Sennheiser XSW 2-835-A Wireless vocal set. Includes (1) EM XSW 2, (1) SKM 835 XSW (cardioid, dynamic), (1) NT 12-5 CW, (1) MZQ 1 and (1) GA 1 XSW 2, frequency range: A (548 - 572 MHz) - 507143

Product Overview

The Sennheiser XSW 2-835-A is a mid-tier analog UHF wireless vocal set that steps up from the XSW 1 series with true diversity reception, external antennas, and 960 selectable frequencies for more demanding live performance and installation environments. The set includes the EM XSW 2-A true diversity receiver and the SKM 825-XSW-A handheld transmitter with an e825-class dynamic cardioid capsule. Operating in the A frequency range (548–572 MHz), it delivers significantly more robust RF performance than antenna-switching systems, making it suitable for medium to large venues, multi-system deployments, and professional live events.

Product Description

The XSW 2-835-A is built for applications where the antenna-switching diversity and limited channel count of the XSW 1 are insufficient. True diversity reception uses two independent RF reception paths with separate antennas and two complete receiver circuits; the system continuously compares both signals and switches to the stronger path without audible interruption, dramatically reducing the impact of multipath interference that causes dropouts in larger rooms and outdoor stages. The EM XSW 2-A receiver's external antennas can be repositioned or extended using optional antenna cables for better RF coverage in complex venue layouts or when the receiver is rack-mounted away from the stage. With 960 selectable frequencies across the A band, the XSW 2 accommodates dense multi-system deployments and can work around local RF interference far more flexibly than a 10-channel system. The SKM 825-XSW-A handheld transmitter uses the e825 dynamic cardioid capsule, which delivers clear, natural vocal reproduction with consistent directional pickup and feedback rejection suitable for both speech and singing applications. Infrared sync between transmitter and receiver speeds up frequency coordination. A front-panel display on both transmitter and receiver shows RF level, battery life, and system status. The XSW 2-835-A is the correct choice for professional live sound engineers, touring acts using a single-body pack system, and permanent installations in venues where RF reliability is a primary requirement.

Key Features

• True Diversity Reception — Two independent RF paths with external antennas; eliminates multipath dropouts in larger venues.
• 960 Selectable Frequencies — Extensive frequency agility for dense multi-system deployments and RF interference avoidance.
• e825 Dynamic Cardioid Capsule — Clear vocal reproduction with consistent directional pickup and feedback rejection for speech and singing.
• External Antennas — Repositionable for optimized RF coverage; compatible with optional antenna extension cables.
• Infrared Sync — One-press transmitter/receiver channel pairing for fast setup.
• Front-Panel Display — RF level, AF level, and battery status on both transmitter and receiver.
• Complete Kit — EM XSW 2-A receiver, SKM 825-XSW-A handheld, and power supply included.
• UHF A Band (548–572 MHz) — Stable professional spectrum allocation.

Typical Applications

• Professional live vocal performance in medium to large venues
• House of worship main stage vocal systems
• Theater and performing arts center productions
• Corporate event main stage and keynote presentations
• Multi-system band and ensemble wireless deployments

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes true diversity better than antenna-switching diversity?

True diversity uses two completely independent receiver circuits and antennas running simultaneously. The system compares both signals in real time and switches to the stronger path without any audible artifact. Antenna-switching diversity uses a single receiver circuit and switches between antennas, which provides less protection against multipath interference. For larger venues, outdoor stages, and environments with complex RF conditions, true diversity is the correct choice.

How many XSW 2-835-A systems can operate simultaneously?

With 960 selectable frequencies, the XSW 2 can support a significantly higher number of simultaneous systems than the XSW 1's 10-channel limit. The exact number of interference-free channels available depends on the specific venue's RF environment and coordination planning.

Can I use optional remote antennas with the EM XSW 2-A?

Yes. The EM XSW 2-A's external antennas can be connected via optional antenna extension cables and mounted in a better RF position — for example, on stage or at FOH — when the receiver is rack-mounted in a back-of-house position. Active antenna distribution systems are compatible for larger deployments.

What is the difference between the XSW 2-835-A and the XSW 2-865-A?

The XSW 2-835-A uses the e825 dynamic cardioid capsule, which is rugged and feedback-resistant for live singing and speech. The XSW 2-865-A uses the e865 condenser supercardioid capsule, which has a more detailed, open sound with a tighter pickup pattern, suited for discerning vocalists and applications where condenser audio quality is preferred.

Is the EM XSW 2-A rack-mountable?

The EM XSW 2-A is a half-rack tabletop unit. Optional rack mount kits are available to mount it in a 19-inch equipment rack for permanent installation scenarios.