Zaxcom has announced the all-new VRX1 VHF IFB audio receiver which was designed to monitor audio and cue talent in film, television, and broadcast environments.
It features an intuitive voice prompt system, voting, frame-specific audio delay, an adaptive squelch, headphone equalization, and multiple power options, all in a lightweight, rugged, and easy-to-use device.
VRX1 is an advanced FM analog receiver with a direct conversion design to receive audio that eliminates RF interference while extending battery life. Two AA lithium batteries provide a runtime of up to 17 hours.
VRX1 operates in the VHF 192-217 MHz frequency range and comes pre-programmed with 10 industry-standard channels. The unit is compatible with Comtek BST 75-216, BST 25-216, and M-216 transmitters, allowing you to mix and match VRX1 with other IFB receivers in your setup.
Two push buttons control selectable channels and settings, and each button can be programmed to limit control or be completely disabled. All 10 pre-programmed channels can be reconfigured using the optional Zaxcom GUI Bridge (ZGB).
A voice prompt system can announce the current channel, channel selection, battery life, and other key settings through headphones, providing a seamless interaction without needing to look down at the device. A voting feature automatically connects VRX1 to the strongest transmitter signal when more than one transmitter is in operation. Both voting and voice prompts can be disabled, if desired.
Key features
- audio delay settings that can be customized for each user from 1 to 15 frames
- adaptive squelch algorithm that intelligently minimizes noise when a transmitter signal is absent or weak,
- standard 3.5mm output that connects to headphones or earpieces.
The 3.5mm audio output is selectable to be unbalanced or balanced, allowing you to feed a single track of audio to the input of a camera. VRX1 advanced settings can be configured using the optional Zaxcom GUI Bridge (ZGB). Basic settings can be controlled both locally and through the ZGB.
Powering Options
VRX1 has multiple power options, including two Alkaline, NiMH, or lithium batteries. Alkaline provides up to 9 hours of runtime, NiMH up to 13 hours, and lithium up to 17 hours. Rechargeable NiMH batteries can be recharged directly through VRX1 using the USB-C port. You might be wondering if the USB-C connection can also power VRX1. That answer is a resounding yes!
Zaxcom also offers a VRX Dual Charger that can charge two VRX1. Slide them into a slot and let the VRX Dual Charger do the rest. LED indicators let you know when charging is complete.
The VRX1 has an RF sensitivity of .8uV for 20dB SINAD and carries an AM rejection of 90dB. VRX1 has frequency steps of 25 KHz and requires a minimum spacing of 100 KHz. The signal-to-noise ratio is 97dB and the 3.5mm output level is 2.8V max driving 16 ohms. VRX1 measures 2.46”x 4.60”x 0.640” with a weight of 4 ounces with two NiMH batteries.
Pricing
VRX1 is priced at $495 USD and is available now at authorized dealers. The optional EV Clip retails for $42 USD, and the VRX Dual Charger retails for $175 USD.
