Sennheiser EW-D ME4 SET (R1-6) Digital Wireless Cardioid Lavalier Microphone System (R1-6: 520 to 576 MHz) - 508721

Product Overview

The Sennheiser EW-D ME4 SET (R1-6) is a professional 24-bit digital wireless lavalier microphone system operating in the R1-6 band (520–576 MHz), delivering broadcast-quality audio for presenters, performers, and educators. It pairs the directional ME 4-II cardioid clip-on lavalier with the SK EW-D bodypack transmitter and EW-D rackmount receiver, giving you studio-grade sound in a field-ready package. With an extraordinary 134 dB dynamic range, 1.9 ms latency, and Bluetooth-assisted setup via the Sennheiser Smart Assist app, this system removes the technical barriers from professional wireless audio. Whether you are running a single-channel corporate presentation or scaling up to a multi-channel theatrical production, the EW-D ME4 SET R1-6 grows with your needs.

Product Description

The Sennheiser EW-D ME4 SET (R1-6) represents the evolution of the trusted EW-D platform — a fully digital UHF wireless system engineered to satisfy professionals who demand reliable, clean audio without complexity. Operating in the R1-6 frequency band spanning 520 to 576 MHz, the system provides 2,240 selectable frequencies across a 56 MHz tuning bandwidth, giving you ample spectrum to find clean channels in virtually any RF environment.

At the heart of the system is the ME 4-II cardioid lavalier microphone, a clip-on condenser capsule with a directional pickup pattern that rejects off-axis noise and minimizes feedback — a meaningful advantage over omnidirectional alternatives in acoustically challenging environments like reverberant stages, classrooms, or houses of worship. The 5.2-foot (1.6 m) cable connects to the compact, lightweight SK EW-D bodypack transmitter, which syncs wirelessly to the receiver via Bluetooth for instant, tool-free channel pairing.

The EW-D rackmount receiver employs True Digital Diversity, continuously selecting the stronger of two antenna signals to maintain a dropout-free link up to 328 feet (100 m) line of sight. Its ultra-wide 134 dB dynamic range eliminates the need for manual input-sensitivity adjustments on the transmitter, and the equidistant frequency grid removes the need for intermodulation-aware frequency coordination — simply scan, assign, and go. The receiver's gain range of -3 to +42 dB in 3 dB steps, combined with a full 20 Hz–20 kHz audio frequency response, ensures clean signal integration into any mixing console or audio interface.

The SK EW-D bodypack runs up to 8 hours on a standard AA alkaline battery or up to 12 hours with the optional Sennheiser rechargeable battery pack, making it suitable for full-day conference sessions or back-to-back theatrical performances. The system's equidistant tuning grid supports up to 90 simultaneous channels per band, making the EW-D ME4 SET (R1-6) an ideal building block for large-scale multi-channel deployments such as panel discussions, conferences, and worship services.

Key Features

• ME 4-II Cardioid Lavalier — Directional pickup pattern rejects ambient noise and feedback better than omnidirectional lavs, ideal for dynamic acoustic environments.
• R1-6 Band (520–576 MHz) — 56 MHz tuning bandwidth with 2,240 selectable frequencies for reliable spectrum management in UHF-congested areas.
• 24-Bit Digital Audio — Studio-grade audio fidelity with no analog companding artifacts across the full signal path.
• 134 dB Dynamic Range — Eliminates transmitter input-sensitivity adjustments; handles everything from whispered speech to loud stage performances without clipping.
• 1.9 ms Latency — Near-imperceptible delay suitable for in-ear monitor mixing, live performance, and broadcast applications.
• True Digital Diversity Receiver — Dual-antenna diversity reception maintains a dropout-free link up to 328 ft (100 m) line of sight.
• Equidistant Frequency Grid — Eliminates intermodulation-based frequency coordination; supports up to 90 simultaneous channels per band.
• Bluetooth Smart Assist App — Set up, monitor, and remotely control the system from iOS or Android via the Sennheiser Smart Assist app.
• Up to 12-Hour Battery Life — 8 hours on AA alkaline; 12 hours with optional Sennheiser rechargeable battery pack for all-day reliability.
• Rackmount Receiver Design — Half-rack form factor integrates cleanly into AV racks, FOH carts, and permanent installed-sound systems.
• Mute Switch on Bodypack — Discreet muting control directly on the transmitter for presenter convenience.
• Auto-Scan Channel Assignment — Receiver automatically scans for and assigns the cleanest available frequency in seconds.

Typical Applications

• Corporate presentations and boardroom AV systems
• University and K-12 classroom instruction
• Houses of worship — clergy and pastoral microphones
• Theater and live stage performance
• Conference and convention center multi-channel setups
• Broadcast and video production field work
• Government and municipal council chambers
• Fitness and aerobics instruction

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is included in the EW-D ME4 SET (R1-6) box?

The set includes the EW-D rackmount receiver, the SK EW-D bodypack transmitter, the ME 4-II cardioid lavalier microphone (with 5.2 ft cable), an AC/DC power adapter for the receiver, and mounting hardware. Batteries for the bodypack are not included.

Q: What does the R1-6 frequency band mean, and is it legal to use in the US?

R1-6 designates the 520–576 MHz UHF frequency range. Frequency legality varies by region and local broadcast allocations. Always verify that the specific frequencies you plan to operate are licensed or license-exempt in your country before purchase. Consult a qualified AV integrator or your local regulatory authority if you are unsure.

Q: How does the ME 4-II cardioid lavalier differ from an omnidirectional lavalier?

The ME 4-II uses a cardioid (directional) pickup pattern, which means it primarily picks up sound from in front of the capsule and rejects sound from the sides and rear. This provides better feedback rejection and reduces pickup of ambient room noise compared to omnidirectional lavs, making it well-suited for live sound reinforcement and acoustically challenging spaces.

Q: Can I run multiple EW-D systems simultaneously?

Yes. The equidistant frequency grid allows up to 90 simultaneous channels within a single frequency band without intermodulation coordination. For larger deployments, you can combine multiple bands across different EW-D systems.

Q: How does the Bluetooth setup work?

The SK EW-D bodypack transmitter pairs with the EW-D receiver via Bluetooth using the Sennheiser Smart Assist app (free on iOS and Android). Once paired, the app also provides remote monitoring and control of system parameters without physically accessing the receiver — useful for rack-mounted installations.

Q: What is the maximum operating range of the system?

The EW-D ME4 SET has a maximum operating range of 328.1 ft (100 m) under line-of-sight conditions. Real-world range will vary based on RF environment, physical obstructions, and antenna placement.

Q: Does this system require a license to operate?

Licensing requirements depend on the specific frequencies used and the country of operation. In the United States, some UHF wireless frequencies require FCC licensing. It is your responsibility to verify compliance with local regulations prior to operation.

Q: Which frequency band should I choose — R4-9, R1-6, or Q1-6?

The right band depends on your local RF environment and any regional frequency regulations. R1-6 (520–576 MHz) sits in the mid-UHF range, while R4-9 (552–607 MHz) is slightly higher and Q1-6 (470–526 MHz) occupies the lower UHF range. If you are in a market with significant broadcast TV activity in a particular sub-band, choosing a band with less local interference will improve reliability. Consult with an RF coordinator or AV professional if you are unsure which band is cleanest in your area.