Questions About Wireless Microphone Systems We Get All The Time

There are several questions about wireless microphone systems that we get all the time, and we don’t blame you — those different frequency bands can drive you crazy. Thankfully, Bax Music’s own microphone expert, Stefan, is here to lay out the simple facts of the matter.

#1. I’m lost in the frequency maze. Where’s the exit?

The following frequency bands are ideal for casual, everyday use because you don’t have to double-check to see if a specific frequency is occupied and you can most likely get away with a lower transmission power capacity.

The 2.4Ghz band can be used all over the globe and without the need for a permit. That said, too much local WiFi and Bluetooth traffic can lead to signal interference when using the 2.4Ghz frequency band, which also has a short wavelength and a more limited range than the frequencies below it.
At home, in the UK, you can use the 173.8 – 175 MHz frequency band without needing to get a licence.
The 863 – 865 MHz frequency band can be used pretty much anywhere in Europe without a licence.

Professionals and even semi-professional users typically need wireless systems that pack more transmission power and a larger wireless range. Depending on the frequency band that your system operates on, you may need a licence. There are two types of licences you can apply for in the UK via the OFCOM website:

A standard licence (permission to use a fixed frequency in a fixed location at a fixed time).
A wireless microphone licence (permission to use a specific frequency band for 1 or 2 years anywhere in the UK).

Don’t have a wireless microphone system yet? Use our Interactive Gear Finder to find a system that meets your needs.

Use Gear Finder

#2. Can I run multiple wireless systems at the same time?

Questions About Wireless Microphone Systems We Get All The Time

You can, but there’s one caveat: each microphone needs to have its own frequency. There are two types of wireless systems:

Wireless systems with switchable frequencies. Got a wireless system that allows you to freely assign a specific frequency to your microphone? Then great! Simply set up multiple systems and assign each microphone to a different frequency within the frequency band. This way, you avoid interference from other microphones. Most of these wireless systems have an automatic frequency selection feature.
Wireless systems that operate on a fixed frequency. While often less expensive than switchable systems, these systems limit your ability to build a more extensive set-up because you can’t use more than one at the same time. If available, what you can do is go for two different versions of the same system so that both microphones operate on a different frequency and don’t get in each other’s way.

Tip: When browsing through our range of wireless microphones, you can use the ‘switchable frequencies’ filter to see all systems that can be safely set up side by side.

#3. I want to expand my wireless system with a second microphone? Can I?

Questions About Wireless Microphone Systems We Get All The Time

That depends.

You can if the goal is to switch microphones as needed. If you have a handheld microphone and a matching receiver, you can pick up a matching headset microphone and use it instead of the handheld (just make sure they’re the same type and brand, and operate on the same frequency).
You can’t if you’re planning to use both microphones at the same time. And no, not even if your wireless system features switchable frequencies because each microphone simply requires a separate receiver.
The exception to this are wireless systems that come with a dual-channel receiver. These systems typically come including two microphones as standard (as seen in the image above).

» Wireless Handheld Microphone System with 2 Channels
» Wireless Headset Microphone Systems with 2 Channels
» Wireless Clip-On Microphone Systems with 2 Channels
» Wireless Combo Microphone Systems with 2 Channels

#4. I keep getting signal dropouts. Help!?

Questions About Wireless Microphone Systems We Get All The Time

Here are a few tips that can help:

Make sure that there are no obstructions between the transmitter and receiver. In other words, create a clear line of sight between both bits of kit. Setting up the receiver above the audience is one way to do this.
Using a handheld microphone? Then it’s worth knowing that the antenna is located at the bottom of the body. Make sure you don’t block this part with your hand.
Set the antennae of the receiver up in a V-shape.
Double-check that the frequency band that your system runs on is available for use and set it up accordingly (see Question #1).