NAB 2026: Q5X [LIVE]

Key products and technological updates

1) Q5X Player Mic X (Axient digital) — moving to “ready for primetime”

• Timeline/availability: In use with the NBA for ~18 months. Shipping this summer once FCC certification is complete (FCC mentioned; “FDA” likely a subtitle error).
• Form factor & durability: Roughly tablet/cracker size. Sealed watertight and sweatproof, designed to be worn inside athlete jerseys.
• Battery & charging:
  • 6.5 hours battery life
  • Magnetic pogo-pin charging at the bottom, described as compact and rugged
• Performance validation in harsh environments:
  • Extended trial with San Francisco Opera for difficult conditions (they “couldn’t get it back” during the demo)
• Power efficiency via custom codec/radio design:
  • Q5X claims a custom codec to reduce power draw.
  • When the NBA asked to adapt earlier Player Mic S (4 hours) into a device about half the size/weight, Q5X said they couldn’t simply cut the module and keep performance.
  • Instead, they built a new radio architecture optimized for long-life, power-efficient operation.
• Range expectations: Reported as consistent with their other gear (no major change noted).
• Receivers available + ecosystem control:
  • A separate receiver product is discussed: Q5X “quad receiver” (Q5X-branded) with two headphone jacks to monitor the same signal.
  • Described as a pro unit, including XLR outputs, Dante, antennas, etc. (details implied by the host).
  • No buttons/no screen on the transmitter; transmitter control is handled via the Mic Commander ecosystem.
• Encryption / security:
  • Encryption is capable on the transmitter.
  • The host asks whether there’s additional encryption beyond Q5X’s; the response suggests encryption primarily on the transmit side.
• Frequency range / RF planning:
  • Receiver range mentioned as 470 to 962 MHz, using two antennas for broad coverage.
  • This receiver unit doesn’t go above 608 MHz (subtitle indicates a limitation).
  • Q5X suggests modifying/using different receiver versions for higher bands.
  • Q5X expects other receiver manufacturers may support the system; portable receivers are mentioned as a needed solution, with “multiple options” being explored.

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2) Incognito — analog-to-Axient digital transformation and modular battery/USB-C charging

• What it is: Incognito is described as the last Q5X product that started as analog, now transformed into Axient digital (“this is the last product… transformed into Axient digital”).
• Removable battery emphasis: Known for removable batteries to address long-session needs (discussion mentions 8/16/32 hour targets).
• Durability/material update: Stainless steel construction (switch from aluminum after feedback).
• Charging improvements: USB-C attachment with an O-ring waterproof USB-C implementation; can be charged with a regular phone charger.
• Battery options:
  • 6-hour default, shipping with two batteries
  • Battery connector variants:
    • 1-pin LEMO standard
    • 3-pin LEMO available
  • Battery types can be modified after the fact.
  • 16-hour versions mentioned for existing switch mics that previously had 8-hour batteries (doubled up).
  • Longer runtime roadmap: a request for 32 hours (from a reality TV location); Q5X says 32-hour is coming.
• Push mic functionality becomes modular/accessory:
  • Q5X adds room/real estate in the pack and uses it for a “push mic” battery accessory.
  • Push-to-utilities described:
    • push-to-mute
    • push-to-talk
    • push-to-talk back
    • momentary or latched modes
  • This is placed in the battery accessory, keeping the transmitter “brain” modular (one transmitter can be adapted via accessories).
• Recorder battery (long-awaited):
  • A “battery + recorder” accessory is demonstrated.
  • Described as only marginally thicker to maintain 6-hour battery life while adding recording.
  • Not available in the US initially due to “legal challenges”; expected to ship internationally around Christmas time (US timing depends on legal clearance).
• Charging/docking prototype with timecode syncing:
  • A prototype docking/charging station includes multiple USB-C ports (eight).
  • Can integrate synchronized timecode jamming into the recorders.
  • Timecode jamming is also possible from the Mic Commander.
  • Docks can be chained for more than eight units.
  • Final design expected to move to extruded aluminum.

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3) Hat mic / integrated mic transmitter (Savannah Bananas)

• Q5X shows a hat mic concept:
  • An integrated microphone inside a flexible transmitter, clipped inside a cap/hat.
  • Savannah Bananas have reportedly been using it for months.
• Potential adaptation:
  • Could later be adapted as a bra mic, enabling talent to place mics themselves more comfortably with less interference.
• Q5X positions this as improving wireless audio usability on-body by supporting “comfortable talent.”

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Compatibility, ecosystem, and workflow notes (Q&A)

• ShowLink compatibility (Player Mic X / Axient):

  • No compatibility.
  • Q5X says the system works via Mic Commander, while ShowLink is described as continuously interacting with the environment, which would draw more battery power.

• Axient digital compatibility constraints (“monogamous”):

  • Digital is “monogamous” with Axient digital.
  • Exception: Player Mic X is described as integrating with Q5X’s receiver arrangement.
  • Analog versions remain available.

• Analog ecosystem compatibility:

  • Analog versions are said to be compatible with Wisycom, Lectro, Shure, Sennheiser, and Q5X’s own systems.
  • Guidance: select the correct compatibility mode, and buy transmitters in the relevant mode.

• Using with Rodecaster Duo:

  • Connect via a receiver to the Rodecaster, not directly via the transmitter.
  • Q5X encourages email/comment for specifics.

• Sound Devices wireless compatibility:

  • Not at the moment, described as Axient-digital-matched (“monogamous with Axient”).

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Main speakers / sources

• Nancy (Q5X) — main product presenter
• Host/Interviewer (Gotham Sounds coverage) — asks questions and moderates the discussion
• Background/participants mentioned:
  • Nick
  • Wayne (camera/behind-the-camera)
  • Peter (handheld mic cut-off / off-camera voice)