Sennheiser wireless UHF systems are among the best available in the market. They have excellent audio quality and work even in areas where frequencies are saturated. Some of us have been using these systems for many years. (Any G3 users here? Since the Sennheiser EW-DP G5 ($699), is now available, we’ve got to ask: What has changed and is the upgrade worth it?
Why some wireless mics are better than other?
Before I explain why the EWDP is so incredible, let me first describe what Digital UHF means. In general, the wireless audio industry uses three standards. 2.4 GHz DECT and UHF.
2.4 Ghz microphones
Digital creators and influencers are mainly using these systems. These systems are reliable, affordable and small. I’m referring to systems such as the Rode Wireless Pro and Hollyland Lark. All of these systems are excellent, but you have little control over the radio medium. If you use a 2.4GHz system where the frequency is saturated you may experience interference. Wifi and Bluetooth use 2.4 GHz, as do a number of other protocols in the public domain, including some video transmission. It could be difficult to recover if you are in a heavily saturated area.
DECT microphones
You can also upgrade to DECT systems, such as the Sennheiser DECT AVX ($763 ). The AVX has been used for years for trade shows, and it is still working perfectly. Even with the EWDP, I still keep my AVX in my kit. Sadly, the AVX is a plug-and play system that doesn’t offer much control.
UHF microphones
The last option is UHF. Like DECT there is little interference but unlike DECT you can have a lot of control. You’ll need to be able to understand what you’re doing and it may take some time before you can change the default settings. You should also consider that different countries have different UHF bands. Your kit must be geo-specific. You will need multiple sets if you plan to shoot in Europe, Japan and the US.
Sennheiser EW-DP G5 Digital UHF wireless audio system
Sennheiser’s G5 introduces Digital UHF, a hybrid of two technologies. The G5 is more reliable and flexible, but also easier to pair and gives you better control of the medium. The EW-DP basic kit comes with a microphone and a receiver. We tested both the lav/bodypack microphone and the reporter’s mic.
The EW-DP EK is at the heart of this system. It is a little bit larger and much more durable than the G3/G4 format. It’s very “boxy”, which is much better for both production and packing.
The receiver is equipped with a 2.5mm standard headset port as well as a 2.5mm microphone out. This kit comes with the blue Sennheiser signature cable.
Mounting options for EW-DP EK
Mounting the G5 receiver can be done in a variety of ways. You have two mounting options in addition to the 1/4-20 thread at the bottom of the receiver.
It has a clip on the back for a belt, or sound bag. This fits both small and large sound kits.