Sennheiser continues to expand the Spectera ecosystem with the introduction of a Command Button and firmware version 1.4. Together, these updates enable functions such as push-to-talk and push-to-mute, supporting typical workflows in live audio, broadcasting and places of worship. The new firmware version, available now, also introduces extended live monitoring capabilities through the Spectera WebUI. In addition, Sennheiser has announced that Spectera can now be fully controlled through the brand-agnostic SoundBase app and that Spectera has been rolled out almost globally.
Full Software Control via SoundBase App
“We’re delighted that SoundBase has fully integrated Spectera into its brand-agnostic RF planning and management application,” said Dennis Stegemerten, Manager, Software and Services at Sennheiser. “With Spectera WebUI for on-device control and SoundBase for multiple Base Stations or mixed wireless set-ups, users have outstanding software tools for Spectera at their fingertips.”
Full Spectera integration makes SoundBase the world’s first RF management application built for both narrowband and wideband systems across multiple manufacturers, with full monitoring and control. Through the free SoundBase SE version, users can fully manage large Spectera set-ups. For operators managing deployments involving multiple brands, SoundBase recommends the PRO version of its app.
Spectera Certified Almost Globally
Andreas Wilzeck, Sennheiser’s Head of Spectrum Policy and Standards, reflected on years of regulatory work: “We’re very pleased that the only countries with open regulatory actions are mainland China, South Korea and Japan. Many countries follow an ‘innovation first, regulation follows’ approach and have directly certified Spectera without changing the regulation.”
New Monitoring and Control Capabilities for Spectera
Firmware version 1.4 introduces enhanced monitoring capabilities through the Spectera WebUI. Operators can monitor received signal strength (RSSI), link quality (LQI), battery levels and interference status, as well as audio levels for microphones and in-ear monitors, including peak and RMS levels.
The update also introduces command functionality for Spectera, allowing operators to program the audio outputs of the Base Station and the Spectera Command Button, tailoring the system to their production requirements.
Spectera Command Button
The Spectera Command Button gives an artist or speaker direct control of the audio routing preconfigured in the wireless system. Connected between the SEK bodypack and the microphone, it enables users to mute their audio or open a talkback channel, providing a second communication channel that is not heard by the audience.
To suit different workflows and preferences, the Spectera system allows the button to be configured as either a latching or momentary switch. An integrated clip enables flexible positioning of the Command Button on clothing.
“The mute function is typically used as a cough button or when an artist or speaker is offstage. In a place-of-worship setting, it is ideal when others are reading or speaking, or when worship preparations should not be heard by the congregation,” explained Bernd Neubauer, Product Manager, Professional Audio at Sennheiser. “The talkback function, on the other hand, allows broadcast hosts and interviewers to check back with production, or performers to speak directly with engineers and crew, without the audience hearing.”
The Spectera Command Button is also compatible with Sennheiser’s digital narrowband SK 9000 and SK 6000 bodypack transmitters, where the firmware supports mute and talkback functionality.
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