What is the primary benefit of the Trantec S5.5 12-Way system?

The primary benefit is its integrated RF and power distribution, which allows 12 channels to function without external management units. This simplifies setup and reduces the need for additional expensive hardware.

How do you monitor the S5.5 system during a performance?

The system features an integrated USB interface that connects to a PC. This allows the user to monitor the entire 12-way system's status and RF performance in real-time using Trantec's software.

Does the S5.5 require an external antenna distribution unit?

No, the S5.5 has a built-in antenna distribution unit. This allows the RF signal to be passed between linked receivers via their RF link outputs.

Can the S5.5 be expanded beyond 12 channels?

Yes, the S5.5 receivers are highly expandable. They can be linked together using the RF link outputs to create larger multi-channel configurations as required.

What power supply does the 12-Way rack use?

The system comes complete with a built-in power supply. Power is distributed between the linked receivers, eliminating the need for individual wall-wart adapters for every channel.

How does this compare to the Trantec S4.1 system?

The S5.5 12-Way system offers double the channel capacity of the S4.1 6-Way system. It also provides more advanced monitoring features and higher-grade RF components for professional use.

Is the S5.5 compatible with third-party capsules?

While the S5.5 is a dedicated system, certain adapters like the sE Electronics V7 MC2 can allow third-party capsules to be used with compatible handheld transmitters in a wireless setup.

What is the typical price range for a 12-way S5.5 rack?

The typical retail price for the fully configured 12-way rackmounted system is approximately £4,900. This price reflects the inclusion of all receivers, the rack housing, and integrated distribution.

Is this system suitable for in-ear monitoring?

The S5.5 is a wireless receiver system typically used for microphones and instruments. For in-ear monitoring, products like the Xvive U45 or LD Systems MEI100G2 would be the appropriate related technology.

What type of connection is used for the RF link?

The system uses dedicated RF link outputs on the rear of each receiver. These are designed to daisy-chain the antenna signal from one unit to the next efficiently.

Does the system support Dante networking?

The standard S5.5 12-Way rack focuses on USB PC monitoring rather than Dante. Those specifically requiring Dante might look at alternatives like the Sennheiser EW-DX EM 4 DANTE.

Can I use clip-on instrument mics with this system?

Yes, if paired with the appropriate Trantec bodypack transmitters, you can use instrument microphones similar to the Shure PGA98H for wireless instrument amplification.

Gear article

Trantec S5.5 12-Way Rackmounted Wireless Receiver

The Trantec S5.5 12-Way Rackmounted Wireless Receiver is a professional-grade multi-channel wireless system designed for large-scale stage productions and broadcast environments. It features integrated RF distribution and power management, allowing up to 12 channels to operate simultaneously without the need for external antenna management units.

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Overview

The Trantec S5.5 12-Way system is a comprehensive rack-ready solution for professional wireless audio. Unlike modular systems that require external splitters, the S5.5 is designed as a highly expandable ecosystem where multiple receivers can be linked together directly. This configuration is specifically engineered to simplify the logistics of high-channel-count setups in touring and permanent installations.

Technical Features and Integration

At the core of the S5.5's design is the integrated RF link output. This allows the RF signal and power to be daisy-chained between individual receiver units within the rack. By eliminating the requirement for expensive standalone antenna management units, the system reduces both the cost and the physical footprint of the wireless rack.

The system also includes an integrated USB interface. This allows technicians to connect the entire 12-way rack to a PC for comprehensive monitoring. Users can track signal strength, battery levels, and frequency stability across all twelve channels from a single software interface, ensuring reliability during live performances.

sE Electronics V7 MC2 for Sennheiser Wireless Systems Gold

Performance and Character

The S5.5 series is noted for providing a stable, interference-free RF environment. Because it includes a built-in antenna distribution unit, the signal integrity is maintained across all twelve channels without the signal loss often associated with complex external cabling. The character of the audio is transparent, aimed at professional vocal and instrument reproduction where fidelity is paramount.

Target Audience

This system is primarily suited for professional venues, theatres, and touring companies that require a high density of wireless microphones. Its all-in-one rack design makes it an ideal choice for rental houses that need 'plug-and-play' multi-channel systems. It serves as a significant step up for users of the Trantec S4.1 6-Way system who have outgrown their current channel capacity.

Comparison to Alternatives

When compared to high-end digital systems like the Sennheiser EW-DX EM 4 DANTE or the Shure SLXD+ Dual Wireless systems, the Trantec S5.5 stands out for its self-contained infrastructure. While many Shure and Sennheiser units require separate active antenna splitters to reach a 12-channel count, the S5.5 handles this internally. For smaller, budget-conscious setups, the Shure BLX24R provides a basic rackmount alternative, though it lacks the advanced PC monitoring and integrated distribution found in the S5.5.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary benefit of the Trantec S5.5 12-Way system?: The primary benefit is its integrated RF and power distribution, which allows 12 channels to function without external management units. This simplifies setup and reduces the need for additional expensive hardware.
How do you monitor the S5.5 system during a performance?: The system features an integrated USB interface that connects to a PC. This allows the user to monitor the entire 12-way system's status and RF performance in real-time using Trantec's software.
Does the S5.5 require an external antenna distribution unit?: No, the S5.5 has a built-in antenna distribution unit. This allows the RF signal to be passed between linked receivers via their RF link outputs.
Can the S5.5 be expanded beyond 12 channels?: Yes, the S5.5 receivers are highly expandable. They can be linked together using the RF link outputs to create larger multi-channel configurations as required.
What power supply does the 12-Way rack use?: The system comes complete with a built-in power supply. Power is distributed between the linked receivers, eliminating the need for individual wall-wart adapters for every channel.
How does this compare to the Trantec S4.1 system?: The S5.5 12-Way system offers double the channel capacity of the S4.1 6-Way system. It also provides more advanced monitoring features and higher-grade RF components for professional use.
Is the S5.5 compatible with third-party capsules?: While the S5.5 is a dedicated system, certain adapters like the sE Electronics V7 MC2 can allow third-party capsules to be used with compatible handheld transmitters in a wireless setup.
What is the typical price range for a 12-way S5.5 rack?: The typical retail price for the fully configured 12-way rackmounted system is approximately £4,900. This price reflects the inclusion of all receivers, the rack housing, and integrated distribution.
Is this system suitable for in-ear monitoring?: The S5.5 is a wireless receiver system typically used for microphones and instruments. For in-ear monitoring, products like the Xvive U45 or LD Systems MEI100G2 would be the appropriate related technology.
What type of connection is used for the RF link?: The system uses dedicated RF link outputs on the rear of each receiver. These are designed to daisy-chain the antenna signal from one unit to the next efficiently.
Does the system support Dante networking?: The standard S5.5 12-Way rack focuses on USB PC monitoring rather than Dante. Those specifically requiring Dante might look at alternatives like the Sennheiser EW-DX EM 4 DANTE.
Can I use clip-on instrument mics with this system?: Yes, if paired with the appropriate Trantec bodypack transmitters, you can use instrument microphones similar to the Shure PGA98H for wireless instrument amplification.