NAB 2015: Sennheiser Announces its Next-Generation AVX Wireless System

Being the new kid in class isn’t always easy, especially when your older siblings leave you with extremely large shoes to fill. Seemingly undaunted by that analogous task, Sennheiser has unveiled its next-generation digital wireless system for film and videography, the AVX.

The AVX Systems are built around their innovative receiver, the EKP. Visually striking, it doesn’t look like the typical camera-mounted receiver, and with good reason. It connects directly to the XLR input on your camera or recording device, and can rotate to accommodate the other devices attached to your camera. Though geared toward cameras with XLR audio inputs—worry not, DSLR shooters!—also included are the accessories you need to get it to work just as seamlessly with your rig.

Sennheiser wanted the crux of the system to be its ease of use and how quickly you can get it up and running, and afforded a lot of attention to those details accordingly. The receiver switches on and off automatically with the 48V phantom power on your camera or recording device, providing “plug-and-record” functionality. Naturally, this helps prolong battery life, as the receiver automatically powers down when not connected, without your having to do it manually. Sennheiser also claims the EKP will adjust automatically to the sensitivity of your input, saving you the trouble of adjusting the audio level on your mic and preventing distorted levels.

On the operational end, the system gives you automatic frequency management, is fully self-configuring, and has AES 256-bit encryption for those concerned with prying ears. Its metal housing assures it can take the toll of daily use, as well.

Sennheiser has made the system available in a variety of kits, including a lavalier set that includes a bodypack transmitter and an ME2 lavalier, the lavalier pro set that upgrades you to an MKE-2 lav, a handheld set with an 835 handheld mic and transmitter, and a combo set with a bodypack transmitter, lavalier mic, and 835 handheld mic and transmitter.