In the WMS-50 radio mic system, AKG have a developed a diversity system for the masses. Top live sound engineer Jim Ebdon gives his judgement to Chris Kempster...

Where radio microphones were once the preserve of the more established (and wealthy) performers in the business, there are now a variety of models that fall within the budget of the average gigging band.

Whether you're a vocalist or instrumentalist, a radio mic frees up the band to create more of a visual spectacle, as well as working wonders for your mobility. But although the technology has undeniable benefits, there are certain basics that the beginner needs to grasp.

Chief amongst these is the difference between diversity and non-diversity. A diversity system uses two channels to pick up the mic signal, and switches from one signal to the other, depending on the position of the mic at the time. This results in a better, more stable signal than the non-diversity system, which uses only one channel.

AKG's new WMS-50 systems come in three packages — the vocal set, presenter set, and guitar set. Under review is the vocal set, comprising the HT50 mic and SR50 diversity receiver. The question is, has AKG's undoubted expertise in state-of-the-art systems been channelled into producing an effective budget system?

Construction

The HT50 mic is very businesslike in appearance. "As good as any professional radio mic of the moment", says Jim. Finished in matt black, the shape is comfortable in the hand, without being excessively large and cumbersome. A battery LED shows when you need to dive for some fresh Duracells, and the battery compartment is located at the bottom end of the mic body.

Jim found the battery cover slightly awkward to get off, but once you've done it a few times, it shouldn't present a problem (even in the darkness and confusion of a gig). 9V batteries are the diet of this particular mic, and it's always worth remembering to have a few to hand, even though they should last eight hours. Below the battery compartment is an on/off switch, and the aerial.

The SR50 is the HT50's companion, and is simple in both design and operation.

Two aerials indicate that this is a diversity receiver, and there are two LEDs to indicate which channel is being used. Another LED indicates squelch operation, which is controlled by a squelch level pot on the rear panel. Also on the back are two 1/4" audio jacks, one balanced and one unbalanced.

Power is provided by an external power unit. The whole package comes complete in a sturdy black plastic attaché case, much more practical and professional than a throwaway cardboard box.

"crystal clear, with no trace of dropouts from the receiver"

In use

The HT50 uses the capsule from the TriPower D3700 mic, and as such might be expected to give a good account of itself. According to Jim, "the mic itself sounded as sweet as any other AKG top-of-the-range mic", so in terms of audio quality, it seems that no compromises have been made. The cardioid polar response gives very good directionality, which is an essential characteristic to have for countering feedback and overspill.

The combination of receiver and mic works well together, giving a sound that is "crystal clear, with no trace of dropouts from the receiver". Mies are obviously a very personal thing, so it's essential that vocalists check out the mic to see if it's suited to their voice. But overall, the HT50 gives a good, upfront sound that will be to most people's tastes.

Verdict

AKG have put a lot of care into the development of this particular product, and it seems that the effort was worthwhile. Drawing on their experience of top-end radio mic systems, they've created a highly-competent radio system which would be eminently usable by touring bands, as well as your average pub or club group.

The quality of the mic is what you'd expect from an AKG TriPower mic, and combined with a quality diversity receiver, that makes the WMS-50 package a good buy. The last word goes to Jim: "On the whole I would be pleased to use this system, and at this price it represents an extremely good deal."