Sennheiser EW 500 G4-965 Wireless vocal set

Product Overview

The Sennheiser EW 500 G4-965 is a professional wireless vocal system from the Evolution Wireless G4 500 series, combining the SKM 500 G4-965-S handheld transmitter — fitted with the 965-S condenser supercardioid capsule — with the EM 500 G4 half-rack true diversity receiver. It is designed for lead vocalists, broadcast presenters, and houses of worship requiring broadcast-grade audio quality, broad RF tunability, and reliable multi-channel operation in demanding RF environments. Available in AW+ (470–558 MHz) and GW1 (558–608 MHz) frequency variants to suit different regulatory environments.

Product Description

The 965 capsule at the heart of this system is a condenser supercardioid design with an integrated shock-mount head — a construction originally developed for high-SPL stage vocal work where handling noise and mechanical vibration must be isolated from the capsule. The supercardioid polar pattern provides tighter front pickup than a standard cardioid, offering better gain-before-feedback in loud stage monitor environments while the condenser transducer delivers the open, extended high-frequency response that condenser vocal capsules are known for. The EM 500 G4 receiver occupies only half a rack unit, making it practical for compact touring racks while still providing a full-metal housing with an intuitive OLED display. True diversity operation across two independent antenna inputs and receiver circuits ensures the strongest available RF signal is used at all times, maintaining dropout-free performance even with rapid transmitter movement or RF reflections from stage infrastructure. The system offers up to 42 MHz of continuous tuning bandwidth in a stable UHF range, with up to 32 compatible channels operable simultaneously — a critical feature for multi-act productions and broadcast environments where frequency coordination is essential. High RF output power is adjustable in three steps (10/30/50 mW, subject to country regulations), allowing the system to be configured for intimate installed venues or large outdoor stages. Infrared sync between transmitter and receiver simplifies frequency setup — set the frequency on the receiver and sync the transmitter without navigating menus independently on each unit. The EM 500 G4 includes Ethernet connectivity for integration with Sennheiser's Wireless Systems Manager (WSM) software, enabling centralized frequency coordination, monitoring, and remote control of large multi-channel deployments. HDX companding — Sennheiser's high-dynamic-range expansion system — minimizes noise floor artifacts and maintains natural dynamic response across the full audio path.

Key Features

• 965-S Condenser Supercardioid Capsule — Integrated shock-mount head delivers open condenser sound with isolation from handling noise and stage vibration.
• True Diversity Receiver (EM 500 G4) — Dual antenna inputs with independent receiver circuits continuously select the strongest RF signal, eliminating dropouts.
• Half-Rack Form Factor — 1/2 RU metal housing mounts in standard 19" racks alongside a second unit, conserving rack space in touring and installed rigs.
• Up to 42 MHz Tuning Bandwidth — Wide continuous tuning range with up to 32 compatible simultaneous channels for complex multi-system deployments.
• Infrared Sync — One-step transmitter-to-receiver frequency synchronization via infrared port simplifies setup and frequency changes.
• HDX Compander — Sennheiser's high-dynamic-range companding system preserves natural audio dynamics and minimizes noise floor artifacts.
• Adjustable RF Output Power — Three-step output (10/30/50 mW) adapts system range and compliance to venue size and local RF regulations.
• OLED Display on Receiver — High-contrast display shows RF level, audio level, battery status, frequency, and channel at a glance from a distance.
• Ethernet / Wireless Systems Manager Integration — RJ45 port on the EM 500 G4 enables WSM software control for multi-channel frequency coordination and remote monitoring.
• Mute Switch on Transmitter — Lockable mute on the SKM 500 G4 handset allows vocalists to silence the mic between performances without relying on a stage manager or console operator.
• Multiple Frequency Variants — Available in AW+ (470–558 MHz) and GW1 (558–608 MHz) to suit regulatory requirements across North America and international markets.

Typical Applications

• Professional touring and festival stage vocal performance
• Houses of worship with multi-channel wireless systems and WSM-managed frequency coordination
• Broadcast studios and live television production requiring interference-free UHF wireless
• Corporate events and conference presentations with high-profile speakers
• Performing arts centers and regional theaters with permanent installed wireless infrastructure
• University and institutional performing arts programs requiring durable, long-term wireless systems

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the difference between the AW+ and GW1 frequency variants?

The AW+ variant covers 470–558 MHz and the GW1 covers 558–608 MHz. Both operate in stable UHF spectrum, but the correct choice depends on frequency availability in your region and the RF environment of your venue. In North America, consult the FCC frequency coordination database or a wireless systems professional before purchasing.

Q: What makes the 965-S capsule different from the standard 945 capsule?

The 965-S uses a condenser transducer (capacitor element) versus the dynamic element in the 945. The condenser design delivers extended high-frequency response and more open sound character suited to lead vocal performances in live and broadcast settings. The integrated shock-mount head also reduces mechanical noise transmission from handling.

Q: How many channels can operate simultaneously with the EW 500 G4-965?

Up to 32 compatible channels can operate simultaneously within a single frequency variant's tuning bandwidth. For higher channel counts, combining AW+ and GW1 variants with proper frequency coordination via WSM software expands system capacity further.

Q: What is HDX companding and why does it matter?

HDX is Sennheiser's high-dynamic-range compander — a complementary compression/expansion circuit that reduces the noise floor of the RF transmission path while preserving natural audio dynamics at the output. The result is lower audible noise and more transparent sound compared to systems using standard companders.

Q: Does the EW 500 G4 work with Wireless Systems Manager software?

Yes. The EM 500 G4 receiver includes an Ethernet (RJ45) port for direct connection to a network switch, enabling full integration with Sennheiser's free Wireless Systems Manager (WSM) software. WSM supports remote monitoring, frequency coordination, gain adjustment, and battery status across all connected receivers from a single workstation.

Q: Can I swap capsules on the SKM 500 G4 transmitter?

Yes. The SKM 500 G4 accepts all compatible Evolution Wireless G4 capsule heads, including dynamic and condenser options. This allows the transmitter to be reconfigured for different capsule characters without purchasing a new handset.

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

The SKM 500 G4 operates on standard AA batteries or Sennheiser's BA 2015 rechargeable battery pack (compatible with the CHG 2 and L 2015 chargers). The transmitter's OLED display provides a battery runtime indicator to prevent unexpected power loss during a performance.

Q: Is the EW 500 G4 an upgrade from the EW 500 G3?

Yes. The G4 generation adds OLED displays on both transmitter and receiver, Ethernet connectivity for WSM integration, and improved RF range and bandwidth compared to G3 systems. G4 capsule heads are backward-compatible with some G3 transmitter bodies, but full G4 system performance requires matched G4 components.