Learning About Wireless Sound Systems

Unlike wired microphones that transmit sound through electrical cables, wireless sound systems use transmitters and receivers to convert sound into radio signals. This means that you'll have easy mobility when using wireless microphone systems. You'll also eliminate any issue of audio drop-offs, which are quite common with wired mics.

Features of a Wireless Microphone System

To set up a wireless mic system, you'll need three main components: the microphone, a transmitter, and a receiver.

Microphones

The microphone is the instrument that converts sound waves into electrical signals. Wireless mics come in a range of styles for different purposes. Handheld wireless microphones are popular with on-stage performers such as singers and comedians. Lavalier wireless mics are ideal for talk shows hosts and presenters who want to have their hands free when presenting. Head-worn mics are popular with aerobics instructors, dancers, and singers, or artists who move all over the stage.

You can also categorize wireless microphones according to the frequency they use. These mics can either use UHF or VHF frequencies. UHF wireless microphones have larger ranges and fewer issues with sound distortions. VHF models, on the other hand, use less power than UHF microphones.

Transmitters

With live sound wireless transmitters, you can send audio signals to the receivers. They're built within a handheld unit or within the bodypack of wireless lavalier microphone systems. Most of these bodypacks are small, and you can usually clip them onto a belt.

Receivers

Receivers pick up the audio signals from the transmitters and transfer them to live sound speakers for amplification. There are two main types of receivers: single antenna receivers and diversity receivers. Receivers with one antenna are ideal when the distance between the transmitter and receiver is short and fixed. Diversity receivers have more than one antenna to pick up the strongest signals from the transmitters. Choose this type of receiver if the operating distance between the receiver and the transmitter is longer, or if you intend to move around the stage with the wireless mic. You can mount the antennas directly on the receiver, or use them remotely.

Wireless Sound System Accessories

To boost the strength of your receiver, you may want to consider extra remote antennas for your wireless mic system. If the operating distance between the transmitter and the receiver is fixed, you may need rack mounting kits for your receivers and antennas. When using one antenna for multiple receivers, you'll need antenna splitters to split the audio signals without compromising on the sound quality. Remember to invest in a good wireless microphone system case to help you protect your mics, transmitters, receivers, and other live sound speaker accessories.

Whether you're looking for lavalier or handheld, single or dual wireless microphone systems, browse B&H live sound options to find the right wireless systems for your specific needs.