On stage, a convincing performance usually needs plenty of freedom to move. Nobody wants to “dance on a leash”, sing, or play a solo on the runway of an arena stage right in the middle of the crowd. For wireless transmission, you need a wireless microphone system (often referred to as an RF link). Here you’ll find an overview of common system types plus practical tips on what really matters when buying.
Wireless microphones aren’t just for big stages. For presentations, interviews, family events or hosting, cables won’t get in the way—especially when the mic is passed around. Like other RF links, a handheld system consists of a transmitter and receiver that send the signal wirelessly.
Key factors are reliable transmission, a suitable frequency choice, and a clear battery/rechargeable status indicator to avoid unexpected dropouts. Many modern systems can scan licence-exempt ranges for channels with minimal interference. If you’re not using it, switch off the transmitter (handheld mic) to extend runtime. With multiple wireless channels, receivers are often integrated into a 19" rack; connections to the mixing console are usually located on the rear panel.
Compact handheld set for speech and vocals: AKG WMS 40 Mini Vocal / ISM 1.
Licence-exempt and licensed frequencies in Germany
In Germany, it is regulated which frequency bands are licence-exempt and which require registration/licensing. Even if manufacturers design their systems accordingly, a quick check is worthwhile—especially for older systems (pre-2016), as some ranges have since been reallocated for LTE or DVB-T services. In licence-exempt bands, the risk of interference is generally higher than in assigned/licensed ranges. A system that supports both options can therefore be a smart choice. Registration is handled by the Bundesnetzagentur (Federal Network Agency) and may involve fees and annual costs per transmitter. Details are available on the Bundesnetzagentur website.
With headset systems, the transmitter is not a handheld mic. Instead, it connects to a microphone mounted on a headband. When buying, make sure the headband fits your head size and remains comfortable for longer use. The bodypack transmitter is typically worn on a belt or placed in a pocket.
Headset systems are ideal wherever maximum freedom of movement is needed—such as fitness classes, public speaking, theatre, or musical performances.
Headset wireless system for full freedom of movement: AKG WMS 40 Mini Earmic Set.
Lavalier systems (clip-on mics) are used when the main goal is speech capture, but handheld mics or headsets are not desired for visual reasons. Here too, there is an external transmitter connected to the mic via cable.
Lavalier microphones are popular in TV and stage environments, as they barely restrict gestures and movement and can be worn very discreetly.
For presentations and hosting: AKG PW 45 Presenter Set (bodypack + receiver + lavalier).
What benefits singers also helps instrumentalists: especially on larger stages, many players want to step forward for a solo or move freely. That’s why there are instrument wireless systems that emulate the sound of an instrument cable or let the receiver integrate directly into a pedalboard—sometimes with a built-in tuner. For instruments with a 1/4" jack socket, compact plug-in transmitters are also available.
In-ear monitoring
Wireless links are also used for in-ear monitoring—but in the opposite direction: the signal is transmitted from the mixing console to the musician. Instead of a transmitter, the musician wears a receiver. In practice, it’s common for performers to use both a transmitter (for their instrument/mic) and a receiver (for in-ear) on their belt at the same time.
Beyond the system type, the most important factor is which frequency range your wireless system uses. While licence-exempt bands are often chosen for casual use, professional touring productions typically rely on assigned/licensed frequencies—especially when many wireless channels run in parallel. If you travel internationally, it’s worth checking national regulations in advance.
Other key criteria include range (depending on the system, up to around 100 metres) as well as battery/rechargeable performance. Alongside runtime, charging time matters too—so every transmitter is reliably ready when the show starts.
A frequency band is a defined range within the radio spectrum. Each band has a lower and an upper boundary frequency.
Licence-exempt (private): 174–230 MHz, 823–832 MHz, 863–865 MHz, 1785–1805 MHz, 1880–1900 MHz, 2.4 GHz
Licence-exempt (professional): 470–608 MHz, 614–703 MHz, 733–758 MHz
Assigned/licensed: 1492–1525 MHz (indoor use only)
The ranges 703–733 MHz and 758–788 MHz have not been assigned to wireless microphones since 3 March 2015. The LTE downlink blocks (758–788 and 791–821 MHz) have also not been allocated to wireless microphones since early 2020.
VHF (Very High Frequency) covers 30–300 MHz; in event production, the 174–230 MHz range is especially relevant. Under current regulations, VHF systems up to 50 mW are generally assigned until the end of 2025 and can be used licence-exempt on a mobile basis.
UHF (Ultra High Frequency) spans roughly 300 MHz to 3 GHz.
Within the EU, the 863–865 MHz range is widely licence-exempt and commonly used for simple wireless applications.
If you run many wireless channels in parallel (e.g., larger productions), assigned/licensed ranges often provide more planning reliability and less interference risk than licence-exempt bands.
Key factors are the frequency range/standard, scan & sync features, antenna and diversity reception concept, plus the RF environment (many wireless users, Wi-Fi/2.4 GHz traffic, structural shielding). For critical use, choose a system with reliable channel planning.
That depends on the frequency range, system bandwidth and the local RF environment. In suitable UHF bands, professional systems can support far more simultaneous channels than entry-level solutions.
For live use, XLR and 1/4" jack are common. Also look for output level options (Mic/Line), solid rack mounting, and easy-to-read status indicators (RF/AF, battery, channel).
Reliable runtime with a clear indicator is essential. Charging time matters just as much, so transmitters are ready before showtime. For longer sessions, spare batteries/packs and a defined changeover plan are recommended.