A Complete Guide to Infrared Wireless Microphone System

The tech industry is undergoing a revolution with many recent additions to tech gadgets and equipment to improve quality and user experience. To this effect, wireless microphones have gained much popularity in the sound world. If you are a lover of good sound, or you are in need of a good sound system, then you might find yourself wondering how to get the most suitable infrared wireless microphone system to meet your needs.

What should you look out for before purchasing? How do you know exactly which one to buy? Don’t worry. We have answered all your questions in full in this guide. Read on to unravel your answers.

What Is an Infrared Wireless Microphone System?

One of the best parts of wireless microphones is that they give the user the mobility and flexibility they need. Prior to this time, people had to hold microphones that were connected to long cables and move around. This was both untidy and risky. In addition, it was very limiting, as users would have to be confined to a particular area according to what the microphone cables allowed.

Wireless microphones function by modulating audio signals over certain portions of an electromagnetic spectrum. In the spectrum, there are two portions that are most frequently used. They include; The Radio frequency (TRR) and The Infrared Frequencies (IF).

The infrared spectrum is below the visible red light. Its wavelength spans between 750 nanometers and 1 micrometer. Infrared wireless microphone systems are a preferred mode of transmitting sound now because it is relatively short-ranged. Radiofrequency is saturated in the world today. Therefore, it is not uncommon to see these systems suffering interference from a variety of other devices and sources which are closely connected. Radio Frequency (RF) can get interference from cell phones, PA systems, radios, and other emergency systems. The IR, on the other hand, does not get such interference giving it a high sound quality and making it a preferred choice among others.

How Does an Infrared Microphone Work?

Wireless Infrared microphones use LEDs to emit infrared radiation. It has a beam that can be modulated to encode data. The transmitter creates rapidly pulsing signals which the IR systems respond to. The receiver uses a silicon photodiode to convert infrared radiation to an electric current.

An infrared transmission system comprises three major components;

• Transmitter
• Emitter
• Receiver

The transmitter receives audio signals from the microphone and then converts them into a signal which can be picked up by the receiver, then proceeds to transmit this signal wirelessly.

The emitter collects the modulated signal and converts it into infrared light.

The receiver is found on the other end of the radio link. It decodes the infrared signal and then converts it to audio signals. This audio is then sent to the loudspeaker or the headphones.

The Benefits of a Wireless Infrared Microphone

• Not prone to interference: Unlike the Radio Frequency systems, the IR systems are not prone to interference.
• Security: The IR system provides more security because it does not allow easy eavesdropping. The sounds and echos from an Infrared system will only be limited to the particular room where it is required.
• High quality: Because there are no lags from the sound, infrared audio systems have a higher sound quality.
• Stability: Communication using an infrared sound system is more stable.
• Convenience: Using a wireless infrared mic is very convenient. First, there are no cables to battle with, so this eliminates the untidiness and limits. Again, these mics have higher durability because radio waves do not easily wear off, unlike cables.
• The infrared system is less expensive.
• Better reception: Infrared signals reflects off surfaces. This aids the reception of sound.

Some of the disadvantages of infrared systems are;

• They are limited to a short distance.
• The system can be affected by sunlight or other ambient sources of light.

Applications of Infrared Wireless Microphones

Infrared microphones are a convenient mode of communication due to their preventive features against eavesdrops and radio jamming, among other benefits. As a result, they find more applications in professional settings like board rooms and conference halls where privacy, serenity, and high quality are required.

Some other places where IR wireless mics find applications are;

• The filmmaking industry: This mic type is perfect for broadcast, streaming, and other digital communication activities. In addition to the quality of sound you get from these mics, there is just something appealing about using a wireless mic to communicate.
• Education and events: Another place where these mics serve well is in the education sector. Teachers, lecturers, and presenters can make presentations. Remote learning is on the rise, and a lot of courses are being recorded live and broadcast across the world. For tasks as important as this, the audio quality cannot afford to be inferior. Also, during events, seminars, conferences, or any other kind of public event, these mics are suitable.
• Live performance: The last thing a live performer wants during a show is sound interference. With infrared wireless mics, this can easily be prevented.

Factors to Consider Before Buying a Microphone

Now, you know the benefits, the features, and what to expect when using an infrared wireless microphone. You are probably ready to buy a microphone. What are the factors you should consider before making your purchase? Let’s find out.

Frequency:

For several years, microphones operated with a frequency of 400 MHz and above have been known to have the highest quality and give off the best performance. The best combination of long transmission distance and clear frequencies is between 470 and 548 MHz bands.

Check to see the frequency of the microphone you are purchasing, and be sure that it aligns with what you need.

Size:

Another important feature to consider is the size of the wireless microphone. Now, you need to be certain of the purpose of the mic before choosing a suitable mic. If you are constantly shooting videos, carrying out reports, and interviewing people, then you need a portable mic. On the other hand, if you are going to sit still and use the mic, for instance, if it is going to be placed in a conference room, a boardroom, or a classroom, and used in a fixed position, then you can consider buying a bigger microphone.

Operating range:

It is also important to consider the operating range of the microphone before purchasing it. As a rule of thumb, you should choose a microphone that has an operating range that is twice the distance you think you need. The operating range should be within at least 1000 feet.

Wireless microphone system reliability:

Good microphones are not cheap because they are made from components that are equally not cheap. Before buying a microphone, do your research to check the price range of the particular wireless microphone that you need.

Check for microphones that are low-noise, low-static, and low-dropout. Ensure that the noise reduction mic that you select is the True Companding type. Companding is a term used to explain the compression of a signal as it goes into a system and the expansion of the signal as it comes out. Not all noise-reduction mics work to fully blot out the noise. Some of them, especially the ones that are not True Companding, will generate a pumping noise that is quite audible, and this can be very distracting.

Purpose:

Another major factor to consider when choosing an infrared wireless microphone is the purpose of the microphone. The quality of the microphone you will use for a small confined room is different from the one that will be used for a large public space.

Other internal features:

Several advancements have been made to wireless microphone systems. Therefore, you need to check certain features of the microphone to make sure it is suitable for your specific preference.

Here are some of the features to check out;

• Low-impedance and balanced output

A balanced line connection is more reliable because they have a direct connection from the receiver to the mixing console. This reduces or eliminates noise and hum problems with the audio signal immediately after it is sent out from the receiver.

• Battery life:

New systems have high-performance batteries that can last for a very long time. Check out the battery life of the microphone and ensure that it is long-lasting.

• Separate mute and power switches:

In wireless microphones, one of the most sought-after features is a separate mute and power switch. When the receiver and the transmitter are in direct communication, they are both locked on the same frequency. During this direct communication, no other system can interfere with these systems. Since a signal can only be transmitted when both the transmitter and the receiver are on, your receiver can pick up any transmitted signal at the same frequency as it.

With a separate mute switch, a speaker can decide to turn off his audio signal to avoid being heard while leaving the power switch on. This way, direct communication between the transmitter and the receiver will still be active, thereby preventing interference of any unwanted signal.

Therefore, if your wireless microphone has a separate mute and power switch, it is an additional benefit for you.

What Are Your Options? Our Top 5 Infrared Wireless Microphone Systems

Now that you have almost all the information you need, here are some of our favorite wireless microphone systems;

1. CRS301-P -INFRARED WIRELESS MICROPHONE CLASSROOM SYSTEM

As the name implies, this wireless microphone system is suitable for use in classrooms, boardrooms, training rooms, and conference rooms. It has a portable, sleek design with a wall-mounted allowance for convenience. It accepts three different line-level inputs.

One of the best parts of this equipment is that it is wall mounted. This eliminates the need for bulky components like mounting pads and stands that should serve as placement tops for the microphone system. In the absence of these components, there is more space, and there is no cluster from this equipment. The mic can simply be placed in a convenient corner of the room, effectively serving its purpose.

The CRS301 can simultaneously control two infrared wireless microphones, and each device can adjust its volume by independent controls to obtain the best audio effects for each room layout.

Features:

• Low voltage system
• 40 Watt UL Listed Digital Amplifier
• ADA audio compliant
• Dual microphone controller
• Connects up to 4 to 8 ohms speakers
• Low voltage
• Low heat dissipation
• 7 source input

2. The CRS Infrared Handheld Wireless Microphone Package

This microphone is a bestseller from the most reliable OWI. It has two infrared wireless microphone bands, 2.06 and 2.56 MHz. It also has a 3.5 minijack input for MP3 players and CD players.

Features:

• Two infrared wireless microphone bands, 2.06 and 2.56 MHz.
• A 3.5 minijack input for MP3 players and CD players.

3. HP-AMP-2400 - 2 X 400 WATT * SUBWOOFER OPTION * 70 VOLT AND 8 OHMS

The HP-Amp 2400 is a super powerful microphone. It has several interesting features embedded in it.

Features:

• 2 input options.
• Channel A full frequency
• 2 * 400 Watt Amplifier
• The rack mounting bracket included
• Sub-woofer option flexibility in systems design.
• Connects up to 70 volts, 100 volts, 8-ohm speaker.
• Simple, cost-effective Sub-Woofer option for new and existing designs

4. HP-AMP-250BT - 250 WATT 6 SOURCE PLUS BLUETOOTH AMPLIFIER * 6 ZONE OPTION * 70 VOLT AND 8 OHMS

This microphone is a 250-watt, 6-source amplifier. It comes with Bluetooth, USB, SD card, and MP3. It has 5 microphone input options, so you can choose any of them. The amplifier can be 70 or 100 volts or 8 ohms.

Features:

• 6-source plus Bluetooth
• Built-in Bluetooth
• Built-in Mp3 player, USB, SD Card
• 1 Pre-amp output, 1 group of Aux Send and Aux Return
• MIC 1 priority with mute-function
• Main volume control,
• Treble and bass adjustors
• Power, signal, peak, and fault indication
• 5-segments signal level indication
• Over-current, overheating, and short-circuit protection, with limiter
• Turn on delay and DC offset protection
• Use CMOS power transistor
• 1 large 250-watt 70/100-volt zone or 6 70-volt zone control
• 6 zone 70-volt output with separate volume controls per zone
• Output: 100V, 70V, 4~16 ohm
• Power supply: AC127V, DC24V
• 250 Watts

5. IR20REC-KIT: Infrared Wireless Mic Kit for the Amplified Speakers

This kit has excellent audio quality. It is ideal for use in classrooms, boardrooms, conferences, and meetings.

Features:

• Infrared Wireless Microphone System designed for presenters in educational and institutional settings
• Simultaneous dual-channel operation
• Separate volume controls for each channel on the MC4
• Pendant Mic transmitter with lanyard
• Two wide-angle IR sensors allow for complete room coverage
• IR Sensors can be expanded to tailor coverage to every size room Wide-dispersion emitter array in transmitters
• Unbalanced mixed audio output
• Wireless Handheld Microphone allows for student participation and team teaching

Wireless microphones require little to no maintenance. All you need to do is occasionally check the parts and components of the equipment to ensure that there are no rusts, dents, or bends that can lead to further damage.

In conclusion, choosing a suitable infrared wireless phone is very important. Wireless microphones have taken over the market currently because they exhibit several desirable features. We hope that with this guide, you will be able to make the right choice of infrared wireless microphones when you need one.