The biggest bonus of opting for a wireless guitar system over jack leads is that you can simply send the signal of your guitar to your amp cable-free and set yourself up with the freedom to use every inch of the stage.
Amplifying a Guitar or Bass Cable-Free
Amplifying a guitar or bass without needing any cables is a more accessible setup than it's ever been. Modern wireless guitar systems are easy to set up and control, and they're only getting more affordable. There's no need to link your guitar and amp via a jack lead when you use a wireless system, which doesn't just give you full freedom to move, but clears the stage of hazardous cables and removes the risk of accidentally ripping the jack plug out of your amp - and these days, you can pick up a wireless system for as little £50! If you need help finding the right system for your setup, take a look at our Wireless Guitar System Buyer's Guide.
Transmitters & Receivers
The way that a wireless guitar system works is actually based on a fairly simple concept. Plug a signal transmitter into the jack port of your guitar and it'll literally transmit your guitar signal to a wireless receiver, which will usually be plugged into your pedalboard or your amplifier. Wireless systems are usually powered by a rechargeable battery pack or by standard AA batteries, so if you're going wireless, always check the battery charge level before any gigs, or keep some fresh batteries in your guitar case. The charge time will also differ depending on the model, so some can take between three and four hours to recharge and once done, will give you around ten to twelve hours of performance. The transmission range (so the distance you can move the transmitter away from the receiver without the signal dropping out) will also depend on the system you use, but even an average model will give you around fifteen metres of range.
Professional Wireless Guitar Systems
As well as entry-level models, we also stock an array of professional wireless guitar systems. Some of these systems can be just as easy to set up and control as budget-friendly systems, while some are extensive bits of kit that have been built to withstand years of touring and offer outstanding sound quality. A lot of these systems will include beltpack transmitters that are plugged into your guitar and ensure superior signal transfer and minimal latency (signal delay). Some systems also have more than one channel so multiple musicians can be linked to the same system, each tuned into a different channel.
Digital Wireless Guitar Systems & Different Frequency Bands
Any wireless audio system operates over a specific frequency band. Digital wireless transmitters, for example, use the 2.4 GHz band, which can be used legally all over the world, usually without the need for a licence. The downside of these systems is that they share the same frequency band as WiFi and Bluetooth signals, which can cause havoc in built up areas where everyone has their phone out. So instead, we advise going for a lower band that you can still use license free in the UK or the country you're planning a tour in. You can find more details about what bands you can and can't use in our more general guide to wireless microphones and frequencies.
