Operating in the 2.4 GHz band, the DWZ Series offers a handheld and bodypack transmitter, a half-rack receiver, and a specialized receiver optimized for use with guitar and bass. Aspects from their professional wireless lines, such as detachable antennas and interchangeable microphone heads, have been integrated. Up to six channels may be used together.
For its operational quality, the DWZ wireless is easy to set up and use. Wideband channels 1 through 6 (or the alternative narrowband channels a through f) are set via the a very cool rotary encoder on the half-rack receiver, or by turning the six-position switch on the guitar receiver. Set the transmitter to the same frequency with the button and compact LED display located in the battery compartment, and then begin playing, singing, or talking.
Wireless Receiver
Sony is really making a design statement with this system. The half-rack receiver features a generous high-resolution color LCD screen, providing current system channel and status, and access to the menu. The channel number display is large and bright enough to recognize across the stage, and the remaining battery life displayed across the top can also be seen from several feet away. RF level for both antennas is shown, with the current active antenna highlighted – along with a multi-segment audio meter displaying green bars for working audio level, plus a yellow, red, and peak display.
Front-panel controls are simple, consisting of a power button, a funky, over-sized, push-to-enter rotary encoder with a lemon yellow surround (very hip), and an escape button to back out of the menu. The rear panel has a pair of BNC connectors for the articulating antennas, which will either project straight out the back or fold to 90-degrees for the typical “rabbit ear” antenna position. The balanced XLR connector is supplemented with a mic/line switch.
Different from other receivers, two unbalanced quarter-inch connectors are present. One is for the standard unbalanced audio out, and the other is for auxiliary or tuner use, and can be programmed to either mute or remain unmuted when the transmitter mute is engaged. Completing the rear panel are a 12V connection for the external power supply, and a miniature USB connector for firmware upgrades.
Using the menu function, the channels can be set either manually or via an RF scan for clear channels. The menu also includes Audio Setup and Advanced Settings. Within the audio menu, the status of the aux/tuner output can be set to continue sending a signal when the transmitter is muted, or to respond to the mute. To adjust the response of the audio from the microphone, a five-band equalizer is provided.
Handheld Transmitter
The handheld is well-balanced and comfortable, with a slight taper to durable metal handle. It is substantial without being overly heavy. An interchangeable cardioid dynamic mic head is threaded on the handle, and output level is controlled with a three-position attenuation switch.
The only visible control is a recessed power/mute button, paired with a status LED. When the transmitter is muted, the LED flashes. Under the threaded battery cover, a locking switch can be enabled to prevent accidental muting, turn-off, or channel changes. A small LED display coupled with a micro-button allows channel setting. Two AA alkaline batteries will power the transmitter for 10+ hours of continuous use.
The ZTX-M01 handheld transmitter is supplied with an interchangeable dynamic cardioid mic capsule. It can also be used with optional mic capsules, such as the CU-C31 condenser cardioid, CU-F31 dynamic super-cardioid, and the CU-F32 dynamic wide-cardioid mic. This DWZ Series handheld transmitter comes supplied with the DWZ-M50 vocal set.
Bodypack Transmitter
The quite compact, solid bodypack has a metal chassis; it looks and feels substantial. Headset and lavalier mics, and instrument cables, connect to it with a locking 1/8” connector. The front surface has a small LED display that displays the channel number for a few seconds when the transmitter is turned on, and also when changing channels. It is flanked on either side with a power/muting button and a channel selection button.
Two side-mounted switches change the operation between microphone and instrument, and provide variable attenuation of 0, -10, and -20 dB. A locking button on the top deactivates the other buttons and controls. Also visible on the top are a pair of LED's for power status / battery condition and muting.
Conclusions
The Sony DWZ Series digital wireless systems are well-built, and it is evident that considerable thought went into their design and feature set. The emphasis on design was rather shocking, considering Sony's reputation for function over form. In initial testing, the audio quality was good and consistent, the system was easy to set up and use, and the menu options functioned well. The receiver's switchable quarter-inch AUX/Tuner output is a nice addition.
Sony has made high-end professional wireless systems for many years (think high-end touring, network broadcast, Super Bowl etc), and some of these characteristics have trickled down into the new DWZ units. The list price for the handheld system $699.99 and for the guitar system is $499.99.
Editor's Note: A full-length product review of the Sony DWZ Series Digital Wireless system will be published in a future issue of Church Production Magazine.
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