Sennheiser AVX-MKE2 SET-4 Digital Camera-Mount Wireless Omni Lavalier Microphone System (1.9 GHz) - 505862

Product Overview

The Sennheiser AVX-MKE2 SET-4 is a fully digital, license-free 1.9 GHz camera-mount wireless lavalier system designed for videographers, video journalists, documentary filmmakers, and content creators who need professional audio without RF coordination complexity. The system includes the MKE 2-EW omnidirectional lavalier microphone, a lightweight bodypack transmitter, and an ultracompact plug-in receiver that mounts directly to a camera's hot shoe or XLR input port. Automatic frequency negotiation, automatic mic-level control, and a protected peer-to-peer connection mean the AVX is ready to record within seconds of powering on. Operating on the globally license-free 1.9 GHz DECT band, the AVX system avoids interference from crowded UHF wireless environments and requires no FCC license for use in the United States.

Product Description

The Sennheiser AVX platform was engineered specifically for the run-and-gun video production workflow, where a dedicated sound engineer is not present and the camera operator handles all audio setup. The AVX receiver connects directly to a DSLR, mirrorless camera, or camcorder via the included 3.5mm TRS adapter or XLR adapter, drawing power from the camera's mic input so no separate receiver battery is required in many configurations. The SET-4 designation refers to frequency group 4, one of several regional frequency configurations available for the AVX platform worldwide. The system transmits 24-bit/48 kHz audio with automatic level control that continuously adjusts input gain to prevent clipping without manual intervention — a critical feature for solo operators managing both camera and talent simultaneously. A protected peer-to-peer 1.9 GHz link provides strong resistance to interference from other wireless systems operating on the 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi band or UHF broadcast frequencies. The BA 30 rechargeable battery in the bodypack transmitter delivers up to 15 hours of continuous operation, and the receiver can be bus-powered from the camera. Up to 8 AVX transmitter-receiver pairs can operate simultaneously on set without frequency coordination, which makes the system practical for multi-camera interview setups or small production crews. The MKE 2 lavalier capsule is Sennheiser's professional-grade omnidirectional microphone element used across multiple product lines, providing a flat, natural frequency response from 20 Hz to 20 kHz suitable for speech and close-mic vocal recording. The lightweight receiver design and included cold-shoe mounting bracket keep the camera rig compact and balanced, which is important for gimbal-mounted or handheld shooting.

Key Features

• Digital 1.9 GHz License-Free Operation — Operates on the globally license-free DECT band, avoiding congested UHF and 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi spectrum with no FCC license required.
• Automatic Frequency Negotiation — System pairs and selects a clear channel automatically at power-on; no manual frequency scanning or coordination needed.
• MKE 2 Professional Omnidirectional Lavalier — Sennheiser's pro-grade lavalier capsule with natural, flat frequency response; consistent pickup regardless of mic orientation.
• Ultracompact Plug-In Camera Receiver — Mounts directly to camera hot shoe or XLR input; included adapters for 3.5mm and XLR camera inputs.
• Automatic Mic-Level Control — Continuously adjusts input gain to prevent clipping without operator intervention; critical for solo run-and-gun production.
• 24-Bit / 48 kHz Digital Audio — Broadcast-quality digital transmission with no analog companding artifacts.
• Up to 15 Hours Battery Life — BA 30 rechargeable battery in the bodypack transmitter for extended shooting days.
• Up to 8 Simultaneous Systems on Set — Multiple AVX pairs can coexist without manual coordination for multi-camera or multi-talent shoots.
• Protected Peer-to-Peer Link — Encrypted 1.9 GHz connection resists eavesdropping and interference from nearby wireless devices.
• 98 ft / 30 m Operating Range — Sufficient for interview, ENG, and documentary setups where talent remains within camera frame distance.
• Bus Power Compatible — Receiver can draw power from the camera's mic input in compatible configurations, reducing the number of batteries to manage on set.

Typical Applications

• DSLR and mirrorless camera video production for YouTube, social media, and online courses
• Video journalism and electronic news gathering (ENG) in the field
• Documentary filmmaking with small crews or solo operators
• Corporate video production and executive interviews
• Wedding videography and event coverage requiring fast setup
• Multi-camera interview setups with up to 8 simultaneous AVX systems

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does the AVX-MKE2 SET-4 require a license to operate in the United States?

No. The AVX system operates on the 1.9 GHz DECT band, which is globally license-free. Unlike UHF wireless microphone systems that require FCC Part 74 licenses for certain frequency ranges, the AVX requires no license for professional use in the United States or most other countries.

Q: What cameras is the AVX-MKE2 SET-4 compatible with?

The AVX receiver is compatible with any camera that has a 3.5mm TRS mic input or an XLR mic input. The set includes both a 3.5mm adapter and an XLR adapter. It is commonly used with Canon, Sony, Nikon, Fujifilm, and Panasonic DSLRs and mirrorless cameras, as well as professional camcorders with XLR inputs.

Q: What is SET-4 and does it matter which SET version I buy?

SET-4 refers to the frequency group configuration for the AVX system in a specific regional market. In most cases, SET-4 is the appropriate version for North American use. If you are purchasing for use outside North America, verify the correct SET version for your country's regulations with your regional Sennheiser distributor.

Q: How many AVX systems can I run simultaneously on the same set?

Up to 8 AVX transmitter-receiver pairs can operate simultaneously in the same location without any manual frequency coordination. The systems negotiate channels automatically, making this practical for multi-talent interview setups or productions with several camera operators each using their own AVX system.

Q: Does the AVX system work with a smartphone or tablet for video recording?

The AVX receiver outputs via 3.5mm TRS or XLR. It is not designed to connect directly to a smartphone's Lightning or USB-C port without an appropriate adapter. For smartphone recording, a 3.5mm TRRS adapter may be required depending on the device. The system is primarily designed for camera and camcorder use.

Q: How does automatic mic-level control work, and can I override it?

The AVX's automatic mic-level control monitors the input signal from the lavalier and continuously adjusts the transmitter gain to keep the signal within an optimal range, reducing the likelihood of clipping from sudden loud sounds or signal dropouts from quiet signals. There is no manual override for the transmitter input level — the automatic control is a core design feature of the AVX platform intended to simplify operation for non-audio specialists.

Q: What is the battery life and how is the transmitter recharged?

The bodypack transmitter uses the BA 30 rechargeable battery, which provides up to 15 hours of continuous operation. The BA 30 is recharged via the included charging cable. The receiver can be powered via the camera bus in compatible configurations, or by its own internal battery.

Q: Is the MKE 2 lavalier replaceable if it is damaged?

Yes. The MKE 2-EW lavalier connects to the bodypack transmitter via a standard locking 3.5mm TRS connector. Replacement MKE 2-EW microphones are available separately, so a damaged lavalier cable or capsule does not require replacing the entire transmitter.