In addition to being a private violin teacher and having a degree in music from USC, Alecia started writing music-related articles and product reviews six years ago and has enjoyed this experience greatly. She likes to learn new instruments and write new compositions in her free time.
Marcus has a vast experience in digital audio and sound design. Thanks to his knowledge, he actively helps musicians with technical problems, improving their audio quality and promoting their tracks so that thousands of listeners can enjoy really good music.
Last updated: September 10, 2024
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Here is a comprehensive review of some of the best wireless microphones available in the market today. Stick around.
Wireless microphones are a great alternative to traditional mic systems. People from all works of life have almost completely made the shift to a wireless mic simply for the portability, comfort, and ease of connectivity.
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With all the technological advancements in wireless microphone systems, they are fast becoming the top choice in most venues. You might be familiar with some of the popular brands to include the Shure wireless microphone, which is one of the best wireless mics in the market today.
"The Shure BLX288/PG58 is a state-of-the-art wireless microphone system that is fit for any type of small to medium size events such as religious programs or wedding ceremonies."
"The Sennheiser XSW 1-825 vocal system is a low-budget, top-quality entry into the Sennheiser XSW series. It comes in 8 banks of 10 channels, great user-intuitive indicators, and yet still embellished in a one-off portable package."
"This Shure staple offers MCs and performers an affordable and highly-dependable voice aid at any small to medium sized venue. The BLX24R/SM58 features an LCD display unit with a single-channel receiver and output adjustability options."
"The AKG Pro Audio DMS100 is available as both an instrument and handheld mic set; all depending on how you choose to make use of it. It operates on a 2.4GHz frequency range and is suitable for any kind of medium-sized gathering."
"Tonor Wireless Microphone has a top-quality built-in digital decoding technology used in superb sound generation. This product has a wireless range of up to 60m in an open space."
The BLX288/PG58 is a well-made handheld wireless mic system that comes in two top-of-the-range PG58 wireless microphones and a powerful BLX88 receiver. The entire system is very easy to set up and what you get is a flawless signal strength that is both exceptional in clarity and vocal tonality.
We recommend the BLX288/PG58 for DJs, preachers, and any kind of small corporate band.
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What do we love it for?
Getting the Shure BLX288/PG58 is a great bargain considering that it is a professional-level mic system. You are getting a combination of quality and cost-effectiveness from one single piece of equipment.
Another interesting thing we discovered about the Shure BLX288/PG58 is its ability to withstand harsh weather. Even in outdoor events in freezing temperatures, the signal never skips a beat. Vertical distance is no hindrance here as it works from any range, be it from the top of a high-rise.
What were we disappointed with?
When it comes to interference, we discovered that the BLX288/PG58 picks up external noise especially when the handler paces back and forth. So he or she will be forced to stay within the line of sight of the system. Shure may want to look into this tiny flaw some more.
Another downside is that the Shure BLX288/PG58 system does not support more than two mics at a time. If you wish to use anything more than that, you will have to make use of an entirely different system. This of course won’t work for bands or performing groups.
Sennheiser XSW 1-825 is a top-of-the-range quality wireless mic set that comes surprisingly at a very low price in comparison to its great features. It comes with a signal receiver, eight 10 channel compartments, and colorful icon indicators. With the XSW 1-825, you also have the hands-free feature which is especially great when you need to multitask.
This wireless microphone can serve different types of theatric applications. It can also be used to capture sound for live coverage of offstage performances. With a battery life of up to 10 hours before the next charge, the Sennheiser XSW 1-825 is a great companion for camping trips or open-air events where there are no power outlets.
The XSW 1-825 is great for singers, presenters, and dancers. Dancer/singer combinations in particular will benefit from its hands-free feature in heated performance sessions.
What are our favorite features?
We found this mic system very easy to use especially for live sound which features Sennheiser’s prolific microphone pods. These are the cardioids and dynamic e825 to be exact. Another nice thing about the XSW 1-825 is that it comes with an interactive receiver whenever you need to make a swift set-up.
Lastly, we think the Sennheiser XSW 1-825 made a killing when you think about its stress-free handling with the microphone clamp set. Above all else, from our testing, the microphone sounds really great.
What could be better?
The only flaw we were able to spot was that the range is not as far as we hoped for. Many test units confirmed it and maybe a slight turn off for a band of performers since pacing on stage can mess with clarity. A little tweak in the range offering would have gone a long way to boost this mic’s rating.
The Shure BLX24R/SM58 offers a very cost-effective way of doing business via a wireless handheld setup. One that is simple to set up, top-notch in its delivery, and highly dependable in every situation. It comes with a rugged?? one-channel receiver with detachable antennas, adjustable gain control, and a bright intuitive LCD display.
With an operational range of 300ft, this wireless microphone is great for small and medium size events. These include wedding reception or banquet halls, churches, and seminars. The Shure BLX24R/SM58 is also fit for sound reverberations especially in slightly large halls where the utmost clarity is the goal.
This wireless mic system has been touted as being ideal for spoken-word artists simply for its crystal-clear output. It is also great for lecturers or professors who address slightly wide theaters, speech-givers in seminars, workshops, or places of worship.
What do we love it for?
This mic has one of the most intuitive make-ups in all of Shure’s products in our opinion. Its reputable cardioid dynamic SM58 capsule is absolutely great at cleaning out vocals and open-air speeches. On handling, we discovered it is very lightweight and comes in a very sophisticated ergonomic design.
The BLX24R/SM58 also did well with its 12 channel composition which works at the same time on individual frequency bands. Another thing we noticed is that the BLX24R/SM58 receiver manages interference very well. The battery lasts for as long as 14 hours which is also added bonus.
What were we disappointed with?
Nonetheless, we think Shure can make a few improvements with the BLX24R/SM58 model is in the handheld transmitter. We noticed that it doesn’t have a mute feature. It only has a simple on and off button which is still a surprise knowing that some past models use to have a mute function.
Other than that, we think the Shure BLX24R/SM58 is a fantastic product that is highly dependable and you can mount anywhere.
When it comes to rock solid wireless microphones, there’s no other quite like the AKG Pro Audio DMS100. This AKG feature operates a high digital frequency of 2.4 GHz and is built for easy intuitive operation. It has stress-free push-button feature color icons for easy manipulation.
Also, its channel selection process is automatic which strips the user of the guesswork involved in searching for wireless channels. With the AKG Pro Audio DMS100, you can sync and use up to 4 DMS 100 systems at the same time.
Not to mention that the sound produced here is simply divine, almost comparable with those of high studio quality. The AKG Pro Audio DMS100 also comes with optional headsets or a hands-free clip-on.
This wireless mic is great for performers, DJs, and singing coaches in close circuit sessions. Also, for those who work in highly classified establishments, the AKG Pro Audio DMS100 is equally great for private wireless audio communications.
Why are we impressed?
Upon testing, our team found that this system has an excellent sound and operates in the standard 2.4GHz global license-free space. With colorful icon displays and simple plug-and-play features, the product is also very user-friendly.
We also liked that it comes with optional clip-on mics or headsets and that you can use up to 4 DMS 100 systems simultaneously.
What negatives must you be aware of?
Nonetheless, we were able to spot a few flaws like the fact that it can feel a little flimsy. Another thing we didn’t like was that you cannot purchase the mic separately. You have to buy the entire system.
Tonor wireless microphone comes with a built-in digital decoding technology used for generating the perfect sound. With a wireless range of up to 60m, this wireless mic can work effectively in open space. The Tonor Wireless Microphone has a sturdy build and an excellent matte-black finish which makes for both durability and sophistication.
The Tonor wireless microphone has a simple setup. All that is required is the connector and those extra accessories to get things started. The wireless microphones also work perfectly with the 4 AA batteries for up to 10 hours.
Tonor wireless microphone is great for small and medium-sized venues and even open-air events. Hence, preachers, lecturers, and performers can enjoy this wireless microphone system.
What do we love it for?
One of the great pecks of the Tonor wireless microphones is that the base can automatically and instantly detect the frequency of both microphones. We found this feature really intriguing since, with a steady range, the signal loss would be the least of concerns.
Again, its excellent sound quality can never go overstated. You can combine it with outdoor speakers if you really want to have a blast. We also loved the plug-and-play feature which can be set up and taken down with ease.
What were we disappointed with?
Subsequently, we think the Toner Wireless Microphone would have used a little upgrade in battery life. We found the battery life to be surprisingly below par. Also, the range was a bit shorter than what was claimed, which was a slight turn-off. Still, we are of the opinion that the Toner Wireless Microphone is an excellent wireless mic piece.
Things to Consider
Here is a buying guide for the top 5 best wireless microphones available in the market today.
Who Is a Wireless Microphone For?
A wireless microphone is a type of microphone that comes without a physical cord connecting it to the main amplifying system. Wireless microphones are also called radio microphones and are usually battery-powered.
Wireless microphones are generally beneficial for anyone really. They are far more advantageous than the traditional old wired mic systems. However, there are groups of people who will benefit more from purchasing wireless microphones than others. These include:
Wireless microphones are a lot better than wired microphones in a number of ways. We will highlight and explain a few of them below.
Portability: Wireless microphones are more portable than wired microphones in the sense that they are easier to move about. Even where you are not in the line of sight of the system, you can still be connected. So you can use your mic piece in different locations around a venue.
Stronger Frequency: Wireless microphones have a stronger and much faster digital frequency than analog wired systems. They usually operate a standard 2.4 GHz in a global license-free space which is far more liberating than closed wired systems.
Intuitive Design: Wireless microphones are more intuitive by design. They usually feature user-friendly LCD screens and graphic icon displays that foster better interaction between the user and the mic.
Handfree Clip-On: Most wireless microphones come with optional clip-on or headsets to aid with hands-free usability. This is highly advantageous, especially in instances where you may need to multitask. Great for singer/dancer duels.
Channels: Wireless microphone systems accommodate a lot more channels than wired systems.
Features to Consider Before You Buy a Wireless Microphone
The importance of microphone sets can never go overstated. Wireless mic sets to be exact have been for many decades a friendly companion at events of various kinds. So it is equally important that one pays close attention to certain key features before purchasing a wireless microphone set.
The performance of a wireless mic set is integral to the success and failure of an event. So you may want to watch out for things like the operating range, frequency, modulation features, number of channels, and battery life.
Below we will group those key features of a wireless microphone and discuss them according to their importance.
Range
Wireless microphones have a much stronger and faster digital frequency than wired mic systems. Many wireless microphones usually operate a standard 2.4 GHz in global license-free space. They also have longer ranges of up to 60m in open space.
Dynamic Vs. Ribbon Microphones
A dynamic microphone
Trusted SourceA Brief Guide to Microphones - What a Microphone DoesA dynamic microphone operates like a speaker in reverse. The diaphragm is moved by changing sound pressure. This moves the coil, which causes current to flow as lines of flux from the magnet are cut.
www.audio-technica.com
usually features a diaphragm that is attached to a moving coil. This coil vibrates or beats around a magnetic field. Ribbon microphones on the other hand come with a finely-thinned metallic strip (usually aluminum). This metallic strip is then suspended inside a potent magnetic field.
Number of Channels
The number of channels refers to how many microphones can be connected to the system at the same time. A wireless microphone can have as many channels as possible. These can include 4, 8, 10, 12, and even 16. Depending on the scenario, you may require more or fewer channels.
VHF Versus UHF
The UHF radio
Trusted SourceUltra high frequency - WikipediaUHF radio waves propagate mainly by line of sight; they are blocked by hills and large buildings although the transmission through building walls is strong enough for indoor reception.
en.wikipedia.org
is a short distance but very fast radio wave that is very suitable for densely packed environments.
Its band connectivity is between 400-512 MHz. It did not enjoy much usage until recently with the advent of various modern day electronic devices such as Bluetooth, wireless phones, WiFi, and two-way radios.
This low-range signal connection is quite advantageous in a lot of instances as it inhibits interference with any other radio signal transmitting around your location. UHF is also best suited for coverage within a building since it’s shorter and can locate spaces more easily than longer-range radio waves.
VHF radio signals
Trusted SourceVHF | communications | BritannicaVHF, in full very high frequency, conventionally defined portion of the electromagnetic spectrum including any radiation with a wavelength between 1 and 10 meters and a frequency between 300 and 30 megahertz.
www.britannica.com
are best suited for long-distance open spaces since it permits a wider range in coverage. The only difference is that it cannot travel through obstacles such as buildings and thick vegetation
It is popularly used for commercial radio and television signal transmissions. It usually spans a range of about 130 to 170 MHz in coverage.
VHF radios are ideal for long-distance connectivity such as in open fields and above ground level communication. It is a really fast radio wave, almost twice faster as UHF radio wave signals, since it travels by line of sight.
FCC Regulations
There are certain rules that govern the implementation, use, and operation of radio technology. These rules are usually contained under FCC regulations. A lot of strict sanctions have now been imposed on the operations of ham radios. It is required that only licensed professionals are allowed to handle ham radios.
Operating a ham radio without the proper license is regarded as illegal in certain jurisdictions. The test serves as a measure to create standardization in the field and make sure only highly qualified personnel are allowed to handle radio services.
In many countries around the globe, the roles of ham radio operators have been upended and as a consequence, resulted in the safety and protection of lives and properties, especially in times of disasters such as earthquakes, tornadoes, terrorist attacks, or fire outbreaks. These operators are known to quickly set up two-way communication as a swift response to manage even the most complicated rescue operations.
This is why it comes as no surprise that a series of regulations are put in place to ensure only best practices and qualified operators working in the field.
So you may want to check if your wireless microphone operates within the ambits of the law to ensure you are compliant.
Wireless microphones are completely worth it especially when you consider the many advantages it has over wired mic sets. For one, they have better ranges. They are quite interactive and intuitive by design which makes for a great user experience. Comfort, ease of use, and portability are also other strong points for wireless microphones over wired.
Here’s how you can stop wireless microphone interference:
Turn the transmitter power off to eliminate the desired signal.
Turn on all associated equipment in nearby locations to create the “worst-case” signal condition.
Set the receiver volume control to a minimum to avoid excessive noise in the sound system.
Turn the receiver power on.
Observe the RF and audio indicators on the receiver.
If the indicators are showing a no-signal condition the squelch setting may be left as-is.
If the indicators are showing a steady or intermittent signal-received condition increase the squelch control setting until a no-signal condition is indicated. Set the squelch control slightly past this point to provide a threshold margin.
If the no-signal condition cannot be achieved even with high squelch settings it may be possible to find and eliminate the undesirable signal. Otherwise, it may be necessary to select a different operating frequency.
Turn the transmitter power on.
Make sure that the receiver indicates a signal-received condition with the transmitter at a normal operating distance.
1.9 GHz used to be the ideal frequency for wireless microphones. But technological advancements have caused brands to now favor 2.4 GHz as the best choice over 1.9GHz in the manufacturing of different systems.
Our Verdict
Our top 5 picks of the best wireless microphones all have their individual pecks and advantages. Nonetheless, we will dwell on three as our best pick from the five. These include the Tonor Wireless Microphone, the Shure BLX24R/SM58, and the AKG Pro Audio DMS100.
We found the Tonor Wireless Microphone to be awesome because of its automatic features. This mic set can automatically detect and pick up frequencies of any range. Signal loss in this instance will be the least of concerns when using this microphone.
We loved the AKG Pro Audio DMS100 because it comes with additional headsets or clip-on. The Shure BLX24R/SM58 made it into our top 3 picks simply because has a composition of 12 channels and can handle interference very well.
References
1.
A Brief Guide to Microphones - What a Microphone Does
A dynamic microphone operates like a speaker in reverse. The diaphragm is moved by changing sound pressure. This moves the coil, which causes current to flow as lines of flux from the magnet are cut.
UHF radio waves propagate mainly by line of sight; they are blocked by hills and large buildings although the transmission through building walls is strong enough for indoor reception.
VHF, in full very high frequency, conventionally defined portion of the electromagnetic spectrum including any radiation with a wavelength between 1 and 10 meters and a frequency between 300 and 30 megahertz.
The importance of microphone sets can never go overstated. Wireless mic sets to be exact have been for many decades a friendly companion at events of various kinds. So it is equally important that one pays close attention to certain key features before purchasing a wireless microphone set.
