Sennheiser EW 500 G4-935 Review: Best Wireless Microphone

Overview and Build Quality

The EW 500 G4-935 is part of Sennheiser’s fourth generation of Evolution Wireless series. It represents a significant leap forward, building upon the solid foundation laid by its predecessors. The G4 series introduces new features, enhanced performance, and improved durability.

The EW 500 G4-935 system includes a sturdy handheld transmitter equipped with the MMD 935-1 cardioid dynamic capsule, a component highly praised for its clarity and feedback resistance. The microphone’smicrophone’s body is crafted from durable metal, ensuring it can handle the demands of live performances and frequent use. The EM 300-500 G4 receiver is equally robust, with a rack-mountable design and a clear LCD that simplifies monitoring and adjustments.

Build Quality Highlights:

• Durable Construction: The transmitter and receiver are designed for longevity, with metal housings that protect against drops and wear.
• Ergonomic Design: The handheld transmitter offers a comfortable grip, making it ideal for extended performances. Its well-balanced weight also helps.
• User-Friendly Interface: The receiver’s LCD screen provides vital information at a glance, such as frequency, battery life, and signal strength.

Sound Quality

The Sennheiser EW 500 G4-935 delivers outstanding sound quality. The MMD 935-1 cardioid capsule is engineered to offer precise, natural vocal reproduction with minimal proximity effect, making it ideal for both spoken word and vocal performances where clarity and detail are paramount.

The cardioid polar pattern effectively isolates the sound source while rejecting off-axis noise, significantly reducing the risk of feedback and ensuring a clean, focused sound. This is particularly valuable in live sound settings, where ambient noise and stage monitors pose challenges for less capable microphones.

Sound Quality Highlights:

• Crystal Clear Vocals: The MMD 935-1 capsule delivers vocals with exceptional clarity and warmth.
• Feedback Rejection: The cardioid polar pattern minimizes feedback, even in acoustically challenging environments.
• Dynamic Range: The EW 500 G4-935 system captures a wide dynamic range, efficiently handling subtle nuances and powerful performances.

Wireless Performance

Where the EW 500 G4-935 truly excels is in its wireless performance. Operating within the UHF frequency range, the system offers a stable and reliable connection, even in environments rife with RF interference. The system is highly adaptable to various venues and locations, supporting up to 88 MHz of bandwidth and up to 32 channels per frequency range (depending on local regulations).

The receiver boasts advanced features like automatic frequency management and transmitter synchronization via infrared, ensuring that the system operates on the optimal frequency with minimal user intervention. The system’s high RF output power guarantees a robust and reliable signal, even at considerable distances from the receiver.

Wireless Performance Highlights:

• Reliable UHF Transmission: Consistent, interference-free operation, even in crowded RF environments.
• Wide Frequency Range: Supports multiple channels, ideal for larger setups with various microphones.
• Long-Range Capability: Delivers excellent performance over extended distances, making it perfect for large venues.

Ease of Use

Despite its sophisticated features, the Sennheiser EW 500 G4-935 remains user-friendly. The system is designed with the user in mind, offering a range of features that streamline setup and operation.

The receiver’s automatic frequency management function scans the environment to select the best frequency, while the sync function allows quick and easy pairing between the transmitter and receiver. The system allows for manual configuration for more advanced setups, offering detailed control over frequency, output power, and other parameters.

Ease of Use Highlights:

• Quick Setup: Automatic frequency management and infrared synchronization simplify the setup process.
• Intuitive Interface: The receiver’s LCD and straightforward menu system make adjusting settings easy.
• Flexible Configuration: Offers automatic and manual control options, catering to users of all experience levels.

Battery Life and Power Management

Battery life is crucial for any wireless system, and the Sennheiser EW 500 G4-935 does not disappoint. The handheld transmitter runs on two AA batteries, providing up to 8 hours of continuous operation. For those who prefer a rechargeable option, Sennheiser offers an optional rechargeable battery pack and charger, which can significantly lower long-term operating costs.

The receiver also includes a low battery alert, informing users about the transmitter’s battery status. This feature is handy in live sound situations, where a sudden battery failure could be disastrous.

Battery Life Highlights:

• Long Battery Life: Up to 8 hours of continuous use with standard AA batteries.
• Rechargeable Option: Optional battery pack and charger offer more sustainable power management.
• Low Battery Alerts: The receiver alerts users when the transmitter’s battery is low, preventing unexpected power loss.

Expandability and Compatibility

The Sennheiser EW 500 G4-935 system is highly expandable, making it an excellent choice for setups that are likely to grow. It is compatible with various Sennheiser accessories, including additional receivers, headset microphones, lavalier microphones, and instrument transmitters. This flexibility allows users to customize the system to meet their needs, whether expanding a basic setup or integrating it into a more extensive audio network.

Additionally, the system’s wideband transmission capabilities mean it can be used in various regions with differing frequency regulations, making it a versatile choice for professionals who tour and need reliable performance in multiple locations.

Expandability and Compatibility Highlights:

• Modular System: Easily expanded with additional receivers and microphones.
• Wideband Transmission: Compatible with various frequency regulations, making it ideal for international use.
• Broad Accessory Support: Compatible with Sennheiser’s extensive line of wireless audio accessories.

• Final Verdict: Sennheiser EW 500 G4-935 – The Professional’s Choice

  The Sennheiser EW 500 G4-935 is a top-tier wireless microphone system that delivers sound quality, reliability, and ease of use. Its rugged build and superior performance make it ideal for live performances, broadcasting, and any professional application where audio quality is paramount. Whether you’re a touring musician, a sound engineer, or a broadcast professional, the EW 500 G4-935 offers the features and flexibility needed to ensure flawless performance every time.

• You can compare some competitive microphones like Elgato Wave:3  And  Audio-Technica AT4050