Advancements In Quality With The Modern Wireless Mic

The wireless mic is a piece of technology that has improved significantly over the last few years. The adoption of digital transmission, rather than analogue, as well as the ability of modern microphones to broadcast their signals in new parts of the spectrum means that interference issues are minimized and the quality of modern high-end mics can be extremely good.

Wireless Mic Set-up

wireless micThe general set up of most wireless mic systems is a base unit and one or more individual microphones. The base unit will connect directly to an amplifier or, in some cases, directly to recording equipment. Its job is to receive the incoming encoded audio from the wireless mic and decode it, before sending to the audio equipment. In all but the simplest of units, the base station will also perform at least some level of audio processing to remove noise, in addition to repairing the audio stream if it was in any way damaged by interference. Although most of the money for this type of equipment is paid for the actual wireless mic, the more expensive equipment will generally also come with a better-engineered base unit, which can help to improve the overall audio quality.

Aside from the transmitter (which will either be buried inside the wireless mic, or within a separate, attached box), there is little different about how wireless and standard microphones work. This means that when trying to determine whether the wireless mic will be of high enough quality to justify the price tag, the standard variables should be checked. Chief among the variables to check are frequency response, power rating and sensitivity. For example, ensuring the wireless mic has a large frequency response is important, as it will help ensure that both the low notes and high notes are captured; this is even more essential if one wishes to use the wireless mic to capture the human voice and a range of musical instruments.

The distance (range) a microphone can broadcast depends on a number of factors, including the area in which the broadcast is made, whether there are any other broadcasts being made on similar frequencies in the area, and – of course – the power of the wireless transmitter. The area in which the broadcast is made can have a large effect, because any electrical interference can degrade the signal. Modern digital units have error checking code built in, which means that they can handle some interference; however, it will often shorten the range at which the wireless mic can operate. In general, most mid-ranged microphone manufacturers advertise that their equipment will work at distances of between 50 and 100 meters. This is a fairly significant distance, and means that most mid-ranged equipment is suited to be used within PA systems at events or for semi-professional concerts at smaller venues.

Wireless Mic For Professionals

Professional versions of the equipment, which can cost several hundred dollars, can broadcast a few hundred meters, work on multiple channels (thus almost removing the risk of interference) and have advanced audio processing technology in the base unit, meaning that the audio is extremely clear when it has been received.

Whether you are a sound engineer wishing to purchase professional equipment, or simply need a cheap wireless mic for a small venue, even inexpensive modern wireless equipment provides significantly better quality than was available just a few years ago.

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