FCC Laws and Wireless Mics (page 2)

In The End...

Wireless microphone users have always had challenges with their equipment. Reception range and interference are always issues and the new rules don't really change that. However, there are new signals in the air and we can't be cowboys with our equipment any more. The spectrum is getting crowded and, as wireless users, we just have to deal with the new challenges. However, the manufacturers have our back and the new equipment fits perfectly in the new wireless food chain. If you're considering a new wireless microphone purchase, relax. Do the research and find the equipment that best suits your production style and budget.

Sidebar

Although all mic manufacturers are working with the frequency changes set down by the FCC, there might be some wireless mics on the market that aren't in compliance. In particular, some knock-off mics from out of the country might be lower in price for a reason: they can't sell them in the U.S. due to their fixed 700MHz spectrum range. Also, with proper care, good mics can last forever, and they last so well that you might find a good number of second-hand older mics on auction sites like eBay. Do your research before you buy low-priced knock-offs or used equipment. You might be putting your money into a hole you can't recover.

Many mic manufacturers are offering rebates. If you want to return your old mic and get a new one, check your company's website for more. Just this January, PC World wrote that the FCC is getting tough on errant wireless mic manufacturers, telling them they better "get off" the 700MHz spectrum band, "or else.". Read more about that here. To find out more on this subject, you can also go to Digits Over the Air to find out more about the FCC and DTV changes in store for video producers.

Sidebar

In February 2009, two of our local television stations made the switch to digital - and I lost an expensive piece of equipment. I'd owned this particular wireless handheld microphone system for years and used it from time to time. Now, with the digital transmitters on, the only thing coming through is static. It's an older unit with a fixed frequency, so there's no way to change channels and I can't sell it either. Some have suggested I donate it to an overseas ministry or non-profit organization. I'll have to look into that. In the meantime, it's gathering dust in the garage.