Wireless Microphone FAQ
In this guide, we will answer some frequently asked questions when it comes to wireless microphones and also provide you with some tips so you can get the best performance out of them.
FAQ
Can I use a wireless system to mic an accordion?
Wirelessly miking an accordion is very simple. If you’re in a static position, such as sitting down, you can use standard handheld wireless mics on stands. However, if you’re standing up and moving around on stage, you’ll want to use a wireless lavalier system. Experiment with different placements such as the accordion’s strap or your shirt collar.
Can I use two wireless microphones at the same time with one receiver?
Depending on the receiver you have, will determine whether or not you can use two wireless microphones at the same time.
If your receiver is a single channel, meaning that it only has one output, you won’t be able to. If you try to do this with two or more mics of the same frequency, then the receiver will accept both signals and not be able to differentiate between them. This will result in unusable noise from the speakers. In other words, the receiver is unable to ‘mix’ the signals from multiple transmitters.
Dual and Quad-channel wireless receivers, on the other hand, have the necessary electronics to accept more than one wireless microphone.
Why is my wireless mic cutting out even when I’m close the the receiver?
When there are audio dropouts with your wireless mic, one commonly overlooked setting is squelch. Think of this setting as a gate, but for wireless systems. What it does is it only allows signal through at a set threshold. Since wireless systems are vulnerable to RF interference, the squelch helps counteract that.
If you’re getting audio dropouts or no audio at all, you’ll want to decrease the squelch setting. Conversely, if you’re hearing a lot of static coming through your wireless system you’ll want to increase the squelch. It may take a little time to find the right setting for your application, but once you’ve got it, you shouldn’t run into that sort of problem again.
IMPORTANT: Under normal operating conditions, (i.e., in the absence of extraneous interference), always set the squelch control to “MIN” so you can utilize the full sensitivity of the receiver.
Why does my wireless mic sound distorted?
If the output from your wireless microphone sounds distorted, check the setting of the sensitivity control and AF/RF output on the transmitter. If it is set too high, the audio input will be overloaded and the audio signal distorted.
IMPORTANT: Set the sensitivity control on the transmitter to a position where the PEAK LED will flash occasionally. Also check whether the receiver is connected to a line or microphone input on your console. The receiver provides a line level output signal that may overload a microphone input.
Wireless microphone tips
Wireless microphone dropouts and static noise are not typically caused by defective hardware, but by improper use or installation. Before you declare your wireless mic system defective, here are a few best practice tips for optimizing your wireless system:
The most common cause of RF dropouts is improper antenna placement. Line of sight should always be maintained between the antennas and the transmitters. If that’s not possible in your rack, the antennas should be mounted away from the receivers, possibly up on a wall, balcony rail, ceiling, etc. You can achieve this by using an antenna splitter.
The antenna on the wireless transmitter should not be covered. With handheld wireless mics, take care not to cover the antenna with your hand. If you don’t see an antenna, it’s probably hidden inside the last couple of inches of the body. Hold the mic closer to its head or simply use a microphone stand.
If you are using a beltpack with an external antenna, make sure that the antenna isn’t wadded up or bent when wearing it. Not only is this bad for the antenna (bend a wire enough times, and it’s sure to break), but it severely impairs its transmission. You’ll get a much shorter range and more dropouts with a wadded-up antenna.
Only use wireless microphone systems that are true diversity (two antennas) and frequency-agile (the ability to change channels if there is interference).
Signal strength and operating range tend to drop off as the battery dies, so it’s generally best to change your batteries at the beginning of every show/service, even if they aren’t entirely dead.
If you’re using two or more wireless mic systems, consider using antenna distribution and combining systems. Check out our InSync article to learn more about antennas, distro, and more!
Use one of the databases provided online by the FCC or wireless microphone manufacturers frequency finders to choose frequencies that won’t get interference from licensed transmitters (TV stations, public safety, etc.) in your area.
Frequencies of multiple wireless systems must carefully be coordinated to avoid interference with each other. Merely having different frequencies is not enough. Usually, the best way to do this is to use wireless systems from the same manufacturer and series and use frequencies that are already pre-coordinated not to interfere with each other. If you are mixing systems from different manufacturers or different series, consult an expert.
True diversity (more than one antenna) is your best defense against dead spots and RF dropouts. In true diversity systems, both antennas must be connected for diversity to be achieved. You should install them at least 9″ apart and at a 90-degree angle to each other. If they are remote-mounted, the cables connecting them to the receiver or antenna distro MUST be the same length.
Remember that human bodies are excellent absorbers of RF energy. Your wireless transmitter probably does not have enough “oomph” to power through an entire audience on their feet. If your antennas are in the back of a room, the middle of the pastor’s back may not be the best place for the beltpack transmitter. That forces the signal to pass through the pastor’s body on its way to the receiver. To solve this, place the receiver approximately seven feet above the audience, if possible.
If you are having problems with clear reception, try reducing the distance between the transmitters and receivers by moving the receivers closer to the stage. If that’s not practical, consider remote-mounting the antennas to be closer.
If one must run long antenna cables, don’t scrimp to save money – get the lowest loss cable that’s available. We recommend RG-8. If the cable run exceeds 25 ft, you may need an antenna booster.
When there are audio dropouts with your wireless mic, one commonly overlooked setting is squelch. Think of this setting as a gate, but for wireless systems. What it does is it only allows signal through at a set threshold. Since wireless systems are vulnerable to RF interference, the squelch helps counteract that.
If you’re hearing a lot of static coming through your wireless system, you’ll want to increase the squelch. However, if you’re getting audio dropouts or no audio at all, you’ll want to decrease the squelch setting. It may take a little time to find the right setting for your application, but once you’ve got it, you shouldn’t run into that sort of problem again.
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