The Lectrosonics SMDWB is a wireless beltpack transmitter that can also act as a recording device, capturing audio onto microSDHC cards. Paired with a lavalier or dynamic microphone, the transmitter is suitable for ENG (Electronic News Gathering), EFP (Electronic Field Productions), interviews for broadcast TV, and more. It provides Digital Hybrid Wireless technology, combining 24-bit digital-audio processing with an analog FM radio link to give you the benefits of both worlds, such as fewer dropouts and audio artifacts while maintaining a robust range of operation. The transmitter is housed in a machined aluminum case, lending the unit a rugged and dependable shell. Its water-resistant control panel adds to its usability.

Operating in the A1: 470 to 537 MHz band, the transmitter offers selectable outputs to bolster its operating range, specifically among 25, 40, and 100mW. At lower values, the transmitter’s battery life will last longer; at higher values, the operating range is increased, though at the expense of battery life. Lightweight at 3.7 oz, the transmitter boasts settings making it compatible with dynamic microphones, electret lavaliers, and even line-level sources—so long as they can plug into the TA5M 5-pin input connector.

Input gain adjustment is possible in 1 dB increments for a total range of 44 dB. You’ll also note the low-pass filters, which can be switched to roll off at 30, 50, 70, 120, or 150 Hz to mitigate low-end disturbances. This input section also boasts servo-bias input circuitry proprietary to Lectrosonics, as well as an analog limiter controlled with DSP that, sitting ahead of the mic preamp itself, protects the audio path from overload. With its dual release envelope, it maintains acoustic transparency, even though it can achieve over 30 dB of gain reduction.

The SMDWB utilizes DSP that renders it suitable for use with all Lectrosonics Digital Hybrid receivers, though it is also backwards compatible for use with 100 and 200 series transmitters, IFB receivers, and various analog receivers from third-party manufactures. The unit is powered with two AA batteries, making use of switching power supplies to offer consistent voltages to its internal circuitry throughout its battery life.

Expanding the SMDWB’s functionality is its built-in recording capabilities, for use when transmission is simply not possible due to the conditions of the environment. The recorder operates at 24-bit/44.1 kHz, recording WAV files to microSDHC cards. As a transmitter, the SMDWB supplies an audio frequency range of 35 Hz to 20 kHz, though during recording, that lower value extends down to 20 Hz. You cannot use the transmitter and the recorder simultaneously, but it’s nice to have the option to select between the two. The transmitter includes a flexible steel-cable antenna.

For Broadcast, EFP and ENG Applications    Beltpack Transmitter    Alternate Recording Function    35 Hz to 20 kHz Frequency Range    Runs on 2 x AA Batteries    44 dB of Gain Range    For Lavs & Dynamic Mics & Line Levels    Selectable High-Pass Filtering    Built-In Limiter with 30 dB of GR    Flexible Steel-Cable Antenna

• Selectable output power to maximize battery life or operating range
• Lightweight, corrosion-resistant housing
• Water-resistant seals for use in damp environments
• LCD interface with lockout option
• Programmable compatibility modes for use with a wide variety of different receivers
• Servo-Bias input circuitry
• IR (infrared) port for fast setup
• Covers three standard frequency blocks
• Update firmware in the field via microSD card reader
• Can also be used as a recorder on internal microSDHC memory card

Related Questions and Answers

Q: 1. Is IFBT4 block 19 compatible with the A1 receiver, will the frequencies match up?

A: Yes, the Lectrosonics IFBR1B Bodypack IFB Receiver with Charger (A1: 470 to 537 MHz) is compatible for use with the Lectrosonics IFBT4 Frequency-Agile IFB Transmitter (Frequency Block 19), which covers 486.400 - 511.900 MHz (B&H # LEIFBT419). It can also be used with the Lectrosonics IFBT4 Frequency-Agile Compact IFB Transmitter (Block 470), which covers 470.100 - 495.600 MHz (B&H # LEIFBT4470), and the Lectrosonics IFBT4 Frequency-Agile IFB Transmitter (Frequency Block 20), which covers 512.000 - 537.500 MHz (B&H # LEIFBT420).

Q: 2. Can you have one transmitter going to multiple receivers?

A: Yes, that is possible, you just need to have the receivers tuned to the same channel and frequency band.

Q: 3. Is this receiver compatible with the Lectrosonics WM transmitter?

A: Yes. Just select the band that covers the block that the WM is in. A1 covers blocks 470, 19, and 20. B1 covers blocks 21, 22, and 23. C1 covers blocks 24,25, and 26.

Q: 4. Hi guys, I would like to know if these transmitters came with the Lectrosonics SMDWBBCSL Spring-Loaded Metal Belt Clip Kit (Antenna Up or Down) or I have to buy them separated. Thanks for the support

A: Please call customer service at 800-821-1121

Q: 5. What is the expected runtime for the SMDWB on Eneloop Pro 2450s and Energizer Lithium (the data sheet only shows Alkaline, which seems possibly incorrect)?

A: The battery run time for the Lectrosonics SMDWB with AA lithium, disposable batteries is. At 50 mW (2 x AA): 14.5 hours and at 100 mW (2 x AA): 14 hours.

Q: 6. Where can I find a holder for my Sony camera for this receiver?

A: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1095137-REG/lectrosonics_lrshoe_receiver_mount_kit.html/overview?sts=pi&pim=Y

Q: 7. Is this compatible with the plug on HMa transmitter?

A: Yes, the Lectrosonics IFBR1B Bodypack IFB Receiver with Charger can receive signal from a Lectrosonics HMa transmitter on the same frequency range set to IFB Mode.

Q: 8. Do non servo ta5f connectors work with the lmb transmitter?

A: Yes, the Lectrosonics L-Series LMb Bodypack Wireless Transmitter and all other Lectrosonics transmitters with 5-pin inputs have servo bias inputs that can also be used with other conventional wiring configurations.

Q: 9. Is there a battery eliminator made for this?

A: No,at this time there are no battery eliminators or alternate powering options available for the LMb transmitter.

Q: 10. Is this compatible with the HMa plug on? I notice a lot of guys are still using the 411a receiver. Is there a big difference?

A: Yes, the LR receiver is compatible with the HMa plug-on transmitter. B&H # LEHMAA1 is the version for this particular receiver's frequency band (A1: 470 to 537 MHz). There are some differences in features between the two receivers such as a wider 75 MHz tuning bandwidth for the LR vs a 25.6 MHz tuning bandwidth for the 411a.