Countryman E2W5BSL, EM21-AX Data Sheet

COUNTRYMAN ASSOCIATES INC

On-Axis, 5 in.

On-Axis, 24 in.

10

0

100 1k 10k

20k

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Frequency (Hz)

Gain (dB)

O-Axis 90 deg., 24 in.

E2 EARSET MICROPHONE

Nearly Invisible

The E2 Earset redefines pure sound in a virtually invisible package that is easier to use
than even a lavalier or podium microphone. Like the classic E6 Earset, the E2 rests

over the ear, but has a much shorter boom. Its hypercardioid polar pattern provides

less isolation than an E6 Omni at the mouth, but with significantly less visibility. With
an equalizing circuit built into the audio connector, the frequency response is tuned so
you can experience full-bodied bass and precise highs that are warm and natural. The
element, boom, and new sub-miniature connector are all easily hidden on the user’s
face; the position near the ear eliminates breath pops and makes fitting quick and
easy. This results in the smallest and most discreet professional-quality microphone
available.

The E2 works well with the Earset EarClip to create
an extremely low-profile two-ear headset.

The E2 water-resistant detachable connector
makes cable or transmitter changes easy.

Supplied with cable, carrying case, black and white

cable clips, wind screen and protective cap.

Frequency Response : 20 Hz to 20 kHz
Operating Current : 500 µA
Operating Voltage : 1 to 2 Volts
Weight : .07 oz (2 grams)

The E2 Earset is available in two sensitivities:

Model E2W5 for general speaking and vocals
Sensitivity: 3.0 mV/Pascal
Equivalent Acoustic Noise: 34 dBA SPL
Overload Sound Level: 130 dB SPL

Model E2W6 for extremely loud vocals
Sensitivity: 1.0 mV/Pascal
Equivalent Acoustic Noise: 39 dBA SPL
Overload Sound Level: 140 dB SPL

Frequency Response

On-Axis, 5 in.

On-Axis, 24 in.

O-Axis 90 deg., 24 in.

Pure Sound

There are two aspects of the E2 design that allow this to be possible so far away
from the mouth: strong off-axis rejection and precisely-tuned frequency response.
The off-axis rejection—as shown to the right as the difference between the solid
and dashed blue curves—is strong for all frequencies in the audio band.

For on-axis interferences, the frequency response tuning in the connector of
the E2 allows us to fully capitalize on the proximity boosting effect of the mic to
achieve even stronger isolation in the voice band. Comparing the on-axis frequency
responses at 5 in. (solid blue) and 24 in. (dashed black) shows that sources even
a couple of feet away from the user’s head will be strongly attenuated compared
to the desired sound. We tuned the frequency response of the E2 to be as flat
as possible in use by taking into account the frequency-shaping properties of the
head, and the acoustics of the mic itself.

1 kHz Polar Response

0°

-5

-10

-15

-20

dB

180°

330°

0

300°

240°

210°

30°

60°

90°

120°

150°

270°

E2 Earset Features and Operation

Countryman E2

Typical Directional Lav

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Countryman E2

Typical Directional Lav

Countryman E2

Typical Directional Lav

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dB

Freq (Hz)

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Countryman E2 vs. Competitor Directional Lavaliers

No lavalier mic can achieve the same gain-before-feedback as industry-standard Countryman Earsets. The E2 is no exception.
Directional lavaliers are a step closer to the E2 in terms of isolation, but have significant sound reproduction and usability concerns.

Head facing forward

The E2 is worn approximately 5” from
the mouth; a typical directional lav is
positioned on the chest 8” - 10” away.

The E2 is much better at preserving the
bass than the directional lav and will
never sound thin or distant.

Head turned to the side

When the user turns to the side, the E2
pickup remains full and accurate. As the
directional lav moves off-axis and farther
from the mouth, it dramatically drops
the lows, distorting the user’s sound.
Correcting on the fly greatly increases the
chances of feedback.

How do I wear an E2 microphone?

E2

LAV

dB

Countryman E2

0

-10

Typical Directional Lav

-20

-30

Freq (Hz)

Countryman E2 and typical cardioid lavalier on the chest,
approximately gain matched for the voice band at the mix board.

dB

100 1k 10k

Countryman E2

20k

0

-10

-20

Typical Directional Lav

-30

Freq (Hz)

The E2 is unaffected by head position; directional lavs change
their gain and frequency response.

100 1k 10k

20k

1. Curve the boom so that it will
rest against your face when
worn.

New Sub-Miniature Connector

Like the connector we use for the industry-standard E6, we designed the connector for the E2 to be
tougher and more water resistant than anything else available. And smaller: the connector is smaller than the
miniature E6 connector and features a flexible plastic overmold to create a positive seal against moisture.
The plastic is matched in color to the protective cap on the mic, the boom, and the cable, ensuring that
every component of the E2 remains hidden against the user’s skin.

2. Put the loop over the ear with
the base behind the earlobe and
the capsule toward the mouth.

3. Tip the mic to point toward the mouth. The mic should be
barely visible, resting against the face mid cheek.

How do I choose the right color?

Choose your E2 color based on th wearer’s skin tone. In most cases the E2 is so small that it will virtually

disappear on the user’s face, even at a very short distance. Tan works perfectly for average Caucasian
skin tones as well as olive complexions. Light beige works well in theatrical applications with light-colored
makeup due to its slightly pink undertone, which is also appropriate for extremely fair skin. Cocoa is the ideal
choice for brown skin tones ranging from very light to chocolate, and black is appropriate for extremely dark
skin or for situations where you want the mic to be visible. When in doubt, a darker option tends to blend
better and draws less attention.

Which E2 sensitivity should I choose?

Making a mic more sensitive to catch soft sounds means it will overload sooner for loud sounds. Because
sound pressure levels vary between individuals and applications, we provide two sensitivities for the E2:

• The standard gain (W5, no colored band) is for almost all applications, including vocals and speaking.

• The lower gain (W6, blue band) is for powerful vocals requiring the highest overload.

Countryman Associates, Inc. 195 Constitution Drive, Menlo Park, CA 94025 US: [phone] Intl: 650-364-9988 F: [phone]
[e-mail] For more information and warranty registration visit www.countryman.com Made in the United States.

4. Always use the windscreen. Use
the collar clip to reduce clothing
and cable noise.

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