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TECHNOLOGY SHOWCASE: Wireless Microphones

The AKG DMS800reference digital wire- less system builds upon the previous DMS700 V2 offering all of the same features with more versatility and an improved design. The DSR800 receiver (part of the DMS800 system along with the DPT800 wireless body pack transmitter) offers two digital audio out- puts for DANTE and AES/EBU. The system includes balanced XLR and unbalanced jack connections in addition to digital wireless audio transmission with EQ and dynamic processing. There is a built-in HARMAN HiQnet for network remote control and monitoring via a PC, Apple device, or the Soundcraft Vi Series console. The unit is selectable across a 150MHz frequency range and has up to 40 channels available.

Audio-Technica presents the new ATW-T1007System 10 Microphone Desk Stand Transmitter and the ATW-T1006 System 10 Boundary Microphone/Transmitter – both compatible with the System 10 PRO Rack-Mount Digital Wireless Systems and the Stack-Mount Digital Wireless Systems. The ATW-T1007 is designed to work with phantom-powered condenser microphones outfitted with 3-pin XLRM. Pairing with the System 10 wireless receiver, the transmitter includes a user switch for talk and mute modes as well as 2 green and red LEDs on the front and back that indicate battery level, charging status, and toggle/mute/talk mode. The ATW-T1006 System 10 Boundary Microphone is a cardioid condenser boundary mic also equipped with talk/mute modes and LED indicators. Both units house a 3.7v recharge- able Lithium-Ion battery for nine hours of use. The two units operate in the 2.4GHz range at 24-bit/48kHz and contain a switchable low pass filter. Available at $349 (ATW-T1007) and $399 (ATW-T1006).

In January, Audixannounced the Performance Series professional wireless system designed around a uniquely simple two-step setup. When a hot key on the receiver is pressed, the system selects an available frequency from a grid of pre-coordinated internal frequencies; once the frequency is selected, the user holds the transmitter next to the Sync light on the receiver to lock. The Performance Series is available in two performance levels: the 40 Series diversity system with 32MHz of spectrum, and 60 Series dual channel diversity system with 64MHz. Dual channel systems are also available featuring an internal antenna combiner allowing the system to operate on just one set of common antennas and one power supply. Both series are packaged in durable metal housing; key operating features include AF and RF indicators, 21dB level control at the receiver Audix Performance Series and 12dB level control at the transmitter, soft mute keys with undetectable latency, and scan/sync hot keys.

The Classis RM 31 Q by Beyerdynamic utilizes Revoluto Technology, organizing multiple capsules in a vertical microphone array. This design allows the speaker to move closer or further away from the electret condenser microphone with little to no detectable volume or frequency response difference. The microphone can be mounted to a podium, set on top of a conference table, or mounted on the ceiling. With a 68 dB signal-to-noise ratio and a corridor cardioid pattern, one microphone can be shared with multiple speakers in a conference room scenario. The RM 31 Q can be combined via 5pin XLR with the Orbis MU21 unit for wire-free operation and has a red LED to indicate the ready-to-speak status of the microphone.

At NAMM, CAD Audio released the new CADLive 4000 digital system. In order to provide frequency agility and RF stability the system operates in 902 and 928 MHz bands and features proprietary CAD ScanLink technology. The True Diversity operation minimizes multipath interference in addition to CADLock Automatic Tone Encoded Squelch to prevent unauthorized transmissions in the signal path. The receiver’s LCD screen dis- plays pertinent information such as battery life, AF and RF signal levels, mic sensitivity, and RF power metering. The handheld and body pack transmitters contain SoftTouch multi-function On-Off/Mute switches and transmitter power adjustments.

From Clockaudiois the CW 8000, a UHF PLL Personal Wideband True Diversity System with 2400 to 3000 selectable frequencies across 60 – 75 MHz. With a 105 dB signal-to-noise ratio and a frequency range of 501 – 960 MHz, the CW 8000 system comes with the CW 8000T handheld wireless microphone and the CW 8000R Receiver. The display on the receiver provides information such as Channel, Group, Antenna A/B, Mute, AF/RF, Low Battery, and Device ID. The 8000T handheld has a frequency response range from 50 to16.5kHz, is a traditional cardioid pattern and is powered by two AA batteries.

Earthworks’ WL40V microphone capsules have a wide frequency response ranging from 30Hz – 40kHz and high SPL handling at 135dB at 5v making them ideal for broadcast and live performance. The extended flat frequency response eliminates problems with off-axis performance. The interchangeable screw-on capsules will work with any handheld transmitter that will receive a 31.3mm/pitch 1.0mm threading. The WL40V is designed to have high rejection before feedback and succeeds at capturing sound from a distance.

Electro-Voicedescribes the R300 as an easy to use, entry-level system with professional- class benefits. With features like ClearScan and EZSync, the system is very user friendly to set up. The transmitter is powered by two AA batteries providing about 14 hours of battery life. The handheld cardioid microphone has a frequency response of 80Hz to 18kHz and a signal-to-noise ratio of 100dB (there is also a headworn and lapel option). The receiver is available in four bands of frequency ranges and up to 32 channels and can be dual- or single-rack mounted.

Lectrosonics offers two versions of the Venue 2–the VRM2WBL, which tunes frequency bands A1, B1, and C1; and the VRM- 2WBM, which tunes frequency bands B1, C1, and D1. The six-channel modular configuration effectively deals with clogged RF spectrum with a variety of options that can be configured for each specific installation. Each module can be operated separately and are easy to change without any tools. The wide- band built-in antenna multicoupler allows the use of any frequency module in any position unless the modules are paired. Modules can be paired for more robust diversity reception with one audio channel per module pair. The digital hybrid combines digital audio with analog FM radio. Designer software supplied allows the operator to conduct spectrum scanning, frequency coordination, and provide a clear analysis of open frequencies. The receiver has an iQ filter that switches to a narrow band mode to suppress signal interference.

Set to release in the second half of 2016, the ACT-828by MiProis an EIA standard dual channel receiver with a frequency range of 480 – 960 MHz. An improved A/D converter provides audio sampling at 24-bit, 44.1kHz and a signal-to-noise ratio of 115dB. The ACT-828 offers enhanced RF circuitry and improved anti-interference characteristics and system compatibility with 64MHz wide band-width, supporting more available interference-free channels. MiPro includes 10 built-in SmartEQ presets and anti-feedback settings to assist with installed setups that may not have a dedicated operator. The AESid Digital Audio Interface creates a direct connection to a digital mixer and transmits audio without distortion over a long distance.

With its Executive Elite, 4-and 8-channel systems, Revolabsoffers the first cloud-server option with local and remote cloud-based capabilities. The system has a remote antenna receiver and base units that connect with a Cat5e or Cat6 cable with PoE feature. Designed for use in boardrooms and conference room environments, the system has fast-connect AVB, a web interface, and over-the-air synchronization eliminating the need to connect the system physically and protecting against wireless interference. The Executive Elite is currently the only wireless microphone available with native AVB support.

At NAMM, Shureintroduced the world’s first dual-diaphragm dynamic handheld, the Shure KSM8, designed for live performance and presentation. Shure has maintained the microphone’s durability and vocal clarity with the dent-resistant, hardened carbon-steel grille and waterproof protection. The handheld transmitter option is available with Shure’s Axient, UHF-R, ULX-D, and QLX-D wireless systems and is also available as a wireless capsule for use with other Shure wireless systems. The KSM8 features a Dual- dyne cartridge that almost completely eliminates proximity effect and masters off-axis rejection via one active and one passive diaphragm and an inverted airflow system. Available in black and nickel.

TOA’s IR-802 is an Infrared Wireless Class- room System consisting of an IR integrated wide-dispersion ceiling speaker with built-in Infrared Receivers and Amplifier, an IR Wireless Tuner, and hands-free IR Wireless microphone. The system is connected via Cat5 cables making it a cost-effective and quick installation. The system does not rely on UHF channels so interference is not a concern. A pendant teacher mic and handheld student mic are provided and can be used simultaneously. There are three aux inputs for other audio devices. ALD output with level control is provided for use with Assisted Listen Devices or Remote Classroom feed.

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