CLASSIC SOUND, MODERN BRILLIANCE
As a handheld transmitter, the D1 is available in two different sets, offering two different capsules that can be interchanged. I had the e845 capsule to test in this instance, giving me that classic Sennheiser vocal microphone sound with a cardioid pickup pattern. It’s also available in an e845 capsule for a super-cardioid pickup pattern for use when a more direct signal capture on louder stages is required. Both these capsules have more than proven their worth in both wired and wireless microphones from Sennheiser for many years and they do this new system a great service. But it’s not that capsule that we’re here to talk about; it’s what is going on behind the capsule. This is a great leap forward in digital audio transmission from Sennheiser and really sets them up as a market leader in this area. The audio conversion at both ends is really uncompromising. What this microphone sounded like to me was an e835, wired. I could not hear any difference between the two and had no problems going from one end of the house to the other without any interruption in the transmission at all, even through several walls.
VOCALS MADE EASY
I know, when you are up on stage, the last thing you want to do is worry about technology and you just want to get to the fun part, performing. The D1 is all about that and makes it about as easy as possible to be set up and ready to go. Once plugged in, it takes a matter of moments to have the transmitter and receiver aligned and you are ready to perform. It has a nifty automatic gain control that works continuously to ensure enough level is getting through no matter what your application. You can get in and edit parameters with an iOS or Android app, but for most users, it will be a plug and play situation where the D1 does all the work for you. It’s smart, sophisticated and simple to use, but best of all, Sennheiser have finally done away with the polystyrene packaging and now deliver the D1 in a sturdy carry case to get you to and from each and every gig safely.