To add a clip-on or headset microphone to a wireless microphone system, you need a bodypack transmitter: a small unit that connects to the microphone and transmits the microphone signal to your receiver.
Mini-Transmitters for Wireless Clip-On Microphones
Clip-on or lavalier microphones are generally too small to house an in-built transmitter, which is precisely why they're typically plugged into a bodypack transmitter. Bodypack transmitters are worn on the body (secured to a belt, for instance), and require a power supply. Almost all bodypack transmitters run on AA batteries or a built-in rechargeable battery.
Expanding a Wireless System With a Headset Microphone
Beltpack transmitters can also be used in combination with headset microphones and can feature different inputs. Sennheiser beltpacks are usually equipped with a 3.5mm TRS mini-jack input, while Shure uses 4-pin TA4M inputs. AKG beltpacks generally come with a 3-pin TA3M input.
Microphone Receivers for Cameras
Besides beltpack transmitters, you can get beltpack receivers. A beltpack receiver is perfect for video productions since it can be connected directly to the camera and doesn't keep you on a leash like plugging in a cable would.
Beltpack Receivers for In-Ear Systems
If you're looking for a bodypack receiver for a wireless in-ear system, then check out our range of In-Ear Headphone Parts. Compared to regular bodypacks, in-ear beltpacks serve as receivers instead of transmitters. They're stereo too and come fitted with a headphone output.
Bluetooth or UHF Frequencies
Most professional wireless microphone systems run on the UHF frequency band, so the radio frequencies between 300 and 3,000MHz. Within this band, several frequency ranges are reserved for wireless audio, and some of those frequencies require a permit. It's best to go for UHF-based systems whenever you need to use many wireless systems at the same time. If your set-up isn't as extensive or professional, you're better off with Bluetooth or the 2.4Ghz frequency band as neither requires any permit.
