It is easy to forget how we got along without the internet, cellphones, and wireless microphones. Few stage bands were hampered by cables, but sports coverage was a challenge with parabolic mic lines strung down football sidelines and track shoes chewing up TV mic cables. Hardware size shrank, and reliability grew through various forms of diversity reception while band allocation battles brewed between phone carriers and the entertainment industry. Now there is so much wireless gear used in large productions, event RF coordination has become a science itself. The following wireless microphone systems show the results of these trends.
Allen & Heather and Audio-Technica have teamed up to provide AHM Audio Matrix Processor (AHM-16, AHM-32, and AHM-64) users with new functionality and control for A-T’s Engineered Sound Wireless System products and ATND1061 beamforming ceiling array microphone. AHM is designed for creating fully integrated audio systems with simple set-up and control options in a variety of applications, such as corporate, hospitality, educational, and house of worship environments. Adding compatibility with Audio-Technica products extends the possibilities open to users. Used with the ATND1061 microphone, for instance, AHM processors can now control and monitor features such as mute, preset recall and saving, Automatic Echo Cancellation, and Automatic Gain Control. Meanwhile, with ESW series products, AHM can now control mute and high-pass filter operation and display battery level information. Users can also add functionality in AHM System Manager software and Allen & Heath’s cross-platform Custom Control app. The integration of the AHM system ensures users can ascertain current status, with mute LEDs, for example, displaying both on the AHM processor panel and the microphone units themselves.
The AKG WMS470 system uses pilot tone muting to avoid noise in the receiver when the mic is turned off or outside of reception range, and the SR470 receiver has an XLR output with 0 and -30dB level selection, along with an unbalanced output. The receiver also features a mute jack to connect an optional remote mute switch or the supplied terminal connector for locking the ON-MUTE/PRG-OFF switch to prevent operating errors. The HT470 handheld mic is equipped with a display that indicates the battery type, dry or rechargeable, that is inside the mic. The system can operate on the UHF band for up to 14 hours on one dry AA battery. Included are an RMU4000 rack mount kit and a universal power supply with a US/UK/EU adapter.
Designed with all the features needed for high performance when the stakes are high, the Audio-Technica 3000 Series operates in two bands (DE2/EE1) of UHF with an instantly available one-button backup frequency swap. The 80Mhz tuning range eases the job of frequency coordination while scanned channels are synced with the transmitter via IR link. System configurations include an ATW-R3210 receiver, ATWR3210N network-enabled receiver, ATW-T3201 bodypack, and ATW-T3202 handheld transmitter. The body-pack transmitter features a cH-style screw-down 4-pin connector for a tight attachment. The handheld transmitter can accommodate a variety of screw-on heads for pickup pattern selection. Each transmitter is powered on two AA batteries, and there are charging terminals built in. Network monitoring and control are facilitated through the Audio-Technica Wireless Manager software. The receiver’s front display shows RF and AF levels along with transmitting power in milliwatts.
Combining a rich feature set with quick and easy setup, the Audix AP61OM5 has 207 pre-coordinated frequencies for trouble-free setup, and optional accessories include double rack space mount kit, active directional antennas, and an antenna distribution system. The mic is tough and capable of handling 144dB SPL without distortion. This transmitter-receiver pair is just one of the available combinations in the AP system versions. Among the others, the bodypack and handheld transmitter operate on AA batteries, and the R61 and R62 receivers have a very handy pin-1 ground lifter switch on the back. RF and AF indicators are on the receiver front panel, and the unit syncs at the push of the transmitter’s sync button. The receiver is equipped with balanced XLR and unbalanced 1/4in. output connectors, and there is a metallic case loop to wrap the power cord around for strain relief at the 12VDC power input.
The CAD Audio WX1800HH offers 100 channels of operation in the 550-590mHz frequency band with auto scanning to quickly find clear RF areas. Then it can use the IR sync feature to match the handheld transmitter to the receiver’s channel. Two AA batteries will run the transmitter for up to ten hours, and battery level indicators on the 10mW transmitter and all-metal receiver show how close the system is to battery change time. The receiver also features a headphone output jack on the front panel with an independent local volume control. 30Hz-18kHz audio frequency response is output from balanced and unbalanced connectors. The front tuning knob adjusts parameters visible on the display, which also shows RF and AF levels. The microphone’s supercardioid pickup pattern is designed to minimize acoustic background noise levels.
Another true diversity handheld wireless mic system with a wide channel range is the Clockaudio CW7000 with up to 1441 selectable frequencies. These are in six groups with as many as 23 channels in one group. Two independent RF receivers on the C7000R get stable reception, and adjustable pilot tone level assures quiet operation with changing RF signal strength. Once the mic’s setup is made, the detachable end piece slides over the controls to prevent accidental changes while keeping the LCD display in view. The power button remains accessible at the bottom end of the case. The receiver display shows channel number, frequency, battery/squelch levels, and the mic ID number. There is a front panel volume control along with twin LED ladders that indicate AF and RF levels. The receiver uses an AC-DC adapter for power.
Part of a newly featured wireless microphone ecosystem at ISE 2026 in Barcelona, the DPA N-Series Digital Wireless Microphone System joined CORE+ mics and MicroLock connectivity. The N-Series system is designed to provide fast and easy setup in today’s dense RF environment and then deliver high-quality preamp processing with diversity reception and smooth analog-todigital conversion. N-Series operates in the 470- 870MHz band and features AES256 encryption for signal security. Also introduced at the show by DPA were new rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, Dual mic/ dual battery charging station, and a new suite of instrument cables with MicroLock or LEMO matching options.
With a supercardioid head on the transmitter, large and easy-to-read LCD displays, diversity reception, and 22 coordinated channels per group in eight groups, the Electro-Voice RE3- RE520 wireless system is a versatile, professional-level mic system. A green LED flashes on the receiver as it syncs frequencies with the transmitter. Dual function front panel buttons select the parameter to be adjusted, and once that is done, the individual adjustments are set. The antenna connections supply 12VDC to power in-line RF amplifiers or active antennas when antenna power is turned on. There are balanced XLR and unbalanced 1/4in. mic level audio output connectors. Among the indicators on the front panel LCD are diversity antenna selected, audio output level, transmitter activity status, and battery status, along with group, channel, and frequency.
Native 24 bit/48 kHz digital conversion and AES 256-CTR encryption are featured in the Lectrosonics Dhu/DSR handheld transmitter operating across 470-608 MHz and fitting a variety of interchangeable screw-on heads. The mic can fit heads from EV, Shure, Heil Sound, Earthworks, Telefunken, Audix, DPA, and others. The HH2SEN adapter allows the G2, G3, and 2000 Series Sennheiser transmitters to be used. Quick IR link frequency matching and selectable 10mW or 50mW RF output also make the system easy to adapt to the venue. Settings are made on a concealed control panel on the transmitter case. Also on the outside of the case is a switch that can be programmed for push-to-talk, cough, mute, talkback, power on/off, or bypass. Included with the mic are a CCHH zippered pouch, 13585 mic clip, P1298 anti-roll sleeve, and two AA batteries.
The Mipro ACT-800 Series consists of the ACT-818 single digital wideband receiver, the ACT-828 dual receiver, the ACT-848 quad channel receiver, ACT-800H handheld transmitter, TA-80 plug-on transmitter, and the ACT-800T body pack transmitter. All receiver variants are equipped with a front panel power switch, parameter adjustment knob, and a color VFD display showing frequency, RF/AF levels, group, and channel, along with diversity receiving antenna. On the rear panel are balanced analog and AES/EBU audio outputs, a remote-control interface, and Wordclock Sync for digital sound system integration. Also featured are auto scan and auto frequency sync. The handheld mic has the MU-90A supercardioid condenser capsule, but can also fit interchangeable MIPRO condenser or dynamic capsule modules and compatible ones from other brands.
Billed as a solution for education and corporate presentations, the Panasonic WX-ST200 is the handheld component of the company’s SR200P 1.9 GHz Digital Wireless Microphone system. It weighs just 0.4lb with its single AA battery loaded, and there is a very useful 3.5mm audio input jack on the case to use in sending sound from an external source through the wireless system. A rechargeable AA battery can be used with the separately sold WX-SZ200 desktop charger. The mic automatically pairs and selects frequency with the WX-SR202 receiver and others in the SR series.
The SR200P system also includes the WXSR200P-SS settings support software, Easy System Design Tool Software, WX-ST400 body pack transmitter, WM-KG645 18in. gooseneck mic, and other accessories. The theme is to provide versatility while maintaining ease of operation. As many as 8 separate antennas can be mounted and run back to receivers to expand the system coverage area.
Long known for its guitars and amps, Peavey also has a wireless mic system with a dual receiver unit, the Peavey PV 16DR. This diversity wireless system scans and locks the mic and receiver to the best frequency for a quick setup, and as many as 16 mics can be used simultaneously. These signals have a range of up to 300ft, and there are single and dual rack mount kits available. Each mic transmitter has an approximate 8-hour operating time on two AA batteries. On the receiver unit, the active antenna is indicated along with the audio signal level and channel number. The sync button allows quick sync of transmitter and receiver frequencies. The front panel IR port sees the mic transmitter for the sync operation. In addition to the antenna connectors on the back panel, there are two balanced audio outputs on XLRs with separate output level adjustments. These are in addition to the 1/4in. unbalanced audio output jack.
Responding to the allocation tumult in the UHF band, manufacturers have made wireless systems for 2.4GHz digital transmission. The Australian-made Rode Interview Pro handheld operates here with a range of 600ft. or more and the ability to record 40 hours of 32-bit 48kHz sound on its own 32GB storage or function with a Rode Series IV receiver or mixer as part of a larger system. The omnidirectional condenser pickup simplifies mic handling and its GainAssist technology helps get consistent sound levels. The frequency response is 20Hz-20kHz and there is a pop filter for quiet handling. The USB-C port allows computer connectivity, and the mic can run for up to 25 hours on its built-in internal rechargeable lithium-ion battery. This mic can handle 122dB SPL with a 74dB signal-to-noise ratio
For hybrid events in training facilities, conference centers and meeting rooms with variable seating, the Shure MXW neXt wireless mic system allows flexibility in placement and system design. The mics work with Shure IntelliMix DSP to ensure best sound quality even in expanded area coverage situations, and the rechargeable mics eliminate disposable batteries. The system is available in two, and eight-channel versions, doing with four redesigned microphone form factors. These have LCD screens for battery management and RF-monitoring. There are also three different networked charging station variants to match the specific facility’s needs. Centralized control capability is available through ShureCloud for remote control and management of a system. Designer 6 is used for campus-wide room design and setup.
The Sennheiser XSW System is designed for presenters and performers who want straight-forward setup and reliable automatic frequency management. Supporting multiple simultaneous wireless connections, this system is suited for houses of worship, live performances, presentations, and more. The XSW System comes in 1 or 2-channel versions for instrument wireless, handheld, or lavalier mic variants. For those who want additional control, select models offer enhanced flexibility with intuitive displays, expanded channel options, and robust UHF performance.
The Sennheiser EW-DP ME 2 Set consists of the EW-DP EK digital portable single-channel receiver, EW-D SK digital bodypack transmitter, ME 2 omnidirectional lavalier, mounting kit, rechargeable battery, and other accessories. Operating in the UHF band, the system provides 134dB dynamic range and a 56MHz bandwidth. The pre-polarized condenser mic has a frequency response of 15Hz to 18kHz(-3dB) and a 130dB maximum SPL capability. The transmitter battery time is approximately 12 hours with the transmitter operating at 10mW output power. The EW-DP EK receiver includes a side panel headphone output for use with field camera setups. Other connectors are the USB-C and mic output. The front panel shows audio level, battery time remaining, and parameter navigation buttons, along with sync and set buttons. The receiver can be powered by two AA batteries or the BA 70 lithium-ion rechargeable battery pack.
In January, the Shure SLX-D+ wireless system debuted. Building on the SLX-D series, the new line offers wide tuning across all its components, simplified setup, interference management, remote system management, AES-256 encryption, automatic feedback suppression, and more. The system can automatically scan for a new, clean frequency and deploy it to both the receiver and transmitter without requiring user interaction. The SLX-D+ system’s components offer tuning up to 138 MHz, allowing them to be used in multiple countries and different frequency bands. A new addition is the introduction of ShowLink Ease technology, inspired by ShowLink on Shure’s flagship Axient Digital wireless system, providing real-time, two-way communication between receiver and transmitter. Once synced, the transmitter remains paired to the receiver every time it is powered on, allowing for automated radio frequency (RF) setup and remote parameter adjustments. SLX-D+ is compatible with existing SLX-D systems and introduces a new half-rack dual receiver; the system’s various components shipped in February with the option to select key wireless configurations for a variety of applications, including handheld bodypack systems and a portable system option. Rechargeable batteries and charging accessories are available separately.
Featuring the SpectraBand wide tuning range of 169MHz to 1525MHz, the Sound Devices Astral HH handheld microphone also has the patent-pending CD1 mic capsule with a cardioid polar pattern and patented dual-engine design using two voice coils and two diaphragms. These are protected in road use by a steel grille. This dynamic mic has a frequency response of 50Hz to 15kHz and a maximum SPL handling of 140dB. The Astral HH can use any manufacturer’s capsule by simply flipping the collar over to switch the screwon threads. No adapters are necessary for the conversion. Local control is also convertible through the addition of interchangeable Astral HH control rings to add the physical control buttons to the mic housing. The body shell, control ring, capsule collar, and CD1 head can be customized with colors, design styles, and even personalized logos.
For ultimate mobility on stage, at news events, and in the classroom, the Sony DWT-B30 bodypack transmitter uses 148MHz bandwidth and a high-density 375 kHz interval channel plan. Sony Wireless Studio control software for PC can be used for flexible field operation. The separate RMU-01 remote control unit, along with Cross Remote function, can remote control up to 82 transmitters. Among the control features are input attenuation, RF frequency selection, RF power output, audio low-cut frequency, and transmitter Sleep Mode. The system conveys 24-bit digital audio with an audio frequency response of 20Hz to 22kHz. Transmissions are secure with AES 256-bit encryption, and the RF output power level is selectable between 2mW, 10mW, and 25mW. The transmitter pack’s OLED display is used to store all user settings, and a USB power source can extend operation time.
The Yamaha RM-W wireless mic system eliminates cabling from conference tables and meeting rooms through the “DECT” standard, 1.9 GHz band and encrypted transmission. Its 16/8 channel wireless access points function as the receivers and antennas for the system’s four types of microphones. To fit the space and the need, there are two boundary microphone models and two gooseneck models with 6in. and 12in. stem lengths. The boundary mics have omnidirectional and 120-degree pickup patterns. Each mic can run for up to 20 hours on its included Li-ion battery, and using the web UI, each mic can be paired using a button under the base and monitored. This can be done with individual mics or all at once as a group.
