AVX-MKE2-3 set is approximately £863.

In which frequency range does the AVX system operate?

The system operates in the license-free 1.9GHz range, avoiding interference from many common consumer wireless signals.

Is the MKE 2 microphone better than the standard ME 2?

Yes, the MKE 2 is a professional-grade lavalier offering higher fidelity and better build quality than the standard ME 2 capsule.

Can the receiver turn on and off automatically?

Yes, it can sync its power state with the camera's phantom power to save battery and ensure it is ready when filming starts.

Is this system suitable for interviews?

Yes, the beltpack transmitter and lavalier microphone are specifically designed for hands-free interview and documentary situations.

Does the system handle gain adjustments automatically?

Yes, it features automatic gain control to ensure audio levels are perfectly matched to the camera's input.

How does this compare to a Shure SM58?

The Shure SM58 is a wired dynamic vocal mic, whereas the AVX-MKE2-3 is a digital wireless lavalier system intended for video and broadcast.

What kind of projects is this gear intended for?

It is marketed as an ideal solution for broadcast, professional documentaries, and high-quality interviews.

Does it work with standard recording devices?

Yes, as long as the device has a standard XLR input, the compact receiver can be used to capture high-quality digital audio.

Gear article

Sennheiser AVX-MKE2-3 Digital Wireless Lavalier Microphone Set

The Sennheiser AVX-MKE2-3 is a professional digital wireless microphone system designed for broadcast, documentary, and interview applications. It features a self-configuring plug-and-record design with an ultra-compact receiver that connects directly to XLR inputs.

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Overview

The Sennheiser AVX-MKE2-3 is a high-end wireless solution tailored for videographers and content creators who require professional audio quality without the complexity of manual frequency management. The set consists of the EKP AVX plug-on receiver, the SK AVX bodypack transmitter, and the high-grade MKE 2 omnidirectional lavalier microphone.

One of the system's primary design goals is speed of operation. It is engineered to be ready for capture within seconds of being powered on, making it a reliable tool for fast-paced filming environments such as news gathering and field documentaries.

Key Features and Design

The system is defined by its ultra-compact hardware. The receiver is designed to plug directly into the XLR audio input of a camera or recording device, eliminating the need for mounting brackets or cables that can clutter a rig.

Key functional features include: * Self-Configuration: The system automatically finds a clear frequency and pairs the transmitter and receiver. * Automatic Gain Control: It dynamically adjusts the input levels to prevent clipping without manual intervention. * Dynamic Range Management: It ensures that audio levels are balanced, providing consistent sound even when the subject's volume fluctuates. * Lavalier Integration: The inclusion of the MKE 2 microphone provides a broadcast-standard capsule that is preferred for its discrete size and high-fidelity reproduction.

Sound Character

The AVX-MKE2-3 is focused on transparency and clarity. By utilizing the MKE 2 lavalier microphone, the system captures a natural, detailed frequency response that is suitable for high-stakes broadcast environments. Unlike lower-tier wireless sets, this system preserves the nuances of the human voice while maintaining a low noise floor, ensuring that recordings meet professional standards for interviews and documentaries.

Operational Workflow

The AVX system operates in the license-free 1.9GHz range, which avoids interference from Wi-Fi and Bluetooth devices. The receiver switches on and off automatically with the camera’s phantom power, which helps conserve battery life and ensures the system is active the moment the camera starts recording. The beltpack transmitter is lightweight and designed for comfort during long filming sessions, making it ideal for hands-free operation.

Comparison to Alternatives

Within the Sennheiser ecosystem, the AVX-MKE2-3 sits above the standard AV-ME2 set due to the superior MKE 2 capsule. While dynamic handheld microphones like the Sennheiser e945 or e935 are excellent for vocal performances, the AVX-MKE2 is specifically built for discrete, hands-free speech capture.

Compared to classic broadcast microphones like the Electro-Voice RE20 or Sennheiser MD 441-U, which are large, wired dynamic microphones used in studios, the AVX system offers portability and wireless freedom. For users who do not require wireless mobility, studio-standard mics like the Shure SM58 or SM57 remain staples, but for mobile video production, the AVX system provides a specialized, automated workflow that these traditional microphones cannot replicate.

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Frequently asked questions

What is included in the Sennheiser AVX-MKE2-3 set?: The set includes a compact XLR receiver, a bodypack transmitter, and a professional MKE 2 lavalier microphone.
How does the self-configuration feature work?: The system automatically scans for available frequencies and pairs the transmitter and receiver within seconds of activation.
Does the receiver require a cable to connect to the camera?: No, the ultra-compact receiver is designed to plug directly into a standard XLR audio input.
What is the typical price for this microphone set?: The typical price for the Sennheiser AVX-MKE2-3 set is approximately £863.
In which frequency range does the AVX system operate?: The system operates in the license-free 1.9GHz range, avoiding interference from many common consumer wireless signals.
Is the MKE 2 microphone better than the standard ME 2?: Yes, the MKE 2 is a professional-grade lavalier offering higher fidelity and better build quality than the standard ME 2 capsule.
Can the receiver turn on and off automatically?: Yes, it can sync its power state with the camera's phantom power to save battery and ensure it is ready when filming starts.
Is this system suitable for interviews?: Yes, the beltpack transmitter and lavalier microphone are specifically designed for hands-free interview and documentary situations.
Does the system handle gain adjustments automatically?: Yes, it features automatic gain control to ensure audio levels are perfectly matched to the camera's input.
How does this compare to a Shure SM58?: The Shure SM58 is a wired dynamic vocal mic, whereas the AVX-MKE2-3 is a digital wireless lavalier system intended for video and broadcast.
What kind of projects is this gear intended for?: It is marketed as an ideal solution for broadcast, professional documentaries, and high-quality interviews.
Does it work with standard recording devices?: Yes, as long as the device has a standard XLR input, the compact receiver can be used to capture high-quality digital audio.