What capsule is used in the XSW 2-835 transmitter?

The system uses the Sennheiser e835 dynamic cardioid capsule. It is part of the evolution series and is known for its warm, authoritative sound.

What is 'True Diversity' and why is it important?

True Diversity means the receiver has two independent antennas and two receiver modules. It constantly switches to the one with the strongest signal to prevent dropouts.

How many channels can be used at once?

The system supports up to 12 compatible channels simultaneously. This allows for multiple wireless units to be used in the same environment without interference.

Is the receiver housing made of plastic or metal?

The XSW 2 receiver features a sturdy metal housing. This provides better durability and shielding compared to the plastic housings found on more entry-level models.

Does the system require manual frequency searching?

No, it features automatic frequency management. This simplifies the setup process by finding open frequencies and syncing the transmitter via a remote channel.

What is the polar pattern of the included microphone?

The microphone has a cardioid pickup pattern. This helps in isolating the vocalist and reducing feedback from stage monitors.

Is the e835 capsule suitable for high-volume environments?

Yes, the dynamic capsule is designed to handle broad changes in volume and high sound pressure levels. It provides a consistent sound even when the singer gets very loud.

What is the typical price for the XSW 2-835 GB Band set?

The typical price range for this wireless set is approximately £375. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and specific frequency band.

How does this compare to the Sennheiser e935 or e945?

The e835 is a standard professional capsule, while the e935 and e945 are higher-end models with more detailed frequency responses. The XSW 2-835 offers a balance of price and performance for most live applications.

Is the GB Band specific to a certain region?

Yes, frequency bands like the GB Band are regulated by local authorities. You should ensure the frequency range is legal for use in your specific country or region.

Can I rack-mount the XSW 2 receiver?

Yes, because the XSW 2 features a metal housing and external antennas, it is designed to be rack-mounted for professional touring setups. Most sets include the necessary hardware.

Can this system be used for instruments like the Shure SM57?

While you can technically mic an instrument, the e835 capsule is specifically tuned for vocal performance. For instruments, a dedicated system like one using a capsule similar to an SM57 or MD 441-U would be more traditional.

Gear article

Sennheiser XSW 2-835 Wireless Handheld Microphone System

The Sennheiser XSW 2-835 is a professional-grade wireless vocal system designed for singers and presenters requiring high flexibility and reliability. It combines a true diversity receiver with a handheld transmitter featuring the acclaimed e835 dynamic cardioid capsule.

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Overview

The Sennheiser XSW 2-835 Vocal Set is an all-in-one wireless solution tailored for live performance and public speaking. Part of the XS Wireless 2 series, this system is engineered to provide more manual control and ruggedness than entry-level wireless units. It utilizes a true diversity receiver, which uses two separate antennas and receiving circuits to switch to the strongest signal, significantly reducing the risk of dropouts during a performance.

The e835 Capsule and Sound Character

At the heart of the handheld transmitter is the Sennheiser evolution e835 capsule. This dynamic cardioid element is known for a warm, authoritative sound profile that remains consistent even under high pressure. The cardioid pickup pattern is effective at rejecting off-axis noise, which helps prevent feedback on loud stages. It is specifically designed to handle broad changes in volume and high sound pressure levels without distortion, making it a reliable choice for powerful vocalists.

System Features and Management

The XSW 2 series offers several professional upgrades over the XSW 1 line:

True Diversity: Ensures signal integrity via external antennas and redundant receiving paths.
Metal Housing: The receiver is encased in a sturdy metal chassis suitable for touring and frequent transport.
Frequency Management: Features automatic frequency management and synchronization via a remote channel for easy setup.
Tunability: The system is fully tunable over a wide range of UHF frequencies, supporting up to 12 compatible channels simultaneously.

User Suitability

This system is ideal for singers, presenters, and public speakers who have graduated from basic plug-and-play systems and require a rack-mountable, durable solution. Because it offers greater flexibility in frequency selection and better physical protection, it is well-suited for live music venues, houses of worship, and professional presentation environments where reliability is non-negotiable.

Market Comparisons

The XSW 2-835 competes directly with other industry-standard vocal microphones. While users often compare the e835 capsule to the Shure SM58 or Beta 58A, the Sennheiser sound is frequently described as having a more pronounced lower-mid warmth. Within the Sennheiser ecosystem, it sits above the XSW 1 series but below the professional e935 and e945 systems, striking a balance between cost-efficiency and professional features. Unlike the specialized Shure 520DX or instrument-focused SM57, the XSW 2-835 is strictly optimized for vocal clarity.

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Frequently asked questions

What capsule is used in the XSW 2-835 transmitter?: The system uses the Sennheiser e835 dynamic cardioid capsule. It is part of the evolution series and is known for its warm, authoritative sound.
What is 'True Diversity' and why is it important?: True Diversity means the receiver has two independent antennas and two receiver modules. It constantly switches to the one with the strongest signal to prevent dropouts.
How many channels can be used at once?: The system supports up to 12 compatible channels simultaneously. This allows for multiple wireless units to be used in the same environment without interference.
Is the receiver housing made of plastic or metal?: The XSW 2 receiver features a sturdy metal housing. This provides better durability and shielding compared to the plastic housings found on more entry-level models.
Does the system require manual frequency searching?: No, it features automatic frequency management. This simplifies the setup process by finding open frequencies and syncing the transmitter via a remote channel.
What is the polar pattern of the included microphone?: The microphone has a cardioid pickup pattern. This helps in isolating the vocalist and reducing feedback from stage monitors.
Is the e835 capsule suitable for high-volume environments?: Yes, the dynamic capsule is designed to handle broad changes in volume and high sound pressure levels. It provides a consistent sound even when the singer gets very loud.
What is the typical price for the XSW 2-835 GB Band set?: The typical price range for this wireless set is approximately £375. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and specific frequency band.
How does this compare to the Sennheiser e935 or e945?: The e835 is a standard professional capsule, while the e935 and e945 are higher-end models with more detailed frequency responses. The XSW 2-835 offers a balance of price and performance for most live applications.
Is the GB Band specific to a certain region?: Yes, frequency bands like the GB Band are regulated by local authorities. You should ensure the frequency range is legal for use in your specific country or region.
Can I rack-mount the XSW 2 receiver?: Yes, because the XSW 2 features a metal housing and external antennas, it is designed to be rack-mounted for professional touring setups. Most sets include the necessary hardware.
Can this system be used for instruments like the Shure SM57?: While you can technically mic an instrument, the e835 capsule is specifically tuned for vocal performance. For instruments, a dedicated system like one using a capsule similar to an SM57 or MD 441-U would be more traditional.