Wireless microphones: what are they and how do they work?

Wireless microphones are very popular among representatives of a wide variety of professions: journalists, vocalists, presenters. Consider in the article the distinctive characteristics of portable devices, the principle of their operation, as well as the selection rules.

A wireless (remote, handheld) microphone is an audio device that works without unnecessary cables and wires. In this regard, users of the device have unlimited mobility. The wireless microphone appeared at the beginning of the 20th century and quickly gained immense popularity and love of users.

Before purchasing a wireless device for personal use, it is important to familiarize yourself with how the microphone works without a cable. The data transmission from the remote microphone is carried out in the same way as in any other wireless devices. Microphone operation is based on radio waves or infrared rays (depending on the specific model). Moreover, the first option is more common than the second. This is due to the fact that radio waves are characterized by a large coverage radius. In addition, the presence of external obstacles is not a hindrance to their work.

The audio signal that goes into the microphone (such as vocals or speech) is transmitted to a dedicated sensor. This device, in turn, is engaged in converting this signal into special radio waves. These waves are transmitted to the receiver, which outputs the sound to the speakers. In this case, depending on the specific type of microphone, the radio wave source can be mounted inside (this applies to a hand-held device) or be a separate unit. An antenna is also included in the design of the wireless microphone. It can be installed inside or outside. In addition, the presence of a battery is required: it can be batteries or a rechargeable battery.

For the convenience of users, manufacturers produce a large number of varieties of portable microphones (for example, devices with a digital base or with a flash drive). Let's take a look at some of them.

• Tabletop. Table microphones are most commonly used for conferences, seminars, and other scientific or educational seminars.
• Manual. This variety is considered the most traditional. It is used in a variety of situations, is very popular and in demand among users.
• Lapel. This kind of microphone is quite diminutive. Devices can be considered hidden and can be easily attached to clothing.

There are speaker radio microphones, professional devices, small handheld devices (or mini microphones), FM microphones and other models on the market. Consider the ranking of the best devices.

This microphone belongs to the lavalier category. For To make the device easy and quick to attach to clothing, a specially designed clothespin is included as standard. It should be borne in mind that the portable device belongs to the luxury class and is quite expensive, so the microphone is not available for everyone. The directivity of the radio microphone is circular. The microphone can work continuously for 4 hours.

The standard package includes 2 radio microphones. They are dynamic and unidirectional. In order to adjust the volume as quickly and easily as possible, there are special levers on the receiving unit. Microphones are powered by AA batteries and can work non-stop for 8 hours.

This microphone is a desktop microphone. The kit includes a special tripod for installing the device. In addition, there is a special foam filter, which is designed to protect against wind. The range of the device is 50 meters. The design includes a special LCD screen.

The model includes 2 microphones, which are interconnected by a special radio channel. In order for the device to function fully, it needs 4 AA batteries. The microphone stand is equipped with a dedicated volume control.

This device belongs to the category of professional radio microphones. The microphones are equipped with a unique capsule. There are 2 antennas available. The sound is distributed as evenly as possible.

This dynamic unidirectional system includes 2 microphones. The range of perceived frequencies is 66-74 MHz, 87.5-92 MHz. Continuous working time is about 8 hours.

The system belongs to the budget category and is available for purchase by representatives of all social and economic strata of the population. Due to the fact that 2 microphones are included as standard, the system is used for organizing home karaoke. The working radius is about 30 meters.

The model is designed for vocals. AA batteries are required for power supply. The working radius is about 15 meters. There is a dedicated button on the microphone handle for switching modes.

When choosing a device for public speaking, stage or any other purpose, it is very important to focus on several key factors. Let's consider the main ones.

Today, a large number of microphone models are presented on the modern audio equipment market, which are designed for a variety of purposes and are suitable for different situations: for example, for a presenter, fitness instructor, blogger, reporter, for the street, for lectures, events and many others. Accordingly, when choosing, it is very important to think in advance where and how you will use the device.

Wireless microphones can connect to the receiver in several ways: for example, Wi-Fi, radio, Bluetooth. At the same time, connecting the device via a radio channel is considered the most traditional. Thanks to him, the signal can be transmitted over a long distance without any delay. On the other hand, Bluetooth connectivity is a more modern and versatile method.

Radio microphones can have two types of directivity. So, omnidirectional devices are devices that perceive sound waves, regardless of which side they come from. In this regard, this kind of portable devices can perceive not only the voice, but also extraneous noise.... Directional devices are microphones that pick up only the signal that comes from a well-defined source, and it will not perceive extraneous background noise.

The most important technical characteristics of any remote microphone include frequency, sensitivity and impedance. So, in relation to frequencies, it is important to pay attention to both the maximum and minimum indicators. The sensitivity should be maximized - in this case, the microphone will be able to perceive sounds without any difficulty. As for the resistance, it should be quite large - then the sound will be of the highest quality.

After you have bought a wireless microphone, it is important to get started using it correctly. To do this, the device must be connected to the receiver. This procedure should be carried out in stages.

• So, first of all, you need to get the device out of the package, turn it on and start charging. Only then can the microphone be connected to other devices.
• In order to connect a radio microphone to a computer or laptop that runs on the Windiows 7 or Windiows 8 operating system, you need to enter the "Recorders" menu and select the microphone to be connected there. In this case, it is recommended to select the "Use device by default" option, and then click on the "OK" button.

And also the microphone can be connected to speakers, smartphones and some other electronic devices. If you want to use wireless mode on your audio device, you must turn on the Bluetooth function both on the microphone itself and on the receiving device.... In addition, before using the audio device, be sure to read the instructions provided by the manufacturer as standard.

Radio microphones are modern functional devices that can be used for a variety of purposes. At the same time, it is very important to take a responsible and serious approach to the choice of a device.

In the next video, you will find a review of the budget FIFINE K025 wireless microphone from Aliexpress.