Wireless Shure Microphone Issue

August 4, 2013 11:27 AM

We have two Shure brand wireless microphones, model number SLX2. One works perfectly fine, but the other one, not so much. Actually, it's fine most of the time, but is prone to blasts of static while someone is speaking into it. The events happen about 10 to 15 minutes apart, so it's not too annoying, but there is an issue. As far as I know, the batteries in it are brand new. Any thoughts on what the issue could be?
posted by NoMich to Technology (6 answers total)

Try changing frequencies? Large parts of the wireless spectrum were sold off recently, including the frequencies used by wireless mics. Could be interference from any sort of wireless device. Hop around within the frequencies available with your device--you may find a cleaner part of the spectrum.
posted by mollymayhem at 1:11 PM on August 4, 2013

It could just be a bad mic, either the diaphragm or electrical connections. We had a Sennheiser lav mic that made "S" sounds into scratchy distorted noise even though the levels were fine and everything else was ok - making sure frequencies matched on transmitter and receiver, trying different frequencies etc.

I figured out it was the mic itself by testing every combination of mic, transmitter, receiver and other cabling (which seemed like it took forever). We sent the mic back to Sennheiser and thy sent us a new one (I think it was still under warranty).

Can you switch the mic cartridge with the other transmitter and see if the mic cartridge still has the static?

If you troubleshoot all the other components and determine it's the mic itself, if it's under warranty I'd send it back for repair or replacement.
posted by under_petticoat_rule at 1:13 PM on August 4, 2013

Have you been to the Shure Frequency finder to make sure that you are using the proper groups and channels. I know that the SLX series does infrared syncing but this is a good place to start if you have eliminated mechanical issues. Also if you are traveling with the band always re-sync when arriving at a new location. 50 miles radius can make a difference in relation to TV stations and such.
posted by HappyHippo at 3:20 PM on August 4, 2013 [1 favorite]

What happens if you just listen to dead air? IE, mute the mic but still transmit and monitor the signal. That should tell you whether there is some kind of interference, or if the mic itself has gone bad.

Also, those batteries should always be checked or replaced prior to each show. Depending on your tolerance for dead air, anyway.
posted by gjc at 3:37 PM on August 4, 2013

HappyHippo most likely has it (hi Dugg!).

SLX is sold in frequency-specific packages that have designations like G4 and H5.

Some ranges are contraindicated for certain cities.

With the Shure Frequency finder and the frequency range designation for your package, you can pretty quickly find out if you're going to have problems in your area.

Also, if the venues you are in have other events running simultaneously, you might be running into a situation where someone three rooms down is using the same frequency and your receiver is latching onto their signal intermittently. Make friends with the in-house AV and trade frequency lists.
posted by tomierna at 3:58 PM on August 4, 2013

Seconding all of the above answers.
posted by soundguy99 at 5:41 PM on August 4, 2013