Sennheiser has released a Swiss Army knife-like audio solution for content creators and videographers – the Profile Wireless – a versatile two-channel 2.4Ghz wireless microphone that can be used with smartphones, cameras and computers.
The Sennheiser Profile Wireless can be used as a clip-on mic, a handheld mic (complete with pop sock) and a table-top mic (there is a tripod thread on the bottom) so it can adapt to meet your needs and the situation.
“We cannot imagine content creation today without compact 2.4 GHz mic systems, and I am really proud that Sennheiser is adding an all-in-one microphone system to its portfolio that truly makes a difference for creators and videographers,” says Hendrik Millauer, Product Manager, Broadcast and Film, at Sennheiser.
“We’ve outfitted Profile Wireless with many exciting features that will help users to capture audio more reliably, longer, and more flexibly than was possible before.”
Tech Guide took a hands-on look at the Sennheiser Profile Wireless.
It comes in a neat zip-up case and inside is the charging bar that stores and charges the pre-paired clip-on mics and the two channel receiver which has an OLED screen that allows users to access the menu system and the modes.
Inside the case are USB-C to USB-C charging cables and a 3.5mm coiled cable to connect the receiver to a camera.
There are also magnetic clips to attach the lightweight mics, windshields and adaptors to connect the mics to smartphones or a camera cold shoe mount.
Naturally sound quality through the mics was impressive when connected to a camera and through our smartphone – there is a Lightning and USB-C adaptor also included.
And using it a handheld mic – while it looks a lot bulkier than a regular microphone – it still delivered crisp sound.
Same deal if you want to place it on a small tripod and used Profile Wireless as a desk mic.
The clip-on mics can be used as is and still sound excellent or you can attach a lapel mic for a more discreet look – the results on the audio side are the same.
Each of the clip-on microphones has 16GB of built-in memory for internal recording – this is a handy back up when you’re out in the field creating your content.
In the Backup Recording Mode the internal recording will automatically switch on if the wireless signal between the mic and receiver are too weak.
There is even a Safety Channel Mode that outputs and records back up audio at a lower level to provide protection against clipping.
The clip-on mic is capable of 24-bit recording and can also record at two different audio levels – this achieves two things. It reduces the chances of clipped audio and offers a larger usable dynamic range.
The range between the receiver is up to an impressive 245m line of sight and about 150m with people and objects between them.
“Right from the start of product development, we involved seasoned videographers and content creators to see what they wished for from a compact wireless audio system, and how existing products could be improved upon,” says Millauer.
“So we’ve come up with a few exciting usability features that make Profile Wireless a gem among 2.4 GHz systems.
“Profile Wireless is the first and at present only compact 2.4 GHz wireless system that has a handheld option integrated, and this option gives you a real 15+ hours of runtime, while with other sets, you cannot use the mics when the system is being recharged.
“Usability features like the auto-rotating receiver display, the fact that no app is required, and the diverse mounting options – only Sennheiser has thread mounts on the components – make for smooth workflows in content creation.
“And while there may be lighter clip-on mics on the market, they do not have internal recording or a connector for an external lav mic.”
The Sennheiser Profile Wireless is available now and is priced at $549.
Sennheiser Profile Wireless specifications
System
RF link: 2400 – 2480 MHz
Audio frequency response: 60 – 20,000 Hz (110 – 20,000 Hz with low-cut filter activated)
Audio THD: < 1.5 %
Signal-to-noise ratio: typically 78.5 dB (A)
Transmission range (line of sight): ≤ 245 m
Transmission range (with body shielding): ≤ 150 m
System latency: < 8 ms
Operating temperature range: -10 to +45 C (32° F to 122° F)
Charging temperature range: 0 to +45 C (32° F to 122° F)
Operating humidity range (relative): 25 – 95 % (non-condensing)
Two-channel receiver
Transmission power: < 20 dBm EIRP
Camera output: min. 1 kΩ impedance
Digital output: USB-C audio class 2.0 / 48 kHz / 24 bit
Headphone output: 25 mW (min. 32 Ω impedance)
Operating time: ≤ 7 h
Charging time (0–100%): < 2 h
Battery capacity: 350 mAh / 1295 mWh
Dimensions: 45 x 42 x 19 mm
Weight: 30 g
Clip-on mic
Transducer principle: condenser
Pick-up pattern: omni-directional
Max. sound pressure level: 113 dB SPL
Transmission power: < 20 dBm EIRP
Operating time: ≤ 7 h (recording and transmitting) / ≤ 14 h (recording only)
Charging time (0–100%): < 1.5 h
Battery capacity: 280 mAh / 1036 mWh
Dimensions: 42 x 33 x 21 mm (including clip)
Weight: 27 g
Charging bar
Power supply: USB-C, charging current max. 1.5 A
Charging time (0–100%): < 3 h
Battery capacity: 2000 mAh / 7400 mWh
Dimensions: 152 x 41 x 55 mm
Weight: 198 g (empty) / 290 g (including all devices)
