Gear article
Sennheiser XSW-D Lavalier Set
The Sennheiser XSW-D Lavalier Set is a 2.4GHz digital wireless system designed for cable-free vocal and speech capture. It features a compact 3.5mm transmitter and an XLR receiver intended for direct connection to mixing consoles and PA systems.
See live pricesOverview
The Sennheiser XSW-D (XS Wireless Digital) Lavalier Set is a streamlined wireless solution aimed at eliminating the complexity of traditional radio frequency (RF) setups. Operating in the 2.4GHz licence-free spectrum, the system is built around a plug-and-play philosophy. It replaces traditional bodypacks with a compact, plug-on transmitter and utilizes a miniature XLR receiver that can be inserted directly into a sound desk, recording device, or active PA speaker.
Design and Operation
The core of the XSW-D system is its single-button interface. This single control manages power-on, power-off, and the linking of the transmitter and receiver. A dedicated LED status indicator provides visual feedback for battery life and connection status, removing the need for internal menus or frequency scanning. The kit includes the ME2-II omnidirectional lavalier microphone, which connects to the 3.5mm mini-jack port on the transmitter. For wearable convenience, the transmitter is supplied with a dedicated belt clip to keep the unit secure during movement.
Sound Character
As a digital system, the XSW-D maintains a clear and transparent audio profile, avoiding the compression artifacts sometimes found in older analogue wireless systems. The included ME2-II microphone is specifically designed for high speech intelligibility, making it suitable for presenters, lecturers, and interviewers. By using a digital 2.4GHz transmission, the signal remains consistent without the interference hum often associated with entry-level analogue gear.
Applications and Suitability
This system is best suited for users who require a discrete, unobtrusive setup for speech. Because the receiver terminates in a male XLR plug, it is ideal for corporate presentations, vlogging, and houses of worship where the receiver can be plugged directly into a mixer. It serves as a more compact and mobile alternative to industry standards like the Sennheiser e935 or e945 for users who cannot be tethered to a stand by a cable.
Market Comparison
Compared to professional dynamic microphones such as the Shure SM58 or the high-fidelity Sennheiser MD 441-U, the XSW-D offers the specific benefit of wireless freedom at the cost of being a dedicated speech-focused lavalier tool. While dynamic mics like the Electro-Voice RE20 are staples in broadcast studios, the XSW-D provides a mobile solution for field recordings or live presentations where a large diaphragm microphone would be impractical.
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Frequently asked questions
- What frequency band does the XSW-D use?
- The system operates on the 2.4GHz digital frequency band, which allows for licence-free operation in most regions worldwide.
- What microphone is included in this set?
- The set comes with the Sennheiser ME2-II clip-on lavalier microphone, designed for high-quality speech and vocal capture.
- How do you sync the transmitter and receiver?
- Linking is handled via a single-button interface. Pressing the button on both devices simultaneously facilitates the pairing process.
- What type of connector is on the receiver?
- The receiver features a male XLR connector, allowing it to be plugged directly into professional audio equipment like mixers and PA systems.
- Is there a screen for settings?
- No, the XSW-D does not have a screen. It uses a single LED indicator to show status information, such as battery level and link status.
- How is the transmitter worn?
- The transmitter is designed to be unobtrusive and can be attached to clothing using the included belt clip.
- Does this system require complicated menus?
- No, the system is designed to be plug-and-play with no menus or lengthy setup procedures required.
- What is the primary input on the transmitter?
- The transmitter features a 3.5mm (1/8 inch) mini-jack input for connecting the lavalier microphone.
- Can I use this for instruments?
- While this specific set is configured for lavalier use, the XSW-D series generally supports various inputs, though this set includes a 3.5mm transmitter for microphones.
- How much does the Sennheiser XSW-D Lavalier Set cost?
- The typical price for this wireless system is approximately £288.
- What makes the XSW-D different from an analogue wireless system?
- It uses digital transmission in the 2.4GHz range, offering a simpler setup and avoiding the need for manual frequency coordination.
- Is the microphone included discrete?
- Yes, the ME2-II is a clip-on lavalier microphone designed to capture audio in an unobtrusive and discrete manner.
