When it comes to outside video production — whether at a sporting event, a live theater performance, or a Sunday house of worship celebration – directors obsess over camera angles and lighting but a critical technical element can often be ignored until it causes problems: the wireless mic systems. What may be missing in your setup is the simple fix of employing an antenna distribution system.
Productions involving multiple wireless microphones without the proper antenna distribution system in place are often at the risk of dropouts, interference, and inconsistent sound.
The root causes of RF interference
It is helpful to understand the root causes of signal silence and static bursts in order to learn the best way to solve the problems. Wireless interference can stem from sources such as local TV stations, cell phones and LED lighting where these devices may be competing with a wireless mic system on the same or nearby frequencies. Long distance reception and line-of-sight obstacles like trees, vehicles, buildings and crowds are also a factor.
Stacking and racking multiple wireless receivers and antennas near one another compounds pickup issues as interference in the RF signal and disruption of antenna pickup patterns can occur. This results in signal dropout or degraded, noisy performance.
The role of an antenna distribution system
At the very basic level, an Antenna Distribution System (ADS) sends the RF signal from a single pair of antennas to four wireless receivers. These high-gain or directional antennas can drastically improve signal reliability and help prevent dropouts. Check out the Pro models by RF Venue and Shure which feature cascading outputs to link an additional ADS for up to eight wireless receivers.
Additionally, an ADS provides several other benefits of efficiency.
- Its remote antennas can be mounted high on stands or strategically placed to maintain clear line-of-sight with your transmitters.
- The ADS unit provides amplification and adjustable attenuation to optimize performance based on distance from the transmitters.
- Multiple receivers can be powered by the distribution system minimizing the need for a slew of wall-warts that may not align with your power conditioner or multiple outlet strip.
Getting ahead — analyze the airwaves
If you’re able to plan ahead and you are consistently doing remote production, check into the purchase of an RF Analyzer to get a read on potential conflicts. There are multiple online tools available too — like the Sennheiser Wireless Finder app — which instantly shows what wireless channels are in use in any given ZIP code. Higher-quality wireless systems are worth the investment here because they let you easily switch to clear, interference-free channels.
The right tools increase production value and save time
Antenna distribution systems are not a luxury — they’re a practical necessity for any professional remote video production relying on wireless microphones. They enhance signal reliability, simplify your workflow, reduce clutter, and make your audio setup scalable.
In the unpredictable conditions of remote shooting, where reshoots are costly or impossible, an ADS is the kind of behind-the-scenes tool that ensures your wireless audio is as dependable as your camera work.
Investing in a good antenna distribution system means fewer technical issues and more focus on storytelling — exactly what your remote productions demand. Need help choosing the right ADS? Contact Markertek’s audio experts today.
