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Introduced at InfoComm 2015, the new Sennheiser SL Headmic 1 adds another ultra-compact mic system to the Sennheiser line. At just seven grams in weight, the head-worn SL Headmic 1 is light enough to fall easily into the “put it on and forget it's there” category. With its compact capsule and black and beige color options, it's quite possible it will go unnoticed by the congregation as well --- even on video.
Unlike some head-worn mics that hang on just one ear, the SL Headmic 1 wraps around both ears. Its flexible wire and adjustable neck band allow the SL Headmic 1 to fit comfortably on virtually any user. A flexible but sturdy one-mm cable disappears easily into clothing, terminating in a 3.5 mm connector. This connector is compatible with many Sennheiser bodypack wireless transmitters. If you need a 3-pin connector, an adapter is available as an accessory.
With a street price of about $600, the SL Headmic 1 uses the same capsule as the company's ultra-compact MKE 1 lavalier microphone. This capsule is just 3.3 millimeters in diameter, and offers an omnidirectional pickup pattern with broad 20 Hz - 20 kHz frequency response. The capsule has a special membrane that blocks moisture, greatly reducing the possibility of damage from saliva or sweat.
The SL Headmic 1 includes a small windscreen to reduce noise from wind or breath, as well as an acoustic cap that attaches to the capsule to raise the high-frequency response of the mic. This can help offset any dulling effect of the windscreen, or it can be used whenever extra intelligibility is required.
The new Sennheiser mic is targeting many applications in the church market. Sennheiser believes that pastors and other presenters will appreciate the SL Headmic 1's flexible fit and comfort. The mic's compact size and color options will make it a good choice for dramas and plays. Finally, Sennheiser claims the SL Headmic 1's audio quality is good enough for vocalists. Bold claims, ones we look forward to verifying when we get a review unit.
With a stated equivalent noise level of 27 dB, the SL Headmic 1's specs reveal that it is not exempt from challenge of lower sensitivity and higher noise inherent in compact capsules. Mics convert changes in air pressure to electricity, and one large factor in the amount of signal generated is the amount of air the microphone's diaphragm comes in contact with. Larger diaphragms are usually more efficient at this conversion, which translates to a stronger signal and less noise. The self-noise inherent in a mic like the SL Headmic 1 could become problematic only when trying to pick up very quiet sound sources.
The SL Headmic 1 joins the Ear Set 1 mic and HSP 2 headmic in the Sennheiser product line. The Ear Set 1 uses the same MKE-1 capsule as the SL Headmic 1, but fits over just one ear. The HSP is the flagship headmic of the Sennheiser line, boasting interchangeable components and a patented moisture-resistant capsule.
Though ultra-lightweight and compact, Sennheiser claims the SL Headmic 1 “leaves nothing to be desired in terms of audio quality”. We look forward to the opportunity to test that claim.
