At the NAB Show in Las Vegas, Sennheiser launched a new plug-and-play wireless microphone solution for cameras. The new AVX Wireless systems use a compact plug-in receiver to connect onto the camera’s audio input and a handheld or belt-pack microphone transmitter. Operating in the license-free frequency range around 1.9 GHz, the system automatically searches for free transmission frequencies.The new Sennheiser AVX wireless microphone systems for video cameras was designed to ensure totally stress-free audio capture. The amazingly compact AVX receiver plugs directly into the XLR of a camera, where it automatically pairs with the microphone and switches on when the camera does. The system automatically adjusts the correct audio levels and transmits using a specially protected RF link.
“Whether you’re a journalist compiling a show report, a professional videographer filming a documentary or an in-house marketing specialist making a product video – AVX gives you the room to concentrate on your creative work”, says Sven Boetcher, Portfolio Manager Broadcast & Media at Sennheiser. “No licensing is required, the system automatically selects a suitable transmission frequency and also makes all necessary settings – that’s true ease of use.”
The new Sennheiser wireless solution comes in ready-to-use systems that contain everything required to immediately go live. Alternatively, tailor-made systems can be put together from a wide choice of individual components. Convenience starts with not having to register the system or pay for its use: AVX operates in the license-free 1.9 GHz frequency range, which can be used in many countries worldwide.
AVX is equipped with adaptive transmitting power, meaning that the system always uses the power that is required to maintain a reliable connection between the microphone and the camera receiver. This not only ensures a stable link, it also reduces battery power consumption – as does the automatic on/off function.
The AVX receiver and transmitter are powered by special lithium-ion batteries, which can be recharged via a USB port. To avoid nasty surprises when filming for a long time, the transmitters display the amount of battery life remaining. For DSLR cameras with a jack audio input, the AVX systems include an XLR-3/mini-jack adapter cable and the mounting accessories needed to attach the receiver to the camera hotshoe.
AVX is available in three different sets: with a handheld transmitter (evolution microphone head), with a body pack transmitter and ME 2 clip-on microphone and in a special professional version with a body pack transmitter and an MKE 2 clip-on microphone. There are 3 country-specific versions covering different territories with specific antena gains specifications. For the USA, a special combo pack (Interview Set) is issued, which includes both a body pack and a handheld. The microphone head uses an MMD 42 capsule, from Sennheiser’s long-standing MD 42 reporter’s microphone.
All system components plus additional items such as a handheld transmitter with on/off switch are available separately so that users can put together their own tailor-made AVX systems. The AVX systems and components will go on sale from June 2015.
www.sennheiser.com/avx
