Sennheiser XSW-D Review
LAVALIER SET Digital Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System
Introduction
In this article, we delve into a detailed analysis of 9,666 user reviews from various languages worldwide to examine the Sennheiser XSW-D. This analysis is performed by the RR artificial intelligence and updated daily with newly submitted reviews. The RR AI utilizes a complex algorithm to first scrutinize user reviews for credibility, filtering out unreliable ones. It then proceeds to dissect and evaluate the valuable insights within these reviews, providing users with ratings regarding the features of this product. Based on these assessments, users can make informed decisions about whether this product is suitable for them or not.
Ratings Based on Features
These results are a summary of user reviews of the Sennheiser XSW-D. For example, 83% of 726 users who have commented on the Battery life of the Sennheiser XSW-D have given positive feedback.
Highlighted Customer Reviews
Showing 1 to 20 of 81 Reviews
Wedding Videographers beware- the range is very short.
Sennheiser XSW-D PORTABLE LAVALIER SET Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz)
Reviewed by Robert on B&H Photo Video
I work on location making Multicam wedding videos at oceanfront destinations. I generally don't work indoors. My usual audio set-up would be a small recorder/lav setup such as the H1n and the MKE lav for the Groom and the Pastor. I received a lot of requests for Live Streams because of the Pandemic. that's why I chose to go with the XSWD system. I use Sennheiser products and generally enjoy using them. However, these aren't very good for my needs. The range on this system, the XLR receiver version, and the stand-alone XLR Rx/Tx kit all suffer from very short transmission range in an open area. I get about 30 to 40 feet max from transmitter to receiver. I picked up my units on sale in September of 2020 and have not had a better experience than what I am detailing here. Keep in mind that I'm working outdoors on the beach with fifty or so guests. I can't be very close because of social distancing. This pushes my distance back from the wedding party. Plus, the radio frequency interference is horrible. This system works on the 2.4Ghz spectrum. This is a consumer product, not a pro product, but it does have a higher than average power rating and supposed intelligent channel hopping. I haven't experienced this. I can't recommend this if you do the kind of work I do. You will be disappointed. If you already have it like I do, then just make sure to get close until you get something better. If you work indoors, then you will probably have better luck than I do because the signal will be constrained to the area you are in. I bought this because I saw reviews where people were getting 100 meters+ straight line of sight distance... not me. more like 12 meters max. ... More
Simple and easy to use!
Sennheiser XSW-D PORTABLE LAVALIER SET Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz)
Reviewed by maksim on B&H Photo Video
I bought mine right at launch and have been using it off and on, swapping between the RodeLink set and this one. I love how tiny this thing is and talent enjoys the small size and weight as well. You barely notice its there. I dont love how you only have one LED indicator. I wish the battery life was a bit longer just to ease my mind, but honestly, Ive never had an issue in the real world. I have a video on this lav set on YT where I show it off, compare to the Rode, and give some sample audio from it. If you want to check it out just search Max Yuryev Sennheiser XS Wireless. Overall if you want something simple with great audio quality and a tiny side I would suggest it! ... More
Great deal for easy to use, quality system
Sennheiser XSW-D PORTABLE LAVALIER SET Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz)
Reviewed by Steve on B&H Photo Video
I purchased the XSW-D kit for capturing the preachers voices at a church I am helping out. I regularly use high end wireless kits as a stagehand at work, and hoped to avoid the noise and static that might come with a cheap kit. I had noticed that I could finally enjoy bluetooth wireless audio on gear using the APT-X codecs, which this system uses. I went ahead and bought these, as Sennheiser has always seemed to provide quality audio gear. So far our audio people really like the sound provided by the included lavalier, other than a little clothing rustle. I did find that if you want to use a different microphone, like a headset, that it must have a T-R-S connector, as the transmitter does not provide T-S style plug-in power. Rather than the complexity of setting up a typical pro wireless kit, this system has just one button per device. It is so easy to sync them that I am sure the church crew will be able to use them when I am not around. It promises 5 hour run time on a charge. This is the smallest transmitter and receiver I have come across so far, which makes it easier to hang on a person. Tiny though it is, this is no toy. And, knock on wood, we have not experienced any interference issues at all, using it right downtown. Give it a try, you will be surprised. ... More
Great value lav
Sennheiser XSW-D PORTABLE LAVALIER SET Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz)
Reviewed by Chris on B&H Photo Video
If your technical needs are basic, this lavalier mic is an excellent choice for its ease of use. It's described as an entry level product so should your stage of career/business development be on the cusp of growing into set-ups requiring more than one person on mic, this product is not for you as you're sure to outgrow it very quickly. That said, even if you're shooting tricky set-ups needing the selectable channels this mic doesn't offer, it'd be a handy lav to keep in the bag as a back-up option or for single presenter and vlogging set-ups. With one-button set-up, it's dead easy to get miked up and on the go. I've tested the range to 15m without loss of signal but at around 20m it starts breaking up. My major concern is that its low end of the audio range is not great. If you or your presenter/interviewee has a very deep voice, as is often the case with pro presenters, you may find this mic thins them out. Probably easy enough to fix with audio tweaks in post, though. I'm very pleased with this mic and would recommend it to anyone needing a simple set-up with good audio characteristics. ... More
Works as described, simple
Sennheiser XSW-D XLR BASE SET Digital Wireless Plug-On Microphone System with No Mic (2.4 GHz)
Reviewed by Redio on B&H Photo Video
I purchased the XLR Male and XLR female kit. I use it often. It is a super simole system that works with any dynamic microphone. I've used it successfully with industry standard SM58 and Heil PR30 microphones. The typical way that I use it is a simple plug into camera interview mic at minimal distances. There is a little white noise in the signal but it is so low that it doesn't affect the projects or use that I am using it for. It's on par with the noise floor of other wireless mic options. The best thing about this is how compact the whole wireless system is. One standard mic bag with a sm58 and this unit tucked inside with it and I'm ready to roll at a moments notice. It suits my needs perfectly. I have not done irrelevant tests (in my case) such as max range etc because I'm not using the product that way. I have used it at approx 30 ft away plugged into my consoles talk back jack and not suffered any additional noise or dropouts. ... More
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Works well if you're a YouTuber or in close proximity
Sennheiser XSW-D PORTABLE LAVALIER SET Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz)
Reviewed by Cory on B&H Photo Video
I do wedding videos and bought this to wireless setup for mic'ing the groom during the ceremony. It cut out right at 'I Do!' I am a huge fan of Sennheiser and had high hopes that this setup would pair great with my Zoom H1, which it does actually; however, if its not directly in-line-of-sight to the receiver it will cut out. This includes people. The setup was about 15 feet stage right of the bride, groom, and party and someone must have stepped in the way, the audio was cutting in an out during the ceremony. The 'I Do' and 'I take you...' parts were dead air. Luckily I also mic the pastor so, saving grace is that audio is still usable. I returned this in favor of the Tascam DL-10. I haven't used it yet, but it sounds promising. If you're a YouTuber and your setup is directly in front of you and you want a wireless option direct into Camera, I would check this out as an economical option that will work well in that application (I think). ... More
Amazing for the price
Sennheiser XSW-D LAVALIER SET Digital Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz)
Reviewed by Stan on B&H Photo Video
I've been used to using the more expensive Sennheiser EW series lavalier system, so I was initially skeptical of how this cheaper line was going to perform. Turns out, it's everything it advertises. Easy to use, clear signal. Sounds like it should. It's worth mentioning the limitations, though. There is another reviewer on here who mentioned that it's no good for weddings, because when the groom leaves the room it disconnects. And I can see that happening. There's a lot of smarts happening under the hood on these things, so I can see how the receiver might turn itself off to save battery if it detects no transmitter. So if you're doing weddings or documentary style work, then upgrading to a real wireless lav system is probably the way to go for you. But if you're just in a situation where everything's relatively contained and you're looking to remove a cable from the situation, this little set is pretty dope. ... More
WIFI can be an issue
Sennheiser XSW-D XLR BASE SET Digital Wireless Plug-On Microphone System with No Mic (2.4 GHz)
Reviewed by Michael on B&H Photo Video
If the venue you are working in has WIFI you may find issues with this. We ran the wireless at Dunes West Country Club for a wedding. It was line of sight only about 25 apart and was crackling and making odd noises quite often. I had to run a wire to stop the issue. I used the set the next week at another wedding, this time no WIFI at the site. There were no issues and all worked well. 2.4GHz WIFI is the issue, and Sennheiser mentions this in the details. Just be aware that WIFI is running in most venues and may cause issues. The idea is awesome, and will work well in many circumstances but not where WIFI is present. Michael- Wedding Music Charleston, Charleston SC ... More
Loses Connectivity
Sennheiser XSW-D LAVALIER SET Digital Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz)
Reviewed by guy on B&H Photo Video
I bought this about a year ago and have tried it several times. When the unit works, it's great. But, if your a run and gun wedding photographer like me, this isn't the system you should use. When the groom leaves the room, the unit loses connectivity. The unit also goes to sleep. I contacted Sennheiser and they were no help. I would like to get my money back, but, it's been a year. So, I wanted to do a review and let you know that I am going back to a wired system. It's a little harder in the processing (matching signals), but at least I get the sound I want! ... More
It worked at home, but Not in the theater.
Sennheiser XSW-D PORTABLE ENG SET Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Combo Microphone System (2.4 GHz)
Reviewed by Boling on B&H Photo Video
It worked when I test them at home. But was interfered by probably other WiFi device in the theater. The recording is unusable, I have to return them. BTW, I like the user friendly design.
High Hopes
Sennheiser XSW-D PORTABLE ENG SET Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Combo Microphone System (2.4 GHz)
Reviewed by glenn on B&H Photo Video
I already use the EW 100 and the AVX units... bought this for a documentary that I am filming and needed something I would not be afraid to throw in my pocket... The problem is the levels. They are so hot, and when compared the same TRAM mic on this unit, and my AVX... Night and day. There are no level adjustments on this... I know they are gearing this more for the run and gun video shooters/YouTubers, but every video review I have seen, in addition to my experience, is that the cameras levels need to be turned way down to use this. Just not acceptable for my needs. Returning to spend the extra money to get another AVX ... More
EASY and useful
Sennheiser XSW-D PORTABLE LAVALIER SET Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz)
Reviewed by Robert on B&H Photo Video
been using it for a few days and really like it. some issues, you can only sync one mic to a receiver, wish there were more ways to attach it to camera. quality is good, sleek design, usb charging, sound quality very good, not great, but good enough for dialog! been using sennheiser for many years.. Im pretty happy!
Great sound quality!!!
Sennheiser XSW-D XLR BASE SET Digital Wireless Plug-On Microphone System with No Mic (2.4 GHz)
Reviewed by Erick on B&H Photo Video
I have been using these for few weeks and they work as they said. No break-ups or interference whatsoever. Im using 4 systems at the same time without any issues. The sound quality is great at 180 ft away (havent tried in actual event conditions more than that). Did a quick test at 250 ft away on a field and they worked fine; the only issue was that the transmitter has to point directly to the receptor or it would have some interference at this distance, but considering the price I think is a great solution for wireless sound system.
Quality audio with no time loss
Sennheiser XSW-D PORTABLE LAVALIER SET Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz)
Reviewed by Gabriel on B&H Photo Video
I just LOVE this system. It's been almost one year since i got this small but powerfull item and i've used it in every shoot that i made so far. I'm going to get two more sets, so i can easily record three peoples interviews or just record two people and have one spare with full battery. It last a very long time, i got something between five to five and a half hours of recording untill it dies, but it can also work when plugged to a power bank with no noise issues. I have had no connection loss so far, even in enviroments that have lots of wifi signals and such. ... More
Works perfectly
Sennheiser XSW-D PORTABLE LAVALIER SET Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz)
Reviewed by Marilyn on B&H Photo Video
After charging the two internal batteries, I connected to my SONY 6300. As others have said, audio levels started too hot, but adjusted with manual controls they were fine. Good clear sound at various distances. I'm pleased with results. Left off a star for hot levels and the need to download operating instructions. They were simple enough, but could have been printed on the included set-up sheet.
Using 2 together for interview format
Sennheiser XSW-D PORTABLE LAVALIER SET Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz)
Reviewed by Douglas on B&H Photo Video
I already had one of these, which worked great. Ordered a second one and a patch cord to put the two receiver outputs together into one into the camera. With both receivers mounted on cold shoe brackets on the camera, the mics work perfectly together and are audible through the headphone out jack on my Canon 5D Mk IV. No feedback, no level anomalies..... With great range and good tonality as well as clarity, work well indoors and out minimizing room acoustics and environmental noise. Beats shotgun mic setup hands down. What's not to like?
Revolution Products
Sennheiser XSW-D XLR BASE SET Digital Wireless Plug-On Microphone System with No Mic (2.4 GHz)
Reviewed by Ao on B&H Photo Video
I think the idea of having these plug and play products is a great move. Together with competitor Xvive U3. I owned 2 Xvive U3 and 1 Sennheiser XLR Base Set. Sennheiser has way longer functioning distance according to the spec. I would argue they can improve the design a little bit. The transmitter is too long and it looks weird on some microphones. And also only one USB B to C charge cable is also kind of weird. Xvive has a USB B to 2 USB A charge cable. I even use these items for in-house wireless audio transmitting, I really hate cable. ... More
"Good" microphone, not convinced by the connectivity
Sennheiser XSW-D PORTABLE LAVALIER SET Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz)
Reviewed by Roberto on B&H Photo Video
I had to spend more on a reliable microphone, if I knew these guys will get me in trouble in the middle of a production I wouldn't buy any of these, got three of these because Sennheiser is known as a reliable company, but they disconnect when there is more than 8 meters between them! Unacceptable, the three of them didn't work in more than 8 meters of distance, lots of problems, love the concept but they just don't work.
Simple to Use
Sennheiser XSW-D PORTABLE LAVALIER SET Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz)
Reviewed by Charles on B&H Photo Video
Have not used these in the field, but have done a test with my Sony a6300. I bought this mic as a backup system that I can use in a moment's notice with any camera. I'm not an audio tech, so I was looking for something simple to use, but able to deliver good quality sound without having to think too much. From what I can tell, this system fits that bill. The quality is what you'd expect from Sennheiser and the sound is clear and full. This system now resides in my run bag.
The best system for your buck!
Sennheiser XSW-D PORTABLE LAVALIER SET Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (2.4 GHz)
Reviewed by David on B&H Photo Video
I use this mic system for my Sony A7rIII rig. It works great whether it's using the lav or an XLR mic. My only reason I would give it 4.5 instead of 5 stars (but you can't give .5 here) is that the lav is VERY HOT. By that, I mean I have to turn down the gain literally to 1 on my camera. Anything louder is too loud. If you're interviewing a person who is talk very loud or singing, you're going going to get clipping. Fortunately, I have the XLR input so if I know things are going to get loud, I use that. I would definitely recommend this as your SLR/Mirrorless mic. ... More
