Sennheiser Handheld Transmitter EW-DX SKM-S

Product Overview

The Sennheiser EW-DX SKM-S is a standalone handheld transmitter body for the EW-DX digital wireless platform, featuring a programmable mute switch and the Sennheiser Standard Capsule Interface for complete capsule freedom. Sold without a capsule, this transmitter is the preferred choice for system integrators, touring companies, and professional users who want to pair the EW-DX digital platform with a specific Sennheiser or Neumann capsule of their choice. Delivering 134 dB dynamic range through the proprietary SePAC codec, it eliminates the need for RF gain adjustments regardless of source level. The persistent E-Ink display, in-device charging contacts, and metal housing make the SKM-S a tour-grade handheld built for demanding, daily professional use.

Product Description

The EW-DX SKM-S handheld transmitter is the mute-switch-equipped body in Sennheiser's flagship EW-DX digital UHF wireless platform. As a capsule-free unit, it gives professional users the flexibility to choose the capsule that best serves their application — whether that's the e 835 dynamic cardioid for live vocals, the e 865 condenser for studio-quality stage performance, or any other capsule in Sennheiser's and Neumann's extensive portfolio.

At the heart of the SKM-S is Sennheiser's proprietary Performance Audio Codec (SePAC), which achieves a 134 dB input dynamic range. This means you never need to touch a gain knob on the transmitter — the system handles extreme input levels automatically, from a whispered presenter to a screaming vocalist. With 10 mW of fixed RF output power, the SKM-S delivers up to 100 m (328 ft) of operating range under line-of-sight conditions, suitable for theaters, conference centers, large houses of worship, and broadcast studios.

The programmable mute switch on the SKM-S can be configured as AF mute (mutes audio only), RF mute (cuts the RF signal entirely), or disabled — all configurable from the transmitter's function buttons or remotely via Sennheiser's Control Cockpit software or the Smart Assist mobile app. In-device charging contacts allow the SKM-S to charge inside the CHG 70N network charging dock without removing the battery, and the E-Ink display retains parameter information even when the unit is powered off. The EW-DX system's equidistant channel spacing supports up to 146 channels in a single band, and integration into Sennheiser's Wireless Systems Manager (WSM) or Control Cockpit makes it ideal for large-scale, networked installations.

Key Features

• Programmable Mute Switch — Configurable as AF Mute, RF Mute, or disabled; fully lockable and remotely overridable from the receiver.
• 134 dB Input Dynamic Range (SePAC) — Proprietary codec eliminates the need for gain adjustment on the transmitter regardless of source level.
• Sennheiser Standard Capsule Interface — Compatible with a wide range of Sennheiser and Neumann capsule heads (sold separately) for complete capsule flexibility.
• 10 mW Fixed RF Power / 100 m Range — Consistent output power delivers reliable transmission up to 328 ft (line of sight).
• Persistent E-Ink Display — Transmitter parameters remain visible on screen even with batteries removed, simplifying inventory management.
• In-Device Charging Contacts — Compatible with CHG 70N charging dock for in-transmitter charging without battery removal.
• Up to 12 Hours Battery Life — With optional BA 70 lithium-ion rechargeable battery; also compatible with AA batteries.
• Switchable Low Cut — Selectable high-pass filter at Off, 30, 60, 80, 100, or 120 Hz for versatile source handling.
• Digital Audio Trim & Test Tone Generator — On-board tools for fast system check and level optimization.
• Metal Housing — Rugged, tour-grade build for daily professional use in live performance and installation environments.
• Network-Ready EW-DX Platform — Integrates with Sennheiser Control Cockpit, Wireless Systems Manager, and Smart Assist App for remote monitoring and control.
• Worldwide UHF Operation — Available in multiple frequency bands; worldwide usability subject to local RF regulations.

Typical Applications

• Live concert touring with custom capsule configurations
• Broadcast and television studio handheld microphone channels
• Large-scale houses of worship with networked wireless management
• Theater and performing arts centers requiring precise capsule selection
• Corporate AV installations managed via Control Cockpit
• System integrators building custom EW-DX wireless channel packages
• Conference centers and convention halls with multi-channel wireless deployments

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does the EW-DX SKM-S come with a capsule?

No. The SKM-S is sold as a capsule-free handheld transmitter body. It uses the Sennheiser Standard Capsule Interface, so you can pair it with any compatible Sennheiser or Neumann capsule (sold separately) to build your ideal microphone configuration.

Q: What is the difference between the EW-DX SKM-S and the EW-DX SKM?

The SKM-S includes a programmable mute switch that can be configured as AF mute, RF mute, or disabled. The EW-DX SKM does not have a mute switch. Choose the SKM-S when performers or presenters need on-transmitter mute control.

Q: What capsules are compatible with the EW-DX SKM-S?

The SKM-S accepts any capsule using the Sennheiser Standard Capsule Interface. This includes popular capsules such as the MMD 835, MMD 845, MMD 865, and Neumann KK 204, KK 205, and others. Contact Creation Networks for a full compatibility list.

Q: Which receiver is required to use the EW-DX SKM-S?

The EW-DX SKM-S is designed for use with EW-DX receivers (EM 2 or EM 4 series). It is also backward-compatible with EW-D receivers, though some advanced features such as Link Density mode and the full 88 MHz switching bandwidth are only available when paired with EW-DX receivers.

Q: Can I charge the transmitter without removing the battery?

Yes. The SKM-S has charging contacts for in-device charging using the Sennheiser CHG 70N network charging dock (sold separately). The optional BA 70 lithium-ion rechargeable battery supports this in-transmitter charging.

Q: How many EW-DX channels can I run simultaneously?

The EW-DX platform supports up to 146 channels in equidistant tuning grid mode per band, and up to 292 channels in Link Density mode. The exact count depends on the receiver model and local frequency availability.

Q: Can I manage the EW-DX SKM-S remotely?

Yes. The SKM-S integrates with Sennheiser's Control Cockpit software and Wireless Systems Manager for full remote monitoring and parameter control over a network. The Sennheiser Smart Assist mobile app also enables Bluetooth-based setup and remote mute control.

Q: What frequency bands are available for the EW-DX SKM-S?

The SKM-S is available in Q1-9 (470.2–550 MHz), R1-9 (520–607.8 MHz), and V5-7 frequency bands. Select the band that is licensed and clear in your region. Creation Networks can advise on the best band for your location.