Sennheiser EW 500 G4-945 Wireless vocal set

Product Overview

The Sennheiser EW 500 G4-945 is a professional UHF wireless vocal set built for high-demand live performance environments. It pairs the SKM 500 G4 handheld transmitter — loaded with the MMD 945 dynamic super-cardioid capsule — with the EM 500 G4 half-rack true diversity receiver. The tighter polar pattern of the 945-S capsule delivers superior feedback rejection in loud stage environments, making it the preferred choice for lead vocalists on active, high-SPL stages. Available in AW+ (470–558 MHz) and GW1 (558–608 MHz) bands.

Product Description

The EW 500 G4-945 occupies the top tier of Sennheiser's evolution wireless G4 500-series, combining the rugged SKM 500 G4 metal-bodied transmitter with the MMD 945 super-cardioid dynamic capsule. The 945-S capsule's tighter pickup pattern compared to the standard cardioid 935-S provides more aggressive off-axis rejection, suppressing monitor bleed and stage noise before it reaches the receiver. The EM 500 G4 half-rack receiver offers true diversity reception, ensuring stable RF performance across the full 88 MHz tuning bandwidth with up to 3,520 selectable frequencies per band. The HDX compander preserves audio fidelity across the wireless link, while the OLED display with automatic dimming keeps the stage rig readable under any lighting condition. Infrared sync transfers all transmitter parameters from receiver to handset in seconds — no menu diving required. For larger productions, an Ethernet port connects directly to Sennheiser's Wireless Systems Manager (WSM) software for centralized frequency coordination across up to 32 simultaneous channels. RF output is adjustable in three steps (10, 30, or 50 mW) to comply with regional regulations and reduce inter-system interference. The system is backward-compatible with G1, G2, and G3 evolution components, protecting prior investment. Each set includes the SKM 500 G4 handheld transmitter with MMD 945 capsule, EM 500 G4 rackmount receiver, GA 3 rack kit, NT 2 power supply, two antennas, and a mic clip.

Key Features

• MMD 945 Super-Cardioid Dynamic Capsule — Tighter polar pattern versus standard cardioid for superior feedback rejection and off-axis rejection on high-SPL stages.
• EM 500 G4 True Diversity Receiver — Half-rack form factor with full-metal housing; eliminates dropout through independent antenna diversity switching.
• 88 MHz Tuning Bandwidth — Up to 3,520 selectable frequencies per band for interference-free operation in dense RF environments.
• HDX Compander — Sennheiser's proprietary compander system delivers crystal-clear audio across the wireless link with minimal noise floor.
• Infrared Sync — Transfers all transmitter settings from receiver in seconds; eliminates manual frequency matching.
• Ethernet Control Port — Connects to Wireless Systems Manager (WSM) software for advanced multi-channel frequency coordination and remote monitoring.
• Up to 32 Simultaneous Channels — Intermodulation-calculated channel banks support large-scale multi-wireless deployments.
• Adjustable RF Output (10/30/50 mW) — Three-step power adjustment optimizes range vs. regulatory compliance and inter-system coexistence.
• OLED Display with Auto-Dimming — Maintains legibility in all lighting conditions; blue sync LED and red warning LED provide instant status at a glance.
• G1/G2/G3 Backward Compatibility — Works with previous evolution generation components, preserving existing wireless infrastructure investment.
• Programmable Mute and Auto-Lock — Prevents accidental setting changes during performance; mute mode configurable at receiver.
• Complete System in Box — Includes receiver, transmitter, rack kit, power supply, antennas, and mic clip; ready to deploy out of the box.

Typical Applications

• Lead vocal performance on high-volume live stages with active monitor wedges
• Touring and festival productions requiring dense multi-channel wireless coordination
• Houses of worship with complex RF environments and multiple simultaneous wireless channels
• Theater productions requiring reliable, low-dropout wireless over extended performances
• Corporate AV events and rental staging where quick setup and IR sync reduce turnaround time
• Broadcast and televised live events requiring Ethernet-networked wireless management

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the difference between the EW 500 G4-945 and the EW 500 G4-935?

The 945 uses the MMD 945 super-cardioid dynamic capsule, which has a tighter polar pattern than the cardioid MMD 935 used in the 935 model. The super-cardioid pattern provides more aggressive feedback rejection and better off-axis rejection, making it better suited for louder stages with active monitor systems. Both systems use the same SKM 500 G4 transmitter body and EM 500 G4 receiver.

Q: Which frequency band should I choose — AW+ or GW1?

The AW+ band covers 470–558 MHz and GW1 covers 558–608 MHz. Your choice should be based on the local RF environment and TV broadcast allocations in your region. AW+ generally offers more available spectrum in most U.S. markets. Contact your local frequency coordinator if you are running dense multi-channel systems.

Q: How many simultaneous channels can I run in the same venue?

Up to 32 intermodulation-calculated channels can operate simultaneously within the same frequency band. Sennheiser's Wireless Systems Manager (WSM) software assists with frequency coordination when running large channel counts.

Q: Does the EW 500 G4-945 work with older G1, G2, or G3 evolution equipment?

Yes. The G4 system is backward-compatible with G1, G2, and G3 evolution series transmitters and receivers, allowing you to integrate the EW 500 G4-945 into an existing evolution wireless infrastructure.

Q: What batteries does the SKM 500 G4 transmitter use?

The transmitter accepts two standard AA (1.5 V) batteries or the optional BA 2015 rechargeable accupack. Runtime is approximately 8 hours on a fresh set of AA batteries.

Q: Can I control the receiver remotely without being at the rack?

Yes. The EM 500 G4 includes an Ethernet port that connects to Sennheiser's free Wireless Systems Manager (WSM) software, enabling remote monitoring, frequency coordination, and parameter adjustment from a networked computer at front-of-house or in a production office.

Q: Is the super-cardioid capsule suitable for untrained vocalists?

The tighter pickup pattern of the super-cardioid requires more consistent microphone technique compared to a standard cardioid. It is most effective in the hands of experienced vocalists who maintain a consistent distance and angle to the capsule. For less experienced users or presentations, the EW 500 G4-935 with its cardioid pattern may be more forgiving.

Q: What audio outputs does the EM 500 G4 receiver provide?

The receiver provides both a balanced XLR output and a 1/4" output, covering connections to mixing consoles, PA systems, and direct inject scenarios. Output level is adjustable from the receiver menu.