Department | Radio Microphones | Channel 38 Radio Mics
Channel 38 Radio MicsIn June 2009 OFCOM announced that RF bandwidth between 854-862MHz ( known as Channel 69 ) would no longer be available for radio mic use, in the UK, from 2012. Previously, this bandwidth has been available on a straightforward annual licence and had been extensively used for multi-way radio mic systems. The changes were subsquently postponed and now take effect on the 1st of January 2013.
863-865MHz ( Channel 70 ) is to remain accessible after 2012. This bandwidth does not require a licence, so can be used free of charge throughout the UK. This situation will remain unchanged after 2012. Equipment capable of operating on Channel 70 therefore remains a viable choice for amateur radio mic users, although the limited bandwidth it offers will not normally enable use of more than 4 x systems.
For professional users who need to operate a larger number of radio mics together as part of a multi-way system, a new area of bandwidth 606-614MHz ( Channel 38 ) has been allocated as the replacement for Channel 69. Channel 38 requires an annual licence which entitles the holder to use multiple systems within Channel 38 throughout the UK, both indoors and outdoors and is therefore the best option for hire companies and users who plan to tour with their radio mics.
Fixed site users ( where the equipment will only be used at one location ) have a greater number of choices available to them. A fixed site licence will enable exclusive use of specific frequencies at a venue and therefore offer the best reliability. Please contact us for more information about fixed site radio mic licencing.
At Mercury we understand that these changes can seem complex and confusing. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you would like to discuss how the changes will affect you. There are various options available to radio mic users looking to buy new equipment and we will be happy to explain these. |
 Sennheiser Channel 38 Radio MicsSennheiser's 'Industry Standard' G3 Series equipment is now available on Frequency Range GB, which is optimised for Channel 38 use.
Choose from the 100 / 300 / 500 G3 Series depending on your budget and the application.
For no compromise applications, Sennheiser 2000 offers exceptional performance. Choose Frequency Range GBW for Channel 38 optimised use. |
 Trantec Channel 38 Radio MicsTrantec are an established British brand producing products that combine high performance with excellent value for money, ideal for budget conscious applications.
All of their products can be ordered on Channel 38 optimised frequency ranges, from the entry level S4.16 systems upto their S5.5 Series.
Trantec Radio mics are also available in 'Racked n Ready' flight-cased systems. |
 Shure Channel 38 Radio MicsShure have a number of industry standard mic capsules in their portfolio, including the classic SM58.
Shure handheld radio mics are a very 'rider friendly' choice for touring applications when bands are likely to specify that they must have an SM58 or BETA58 radio mic. |
 Audio Technica Channel 38 Radio MicsAudio Technica offer good build quality and reliability at an affordable price. In particular the 3000B Series is very good value for money.
Their handheld mics are available with capsules from the Artist Elite Series.
A wide variety of different Audio Technica lapel and headset mics complete the line-up. |
