Short definition
Wireless microphones transmit audio signals from transmitter to receiver without cables. They give presenters and performers freedom of movement and are indispensable in modern event technology.
Detailed explanation
A wireless microphone system consists of a transmitter — a bodypack with a lavalier or headset mic, or a handheld transmitter with a built-in capsule — and a stationary receiver that feeds the signal to the mixing console. Transmission runs on the UHF band or the 2.4 GHz band. Wireless frequency use is regulated in most countries; in Germany, certain UHF ranges have been off-limits for events since the digital dividend reallocation.
Quality depends on transmission fidelity, range, latency, and frequency stability. Professional systems offer frequency-agile operation, intermodulation calculation for interference-free multi-channel setups, and encryption. Events with many parallel channels require professional frequency coordination using dedicated software; antenna splitters and amplifiers optimize reception in large venues.
Relevance in this field
Wireless microphones are the most widely used miking tool at events. Reliability is critical — a dropout during a keynote is noticed immediately.
Practical example
For an awards show with twelve hosted segments, eight handheld mics and four lavalier transmitters are deployed. Frequency coordination is done in advance with software; every frequency is measured on-site on the day of the event, with two backup transmitters on standby.
Related terms
Microphone, mixing console, in-ear monitoring