"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."
Besides 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 2023. As part of the larger Evolution Wireless Digital family, the EW-DP inherits the family features such as the exceptionally low latency of 1.9 ms and a wide 134dB dynamic input range, which ensures that everything from a soft whisper to a loud scream can be reliably captured without distortion.
At launch, Sennheiser is making available three sets. 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.
"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," explains 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."
Notably, the Sennheiser EW-DP is the first portable wireless system with automated frequency coordination. The receiver finds a free frequency (which can also be initiated via the Smart Assist app), then the transmitter is simply synced via Bluetooth.
The EW-DP 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 an exact read-out of battery runtime in hours and minutes to avoid surprises. Battery life is up to 12 hrs 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 – conveniently via Bluetooth using the Smart Assist app on nearly any iOS or Android device. In the app, auto frequency coordination creates reliable wireless connections for up to 16 systems on set, no wireless expertise required. Videographers can quickly and discreetly alter system settings across the room, and remotely override an accidentally activated mute button on the transmitter. The app also includes a support hub with video tutorials and detailed manuals.
"In our conversations with the peer group, many expressed the wish to have some sort of safety net for their audio," shares von Allwörden. "So we fitted the plug-on with a micro SD card slot for 24-bit, 48 kHz on-board 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.
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