The Sennheiser Profile Wireless Microphone offers a compelling blend of versatility and high-quality audio capture, making it a strong contender in the professional microphone market. This comprehensive review delves into the microphone's design, functionality, and performance across various scenarios, from quiet studio settings to outdoor environments with ambient noise. We explore its innovative features, including integrated charging and storage, multiple mounting options, and the crucial backup recording capability.This in-depth analysis covers not only the microphone's impressive audio quality and effective noise cancellation but also examines its limitations. We scrutinize the battery life, charging times, and wireless range, offering a balanced perspective on its real-world performance. Ultimately, we assess whether the Sennheiser Profile Wireless Microphone lives up to its promises and whether its innovative design and features justify its place among leading professional audio solutions from brands like Rode and DJI.
Pros And Cons
- Versatile with multiple use cases (handheld, wireless, desk, podcast mic, audio recorder)
- Good battery life (7 hours claimed, 2 hours continuous use tested)
- Good noise cancellation
- Crisp sound
- 16GB internal storage in each mic (total 30 hours recording)
- Innovative design with charging dock and carrying case
- Reliable and consistent performance across different devices
- Backup recording mode
- Internal recording saves audio if connection is lost
- Range is limited
- No direct recording button (requires accessing the screen)
- Accessing internal recordings requires connecting each mic separately
- Slow charging time (2.5-3 hours for the case, up to 1 hour for the mics and receiver)
Read more: SM Professional XR50 Wireless Microphone: Unboxing, Features & Review
Unboxing and Contents
The Sennheiser Profile Wireless Microphone arrives in a well-packaged box. Inside, you'll find a convenient carrying case, the microphone itself, a handy mic holder/charging case, a TRS to TRS cable, and the necessary documentation. The charging case also cleverly houses the wireless transmitters and receiver.
The receiver boasts a touch display for intuitive control, and includes three adapters for seamless compatibility with various devices. Additional accessories include a hot shoe mount for cameras, magnets for alternative mounting options, foam windshields, and protective covers.
Design and Build Quality
The microphone's build isn't exceptionally premium, but it prioritizes lightweight design and surprisingly good durability. It's unlikely to break from a single drop. The clever design is its standout feature; the charging case integrates adapters, transmitters, receivers, and magnets, functioning as a charging dock and a handle.
It's incredibly versatile, even including a space for a tripod mount. This allows for use as a desk microphone, podcast microphone, or handheld microphone, depending on your needs.
Features and Functionality
Both microphones feature power and recording buttons. Each boasts 16GB of internal storage, allowing for independent audio recording. A USB-C port enables easy audio access from your computer.
The receiver includes power, headphone jacks, dual USB-C ports (one for the adapter, one for use as a microphone), and a touch display controlling camera output. The charging dock features a charging button and displays battery levels. Swipe gestures manage microphone settings, including internal recording, muting, gain adjustment, LED control, and firmware updates.
Audio Performance and Range Testing
The review tests audio quality in various environments: a quiet studio, an open park, and near noisy air conditioning units. The reviewer notes good noise cancellation, even in less-than-ideal situations.
A range test reveals a shorter-than-expected wireless range. However, the backup recording feature saved audio when the connection was lost. The reviewer mentions using the microphones as a handheld mic with windshields.
Battery Life and Charging
The manufacturer claims 7 hours of battery life, but the reviewer experienced around 2 hours of continuous use before needing to recharge. The charging case provides backup power, with the potential for extended use by alternating between microphones.
The charging case itself takes 2.5-3 hours for a full charge. Charging the entire system (case, receiver, and microphones) takes approximately 1 hour, which the reviewer considers slow.
Final Verdict and Comparison
The Sennheiser Profile Wireless Microphone is a versatile and innovative microphone suitable for various applications, including handheld, wireless, desk, and podcasting. Its noise cancellation is effective, and the audio quality is excellent, with crisp and clear sound.
While the reviewer praises its versatility, battery life, and audio quality, they suggest improvements: a dedicated recording button for quick capture and easier simultaneous access to internal recordings from the charging dock. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Sennheiser Profile offers strong competition to Rode and DJI microphones and is a compelling option for professionals needing versatile high-quality audio recording.