
<Handheld XSW 2-835 from the XS Wireless 2 Series>
Sennheiser, a legacy microphone brand known for models like the MD 421, has firmly established itself as a leader in wireless microphone technology. Its product range spans from entry-level models suitable for community events to fully professional-grade solutions built for broadcasting and other high-demand applications.
The XSW 2-835, featured in this article, is an analog wireless microphone operating on the license-free B-band and part of the XS Wireless 2 series. It serves as an upgrade to the XSW 1-825 in the XS Wireless 1 series. Positioned as a more reliable and versatile model, the XSW 2-835 offers improved setup flexibility and stability compared to its entry-level counterpart. Let's dive into a detailed comparison to explore its specific features and advantages.
Rack-Mount Compatible Receiver

<Remove the screws on the main unit to attach (right: extension angle)>
The package includes both the microphone unit (transmitter) and the receiver, and for the XSW 2-835, it also comes with rack-mount angles. By using these angles, the receiver can be rack-mounted, allowing for convenient storage and transport in a standard 19-inch rack case.

<Connect Two Units with the Included Bracket>
An adapter and screws are also included to link two receivers together. Since each receiver is half-rack sized, two units can fit into a single 1U space. For professional use, where transport and storage are important considerations, this flexible rack-mount compatibility is a significant advantage.
Receiver with True Diversity System

<The receiver’s antenna is removable>
The most notable difference from the lower model, the XSW 1-825 (XS Wireless 1 series), lies in the receiver.
The XSW 2-835 features a removable whip antenna, offering greater reliability and expandability. Using a true diversity system, it provides superior stability compared to the XSW 1-825’s internal antenna diversity. This makes the XSW 2-835 a more dependable choice for dynamic environments, such as live stages where the transmitter’s position frequently changes, ensuring consistent signal reception.

<Compatible with Higher-End Options (Sold Separately)>
Since the antenna is removable and uses a BNC connector, it can be upgraded with higher-end antenna options. Accessories like the "GA 2-XSW 2" for front-mounting antennas on the rack-mount angle, the "EW-D ASA" splitter, the directional antenna "ADP UHF," and the omnidirectional antenna "A 1031-U" are all compatible. This allows for flexible expansion to suit various budgets and usage environments.

<High-Visibility Display Panel>
The receiver's display panel and controls are upgraded to match the standard of a higher-end model. While the XS Wireless 1 indicates reception and audio signal levels through simple on/off lights, the XS Wireless 2 features a five-level OLED display, making it easy to monitor status at a glance. The high visibility ensures clear readability in both bright outdoor and dark indoor environments. Additionally, output volume adjustment is controlled by a dial rather than buttons, providing more precise control.
Three Frequency Setting Modes for Versatile Use

<Mode Selection via ▼▲ Buttons>
The XSW 2-835 offers three frequency selection modes: Scan Mode, Preset Mode, and Tune Mode, allowing flexible setup tailored to the specific environment. With Scan Mode, users can automatically detect available frequencies, just like with the lower model XSW 1-825, making setup quick and easy for anyone.

<Frequency Transfer with Auto-Sync Function>
For custom frequency selection, use Preset Mode or Tune Mode on the receiver. Once a frequency is selected on the receiver, it can be transferred to the transmitter using the Auto-Sync function. Simply press the [SYNC] button on the transmitter, followed by the [SYNC] button on the receiver to complete synchronization. This automated syncing removes the need for manual frequency setup on the transmitter itself.
Standard Model Suitable for Professional Use

<Transmitter Sensitivity Adjustment Switch>
The XSW 2-835 includes both XLR balanced and TS unbalanced output terminals, similar to the XS Wireless 1, allowing connection to a variety of audio equipment. The transmitter’s sensitivity adjustment switch and battery specifications are also consistent with the XS Wireless 1, ensuring compatibility and ease of use across setups.

<Removing the Grill Reveals a Precisely Assembled Microphone Unit>
The microphone unit in the XSW 2-835 features the upgraded Sennheiser e 835 capsule, compared to the e 825 capsule used in the XS Wireless 1 series’ XSW 1-825. With a frequency response of 50–16,000 Hz (-3 dB), it delivers audio quality suitable not only for events but also for live performance use.
Here is a comparison with the XS Wireless 1 series:
XSW 1 | XSW 2 | |
---|---|---|
Maximum Units | 7* | 7* |
Auto-Sync Function | ○ | ○ |
Auto-Scan Function | ○ | ○ |
Setting Modes | Scan | Scan/Preset/Tune |
Transmitter Battery Life | AA Alkaline x2 / approx. 10 hours | AA Alkaline x2 / approx. 10 hours |
Rack Mount Kit | No | Yes |
Antenna Type | Antenna diversity | External whip antenna |
Diversity | Antenna diversity | True diversity |
Microphone Capsule | e 825 | e 835 |
Note: *Please ensure a minimum distance of 5 meters between the transmitter and receiver, and at least 20 cm between transmitters during use.*
The XS Wireless 2 series, including the XSW 2-835, retains the user-friendliness of the XS Wireless 1 series while being designed for consistent, versatile use across various environments. For a once-a-year event, the XS Wireless 1 may be sufficient. However, for professional audio applications where the system will be used in different environments, the XS Wireless 2 series offers advantages in storage, transport, and on-site adaptability.
In addition to the XSW 2-835 handheld microphone, the XS Wireless 2 series includes other options like the XSW 2-ME 2 lavalier microphone and the XSW 2-ME 3 headset microphone, allowing you to tailor a wireless system to specific needs. This flexibility makes the XS Wireless 2 series an excellent choice for building a custom, professional-grade wireless system.
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