Great Compromises: Sennheiser XSW vs. RODE Wireless GO
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- čas přidán 9. 07. 2019
- I was predisposed to loving the Sennheiser XSW because it would be half the price of my favorite wireless lav of all time, its bigger brother the AVX. But then RODE came out with the Wireless GO. Who wins now?.
Sennheiser XSW
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RØDE Wireless Go
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Other gear mentioned in this video:
Sennheiser AVX
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Sennheiser G4
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RODELink Filmmaker
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Sony UWP-D11
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Gear Used to Make This Video:
Panasonic GH5
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Sigma 30mm f/1.4
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Panasonic XLR Mic Adapter
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Sennheiser XSW-D
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TASCAM DR-70-D
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Neewer 72" White Diffusion Parabolic Umbrella
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FULL EDIT SUITE
Apple 2018 iMac with 5K Retina Display (maxed out)
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Apple 2018 Macbook Pro 15.4", 2.6Ghz Quad Core i7 with 16G RAM, AMD Radeon 560X, 512GB SSD
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Is it weird that I find your tone, voice, and diction mesmerizing? Very well thought out. I like it!
Great analysis as usual. I laughed when you mentioned the XSW-D XLR receiver buttons being upside down on the GH5’s XLR-1 because I discovered the same problem during my first shoot. It ended up not being a dealbreaker for me. Ultimately I kept my pair of XSW-Ds because the sennheiser receivers plug directly into the XLR ports without wires. This form factor trumps the GOs superior function options for me although not having output level control on the xsw-d is regrettable. This review spoke directly to my hardware needs as a budding filmmaker and for that I am thankful. Cheers 🙏
Daniel Sripuntanagoon Hreat contribution to the discussion - thank you.
Now this is THE one channel I never thought I'd see a selfie vlog style video in lol
While watching the video, I kept asking myself; "what about PicoMic.....what about PicoMic" And what did you do? You ended it with the PicoMic "cliff hanger" lol. I just got a pico mic this week myself. I liked it so much that I returned my new Rode Go! The Pico Mic has one massive thing the Rode Go doesnt have....mic GAIN control. Sadly, the Rode has a locked gain setting and you cant change it. It does have a mic socket but that is ruined by not having any controll over it. The Pico Mic has a very wide amount of mic gain and reciever output options and their clip on mics don't flop arround like Rodes do. The Pico is the keeper for me. Great video, as usual!!!
This is my #1 issue with the rode wireless go...If you use a lav with someone that talks loud at all, or in a noisy environment, it peaks at the transmitter. I asked rode support about it, and they said send it back so they can check if something was wrong...
It's unusable in most situations I would use it in because of the gain issue...basically an unusable product.
Awesome review!
🙏🏻😊
BTW september 2019 The senhauser kit is on sale to match the go and comes with 130$ b eww beautiful lav with the full kit for 199.99. I went in to get the Go and walked out with the senhauser as well. I love the senhauser sound, but I'm torn...the fact you can go COMPLETELY wireless and clip it to things discreetly with no wires makes the go freaking awesome. Example: clipped on a vase in between 2 people sitting at a cafe....it worked as the audio for both in the built in mic on the go. But man there is something about the deep tone that the XS sennheiser
I got the Sennheiser XSW before any of the others came out and I do like it. The modularity is great. Sure there are drawbacks but the quality of the actual lav mic is very good and the fact that I can go XLR or 1/8th jack, the fact I can run with a handheld mic wirelessly with another module. I did a job where I plugged the XLR transmitter into output of a mixer at a venue and POW I was was all set. But other solutions being reasonably prices as they are an independent shooter can afford more than one solution for any situation. BTW you sir do great work!
Clayton Moore Thabks for such a thoughtful contribution!
I got the XSW-D lavalier set for $190.00 CDN off at Henry's. I've had it out for the last two days shooting and it's done a great job so far.
Nice!
Great video, i am looking for a mic a.) for podcasting (also vor interviews 1:1) and also one for b.) teaching classes at my yogaretreats - sooo hard to decide :)
Rode Wireless Go Conundrum - I am on the verge of adding the Rode Wireless Go to our kits, thanks to this video and others, AND I am looking for a better than average Lav mic to pair them with for primarily indoor and outdoor interviews for corporate videos, cable TV and mid-range studio work with GH4 / GH5, MKE 600 shotgun, and sometimes pairing with external recorders when needed.
Is the Rode Lavalier GO Omni for Wireless GO Systems good enough?
Yes, I would normally just go with the very solid Sennheiser ME 2-II Lavs (which I own several of and which have always been reliable) and be done with it. However, with at least 2 video reviews from credible sources demonstrating possibly 'random', and yet concerning, anomalies (interference) between the Rode Wireless Go and the Sennheiser ME 2-II lavs and the need for an adaptor to pair the ME-II lockable to the Go TRS input, I wonder if you (or anyone) have suggestions or experience with this interference.
Cleary there are a lot of options in the higher priced range, and yes, having used the Sennheiser G2 and G3 kits for years (which have only failed to perform once from suspected 'interference' on a 9 camera / 5 wireless outdoor shoot next to a military base when everything went dead all at once - another story), buying higher end lav mics, well, costs more, and seems unbalanced with this systems price point. Clearly the recent lower price and awesome value for the Sennheiser XSW-D is still top of mind.
If these ME 2-II / Rode Go anomalies are real, our instinct is to stick with the Rode Lavalier GO omnidirectional, despite some mixed sound quality reviews, and given that the built in Go mic recording online do not equal to the unimpeded sound of a well placed lav (does that assumption still hold with the Go?). And if Rode, then which one, and are there demonstrable differences in the sound quality of their various lavs worth noting. I am not confident the supposedly lower end SmartLav+ will do the job, or is it no different than any other Rode lav mics for recording quality (kevlar and micon connections excluded). And if, not then who or which or what? All thoughts and musings very welcome ...
Hugh - love what you do, and thank-you!
P.S. If only the Picomic had a lav port ...
Hey Hugh, and hi from Sydney. Have you had the chance to use the Deity Connect system yet? Like you, I am wanting to work with two paired wireless lavs, which the Deity Connect offers... but I have read of issues with greater latency and self noise. I am sure Andrew Jones will happily lend you a set... Love your work, Spike
Customary Land Solutions Thanks. Spike! I have not. Looks big, though -no?
Three Blind Men and An Elephant Productions - thanks Hugh. The Deity Connect receiver isn’t small, but then neither is the Panasonic DMW-XLR1E XLR Audio Adapter for GH5 once you plug in a couple of wireless receivers like the Sennheiser or Rode Go. I am wanting to upgrade audio on my 1DX mark2, so I am not using small/lightweight kit to start off with... and whilst the dedicated GH5 adapter is well reviewed, there seems to be less commentary on using something like a Saramonic on camera two-channel mixer with pre-amp with Canon kit. Anyway, hope someone will lend you the Deity Connect to review alongside your latest super-helpful video, and maybe the new Pico gear that allows for dual wireless as well: www.picogear.com. Your insights are appreciated, Spike
Thanks H, very informative vid. I can relate, as an experience photographer just embarking on a 'convergence' journey into video and sound - areas as yet that I know little about. Your story about journey in sound (for video) over past 5 years highlighting different kit you used and evolution was most interesting.
Rode GO looks excellent at a very appealing price. Just ordered a Deity D3 Pro to use on a Sony a7series (a9 and a7r4) with view to also using off cam too. Had wondered about using compact Sony ECM-B1M mic - looks good, but costs more and probably just limited to on-cam use. Yet for travel very attractive. Think I will gain experience with D3, when that arrives and then consider wireless options. Spec and reviews on Deity Connect wireless system also caught my eye. Any opinions?
The more I learn, the greater my awareness of personal ignorance. Yet I feel it's important to research, think, reflect and then purchase, rather than buying in haste (and ignorance) only to regret at leisure.
I have a Deity shotgun to review, but have had no experience with their wireless. I believe bud Jordan Drake likes it.
Would these work well in an echo-y room with 3 peopel filming for youtube?
Your voice, your face, even your mannerisms and speaking style.. oh my god. I've been wondering where you've been lately Jon Stewart!
Jon Stewart is a national treasure!
You got me, I used my Sony MDR 7550 at the start and didn't notice the change, swapped to my Audio Technica IM02 tho and its instantly pretty clear.
Most people watching with speakers on their phone and cheap to entry level headphones won't notice such things IMO, even more on the added warmth the Sennheiser gives.
Even the two I used give varying result, despite being a monitor grade IEM from two different, very reputable brands.
I do agree connection problem like that is pretty important thing to put into consideration. it's a very informative video esp with hhe hyped popularity the Rode Wireless go in YT lately.
what are you using in studio (in this video) ?
the rode kit can run on external power (except for a weird bug thats still in the wirelessgo) for rest nice review. Btw i prefer and switched to the wireless go and posted a few fixes on my channel. Also Rode will fix and replace the wind cat soon for a better one.
Daniel Ockeloen Thanks for that heads-up!
Yes Go can but Hes right. The rode Filmakers kit can NOT be externally powered.
@@MarfoogleTV No the filmkit can also be externally powered but had/has. the same bug you have to be careful how you power it or you might get a hum.
Hi again! Assuming that budget is not really a concern - would you ever choose the RODE WIRELESS GO over the AVX? The Auto Gain Control feature sounds like a lifesaver so I may just be willing to spend more for the AVX
Budget not an issue? AVX all the way.
@@3BMEP Thanks mate!
@@3BMEP I've read a comment on B&H about someone complaining that the auto gain control on the AVX doesn't work well with 2 people talking dialogue - where it would kick in overdrive when the other person would talk. I'm about to pull the trigger for a pair of the AVX mainly for shooting 1-2 people talking interviews. Have you ever had that problem with shooting 2 person interviews (with an AVX on each person)?
Diego Lorenzo Jose bleed is always an issue with any mic. I long for the day when auto-ducking is truly perfected. In the meantime, I have used the AVX for conversations and did not notice a particular weakness compared to other wireless systems I’ve used. Still, I wouldn’t dismiss others’ experience out of hand. Different acoustic scenarios may lead to different results, and as a 1-2 man band, I may not have the standards (or the ear) of a pure audio guy. I also use RX7, so something like that may help for those who do.
For live streaming using Switcher Studio, what 2 transmitter system is there to monitor what the other person is saying, (with no lag) if they are not next to you? For example, commenting on a sports game and the other person walks away a bit more than being in earshot. So we are not on camera, so we can have any type of headphones on and any type of microphone? I guess it's needs a headphone option and to be more like a walkie talkie
“No lag” is an interesting concept. The real issues are: “how much lag?” and “how much interference rejection?” We now rely on Sony’s UWP-D27 dual channel kit.
I might research the Audiplex 2403s. Looks like the answer, until we get an all in one unit
I’m considering the Wireless GO and the XSW for simple dialogue. They’re priced the same now on B&H. Which of the 2 systems are more reliable? I don’t need gain control or display. I just want the more reliable option because I will probably hide the transmitter behind the talent/subject when shooting wider shots.
Diego Lorenzo Jose I guess I really need to do this test. Sigh.
Three Blind Men and An Elephant Productions Would be most helpful!
my headphones dont seem to be good enough to listen well : /
In Norway Sennheiser XSW D one mic kit vs. RODE Wireless GO is the same price.
What You to choose?
POSYPANO GO for legibility.
Thank You ;)
Does Sennheiser audio get too loud when used directly on the A7iii or A7R?
Haven’t tried them on those cameras. Sorry!
The Sony will have the longest range because it is a UHF system as opposed to the 2.4gig systems that have a much shorter functional range. The Sony’s range should be around the same as an Evolution G4 system or other comparable UHF systems. On the downside the Sony has the same limitations as the other UHF systems regarding reallocation of the 600MHZ space and finding a clear channel. Btw great video!
Ted Bahas You are spot-on in reference to the G4! Thanks, man!
NOW, you can get the XSW-D 3.5 to 3.5 with the much better ME-2II lav, at the same price of the Rode Go? I think it's a no brainer
Guille Pozzi a number of people will agree with you.
Have you tried a right angle XLR adapter for the XSW so it stands upright instead of face down?
Darned excellent idea. Took me five minutes to find one on Amazon, so I’ve ordered it and we’ll see...
Three Blind Men and An Elephant Productions I saw one that’s rotatable too. Hope you got that one!
Diego Lorenzo Jose I did!
Three Blind Men and An Elephant Productions hi mate! How’d it go with the right angle XLR adapter? And how are you feeling about the XSW-D these days compared to the Rode Go and AVX?
Diego Lorenzo Jose Thanks for following up! Here’s the issue: it’s rotatable only from one end - the wrong one! Imagine the L pointing straight down toward the camera top plate rather than up. This cannot be changed, making it irrelevant that the other end can rotate a full 360 degrees. (I didn’t know this until I had it in handy- soooo disappointing). Asked the manufacturer if they had another model, but they don’t.
I already have a Wireless Go and I'm not in the market for any more wireless transmitters right now. Despite that I'm going to watch this anyway. Why? Because I simply adore Hughs tones and manner and, besides, I'll probably learn something.
Legion Vapes! 😎🙏🏻
@@3BMEP Seriously, one of my favorite presenters :)
Hi there. I've been watching a lot of your videos lately and speaking of audio, I've noticed something. Now, I am less than an amateur when it comes to audio. I'm only just now getting my feet wet, so I couldn't tell you what the cause is for what I've been observing. But whenever I listen to your videos, I crank my volume all the way up, and I still have trouble understanding you. You have a particularly low voice and the audio comes through with a lot of bass, and not a lot of treble. It doesn't matter if I turn the treble on my speakers all the way up and the bass all the way down, your voice still comes across slightly muffled. This happens with my headphones, my bookshelf speakers, my laptop's built in speakers, etc. Can you tell me if I'm the only one who notices this, or if I'm just out of my mind?
shadda When I use the Sennheiser MKE 600, there’s dramatically more treble - and sibilance. RØDE’s NTG4+ is much warmer. But when I use lavs (usually using Rycote undercovers on my chest), all of them sound much closer to how I hear my own voice. This is why I prefer them. I am unaware of others having your kind of experience, though I admit the XSW does “boom” a bit. I actually cut the bass last video out - it helped.
You dropped your voice right at the start.... almost like you were ashamed to say "your name"… so I didn't get it, otherwise your voice is pleasant to listen to. Just a professional critique. Sincere thanks for this informative Vlog. Cheers
This review was one of the reasons I chose the Sennheiser XSW-D. I ended up facing the same issue with the XLR orientation on both my Rode NTG4+ & my Zoom F6 with the XSW-D facing upside down. I took it upon myself to remedy that and using some old CAT-5 Cable, I have the perfect (to me) setup. Thanks for this video! instagram.com/p/CBL0wvpgxra/
the go have a lower noice floor
I'm sticking with the AVX for now! Hedy Lamarr would have approved of the design!
How are you dealing with the latency? Is it noticable?
I have only found it to be noticeable( to me) on a few shots and on those it has been just a small frame or two to fix. Most shots appear fine to me without the need to adjust in post.
I’m really really excited to hear about the PicoGear dual wireless mic. I thought the Rode Wireless Go, like Rode’s V-mic Pro Plus shotgun mic, was going to be my mic of choice for the style I’m going for and the kind of gear I want to lug around. But, I think PicoGear’s new wireless system, along with my new Deity v-mic D3 Pro shotgun mic, is the direction I’m going for my run and gun shoots, vlogs, and sit down interviews.
Jarrad Shaw I’ve been in touch with Florent. Stay tuned! I don’t know anyone at Deity.
Which one has the lowest noise floor?
Mercy Fields what do your ears tell you?
@@3BMEP - Maybe UWP. How does the AVX compare with UWP noise floor wise?
Mercy Fields very well. I usually record 30 seconds of ambient sound before beginning, and then use RX7 to clean irrespective of mic - it always sounds better,l. I rely most heftily on spectral de-noise repair and dialogue de-reverb.
@@3BMEP - so, your pro opinion matters to me. Would you buy a AVX ME2 II, G4 100 series, or UWP? I know either will do fine. I'm looking for the best out of the box sound. I'm currently shooting with G9, GH5, and S1. My concern is the latency for the AVX..
Mercy Fields all three have great sound. UWP has nominally better interference than the G4, both are better at that - and distance - than the AVX. But the AVX is a fiddle to use, perfect with the Panny XLR Mic adapter. I’d rank over all AVX, UWP, G4.
I want that lens please
Are you a shape shifter?
Chad Johnson uh... yes?
@@3BMEP LOL I thought you might be using the Morph Cut Effect in Premiere.
Chad Johnson Flow in FCPX. 😎
@@3BMEP Hmmm, I have not heard of that. I edit in FCPx so I should check that out. Oh, great video by the way. I have the Senn G3 and the RodeLink. The G3 is solid and small. I am interested in checking out the WirelessGo. Not sure yes how reliable at say 20 feet with body blocking the Tx.
Normalise your audio! Ironically yCZcams!
Good ear. I do now.