Digital Frequency Guide 2015

LOSING YOUR VOICE

What you need to know about
Wireless Audio

www.losingyourvoice.co.uk
Discover why the single biggest threat
to wireless audio is in your pocket.
Wireless microphones are essential to modern production values. From
live performances to big events, corporate conferences to your local house
of worship, wireless systems are everywhere.
The world’s first model was the Shure Vagabond, which was first
introduced in 1953. Early designs were primitive, but thanks to modern
and more affordable technology, we now see wireless microphones
and in-ear monitors used by virtually every live event across the globe.
Irrespective of their venue or event, uninterrupted high quality audio is
critical. Any interference experienced that causes audio failure has severe
repercussions for both the production and audience alike.
For wireless systems to work without interruption, we need access to
clean RF (radio frequency) spectrum; this is fundamental rule number
one. Until recently, we’ve enjoyed access to relatively large amounts of
high-quality spectrum for the operation of wireless systems. However,
recent years have turned the entire industry on its head. Our ability to use
wireless systems in any capacity is now under immense strain, and there
could soon be insufficient clean spectrum available to reliably operate
wireless equipment across the UK.

4
 THE IMPORTANCE OF UHF
Wireless microphones have been in regular production since 1957,
operating primarily in VHF and UHF spectrum. UHF in particular is the
preferential space in which to operate; the gold mine of spectrum if you
will, and subsequently it has become subject to exploitation in recent years.

Why UHF?
Although we cannot directly compare radio frequencies to sound waves, one
characteristic they do share some similarity with is wavelength. Much like
sound waves, lower frequencies have a longer wavelength, and therefore
their propagation characteristics are stronger, which means they penetrate
surfaces better and traverse greater distances without the need for a boost.

In a nutshell, UHF bands offer the largest quantity of good quality spectrum
at the best frequencies required for large professional events. Furthermore,
we can easily account for TV interference in the UHF bands as it is
predictable - we cannot say the same for other parts of RF spectrum as
these are often de-regulated and shared by technology such as WiFi.

For years, professional wireless microphones and in-ear monitor systems

happily shared UHF spectrum from 470 - 865MHz as a secondary user
alongside the transmission of analogue television. The aforementioned
included Channel 69 (854 – 862MHz) as a reserved channel for microphone
use by the creative AV and broadcasting industries; otherwise known as
Program Making & Special Events (PMSE).

This arrangement has now completely changed, and the reason for this is
likely sat in your pocket; you might even be using it right now.

5 LOSING YOUR VOICE

WHAT’S THE PROBLEM?
As you’ve probably guessed, it’s related to your mobile. The last 15 years
have seen the explosion of mobile phones, and then, in rapid succession, the
demand to have fast wireless internet access available on these devices. We
now live in a world where access to information has never been easier and
digital content is more readily consumed than ever before. Let’s face it; we’re
addicted to our mobile devices.

Nevertheless, mobile phones in isolation aren’t the problem. We all use mobile
phones; we all love the convenience and freedom that comes with mobile
data. The problem stems from the recent expansion into next generation 4G
services and how this affects the UHF spectrum we use.

Thanks to mobile phones, RF (Radio Frequency) spectrum has never been

in such widespread use by the general public, and subsequently there is far
more commercial interest in wireless RF spectrum than ever. The truth is,
rights and licenses to use spectrum are now big business, and the current
battleground is UHF. The amount of this high-quality spectrum available
for the reliable operation of wireless audio is rapidly decreasing, and the
consequences for modern productions are severe.

HOW DID WE GET HERE?

In order to understand what’s going on, we need to take a small step back.
In 2003, the UK Government announced that television services would
be switching from analogue to digital transmission. With the assumption
that this spectrum would no longer be in use, the government immediately
followed up with plans to auction off the usage rights. This process and the
income it would generate for the UK Government from the highest bidders
became known as the Digital Dividend Review (DDR).

The auction finished in early 2013 with users of wireless equipment

being the most severely affected group. Sadly, the entire 800MHz band
(790-862MHz) of UHF spectrum (including Channel 69) was cleared for
eventual use by next generation 4G mobile broadband. Subsequently,
anyone operating wireless systems in the 800MHz band is now prone to
high levels of interference, and more importantly are also breaking the law.

6
 Regrettably, without the same budget and lobbying power as the mobile
phone industry, the future of spectrum for wireless audio is at significant
risk. Through the DDR process, a large amount of our operating space has
simply disappeared overnight, and, unfortunately, it can happen again.

THE IRONY OF DIGITAL STREAMING

Looking at this from another angle, here’s an interesting thought for you:

‘The primary purpose of fast mobile broadband is to meet the growing

demand for digital content.’

However, a significant amount of said content relies heavily on wireless

systems to uphold production values.

Try to imagine a London West End show without discrete wireless

microphones, or a large concert without in-ear monitors. Ironically, you
might get your HD content faster, but it will be at the expense of high-quality
production values.

Furthermore, creative industries that rely on wireless systems are growing

at an impressive rate. In the UK, the creative industries are currently
responsible for 1.7 million jobs and contribute nearly £76.9 billion to the
economy. Similarly, music
festivals, theatre shows and live
music concerts also contribute a
significant amount to the British
purse; all of which need clean,
reliable RF to operate.

Despite the above, commercial

pressures on the government
to release even more UHF
spectrum for mobile remain
high, and subsequently; the
future of RF spectrum (and
our content production quality)
remains uncertain. Somehow,
we must establish a balance
in order to retain production
values.

7 LOSING YOUR VOICE

SAVING OUR SOUND
Shure are at the forefront of discussions not only in the UK, but also in Europe
and the United States. To help secure a future for wireless audio, we actively
campaigned alongside BEIRG in the UK (British Entertainment Industry Radio
Group). Early and intensive lobbying resulted in the PMSE industry being
granted access to the new digital television bands; meaning that we can share
this spectrum on an interleaved basis much like we used to with analogue TV.

Additionally, Channel 38 was named as the new dedicated home for wireless
microphones after the digital TV switchover. Much like Channel 69, the new
Channel 38 is setup as the only Ofcom recognised and protected home for
PMSE equipment. It is important to note, however, that channel 38 only
accommodates a relatively small number of wireless microphones (on average
8). This number of channels is not sufficient for large productions requiring
significantly more UHF spectrum.

THE FUTURE
Unfortunately, the story doesn’t end here. Despite significant steps to secure
the remaining spectrum, additional bands are now subject to a similar review.

In November 2014, Ofcom announced the decision to remove PMSE users

from the 700 MHz band. The decision to reallocate another UHF band to
Mobile Network Operators by 2020 is a considerable blow to users of wireless
systems and puts additional strain on our industry.

While we recognise that mobile broadband brings benefits to consumers in

the future, this should not be at the expense of other incumbent users of
UHF spectrum. The clearance of 800MHz has already placed considerable
technical and financial burdens on our industry and without sufficient access
to spectrum, the ability to produce content for consumers will be severely
hindered. Therefore, it is in the interest of new users to recognise, respect and
co-exist with PMSE users to ensure that we satisfy the requirements of modern
productions.

One thing is certain: electromagnetic spectrum is a national resource. Just like

gold or oil, there is only so much of it, and if the Government continues to clear
more UHF spectrum, we will eventually run out. Everyone, including the mobile
industry, must be more efficient to ensure we make the most of a finite resource.

8
 HOW WE’RE MAKING WIRELESS
MICROPHONES MORE EFFICIENT
Our journey to achieve a new standard of excellence for wireless began the
minute we learnt what was going to happen to UHF spectrum. We combined
extensive research with our knowledge of wireless systems spanning over
50 years to help develop the ultimate wireless system, and the result was
Axient® Wireless Management Network.

Axient pioneered a range of technologies, including interference detection

and avoidance, advanced power management, and networked control to
deliver a purpose-built system for difficult RF environments. For the first
time, engineers could be truly confident their system would work in the most
hostile of RF scenarios.

Given the uncertainty for RF spectrum, having an efficient wireless solution

is essential. So what do you do if your budget doesn’t stretch to a system
like Axient?

Recognising how critical the new Axient features have become, we have
set upon (wherever possible) bringing the same advanced technology to
our entire wireless product range. The rollout began with ULX-D, which
sets a new standard for spectrum efficiency, and more recently with new
QLX-D and GLX-D wireless systems; both of which bring advanced wireless
technology to a more obtainable price bracket.

Throughout the rest of this guide, you will discover a host of solutions to the
challenges facing our industry. Each system is designed to deliver flawless
audio, no matter what your budget, and in all cases; audio quality is
non-negotiable. It must meet our exacting standards.

Details of all Shure products that are compatible with the currently
available spectrum can be found on page 31, alternatively,
visit www.shure.co.uk or call the Shure Sales Team on 01992
703058 for more information or advice.

9 LOSING YOUR VOICE

MASTER YOUR WIRELESS
WITH SHURE ACADEMY
If you’re still feeling a little confused, you’re not alone! The changes to
RF spectrum covered in this guide are complex at the best of times. To
help users of wireless systems understand and operate their setup more
effectively, we regularly run a “Wireless Mastered” seminar.

Wireless Mastered provides an in-depth look into RF Technology and hands-

on training with Shure’s industry leading wireless products. When combined
with the information in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a
wireless expert.

Visit Shure-Academy.co.uk for a list of upcoming dates.

10
 FREQUENCIES YOU CAN USE FOR
WIRELESS MICROPHONES & IEM’S
Wireless microphones and in-ear monitors operate in dedicated blocks
of spectrum. In the UK the majority of systems operate in the so called
UHF bands but there are a few other parts of spectrum that are available
for wireless systems.

1 TV Channel 38 (606-614MHz)

Note: A Shared Licence is required by law to legally operate
wireless mics and IEM systems in Channel 38. Channel 38 is
shared spectrum with other users of PMSE equipment and is
available across the UK. Please contact Arqiva at
www.pmse.co.uk to obtain a licence.

2 470-606MHz (TV Channels 21-37) and 614-790MHz

(TV Channels 39-60) are available for wireless microphones and
IEM’s on an interleaved basis. These blocks of spectrum are to be
used for large events, fixed installations and other special project
events only and require a licence for legal operation. Refer to
www.pmse.co.uk.

3 
The deregulated licence-free spectrum from 863-865MHz
remains available. Shure recomends the use of 2.4GHz systems
over 863-865 MHz

4 
The 2.4GHz band is available for use across the UK and is
license free. This band is ideal for small channel counts and
environments where a long distance transmission is not required.

11 LOSING YOUR VOICE

BLX Wireless
Shure BLX Wireless Systems combine professional-quality sound with
simple setup and an intuitive interface for legendary audio performance right
out of the box. Precision-built and available in a variety of configurations.

BLX Wireless Frequency Bands/Versions:

K3E* covers TV channels 38 – 40 606 – 630MHz

K14 covers TV channels 39 – 41 614 – 638MHz

*AVAILABLE FOR USE WITH A CHANNEL 38 LICENCE

K3E: Twelve compatible frequencies

per band (region dependent).

Which frequency version

should I purchase?
The primary UK frequency version
is K3E. This version covers
TV channel 38. For fixed-site
installations, users may choose the
K14 version asthis operates only in
the interleaved spectrum. Please
contact PMSE.co.uk for licensing
information.

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 GLX-D Digital Wireless
Revolutionary Shure GLX-D Digital Wireless Systems combine leading-edge
LINKFREQ Automatic Frequency Management technology with best-in-
class intelligent lithium-ion battery rechargeability (16 hours continuous use
from one charge) to define the new standard for seamless operation and
digital audio clarity.

Available in a variety of configurations, including the first Shure pedal-

mounted guitar option

GLX-D Wireless Frequency Band/Version:

Z2* covers 2.4GHz band

How many systems can I use together?

Up to five systems can be used together with Shure’s Interference Detection
and Avoidance. This technology seamlessly moves away from interference
to backup frequencies without audio interruption.

Eight systems can be used together without backup frequencies.

This should only be used in controlled Wi-Fi environments.

What’s the key benefit of choosing 2.4GHz?

GLX-D operates within the 2.4GHz band which is utilised by Wi-Fi, Bluetooth,
and other wireless devices. The benefit of 2.4GHz is that it’s a global band
that can be used anywhere in the world, licence-free.

There is only one frequency version of GLX-D available. Z2 – 2.4GHz band

*No licence is required for GLX-D

13 LOSING YOUR VOICE

14
 SLX® Wireless
Unparalleled ease of set-up and exceptional audio quality.
SLX is installation-ready out-of-the-box and has a wide selection of legendary
Shure microphones to choose from. SLX offers a tailored solution for virtually
any application where rack mounted units and remote antennas are required.

SLX Wireless Frequency Bands/Versions:

K3E* covers TV channels 38 – 40 606 – 630MHz

G4E covers TV channels 21 – 23 470 – 494MHz
G5E covers TV channels 24 – 26 494 – 518MHz
L4E covers TV channels 42 – 44 638 – 662MHz
P4 covers TV channels 50 – 52 702 – 726MHz

*AVAILABLE FOR USE WITH A CHANNEL 38 LICENCE

K3E: Twelve compatible frequencies per band (region dependent).

Which frequency version should I purchase?

We suggest K3E as this is the primary UK version that covers Channel 38.
Please note that a licence is required to operate wireless microphones in
Channel 38.
Please contact PMSE.co.uk for licensing information.

15 LOSING YOUR VOICE

Larger installations or systems:
In case you need more than fourteen compatible systems to run
simultaneously, multiple frequency bands can be combined to achieve
this. Call the Shure Applications Department for frequency co-ordination
information and assistance.
See page 27 for contact information.

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 FP Portable Wireless
FP Wireless is the perfect choice when portability is required to capture
professional sound in demanding and dynamic broadcast or field
production environments. Portable FP systems feature proven wireless
technology, including Shure patented Audio Reference Companding, and
intuitive, flexible components such as portable receivers and XLR plug-on
transmitters.

FP Portable Wireless Frequency Bands/Versions:

K3E* covers TV channels 38 – 40 606 – 630MHz

G4E covers TV channels 21 – 23 470 – 494MHz
G5E covers TV channels 24 – 26 494 – 518MHz
L4E covers TV channels 42 – 44 638 – 662MHz
P4 covers TV channels 50 – 52 702 – 726MHz

*AVAILABLE FOR USE WITH A CHANNEL 38 LICENCE

K3E: Twelve compatible frequencies per band (region dependent).

Which frequency version should I purchase?

We suggest K3E as this is the primary UK version that covers Channel 38.
Please note that a licence is required to operate wireless microphones in
Channel 38.
Please contact PMSE.co.uk for licensing information.

17 LOSING OUR VOICE

18
 QLX-D® Wireless
QLX-D™ Digital Wireless Systems deliver defined, streamlined performance
with transparent 24-bit digital audio. Combining professional features
with simplified setup and operation, QLX-D offers outstanding wireless
functionality for demanding live sound events and installations.

QLX-D Wireless Frequency Bands/Versions:

K51* covers TV channels 38 – 44 606 – 670MHz

G51 covers TV channels 21 – 28 470 – 534MHz*
H51 covers TV channels 29 – 36 534 – 598MHz
L51 covers TV channels 41 – 78 632 – 696MHz
P51 covers TV channels 51 – 59 710 – 782MHz

*AVAILABLE FOR USE WITH A CHANNEL 38 LICENCE

K51: Twenty-two compatible frequencies per TV Channel, ie Channel 38
(region dependent).

Which frequency version should I purchase?

We suggest K51 as this is the primary UK version that covers Channel 38.
Note that a licence is required to operate wireless microphones in Channel 38.

19 LOSING OUR VOICE

20
 ULX-D® Wireless
ULX-D wireless systems for professional installed sound reinforcement.
Shure ULX-D offers a premium 24-bit/48kHz digital audio quality combined
with spectrum-efficient and intelligent RF performance. ULX-D offers a
host of ground-breaking technologies which make the product perfectly
suited for large installations, corporate AV rentals or professional PA Rental
companies.

ULX-D Wireless Frequency Bands/Versions:

K51* covers TV channels 38 – 44 606 – 670MHz

G51 covers TV channels 21 – 28 470 – 534MHz*
H51 covers TV channels 29 – 36 534 – 598MHz
L51 covers TV channels 41 – 78 632 – 696MHz
P51 covers TV channels 51 – 59 710 – 782MHz

*AVAILABLE FOR USE WITH A CHANNEL 38 LICENCE

K51: Twenty-two compatible frequencies per TV Channel, ie Channel 38

(region dependent). High Density Mode further enhances this efficiency and
permits sixty-three channels to be simultaneously used in one TV band.

Which frequency version should I purchase?

We suggest K51 as this is the primary UK version that covers Channel 38.
Note that a licence is required to operate wireless microphones in Channel 38.

21 LOSING YOUR VOICE

Larger installations or systems:
In case you need assistance with the co-ordination of a large ULX-D
system call the Shure Applications Department for frequency co-ordination
information and assistance. See page 27 for contact information.

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 UHF-R® Wireless
Premier Wireless Technology
Shure UHF-R® Wireless Microphone Systems master the high pressure and
extreme conditions of any large-scale touring or installation environment
while delivering uncompromising audio.
Rock-solid engineering, the latest technology, and unparalleled RF
performance provide sound professionals with all the features and flexibility
they need to tightly control up to 108 systems for the most elaborate
productions.

UHF-R Wireless Frequency Bands/Versions:

K4E covers TV channels 38 – 45 606 – 666MHz

H4E covers TV channels 27 – 34 518 – 578MHz
G1E covers TV channels 21 – 28 470 – 530MHz
J5E covers TV channels 34 – 41 578 – 638MHz
L3E covers TV channels 42 – 49 638 – 698MHz
M5E covers TV channels 49 – 56 694 – 758MHz

*AVAILABLE FOR USE WITH A CHANNEL 38 LICENCE

K4E: Forty-five compatible frequencies per band (region dependent).

Which frequency version should I purchase?

We suggest K4E as this is the primary UK version that covers Channel 38.
Note that a licence is required to operate wireless microphones in Channel 38.

23 LOSING YOUR VOICE

Larger installations or systems:
In case you need more than forty-five compatible systems to run
simultaneously, multiple frequency bands can be combined to achieve this.
UHF-R can be used to make extremely large systems (100 channels or
more) for the most demanding performances. Call the Shure Applications
Department for frequency co-ordination information and assistance. See
page 27 for contact information.

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 PSM® 300 In-Ear Monitoring
The PSM®300 Stereo Personal Monitor System delivers detailed 24-bit
digital audio processing and reliable wireless freedom to every corner of the
stage. Dependable wireless coverage extends over 90 meters of range and
eliminates dropouts.

Easy to setup and operate, PSM®300 systems offer one-touch frequency

scan and sync to find and assign a clean wireless channel. Adjust the
volume and use MixMode® technology or stereo mode to create a personal
mix from two channels of audio.

PSM® 300 Wireless Frequency Bands/Versions:

K3E* covers TV channels 38 – 40 606 – 630MHz

H8E covers TV channels 27 – 29 518 – 542MHz
L19 covers TV channels 41 – 43 630 – 654MHz

*AVAILABLE FOR USE WITH A CHANNEL 38 LICENCE

K3E: Fifteen compatible frequencies per band (region dependent).

Which frequency version should I purchase?

We suggest K3E as this is the primary UK version that covers Channel 38.
Note that a licence is required to operate wireless microphones in Channel 38.

25 LOSING OUR VOICE

PSM® 900 In-Ear Monitoring
The PSM® 900 In-Ear Personal Monitoring System offers clear audio
quality and robust RF performance for pro applications. Innovative features
allowing for ease of use and quick setup make it the ideal solution for the
most demanding professional applications.

PSM® 900 Wireless Frequency Bands/Versions:

K1E* covers TV channels 37 – 40 596 – 632MHz

Q15 covers TV channels 56 – 60 750 – 790MHz
G6E covers TV channels 21 – 25 470 – 506MHz
G7E covers TV channels 25 – 29 506 – 542MHz
L6E covers TV channels 44 – 48 656 – 692MHz
P7 covers TV channels 50 – 54 702 – 742MHz

*AVAILABLE FOR USE WITH A CHANNEL 38 LICENCE

K1E: Twenty compatible frequencies per band (region dependent).

Which frequency version should I purchase?

We suggest K1E as this is the primary UK version that covers Channel 38.
Note that a licence is required to operate wireless microphones in Channel 38.

Larger installations or systems:

In case you need more than twenty compatible
systems to run simultaneously, multiple frequency
bands can be combined to achieve this. Call the Shure
Applications Department for frequency co-ordination
information and assistance. See page 27 for
contact information.

26
 PSM® 1000 In-Ear Monitoring
The flagship In-Ear Personal Monitoring System, featuring full rack dual
channel wireless transmitter, ethernet Port for Shure Network Connectivity,
Internal Power Supply and up to 80MHz tuning bandwidth.

PSM® 1000 Wireless Frequency Bands/Versions:

K10E* covers TV channels 36 – 45 596 – 670MHz

G10E covers TV channels 21 – 29 470 – 542MHz
J8E covers TV channels 31 – 39 554 – 626MHz
L8E covers TV channels 41 – 49 626 – 698MHz
L9E covers TV channels 46 – 54 670 – 742MHz
P8 covers TV channels 51 – 60 710 – 790MHz

*AVAILABLE FOR USE WITH A CHANNEL 38 LICENCE

K10E: Forty-nine compatible frequencies per band (region dependent).

Which frequency version should I purchase?

We suggest K10E as this is the primary UK version that covers Channel 38.
Note that a licence is required to operate wireless microphones in Channel 38.

Larger installations or systems:

In case you need more than forty-nine compatible systems
to run simultaneously, multiple frequency bands can be
combined to achieve this. Call the Shure Applications
Department for frequency co-ordination information and
assistance. See page 27 for contact information.

27 LOSING YOUR VOICE

CONTACTS FOR INFORMATION AND SUPPORT
WHO TO CONTACT AT SHURE FOR FURTHER INFORMATION?

Wireless Mastered Helpline: 01992 703 038

Email: applications@shure.co.uk

Shure’s Applications Engineers are your primary contact for any

technical queries, seminars or training requirements.

Tuomo George-Tolonen Tom Colman

Manager - Pro Audio Group Applications Engineer
BEIRG Steering Committee Member
Email: tomc@shuredistribution.co.uk
Email: tuomo@shuredistribution.co.uk

BEIRG (British Entertainment Industry Radio Group)

Founded in late 2004, BEIRG is an independent and non-profit making
organisation working on behalf of all those who use wireless equipment.
BEIRG’s key objective is to secure access to sufficient quality and quantity
of spectrum so our industry can carry on operating the wireless equipment
we have become so dependent on for live performances to broadcasting.
www.beirg.co.uk

For more information on how you can become a BEIRG Member

beirginfo@me.com

Ofcom
The independent regulator and competition authority for the UK
communications industries. www.ofcom.org.uk

Ofcom, Riverside House, 2a Southwark Bridge Road, London SE1 9HA

Switchboard: 0300 123 3000 or 020 7981 3000
Fax: 020 7981 3333
Textphone: 020 7981 3043

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 TABLE SHOWING CURRENT AVAILABILITY OF UK TV CHANNELS
FOR USE BY WIRELESS MICROPHONES AND IEMS.
TV Channel 21 22 23 24 25 26 27
Frequency 470- 478- 486- 494- 502- 510- 518-
Range 478MHz 486MHz 494MHz 502MHz 510MHz 518MHz 526MHz

TV Channel 28 29 30 31 32 33 34
Frequency 526- 534- 542- 550- 558- 566- 574-
Range 534MHz 542MHz 550MHz 558MHz 566MHz 574MHz 582MHz

TV Channel 35 36 37 38 39 40 41
Frequency 582- 590- 598- 606- 614- 622- 630-
Range 590MHz 598MHz 606MHz 614MHz 622MHz 630MHz 638MHz

TV Channel 42 43 44 45 46 47 48
Frequency 638- 646- 654- 662- 670- 678- 686-
Range 646MHz 654MHz 662MHz 670MHz 678MHz 686MHz 694MHz

TV Channel 49 50 51 52 53 54 55
Frequency 694- 702- 710- 718- 726- 734- 742-
Range 702MHz 710MHz 718MHz 726MHz 734MHz 742MHz 750MHz

TV Channel 55 56 57 58 59 60 61
Frequency 742- 750- 758- 766- 774- 782- 790-
Range 750MHz 758MHz 766MHz 774MHz 782MHz 790MHz 798MHz

TV Channel 62 63 64 65 66 67 68
Frequency 798- 806- 814- 822- 830- 838- 846-
Range 806MHz 814MHz 822MHz 830MHz 838MHz 846MHz 854MHz

TV Channel 69 70
Frequency 854- 863-
Range 862MHz 865MHz

Interleaved Spectrum available for wireless microphones and IEM’s now.

Channel 38 available for wireless microphones and IEM’s on a shared licence basis.
Cleared spectrum as a result of DSO. No longer available for wireless microphones
and IEM’s as of 31.12.2012.
TV Channels 31-37 available for PMSE use on a six-month rolling notice period.
Licence-free spectrum available now and not affected by DSO.
Note only 2MHz slice of channel 70 is available.

29 LOSING YOUR VOICE

FAQ’S
What was the 2012 Digital Switchover (DSO)?
The analogue to digital TV switchover was Government policy. It resulted
in almost everyone being able to receive digital TV through an aerial. The
DSO announcement in 2003 was immediately followed by plans to auction
off the rights to use this spectrum. This process and the income it would
generate for the UK Government from the highest bidders became known
as the Digital Dividend Review (DDR).

Why did the DSO affect wireless microphone & IEM

users?
The 800MHz band was previously used by wireless microphones alongside
analogue TV broadcast. Ofcom cleared and auctioned the 800MHz band
to match spectrum being released in other European countries (European
Harmonisation). Today, the 800MHz band is used for 4G mobile data
networks by various operators and is no longer available for use by wireless
microphones and in-ear monitoring systems.

What frequencies were affected by the DSO?

550-606MHz (TV channels 31-37) and 790-862MHz (TV channels 61-69).
However, only the 800MHz band was auctioned and repurposed for 4G.
The “lower block” remains available for PMSE.

What happened to the European harmonised de-regulated

licence-free spectrum between 863–865MHz?
The de-regulated licence-free spectrum (863-865MHz) remains untouched
by DSO. If you are currently operating in this area of spectrum, you are free
to carry on using it.
However, with the introduction of 4G, Ofcom recently conducted a study on
potential interference from 4G services into 863-865MHz. The results of the
study can be found here: http://bit.ly/WNyjGm

30
 What is channel 69?
Channel 69 (854-862MHz) was a dedicated channel for the use of radio
microphones in the UK. By dedicated, we mean not sharing spectrum with
other harmful unlicensed devices such as Bluetooth, & Wi-Fi etc.
Channel 69 was cleared as part of the DSO and is no longer available for PMSE.
OfCom has allocated TV Channel 38 as the replacement for Channel 69.

What is 2.4GHz and when should I use it?

The 2.4GHz band is de-regulated block of spectrum available worldwide for
a variety of services including wireless microphones. 2.4GHz systems are
ideal for small systems exceeding no more than typically 8 channels. One
of the advantages of the 2.4GHz band is that it is license free and available
for use worldwide.

What is the current status of the 700MHz band?

The future of the 700MHz band is currently a hot topic. In November
2014, Ofcom announced the decision to remove PMSE users from the 700
MHz band. The decision to reallocate another UHF band to Mobile Network
Operators by 2020 is a considerable blow to users of wireless systems and
puts additional strain on our industry. The World Radio Conference will
discuss and potentially make a decision on its future in November 2015.

Do I need a licence to operate my wireless microphones

or IEM’s?
Yes. It is required by law in the UK to be in possession of a licence to legally
operate radio microphones or IEM’s unless you are using the de-regulated
spectrum between 863-865MHz or the 2.4GHz band. Contact Arqiva for
licensing information www.pmse.co.uk

31 LOSING OUR VOICE

OVERVIEW OF SHURE WIRELESS
FREQUENCY BANDS/VERSIONS This table illustrates all the usable frequency versions for the United Kingdom. Channel 38 is highlighted in yellow.

865MHz, License Free

Channel 38 available
Shure Interleaved Spectrum currently available for wireless microphones and In-Ear Monitoring Systems. Interleaved Spectrum currently available for wireless microphones and In-Ear Monitoring Systems. Cleared Spectrum as a result of Digital Switchover.

De-Regulated 863-
for licensing now.
Please contact PMSE Arquiva for licensing and availability in your area. Please contact PMSE Arquiva for licensing and availability in your area. No longer available for wireless microphones and
Wireless
Product In-Ear Monitoring Systems since January 2013.
Range

PSM 200 K9E (606-638 MHz) Q3 (749-782 MHz)

L18 (630-654 MHz)

H8E
PSM 300 (518-542 MHz) K3E (606-630 MHz)

G7E (506-542 MHz)

PSM 900 G6E (470-506 MHz) K1E (596-632 MHz) L6E (656-692 MHz) P7 (702-742 MHz) Q15 (750-790 MHz)

K10E (596-670 MHz) P8 (710-790 MHz)

G10E (470-542 MHz) L9E (670-742 MHz)
PSM 1000
J8E (578-638 MHz) L8E (626-698 MHz)

K3E (606-630 MHz)

BLX K14 (614-638 MHz)

GLX-D Operates within 2.4 GHz band - Licence-free Globally Operates within 2.4 GHz band - Licence-free Globally Operates within 2.4 GHz band - Licence Free Globally
G5E (494-518 MHz)
SLX K3E (606-630 MHz) L4E (638-662 MHz) P4 (702-726 MHz)
G4E (470-494 MHz)

G5E (494-518 MHz)

FP K3E (606-630 MHz) L4E (638-662 MHz) P4 (702-726 MHz)
G4E (470-494 MHz)

H51 (534-598 MHz) L51 (632-698 MHz)

QLX-D K51 (606-670 MHz) P51 (710-782 MHz)
G51 (470-534 MHz)

H51 (534-598 MHz) L51 (632-698 MHz)

ULX-D K51 (606-670 MHz) P51 (710-782 MHz)
G51 (470-534 MHz)

H4E (518-578 MHz) K4E (606-666 MHz) M5E (694-758 MHz)

UHF-R L3E (638-698 MHz)
G1E (470-530 MHz) J5E (578-638 MHz)

MXW Operates in DECT – Licence-free Globally Operates in DECT – Licence-free Globally Operates in DECT – Licence Free Globally

MHz 470 478 486 494 502 510 518 526 534 542 550 558 566 574 582 590 598 606 614 622 630 638 646 654 662 670 678 686 694 702 710 718 726 734 742 750 758 766 774 782 790 798 806 814 822 830 838 846 854 862 865

TV CHANNEL 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70
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