In recent years, with the proliferation of paperless and cloud-based meetings, an increasing number of enterprises have opted to deploy their own video conferencing systems to facilitate remote meetings, online training, project discussions, and other collaborative endeavors. Traditional all-in-one audiovisual (AV) solutions, serving as the backbone of these systems, vary widely in video quality, software compatibility, and ease of use, often failing to fully meet the diverse and sophisticated demands of enterprises for high-quality video conferencing. Against this backdrop, Sennheiser, leveraging its deep technical expertise in audio and a keen understanding of modern office scenarios, has introduced its inaugural intelligent AV-in-one device—the TC Bar M.

I. Unboxing and Overview of Design

Addressing the spatial differences between small and medium-sized conference rooms, Sennheiser has launched two products—TC Bar S and TC Bar M—to cater to the needs of various customers. The one reviewed by the EEWORLD editor this time is the TC Bar M, specifically designed for medium-sized conference rooms.

From a design standpoint, TC Bar M embodies Sennheiser's minimalist yet premium aesthetic. Crafted entirely from matte material, it features rounded and smooth edges. Additionally, to maintain a clutter-free desktop, Sennheiser has thoughtfully pre-installed HDMI, power, and other cable interfaces at the rear of the device, visually enhancing its seamless integration.

The front design is a delight for those with an eye for detail. The speakers are symmetrically positioned on either side of the camera, encircled by LED light strips that add a touch of technological elegance to TC Bar M. These light strips also serve an interactive purpose; they rhythmically increase or decrease in response to volume adjustments.

Worth mentioning is the included magnetic lens cover, which not only protects the lens from scratches but also provides physical privacy, enhancing the overall security of the office space.

II. 4K Smart Imaging: Revolutionizing Conference Boundaries

As an AV-in-one device, mere aesthetics are insufficient; delivering an exceptional and reliable conference experience is paramount. Sennheiser understands this well, and TC Bar M is packed with advanced hardware specifications. Not only has the camera resolution been upgraded to 4K, but it is also equipped with up to 6 microphones and 4 speakers, immersing participants in a face-to-face communication scenario, irrespective of whispered ideas or passionate debates.

In practical use, the optimization of conference video images by this 4K camera is readily apparent. Beyond capturing participants' facial expressions, it automatically adjusts exposure and contrast based on indoor lighting, ensuring a consistently bright and clear image, devoid of backlighting or overexposure issues. Additionally, the camera supports five-times digital zoom, enabling users to effortlessly adjust the conference image via remote control.

In terms of audio, TC Bar M's 6-microphone array achieves nearly 360-degree omnidirectional sound pickup in medium-sized conference rooms. Coupled with beamforming technology on the speakers, it focuses on the conference speaker, dynamically optimizing sound transmission paths and intensity, effectively mitigating audio disruptions caused by personnel movement and sound dispersion. Even during simultaneous multi-participant speeches, the microphones accurately distinguish different sound sources, thanks to their excellent directivity and sensitivity, enabling clear and simultaneous recording of multiple voices. Coupled with the superior audio resolution of the 4 speakers, the conference audiovisual experience is unparalleled.

Moreover, considering the layout variations and usage requirements of different conference rooms, TC Bar M supports multiple installation methods. Beyond basic desktop placement, the included stand facilitates wall-mounted, VESA-mounted, stand-mounted, and desktop-mounted configurations.

III. AI-Powered, Plug-and-Play Simplicity

If top-tier hardware configuration forms the foundation, Sennheiser's AI integration is the soul of TC Bar M. When initiating an online meeting, users need only tap the "Portrait Tiling" AI function on the remote control, and TC Bar M acts as a professional conference director, swiftly optimizing the conference image, accurately recognizing each participant, and neatly arranging their portraits on the screen, ensuring everyone in the conference space is visible.

However, due to the camera's limited framing range in this mode, there may be a slight delay in tracking images when multiple people move significantly simultaneously. It is hoped that future OTA updates will address this.

Furthermore, anticipating scenarios such as participants temporarily standing to speak, frequently moving around, or seating arrangements changing, TC Bar M's 4K ultra-high-definition camera is equipped with the "Auto-Framing" AI function, which adjusts the conference image in real-time to keep all participants within the frame, facilitating smooth and efficient conference communication. In terms of compatibility, TC Bar M seamlessly integrates with mainstream conferencing software, offering a convenient "plug-and-play" experience.

Conclusion

Overall, Sennheiser TC Bar M excels in the realm of intelligent conferencing all-in-ones. Its minimalist yet premium design, featuring matte material, rounded corners, and rear-mounted interfaces, complemented by a technologically advanced light strip and practical magnetic lens cover, aligns with office aesthetics while emphasizing practicality. The combination of a 4K camera, 6 microphones, and 4 speakers delivers robust performance with exceptional sound quality. Additionally, Sennheiser's AI-optimized "Portrait Tiling" and "Auto-Framing" functions for office scenarios further elevate the conference audiovisual experience. The harmonious blend of hardware and software creates an immersive conferencing environment, aiding enterprises in swiftly embracing the digital transformation wave.