Sennheiser Expands Spectera Platform with WMAS Advancements and Two-Way Handheld at NAB 2026

At NAB Show 2026, AVNation’s Tim Albright talked with Chris Phillips of Sennheiser to unpack the latest developments in the Spectera wireless platform. Built on WMAS (Wireless Multichannel Audio Systems), Spectera continues to push channel density forward, supporting up to 32 inputs and 32 outputs within a single RF carrier and just one rack unit. For AV and broadcast professionals dealing with increasingly crowded RF environments, that’s a significant gain in both spectrum efficiency and rack optimization.

Phillips highlighted the evolution of Spectera’s two-way ecosystem, starting with the SEK bodypack, which combines IFB/IM and microphone or instrument functionality into a single device. This dual-purpose design leverages continuous two-way audio and control, a core advantage of WMAS-based systems. Expanding on that foundation, Sennheiser is previewing a new handheld transmitter, expected to launch later this year, that brings the same bidirectional capabilities to handheld workflows across production and live environments.

Accessories are also playing a key role in this year’s update. A new command channel ring enables integrated talkback directly from the handheld, allowing users, from broadcast reporters to live performers, to communicate seamlessly with production or monitor engineers. Additional support for third-party capsules and secure mounting accessories further enhances flexibility, making Spectera adaptable across a wide range of AV, broadcast, and hybrid production workflows.

With WMAS now approved by the FCC in the U.S., enabling 6 MHz-wide carriers to handle multiple wireless audio channels, Sennheiser is positioning Spectera as a future-ready platform. As AV and broadcast workflows continue to converge, solutions that maximize spectrum, streamline communication, and reduce hardware footprints are becoming essential, and Spectera is clearly aimed at that next phase.

To stay in the loop with Sennheiser’s latest innovations, visit Sennheiser. Catch the full interview with Tim Albright and Chris Phillips, along with more show floor coverage from NAB 2026, at AVNation.