Sennheiser’s Evolution Wireless Digital makes complex wireless stage setups easier

Sennheiser has unveiled its new wireless system for microphones, Evolution Wireless Digital, aimed at making complex wireless setups easier to put together.

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The new system has an app-based workflow to go alongside the new hardware. The system notably works in “any RF environment,” meaning that bands who are already doing a lot of their own setup don’t need to scan at each new venue for open frequencies to avoid Spinal Tap-esque interference.

Oliver Schmitz, product manager for Evolution Wireless Digital, explained in a statement: “We talked with dozens of bands prior to the development of Evolution Wireless Digital,” explains “Many band members are in fact multitasking, driving the gig bus, setting the wireless up, performing on stage, doing the accounting, the marketing, you name it.

“They do not want to become experts at RF, they do not want to scan a venue for open frequencies, they do not want to battle with settings. They just want something that works right away, so all they have to do is switch on and go.”

Benny Franke, who was responsible for the system’s software, added: “This is why we came up with an app that does all the planning for you and guides you through the set-up. An app where all the expertise is under the hood, and where you don’t have to be a mechanic to drive the car. There were many details that we sweated over so that you can keep your cool before, during and after the show.”

The Smart Assist App automatically allows the system to establish reliable wireless connections, and for users to name the channels and adjust all system settings. For getting started, the app includes video tutorials hosted by Franke.

In terms of the hardware, the Evolution Wireless Digital transmitters have an input dynamic range of 134 dB, five times more than the usual 120 dB. Sennheiser states that this means they can “pick up everything from a very soft whisper to a jet engine at 50 yards’ distance.” Because of this range, there’s no sensitivity setting on the transmitter. The receiver has also been set to a gain value covering most applications, which you can easily change if desired.

Evolution Wireless Digital is available now, with a range of accessories including transmitters for handhelds, instrument mics, lavalier mics, headmics and more.

Find out more at sennheiser.com.