EW 300 IEM G3
WORKING WITH
A SIMPLE TO USE, COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE
TO SETTING UP, CONFIGURING AND USING
EVOLUTION WIRELESS G3 SYSTEMS.
APPLICABLE FOR USE IN THE U.S.
CONSUMER ALERT
Most users do not need a license to operate a wireless microphone system. Nevertheless, operating a microphone system without a license is subject to certain restrictions: the system may not
cause harmful interference; it must operate at a low power level (not in excess of 50 milliwatts);
and it has no protection from interference received from any other device. Purchasers should also
be aware that the FCC is currently evaluating use of wireless microphone systems, and these rules
are subject to change. For more information, call the FCC at 1-888-CALL-FCC (TTY: 1-888-TELL-FCC)
or visit the FCC’s wireless microphone website at:
www.fcc.gov/cgb/wirelessmicrophones
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Table of Contents
Introduction .................................................................4
The Parts of a Wireless System .............................5
The Transmitter ..........................................................6
The Receiver ............................................................... 8
The Antenna ............................................................. 10
Wireless Monitor Systems ................................... 10
Accessorizing a Wireless System ....................... 11
Component Requirements ................................... 11
Frequency Concerns ............................................... 12
Frequency Charts .................................................... 14
Multi-Channel Wireless Mic System Hookup . . 20
Antenna Splitter and Mounting Packages ...... 20
Putting Together a System .................................. 21
Frequently Asked Questions ............................... 24
Conclusion ................................................................. 26
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Introduction
Wireless microphone and instrument systems have rapidly become standard equipment for musicians,
Sennheiser’s evolution wireless systems are the standard for musicians, broadcasters, theatre productions, reality television shows, and sound contractors alike. Sennheiser is the leading pioneer of wireless
systems and over the years created Emmy Award-winning advances in the field of RF wireless technology. Sennheiser is proud to apply that same technology to the evolution wireless range of products
which fit comfortably into virtually any budget. Traditionally, most wireless systems have offered the
user a choice of fixed frequencies within a range of available VHF or UHF frequencies. While this approach makes for easy frequency selection, it offers little or no flexibility in circumventing interference
or designing complex systems. Sennheiser evolution wireless G3 systems avoid the problems associated with RF (radio frequency) interference by being capable of tuning to a wide range of available UHF
frequencies (up to 1,680 tunable frequencies). In addition, evolution wireless G3 systems offer easy
and reliable system setup with the “Easy Setup” function. “Easy Setup” allows a receiver to scan the
built-in frequency presets, choose a free one, and then program the transmitter over a wireless infrared
link. These presets are specifically calculated not to interfere with each other, an undesirable effect
which is known by the technical term “intermodulation.” Because of their frequency agility, Sennheiser
wireless systems give the user great flexibility to select available frequencies, even in the most complex multi-channel setups. This is ever important now and in the future as we see our RF environment
populated by digital television stations as well as the likely possibility of other devices utilizing the UHF
RF spectrum.
In addition, Sennheiser wireless systems feature a variety of versatile components and accessories
which allow the user to adapt a system to nearly any imaginable need. From small-venue clubs and
boardrooms to Broadway stages and stadium-sized concert halls, Sennheiser wireless is used with confidence every day by users the world over.
About UHF Wireless Systems
• UHF (Ultra High Frequency) transmission, the most popular format today, op-
erates in the 470–698 MHz range. Because of its higher frequency range, UHF is
not as susceptible to the interference typical of the VHF range, and is therefore
a more stable format. Additionally, UHF systems are more convenient as they
have shorter antennas than VHF systems.
TV Channel:
14 51
470 MHz 698 MHz
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The Parts of a Wireless System
Every wireless system consists of at least three parts:
1) Transmitter
A transmitter which accepts the source input signal (mic or line), converts it
into an RF (radio frequency) signal, and transmits it to the receiver.
G3 SKM Handheld Transmitter
G3 SKP Plug-On Transmitter
G3 SK Bodypack Transmitter
2) Receiver
A receiver, which receives the RF signal from the transmitter, converts
it back into an audio signal which is linked to the output for mixing and amplification.
G3 EM Rack-Mount Receiver
G3 EK Camera-Mount Receiver
3) Antennas
Antennas are the transmission path for the transmitter to send the signal to the receiver and also
for the receiver to pick up the transmitted RF signal. These may be either active or passive antennas,
determined by the system configuration.
A1031-U
Passive Omnidirectional
UHF Antenna
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The Transmitter
The transmitter has a fairly straightforward job: to take the source input signal from a microphone or
line-level input (a guitar, for example), convert it into an RF signal, and transmit it. It sounds easy, but
there are a number of variables involved in producing accurate and dependable transmissions.
While many other wireless systems use transmitters that may have enough power to work well on a
small stage, they lack the operating range and performance for a professional event. With this in mind,
Sennheiser transmitters are intentionally engineered to provide more than enough output power for
virtually any application. Sennheiser equips the evolution wireless G3 series of transmitters with 30
mW of output power for at least 300 feet of range (line of sight). As a result, the user gets increased
range and strong, stable transmission regardless of the conditions. Additionally, all of our transmitters
feature metal housings, making them capable of enduring life on the road.
Most importantly, a transmitter must be able to convert the audio signal into an RF signal without losing sound quality or accuracy. Any time a signal is converted from one type (analog audio) to another
(RF, for example) there is a danger of losing some aspect of the original sound or adding unwanted
noise in the transition. To guard against this, Sennheiser employs a proprietary noise-reduction system
called HDX™. HDX™ circuitry allows the transmitter to produce an RF signal that maximizes the microphone’s signal-to noise ratio while avoiding the RF noise inherent in most systems. Once the transmitted RF signal reaches the receiver, it is re-converted into analog audio (using reciprocal receiver-side
HDX™ technology) with stunning accuracy and quality. This results in audio that sounds as good as
that of a wired microphone. As a result, Sennheiser G3 systems have an amazing frequency response of
25 Hz to 18 KHz (line).
Types of Transmitters
There are four basic types of wireless transmitters:
1) Bodypack transmitter
A bodypack transmitter is a versatile transmitter
platform that can be used with a wide variety of input
options. Sennheiser evolution bodypack transmitters
(SK100G3, SK300G3, and SK500G3) all offer adjustable
input sensitivity controls and can be used with both miclevel sources, such as lavalier or headset microphones,
and also high-impedance line sources, such as electric or
acoustic guitars. Because of their compact and rugged
design, bodypack transmitters are widely used with
lavalier microphones (ME2 Omni, ME4 Cardioid), and
headsets (ME3-ew). Applications range from musical
and theatrical stages everywhere to use on film and
television sets.
ME3 Headset Mic
ME4 Lavalier Mic
G3 SK Bodypack Transmitter
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2) Handheld transmitters
Handhelds are the most recognizable of transmitters since they most closely resemble traditional
wired microphones. evolution wireless handheld
transmitters (SKM100G3, SKM300G3, and SKM500G3) are specially designed to stand up to the
rigors of live performance and offer exceptional
sound. Sennheiser evolution wireless G3 handheld
G3 SKM Handheld Transmitter
transmitters contain user-swappable dynamic
and condenser elements, so one can easily adapt
or upgrade the type of microphone capsule to a
different type.
3) Plug-on transmitters
Plug-on transmitters are unique in that they convert a traditional
wired microphone or line level signal into a wireless device. The
plug-on transmitter in the evolution G3 line is the SKP100G3.
This works for most plug-on applications, but does not provide
48v phantom power to those microphones which require it (see
SKP2000 in the 2000 series for this). Plug-on transmitters are
widely used for on-location newscasts, reality TV, movie sets, and
also for sending outputs from mixing consoles to other Sennheiser
receivers. For example, many wedding videographers ask the DJ or
band if they can plug in their SKP100G3 and as a result send the
sound directly to their camera or audio recording device.
G3 SKP Plug-On Transmitter
Since portable wireless transmitters are meant to roam around, they require battery power in order
to work. Users should always use quality alkaline batteries for full power and longevity. Sennheiser’s
battery technology in evolution wireless products maintains a constant system voltage; therefore there
is zero performance degradation as the batteries run down from use. If the device is on, the sound and
range are still 100% as you would expect from new batteries regardless of battery level. All evolution
wireless G3 portable transmitters and portable receivers also have charging contacts for use with the
optional BA2015G2 battery and L2015G2 charger (except SKP100G3). For convenience, evolution wireless G3 transmitters feature convenient built-in battery gauges that allow the user to see the current
battery level at a glance, so he or she can avoid running out of power. New for G3 is a standard feature
called “battery telemetry” which simply means one can also see how much power is left in the transmitter by looking at an indicator from the receiver. This is extremely valuable for sound engineers who are
curious how fresh the batteries are in a transmitter which may be already in use and not easily accessible.
4) In-ear monitor transmitters (rack mount)
In-ear monitor transmitters accept an audio signal, typically from a mixing console, and send it
wirelessly to a portable receiver which a performer typically wears on their hip. The SR300IEMG3
is the half-rack spaced size transmitter in the evolution wireless G3 series.
G3 SR300IEMG3 Rack-Mount Transmitter
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The Receiver
The brain of every wireless system, the receiver, is designed to receive the RF signal from the transmitter, convert it back into an audio signal, and output it to a PA system or audio device for mixing, recording, and amplification.
All Sennheiser wireless EM rack-mountable receivers employ True Diversity technology to ensure stable,
uninterrupted wireless reception free from signal dropouts. In a True Diversity setup, a receiver features
two independent receiver sections, each with its own antenna (rather than a single receiver module
with a single antenna). By means of a comparison circuit, the receiver simultaneously checks both
receiver sections many times a second and seamlessly selects the section with the strongest signal.
This helps maintain a stable, high-quality signal, significantly reducing the possibility of dropouts. A
True Diversity receiver typically costs more to design and manufacture than other “antenna switching”
diversity systems, however Sennheiser has always been committed to bringing you the very best.
Another quality which distinguishes evolution wireless G3 receivers is their robust metal construction. In
order to protect the sophisticated electronics inside and to provide professional road worthiness, evolution receivers are housed in metal, rather than in the plastic shells used in many other wireless systems.
The benefits are obvious: exceptional durability and dependability, even in the roughest conditions.
Fixed receivers
There are three basic types of wireless receivers:
1) The fixed (rack-mount) receiver
The most common version, evolution fixed receivers (EM100G3, EM300G3, and EM500G3) are compact, half-rack sized units which can be mounted, along with optional AM2 front-mounted antennas,
into a standard 19” equipment rack using the optional GA3 rack adapter.
2) Portable (camera-mount) receivers
Portable receivers are used specifically for film, television, and video applications in which a performer or newscaster is using a wireless transmitter and
there is a need to send this back to a video camera or recording device. The
EK100G3 is an example of a portable receiver. Portable camera-mount receivers are compact, lightweight, battery powered, and can be mounted directly
onto a wide variety of motion-picture or video cameras which have a standard shoe mount for accessories.
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G3 EM Receiver front view
G3 EK Camera Mount Receiver
3) In-ear monitor receivers (performer worn)
In-ear monitor receivers are worn by musicians to hear themselves and other
instruments while performing. This concept allows the performer to hear their
performance clearly while simultaneously keeping the stage volume down which
reduces the risk of feedback. Many enjoy the fact they can hear clearly without
straining to hear as you would when using conventional monitor wedge speakers. The EK300IEMG3 is the in-ear monitor receiver featured in the evolution
wireless G3 series. This receiver is battery-powered and can receive a stereo,
mono, or dual mono signal from a rack mounted transmitter (SR300IEMG3).
These receivers have a large, easy-to-use knob to adjust volume during performance – robust and simple.
An exciting new feature for both the Sennheiser EK100G3 portable (battery
powered) camera receiver and the EK300IEMG3 in-ear monitor receiver is called
Adaptive Diversity. Adaptive Diversity means the receiver utilizes the output
cable as a secondary antenna to ensure stable and uninterrupted wireless reception.
Perhaps the most distinctive feature of evolution wireless systems is their proprietary HDX™ compander
circuitry. Engineered to our exacting sound specifications, HDX™ is a sophisticated noise-reduction system that maximizes the microphone’s dynamic range while minimizing undesirable sound artifacts and
transmission noise. By compressing the audio in a 2:1 ratio (related to dB), an HDX™ compressed signal
is transmitted above the level of noise inherent in the RF link. The result is remarkably clear, full sound
with a better signal-to-noise ratio than a CD. The evolution wireless G3 series utilizes HDX™ technology
to achieve an amazing 25 Hz – 18 KHz frequency response (line). With its HDX™-enabled components,
evolution wireless G3 offers the freedom and ease of wireless without any compromise in sound quality.
While digital wireless systems do not contain a compander circuit, they are subject to limited channels
of operation due to the larger required bandwidth of the transmission link. Sennheiser HDX™ offers
near-perfect audio reproduction while remaining flexible to have numerous channels operating simultaneously.
G3 EK In-Ear Monitor Receiver
Once a receiver has translated the transmitter’s signal back into an audio signal, it needs to provide
adequate output options for mixing and amplification of the signal. evolution receivers feature a complete set of 1/4” unbalanced and XLR outputs on all systems, which allow easy interfacing with any PA
system.
Sennheiser integrates many powerful new features into the G3 series of receivers. The EM100G3 and
EM500G3 both feature an onboard guitar tuner for convenience. A convenient front-panel headphone
monitor output with volume knob is standard on the EM300G3 and EM500G3 receivers. This headphone output is handy for an engineer to check the quality and level of the audio from its transmitter
before it is even routed to a mixing console or other device.
G3 systems also now introduce infrared syncing of transmitters which makes setup very easy. Once a
receiver is set to an open channel, a push of the “Sync” button allows it to send the frequency and other
parameters over to the transmitter in a flash. This simplifies setup time and takes the hassle out of
programming transmitters. One push and a few seconds is all it takes.
The EM300G3 and EM500G3 receivers feature a unique Soundcheck Mode, which allows a user to
conduct an accurate, quick on-stage RF and AF level check with a single microphone—without any
assistance. The EM500G2 also offers a convenient front-panel Headphone Monitor Output, for easily
checking the quality and level of the signal received from its complementary transmitter. The 300 and
500 series’ Channel Naming function provides a convenient way to identify channels at the receiver. In
addition, a Peak-hold Display provides quick and accurate level monitoring.
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