Wireless Microphones -
Reviews, How They Work and What You Should Know

Written by Ron Carpenito, DJ Ron Carpenito, Boston MA

Wireless microphones are an absolute requirement now for a professional DJ. I remember when I started this business in 1989, having a wireless microphone back then was an expensive proposition and only the most successful DJ's had them. Now there are quite a variety of wireless microphone products to choose from and they fit all budgets.

In this article I'll be discussing some wireless microphone basics and review some of the microphones I've used over the years.

The first difference in wireless mics you need to be aware of is the frequencies they operate on. Originally they were only broadcasting on the VHF level, which stands for Very High Frequency. This range of frequency is used for all sorts of broadcasting and is why you may get interference or cross signals from various other sources. To combat this problem manufacturers went to UHF, which stands for Ultra High Frequency. These ranges of frequencies are in less use than VHF so there is less chance of crossing signals with outside sources.

Next, you'll notice as your shopping around that the lower priced models (respective of their manufacturer) will only operate on one (1) VHF or UHF channel. I do not advise that you purchase a wireless microphone that operates on only one channel. The prices have come down enough now that you should be able to step up to a unit that gives you at least 2 channels and preferably 8 or more to choose from if needed. If you really want to spend some money, there are units that will constantly automatically scan for the clearest channel. The reason you want more than one channel to choose from is obvious. If the channel your on is picking up interference you can switch to another channel.

The next big difference in wireless microphone systems is how the receiver portion of the system works to receive the signal from the wireless mic. In this regard the best option is "true diversity". The term true diversity means that there are actually two radio receivers inside the housing with a separate antenna for each. The internal circuitry compares which receiver is picking up the signal from the microphone the best and uses that receiver. The circuitry is comparing the signal strength constantly and lightning fast so you will never notice a dropout, even when it switches to the other receiver.

It's important to understand what I just said above. True Diversity is the technology of how the signal from the microphone is received by the main receiver. Do not get that confused with a system that offers two microphones, or has two antennas so it looks like it's true diversity. True diversity costs more, but is worth it. What good is a wireless microphone if the signal drops-out during the opening toast or the ceremony or during the introductions?

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Wireless Microphones -Reviews, How They Work and What You Should Know

Wireless Microphones -
Reviews, How They Work and What You Should Know