MINI TESTS
Each TX unit includes a built-in omnidirectional condenser mic and a 3.5mm input jack with a locking thread to accept a separate lav mic, which is not included in the kit. On the side of the TX units, three LEDs indicate battery status, connection confirmation and recording status. The red recording LED flashes yellow if audio clipping is detected and stays a steady yellow when the mic is muted. The transmitter units have a useful clip located on the back to fasten them to a shirt, with a separate magnetic fastener held on the side of the case. They also feature a 1/4in-20 thread so can be mounted on a rig or boom. One aspect where the Sennheiser kit is a little different from many rival set-ups is in the backup recording. Many have gone to the incredible 32-bit float technology, eliminating the need to set gain as all sounds from loud to quiet are captured. The Profile Wireless, on the other hand, sticks to more traditional 24-bit/48kHz. The backup recording can be set using either a dedicated red button on each TX unit or via the touchscreen on the RX unit. Setting global backup recording on the RX unit triggers an instant backup when the wireless transmitter signal drops. This means a backup is created only during instances of interference, not from the start of the recording. Best of all, accessing backups is straightforward; just plug each TX unit into a computer via USB-C and the WAV files are ready without needing an app. With internal recording activated by a simple press of the red button, the TX units function as mini recorders in the field, even without the RX unit. But the proof lies in the audio, and in this case, Sennheiser’s signature clean and precise sound quality is upheld. The built-in mics are excellent and suitable for most users, but for an even greater quality boost, using a lav mic takes your sound further. The kit is well designed, practical and affordable, offering superb sound quality. It’s a shame there’s no 32-bit float support, and having an RX connector compatible with the multi-interface shoe of Sony or Canon cameras would eliminate the need for a plug-in cable in this so-called ‘wireless’ system. Maybe that’ll come later in a new or more ‘pro’ version. PRO MOVIEMAKER RATING: 9/10 Unique handheld option but has no 32-bit float support Pros: Easy connection plus internal recording, which is easy to use Cons: No direct-to-camera option
SMALL WONDERS The heart of the system is this dual-channel wireless set-up
iPhones; as well as a coldshoe mount for attaching the unit to the top of a camera or rig. The kit also includes a coiled TRS cable to connect the receiver to a camera or recorder, two furry windshields that securely bayonet onto the mic/transmitter units and a USB-C cable, which powers the charging case or connects the RX unit to a smart device or computer. This set-up works with nearly any modern system a filmmaker or content creator might use – all packed in a durable pouch. To get you going, there’s no faffing around with an app. Just take one or both of the TX units out of the case, turn on the RX unit and you are guided through a quick menu to set the date and time. All the units pair instantly. While in the charging bar, the RX
unit shows how much recording space is available on the TX units to a maximum of 30 hours. Take it out and you see signal strength, battery power and a volume bar chart. When recording, the green light turns to red to let you know what’s happening. The receiver features a small touchscreen, which you swipe around to access and change all the settings, with tap-to-hold, short-tap and double-tap gestures all being natural to most people who use smartphones. Accessing the TX device menu gives you options for gain adjustment, low-cut filter, mute and LED dimming. On the RX menu, you can adjust the headphone levels, screen rotation and brightness as well as enabling backup recording, with options for stereo, mono or a safety track.
READY TO RECORD One RX unit
and two mini TX units with built- in recorders are kept inside the charging bar
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