Any audio guys out there? Wireless Microphone Recommendation? - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

JamesDean · #1 07-20-2010, 01:05 AM

Hey anyone, I figured maybe someone out there would have some input on this question.

I'm looking to replace my current wireless microphone system as something is wrong with the reception/transmission as I can only get about 20 feet of good reception until it starts to cut out. It even cuts out very close to the receiver. Its an older Shure UT4A/SM58 combo.

I'm looking at:

1) Shure PGX/SM58 - http://www.shure.com/americas/products/wireless-systems/pgx-systems/index.htm ($400)

2) Audio Technica - 700 series http://www.audio-technica.com/cms/wls_systems/098132ab830855aa/index.html ($160)

3) Sennheiser FreePort - http://www.sennheiserusa.com/professional_wireless-microphone-systems_handheld-transmitter_freeport_502809 ($250)

I've always heard good things about the SM58 and I've read some and people seem to like the Sennheiser mics...

Does anyone have any feeling towards these three options?

I'd like to save money and retain the performance of the SM58...

Whiskeydan · #2 07-20-2010, 12:47 PM

You should really look at your usable freq spectrum to see if there may be other users in the area.

I'd suggest the Shure SLX/SM58 system. You have a good choice of bands and 24 mhz of bandwidth within each. Good range and is the industry standard '58' mic capsule.

http://www.shure.com/idc/groups/public/documents/webcontent/us_pro_slxspecsheet.pdf

edit: Maybe out of your budget. PG series is a cheaper alternative. Either way, stick with the SM58.

JamesDean · #3 07-20-2010, 01:16 PM

Thanks for your recommendation. After doing some research and talking to some people. I ended up with an upper level Sennheiser.

Specifically the EW145-G3

http://www.sennheiser.com/sennheiser/home_en.nsf/root/professional_evolution-wireless-g3_ew-100-g3_021106

http://www.sennheiser.com/sennheiser/products.nsf/resources/C12573B10069CA4AC12574E1003612EF/$File/Series_100_VocalSet.pdf

I was able to get it new for $499 (originally around $650). It has a lot of similar features as the SLX series.

From what I've read the 845 capsule on the Sennheiser is supposed to be a bit beter than the SM58.

http://www.wilfridwong.com/2006/12/04/battle-of-sennheiser-e845-versus-shure-sm58/

Just one of a few threads I found comparing the SM58 and the 845.

Any thoughts on the Sennheiser?

okyoureabeast · #4 07-20-2010, 01:19 PM

*2 on what frequencies are being used. Any system will work, but if it's getting interference from some outside source than you will be in for a world of hurt.

I own a radio scanner for fun and man there is all sorts of radio frequencies spilling all over the place.

JamesDean · #5 07-20-2010, 01:24 PM

Understood on the radio interference. In the past I've never had a problem with my Shure Ut-4a system. I've never heard any crosstalk or anything like that. One of the benefits of the E100 series (as well as the SLX) is the bandwidth and non-fixed nature of the devices.

Fortunately for me, there really isn't much in this area, in terms of broadcasting. Theres three of four local TV stations operating in lower frequencies than the microphones.

Thanks for the replies.

cmbdiesel · #6 07-20-2010, 05:25 PM

I can only hope you bought something in the 500-600 mHz range... You are aware of the latest legislation regarding frequency allocation??

Sennheiser 845 isn't a bad mic, but it isn't a 58 either. The application completely determines the solution with any microphone, so better or worse is completely subjective. The 58 may not be the best sounding mic, but it's durability and flexibility are unparalleled. For live use, the 58, in the studio...whatever you like.

Personally, I use Shure UR2 with either a 58, 87, or KSM9 capsule depending on my application.

JamesDean · #7 07-20-2010, 09:11 PM

Yes I am aware of the new legislation. Actually my old UT4 was safe from the 700Mhz legislation. It ran at around 608 or so.

The new one runs RF frequency range: 516–558 MHz

cmbdiesel · #8 07-20-2010, 09:24 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JamesDean

Yes I am aware of the new legislation. Actually my old UT4 was safe from the 700Mhz legislation. It ran at around 608 or so.

The new one runs RF frequency range: 516–558 MHz

Excellent!
I've seen some unscrupulous folks trying to dump old non-conforming gear on the web. (which can actually be a good purchase if you are buying a unit with a significant rebate-on-return policy)

Are you going to use the mic in a live environment?

JamesDean · #9 07-21-2010, 12:35 AM

Well in the past I used it in talent shows at school which varied from general announcing to vocalists.

Initially it will be used for weddings as I have a bunch coming up. I'm a mobile DJ but I have a pretty flexible and sizable system and can handle a lot of different types of applications.

JamesDean · #10 07-23-2010, 03:21 AM

Arrived today: beasty device. I enjoyed how the first pages in the manual were all in German.

Awesome device. Completely blows away my old Shure system (which was only $100 less)

Range is amazing. I have the receiver in my basement room and I was getting good signal out side on the far side of my yard. At least 150 feet and going through concrete and house. The Shure would barely make it 30 feet with clear line of sight.

mgburg · #11 07-23-2010, 03:32 AM

JD:

The big thing to keep an eye on is the frequency range that system is operating in.

Since June 12th, anything operating in/above the 700MHz. range is illegal unless it's Public Safety and licensed. Nothing was "grandfathered" for further use. So check the frequency and get it licensed for yourself. You should be aware that NOW, any wireless device needs a license (unless it meets certain, stringent max. ERP limits) and if not licensed, it has to except interference from legit sources, such as TV/Radio facilities that already have the permits/licenses.

It wouldn't hurt to also locate a local SBE Frequency Coordinator in your particular area and coordinate your system with his/her database. PM me for details if you need 'em.

JamesDean · #12 07-23-2010, 03:43 AM

Frequency was one of the first things I checked. I remember when checking my Shure when I first heard about that 700Mhz deal. It operates at 608Mhz. The Sennheiser runs between 516Mhz and 558 Mhz.

I did see this on Sennheiser's website:

Quote:

Originally Posted by Sennheiser

CONSUMER ALERT
Most users do not need a license to operate this wireless microphone system. Nevertheless, operating this microphone system without a license is subject to certain restrictions: the system may not cause harmful interference; it must operate at a low power level (not in excess of 50 milliwatts); and it has no protection from interference received from any other device. Purchasers should also be aware that the FCC is currently evaluating use of wireless microphone systems, and these rules are subject to change. For more information, call the FCC at 1-888-CALL-FCC (TTY: 1-888-TELL-FCC) or visit the FCC’s wireless microphone website at www.fcc.gov/cgb/wirelessmicrophones.

So with that being said, Do I still need a license?

They also have this nifty Find Frequency tool on their website:
http://www.sennheiserusa.com/FindFrequency/

There really not too much that operate in the 518-558 in my area:

Whiskeydan · #13 07-23-2010, 01:29 PM

Something is wrong with the shure wireless, 30 feet is not right.

JamesDean · #14 07-23-2010, 01:36 PM

Most definitely. I took it apart but didn't see anything out of the ordinary wrong. No burnt or broken looking pieces.

mgburg · #15 07-23-2010, 02:15 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JamesDean

Frequency ... So with that being said, Do I still need a license?

Maybe not...but, WITH a license, you're the incumbent on those frequencies...as long as you have the priority to use them in that particular band.

Example: If in your circumstance, you're considered a "Priority" user and are licensed, if an itinerant comes into your area, regardless the situation (unless life/death are involved), the "newcomer" has to find a different set of frequencies to operate on...you have precidence. AND the license.

NOW, if he had the license and you didn't, guess who has to move or shut down? You do, because you're considered the itinerant and unless you can cooperate, you end up having to move.

Now, if you were a "Secondary" user and you operated "barefooted," "Priority Licensed"/"Priority Unlicensed" and then "Secondary Licensed" would have dibs over just "Secondary Unlicensed."

By having the license, you win in each "Class" over the "Unlicensed." It just makes sense to protect your investment/business with any/all tools available.

Also, but not in all cases, having the license shows that you're a responsible operator of your system and you're taking the time (and you've invested the money) to be sure you're delivering a good, sound (pun intended) product for your customer.