1) Can I use a guitar cable with my lavalier/headmic transmitter?
No. The output impedance and levels between these types of microphones and a guitar transmitter are not the same. There are also different components in the input circuitry of the transmitters to accommodate the type of input intended (including phantom power for the condenser mic elements). Only use transmitters set up for lavalier and headmic with those type microphone inputs exclusively. Instrument transmitters are different and specifically designed for guitar and bass signals.

2) What is True Diversity?
True Diversity is the utilization of two independent receiver circuits in one receiver chassis, designed to virtually eliminate RF signal dropouts (null spots) caused by canceling of the transmitted signal at specific locations due to multi-path reflections. Either receiver circuit (or both), depending upon the location of the transmitter, may receive the transmitter signal from its own independent antenna, thus ensuring a usable signal at all times. Although True Diversity reception as described here offers the best performance in terms of eliminating signal dropouts, there are also a number of other types of diversity using dual antennas that are less expensive and offer performance almost as good. Generally these involve imperceptibly fast switching between the antennas to secure the best transmitted signal available. Our DigiTru Diversity ™ is an example of this type of diversity reception that is very effective. Not all such types of diversity are as different designs and variations are employed in such diversity schemes. Also keep in mind: (1) Not all units labeled “True Diversity” are actually that, as some manufacturers use the term also for their version of antenna switching circuitry; and (2) Some receivers with dual antennas have no diversity capability at all. Such units are often identified as “dipole”, which is just another way of describing ordinary “rabbit ears”. These units are really no more effective in eliminating dropouts than non-diversity single-antenna receivers since they only have one single receiving antenna (the other is just a ground).

3) Is UHF or VHF better?
Both VHF and UHF wireless mics operate within bands unused by TV channels (see also selecting open frequencies below). About 10 years ago, as the available VHF spectrum became more crowded with wireless mics (especially in applications using multiple units in close proximity simultaneously), the original UHF “buzz” arose based on the premise that it would be less susceptible to interference in most locations. However more recently, UHF has also become increasingly congested due to High Definition television and other potential forms of interference, so this particular advantage over VHF is no longer as important a consideration as it once was. More importantly, there are other variables affecting performance that should be kept in mind. VHF actually outperforms UHF in several ways (less battery drain, quieter operation, etc). It’s also less expensive. UHF, on the other hand, has better propagation through metal obstructions within line-of-site, multichannel switching capability, smaller antennas, and some other advantages. The bottom line is that both VHF and UHF have advantages and disadvantages, but both will work well in most locations and if used properly for the right applications.

4) How many VHF/UHF channels can be used together simultaneously?
Simultaneous multichannel capability varies (as with all available brands) depending on the overall sophistication of the unit and whether it’s VHF or UHF. In general, more expensive units have more sophisticated front-end receiver filtering, etc. which allows more channels to be run together simultaneously. Typical multichannel capability for Nady wireless microphones is as follows: Encore Series—up to 5 channels; UHF-4—up to 6 channels; WS-16U—up to 10 channels per band (2 bands available); UWS-1K—up to 12 channels. It’s also possible to combine use of VHF and UHF systems in a given application allowing for more simultaneous channel operation capability even with lower-cost units.

For more detailed information regarding simultaneous multi-channel operation, please contact our Customer Service Department at (510) 652-2411.

5) Will your wireless instrument systems work with all guitars and basses?
Yes, All Nady instrument systems work well with any guitar or bass that has a pickup. Some of our wireless models are designed specifically for wireless bass only—the VHF Encore 200 and the UHF U-33B. We can also provide special cables with added internal attenuation to accommodate instruments with extra-high-output active electronics.

6) Can I use a different headset/earpiece (other than the one provided with the system) with my ALD, PEM, or EO3?
Any headset or headphone with a 3.5 mm jack will work. However it should be noted that the ALD and E03 both have monaural transmissions and the PEM 500 is stereo. Note: You will not get stereo transmission by using stereo headphones with the ALD or E03.

7) What are the main differences between the IR Series and the ALD?
The ALD (Assistive Listening Device) uses radio frequency (RF) to transmit its signal.
The IR Series uses infrared transmission. RF can transmit through walls and IR cannot, Therefore for installations requiring discretion, privacy, or otherwise interference-free transmission (e.g., government, military, school applications), IR is generally more appropriate. The ALD has a somewhat easier set-up and greater range performance and is ideal for churches, theaters and conference rooms where eliminating leakage into other areas is not as critical.

8) What do the channel labels on wireless mic systems represent?
The channel labeling is a unique Nady identifier for the specific FCC approved operating frequency of that unit as listed in megahertz (MHz). This labeling also helps you to avoid frequency interference situations caused by channels overlapping or being too close together in frequency.

9) I’m not sure if my wireless is working properly. What can I do to check?
It’s best to start with your Owner’s Manual and our Trouble Shooting Guide. If you still have questions or concerns after reading these, please call our Customer Service Department at (510) 652-2411.

10) What is interference and how does it affect my wireless system?
Interference can be anything that interrupts your wireless transmission, causing unwanted noises and reducing the acceptable reception range. The source of interference can be electrical (AC line noise), physical (poor reception due to obstructions) or another transmission on the same or close frequency. In many instances, relocating your receiver or adjusting your mute can clear up the interference.

11) What is frequency agility?
Most of our UHF wireless systems allow users to select and change the operating frequency when frequency conflicts are encountered. We offer several models/options, ranging from 16 channels (WS-16U) to 1000 selectable channels (UWS-1K, U-1000/2000). In evaluating the number of selectable channels for such systems, and comparing with competing brands, it’s important to note that the width of the selectable band is more critical than the actual number of available channels within that band since band width determines the number of usable frequencies available. Width information can be found in the unit’s listed specifications and represents the spread between the lowest possible selectable frequency to the highest.

12) Since both VHF and UHF wireless mics systems operate on channels not used by TV, how do I know which frequency to select to make sure that I will not get interference from TV channels in my area?
Typically larger urban areas will have the most TV stations that can potentially interfere with your wireless if it is not on an unused TV channel frequency. For VHF wireless systems, please note that larger urban areas generally have channels 7, 9, 11, and 13, which can interfere with wireless on those frequencies. UHF wireless systems are generally also in the UHF TV spectrum. With the advent of DTV, additional parts of the spectrum will be taken up as these stations come online. In choosing frequencies, you need to be careful to try to avoid both existing and future TV channels. The following link will help in your selection of open frequencies in your area: www.nady.com/frequency_locator_charts.html

13) How can I service my old workhorse Nady 201XL or other older discontinued Nady wireless?
Nady policy is to service discontinued wireless systems at least three years after the model is discontinued. Units are sometimes serviced longer than 3 years if parts are still available. As a courtesy to our longtime customers, we can often offer trade-in upgrades to an equivalent current model at special pricing, generally for no more than the repair/replacement cost if we were able to fix the original units. For further information re: a specific discontinued model requiring repair, please contact our Customer Service Department at (520) 652-2411.