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.

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Overview

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.