Wireless Handheld Microphone Systems

Wireless handheld microphone systems amplify your sound without the complication of cables. Transmitting signals via radio waves rather than the traditional wired connection, are a flexible, intuitive way to take your audio performance to the next level. The myriad benefits of using a wireless versus a wired handheld system boil down to two major solutions:

1) It gives the performer or presenter greater freedom of movement and expression

2) It takes cable complications out of the equation

With a wireless vocal mic, a singer or public speaker can move around the space without feeling tethered by a cabled mic, allowing them to interact with the audience with confidence that they’re not going to accidentally pull a plug. Meanwhile, the lack of cables results in a more streamlined look on stage, while also minimizing tripping hazards and simplifying the setup.

Wireless handheld microphone systems are great for meeting the needs of a wide spectrum of applications. These include music venues and concerts, special events, public speakers (particularly for events where a mic is passed around), houses of worship, education, business and commercial uses, and so much more. Take your wireless system in hand when you shop top brands from Sound Productions, including Audio-Technica, Sennheiser, Shure, and more!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: How do wireless microphones work?

A: Wireless microphone systems operate by using a battery-powered transmitter (for example, a handheld mic or a bodypack paired with a lavalier or headworn mic) to translate sound into an electronic signal, sending the signal over radio frequencies (RF) to a receiver, which then disperses the signal to a loudspeaker or other piece of gear that translates the signal back into sound.

Q: What do you need for a wireless microphone system?

A: The exact number and type of wireless components you need for your microphone setup will vary according to your application, but at its simplest, you’ll need one transmitter (the wireless microphone) and one receiver. If you’re hoping to use a lavalier or headset microphone, you’ll need a bodypack to connect the microphone to. Fortunately, Sound Productions carries comprehensive systems for Handheld, Headworn, and Lavalier wireless microphones to help you get all the components you need; just note the “In the Box” section that lists all the included components when browsing these products.

Q: How do you find the frequency for a wireless microphone?

A:

1. Power on your wireless receiver. Most receiver models provide an automatic scan feature that can be accessed by its own designated “Scan” button or easily accessed via a main menu on the front display or panel. The receiver will scan for available frequencies.
2. Synchronize the receiver to your wireless transmitter to ensure they’re operating on the same frequency.
   1. You can manually adjust the frequency of your transmitter to match the information displayed on the front of your receiver.
   2. Alternatively, many wireless components boast a feature called Infrared Sync. Locate the infrared eye on both the transmitter and receiver, as well as the “Sync” button on the receiver. Hold the transmitter 4-6” away from the receiver and press “Sync” on the receiver.
3. The receiver’s display should indicate when the process is complete—at which point you’re ready to go!

Q: Can I use more than one wireless microphone with a receiver?

A: If your wireless system uses more than one transmitter, you will need to coordinate frequencies. Each channel’s frequency must be sufficiently spaced apart to avoid interfering with each other’s signals. Higher-end wireless systems are more efficient and can pack separate channels tighter together, but you’ll still want to provide some margin, so the signals don’t bleed together and cause dropouts, noise, or other audio problems.

(When setting up larger systems of 10, 15, 20, or more wireless units, this process can be more complex. Call the experts at SoundPro if you have any questions about setting up a larger wireless system, or if you want to learn more about wireless audio.)

Q: What frequency is best for a wireless mic system?

A: Frequency types include VHG, UHF, 2.4GHz (Wi-Fi), and even Bluetooth. For most wireless microphone systems, UHF is the best choice due to its greater bandwidth, optimized reliability, pristine audio quality, and available frequency agility.

Q: What is the best wireless microphone for a church or other house of worship?

A: Handheld wireless mics are a great choice for a mic that is “passed around” amongst the congregation or to a guest singer or performer for one musical number. Wireless lavalier mics work well for speakers and presenters that face forward and don’t move around on stage, but headset mics are quickly becoming the new standard for worship applications where the freedom of wireless is key. Check out our article about Considering Wireless Mics for your Worship Facility for more information.

Q: What is the best wireless microphone for singing or live vocals?

A: In general, the best microphone for capturing vocals is one that can handle high SPLs, offer a uniform frequency pick-up pattern, minimize proximity effect, and deliver a natural response while rejecting noise from the sides and rear. To achieve these results, look for a dynamic microphone with a cardioid polar pattern. Our article SoundPro’s Top Microphone Picks for Live Vocals outlines the favorites of our experienced Account Managers, and many of these are available in wireless options.

For more information, e-mail us at info@soundpro.com or call our knowledgeable Account Managers at 800.203.5611.