Wireless Microphones. VHF or UHF?

Microphones are used to capture all manner of sounds for any number of reasons. Through the years, the field has evolved to encompass two main standards when it comes to wireless microphones. One is VHF and the other is UHF. Each has its own specifications that distinguish them from one another. Following is some pertinent information on UHF and VHF wireless microphones.

UHF versus VHF

UHF stands for ultra high frequency. This standard is thought by many to give a superior signal than VHF (very high frequency), due to many and varied considerations. One is its separation from other transmission sources, which results in non-mixing of signals and thus better overall clarity. It does this because it transmits over a wide range of frequencies that is at least ten times greater than those used by VHF.

This means greater utility without interference. As an example, when one is using it in certain locations with foreign transmissions, there could be major problems with snagging other signals or being picked up by another unrelated radio signal. With UHF, the broader span of radio frequencies mitigates the difficulties concerning mixed signals associated with VHF.

That being said, VHF is still around for a reason, even though it is outperformed by the UHF standard by a long-shot. UHF wireless mic systems are so heavy on the pocket-book that the varience in quality doesn't concern most people. Simply put, UHF wireless systems cost a lot. In addition, it is unlikely in many situations that interference will indeed take place with the VHF standard unless working in specific contexts.

The best of the pros will most often use UHF as opposed to amateurs or hobbyists. This more up to date standard can be seen as insurance when recording or performing. For instance, the extra expense can determine the quality of vocals, live performances and other similar situations. If interference is bothersome, the performance or the recording can certainly lessen the impact a lot, especially when there is no chance for doing it repeatedly. So, those professionals are readily willing to pay for the advantages that UHF offers.

Frequency Ranges

It must be noted that when dealing with these microphones, the term frequency does not refer to the frequency at which the voice is being recorded or sampled. Rather, it's indicating the frequency at which the signal projecting from the microphone or body-pack transmitter travels to the targeted receiver. VHF wireless set-ups will usually be found transmitting from 170Mhz and 216Mhz. This is in marked opposition to the transmission spectrum of UHF systems, which is likely to be somewhere between 450Mhz-952Mhz if not more.

Suppliers

Three main suppliers of both professional and amateur UHF and VHF systems are Shure, Audio-Technica and Sennheiser. The 3 are known for their dependability and provide from the simple 1-mic configuration to multi-mic and receiver units in both VHF and UHF. A few set-ups are even interchangeable.

All-in-all, what differentiates the two is performance and cost. UHF is a lot more costly. Consequently its also superior in performing than VHF. Notwithstanding, it must be noted that the discrepancy in quality and usefulness hasn't lead the makers to discontinue VHF just because the price difference is considrable. For those of you who are shopping for a system, make certain to enumerate your needs in order to aid in making a better choice and indeed, what you can afford.


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Bruce Hathaway has been a recording engineer and musician for over 25 years. Through this experience, including his own home project studio, he has become an audio expert offering advice to other musicians interested in recording. If you're interested in microphones and mic accessories, click on the link to see Bruce's online shop.