Essential Differences Between UHF and VHF Wireless Mics

Over the last few years the phenomenon of Wireless Mics has become a standard for singers and instrumentalists alike. There are 2 basic types - UHF and VHF. Both have their pluses and minuses. Here then is a basic article on the 2 types.

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 segregation from other transmitters, which makes for non-crossing of waves and therefore more integrity. It does so by transmitting over a broad spectrum of frequencies that is 5 times if not 10 times greater than the frequencies 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 the majority of conditions that confusion between those frequencies can take place with VHF systems (unless working in specific contexts).

High level professionals will generally use the UHF standard rather than amateurs or hobbyists. This more up to date standard can be seen as insurance when recording or performing. For example, lots of money rides on the quality of recorded voices, events and the like. 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. Accordingly, those pros are inclined to pay more for the assets that UHF furnishes.

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 systems will most often transmit from 170Mhz-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.