Technology is evolving at a fast pace, with traditional cabled and wired systems becoming a thing of the past. Over the last few years, there has been a major improvement in the range of wireless guitar systems - allowing guitarists to move around freely while performing live on stage. Also, reducing the chances of people tripping over wires or accidental unplugging.
However, with so many different brands and models available in the market, choosing the best guitar wireless system for yourself can get confusing. This best guitar wireless system guide will help you choose the right one for yourself. Let’s get started.
What Makes a Good Wireless System?
Below mentioned are a few features you might need to consider paying attention to before buying a guitar wireless system for yourself.
Frequency agility
One of the most important things that you should check before purchasing a guitar wireless system is the frequency agility of the device. The frequency agility refers to whether or not the device can differentiate between the sounds waves being sent to it intentionally and the interference from the surroundings. The more the frequency agility, the better you would be able to perform with your guitar.
The range
Moreover, you should test the frequency range both; outdoors and indoors as the frequency range is technically determined by location.
Number of Devices
Using wireless technology on the same frequency bands often leads to interference. To ensure that this problem does not occur you should look for wireless guitar transmitters that can be connected to one another through different channels. This feature also allows you to connect several pairs of receivers and transmitters without causing interference.
Battery life
One of the biggest benefits of rechargeable wireless systems is that they help you save bucks on having to purchase batteries every now and then. While purchasing a guitar wireless system for yourself, make sure to check out how long the battery of each unit runs. This will help you get a better idea about the battery life, and would help you avoid situations where your battery dies in the middle of a performance.
Other than this, you should also check how long it takes the battery to fully charge. Though there are many different types of batteries available in the market, it’s better if you opt for lithium-ion batteries as they are known to be long-lasting.
Digital wireless system vs analog wireless system - Which one is better?
When it comes to guitar wireless systems, they fall under two categories - digital or analog. As compared to digital, analog guitar wireless systems are much older, however are gradually becoming outdated as digital systems are taking over the market. Both options come with their own advantages and downsides.
The main reason analog wireless systems are so popular till today is because they are easy to use and cost less to produce. Analog wireless guitar systems usually feature a receiver that is connected to a mini speaker via a wire, and a transmitter that is connected to a PA system through a wire.
Whereas, digital guitar wireless systems are becoming more and more popular nowadays as they are easy to set up and are unaffected by interference.
A digital guitar wireless system features a transmitter placed between the PA system and the guitar, that is connected digitally to a mini transmitter box, through a cable.
Moreover, as compared to analog wireless systems, digital ones are much better at retaining the audio quality, which is one of the reasons these are becoming so popular among professionals and experienced guitarists.
How Do You Use a Wireless System for Guitar?
It’s fairly easy to use a guitar wireless system. It involves 4 simple steps that need to be carried out for all systems. However, depending on the model of wireless system you have, you might need to include a few additional steps.
- Turn on the receiver and transmitter
- Make sure that the channel or frequency of both transmitter and receiver is the same.
- Connect the receiver to a speaker and plug in the amplifier
- Activate your guitar’s amp
Most of the time, you would need to pair the receiver and transmitter just like you would pair Bluetooth devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is one of the most important features that guitar wireless systems should have?
A: The best guitar wireless system you choose should offer a decent play time. This would help you play your guitar without having to worry about running out of juice.
Q: Can I use a wireless guitar system with pedals?
A: Yes, you can use your wireless guitar system with pedals. You would be required to simply connect the receiver to your pedal chain rather than connecting it to amp.
Q: Why does my guitar signal cut in and out?
A: If your guitar signal is cutting in and out, then there’s probably a problem in the cable that connects your guitar to the wireless transmitter. The solution is to secure this cable or replace it.
Q: Why does my wireless receiver not power on?
A: If your wireless receiver does not power on, then there’s probably some issue with the power adapter. Try reconnecting the power supply or switching the power outlet. If it still doesn’t work, you will need to replace it.
Q: What wireless guitar system do the pros use?
A: Sennheiser EW 172 G3 is one of the most premium, road-tested wireless guitar systems often used by pro guitarists.