Wnader Free With A Wifi Mic

The world of handheld microphones is not as straightforward as you might think. Wireless or condenser handheld mic? Lapel, headband? Price range? That elusive characteristic - sound quality. What are you going to hook it up to? What are you going to do when you have it? Record? Play gigs? Sponsor karaoke for the local club meeting?

Here are a few of the more asked for features, some of the technological differences, current prices prevailing.

The best quality mics are low impedance. High impedance mics can be quite good and have a standard 1/4" plug. The Shure SM58 is the industry standard for vocals. The problem is a high price. A number of mics are now available that are much lower than the Rhure and whose quality is OK for most performers. If you move around and have to have your hands free you'll need a lavalier or lapel mic or a headset mic. The headset mic is being used by more and more people in the entertainment business.

The next step is a wireless handheld microphone. While the wireless mic will give you great freedom, there are drawbacks. To go wireless, you must have a good wireless system. There are cheap wireless mics on the market that should be avoided. The better manufacturers of wireless systems like Nady, Samson, Sekaku, Shure, Telex are worth the money you'll have to spend with them. These systems start around $350 and go anywhere from there. If you are in the market for a wireless system get a high band system that operates at 160 mhz or higher. Don't waste your money on systems operating at 49 mhz. They will pick up every possible interference known to mankind like garage door openers, etc.

A wireless system consists of a transmitter attached to the microphone which will hook on to your belt. The receiver plugs into a amplifier. Use a good 9v battery and change it frequently. When you do use a wireless mic, check the room and find any areas that produce static in your system or where the mic cuts out.

Regardless of the quality of your equipment and the amount you have invested in the system as a whole, no wireless system will be foolproof. All are affected by interference at some point. Airwaves are unpredictable and there are unregulated broadcasts, illegal CB & radio boosters, solar flares, electrostatic energy, and other forces at work that will affect you and your equipment. Don't worry too much unless the incidence is much too frequent and that may be the signature of a cheap and nasty piece of gear!