Sennheiser has announced the launch of its fifth generation of Evolution Wireless systems for filmmaking and video applications, the new EW-DP digital UHF wireless microphone system that includes the EW-DP EK intelligent receiver equipped with a proprietary magnetic stacking system and the ability to be controlled remotely via the Smart Assist app.
“On set time is the most valuable asset,” says Tobias von Allwörden, head of Sennheiser’s Audio for Video portfolio. “Therefore, we designed EW-DP such that it is intuitive and fast to set up and helps you to troubleshoot your system. EW-DP provides the reliability and consistency that you need in stressful filming situations and time-sensitive working scenarios.”
In addition to the stackable EW-DP EK receiver, the series includes a bodypack transmitter for clip-on mics (EW-D SK), a handheld transmitter (EW-D SKM-S) and a plug-on transmitter (EW-DP SKP) that will launch in October. As part of the larger Evolution Wireless Digital family, EW-DP inherits other attributes that include latency of 1.9 ms and a 134 dB dynamic input range.
Three sets are available now: The EW-DP ME 2 SET comes with a bodypack transmitter and the ME 2 omni-directional clip-on (lavalier) microphone, while the EW-DP ME 4 SET includes a cardioid clip-on microphone for noisier environments. The EW-DP 835 SET contains a handheld transmitter with cardioid MMD 835 dynamic microphone head.
All sets come with a magnetic mounting plate kit, a BA 70 rechargeable battery, two standard AA batteries, a locking 3.5 mm TRS to 3.5 mm TRS cable, a locking 3.5 mm TRS to XLR cable, and a USB-C charging cable for the receiver.
“Though sound is decisive for the overall quality of a production, it is usually not the first priority on set. More often than not, freelancers will work without a dedicated audio person. There are enough challenges on set, so we embarked on developing a UHF audio system that would require minimal attention and give the videographer peace of mind,” states von Allwörden. “For this, we collaborated closely with a peer group of filmmakers, camera operators and content creators. The outcome is EW-DP, which I like to call a UHF system with 2.4 GHz simplicity.”
The magnetically stackable receivers have a user-facing OLED display and ergonomically designed controls. The magnetic plate allows filmmakers to securel stack multiple receivers. Alternatively, the plate can be used with the provided clip to wear the receiver on the belt or attach it to the sound bag
The system provides automated frequency coordination where the receiver finds a free frequency (which can also be initiated via the Smart Assist app), then the transmitter is synced via Bluetooth. If any issues occur, the system will guide users with Smart Notifications that give tips for troubleshooting and show where to fix a problem. Alerts are sent for audio clipping, low battery, occupied frequencies, muted transmitters, and unlinked devices.
The receiver can be powered by a BA 70 lithium-ion rechargeable battery, two standard AA batteries, or via USB by a power bank, for example. Added to the variety of powering options is a read-out of battery runtime in hours and minutes. Battery life is up to 12 hours on the transmitters and up to 7 hours on the receiver with the included BA 70 rechargeable battery.
Automated set-up, operation and monitoring can also happen at a distance from the camera receiver via Bluetooth using the Smart Assist app on nearly any iOS or Android device. In the app, auto frequency coordination creates wireless connections for up to 16 systems on set, no wireless expertise required. The app also includes a support hub with video tutorials and detailed manuals.
The plug-on transmitter will be added to the series this coming October. With +48-volt phantom power on board, the EW-DP SKP will be able to turn any wired XLR microphone into wireless, such as an MKH 416 on a boom pole. In addition, the plug-on transmitter offers a locking 3.5 mm mic input for lavaliers.
“In our conversations with the peer group, many expressed the wish to have some sort of safety net for their audio,” von Allwörden adds. “So we fitted the plug-on with a micro SD card slot for 24-bit, 48 kHz onboard recording.”
The plug-on transmitter will be part of the EW-DP ENG SET, which will include the receiver, a bodypack transmitter, the ME 2 lavalier mic and the SKP plug-on transmitter.
