Introduction
Going wireless with your guitar rig provides an incredible amount of freedom and convenience. No longer being tethered to your amp by a guitar cable allows you to freely roam the stage and engage with your audience during a live performance. It’s an extremely liberating feeling! Beyond just the freedom of movement, wireless guitar systems provide other benefits:
- Improved stage presence and audience interaction since you can get close to the crowd
- Eliminates tripping hazards from guitar cables strewn across the stage
- Quick and easy setup – just turn on the transmitter and receiver
- Ability to continue playing while changing guitars
- Reduced equipment hum and noise by removing long guitar cables
With modern digital wireless technology, latency and sound quality are no longer concerns. Quality wireless systems deliver pure, uncompromised tone identical to a wired guitar rig. Interference is also minimized with frequency hopping technology.
This guide will walk through everything you need to know about choosing the best wireless guitar system. We’ll cover how they work, key features to look for, review the top models, provide setup tips, and answer frequently asked questions. Read on to learn how wireless guitar systems can take your live performances and freedom to the next level!
How Wireless Guitar Systems Work
Wireless guitar systems work by transmitting the guitar’s signal wirelessly to an amplifier or PA system. They are comprised of two main components:
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Transmitter: The transmitter is connected to the guitar and converts the instrument’s audio signal into a radio signal. It is powered by a small battery pack attached to the guitar strap or clipped onto a belt.
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Receiver: The receiver picks up the wireless signal and converts it back into an audio signal that can be sent to an amp, mixer, or PA system. The receiver is powered by an AC adapter or battery pack.
There are two main types of wireless technology used in guitar systems:
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Analog: Analog systems take the guitar signal and modulate it onto an FM radio frequency signal. While inexpensive, analog is more prone to signal degradation and interference.
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Digital: Digital systems convert the guitar signal into a digital data stream and transmit it digitally. This allows for better audio quality, multiple channels, and encryption. However, digital systems are more expensive.
Most wireless guitar systems operate on frequencies in the UHF band between 470-950MHz or on the 2.4GHz band. UHF provides longer range while 2.4GHz offers more available frequencies and reduced interference. Many systems now feature frequency agility, which allows them to automatically switch frequencies to avoid interference.
Key Features to Look for in a Wireless Guitar System
When shopping for a wireless guitar system, there are several key features to consider that will impact your experience and performance needs.
Range
The range of a wireless system refers to how far away you can move from the receiver before experiencing signal loss or dropouts. Most modern wireless systems provide more than enough range for stage use, but outdoor venues may require extended range systems. You’ll also want to consider "line of sight" requirements, as objects like walls and people can impact signal strength.
Battery Life
Since your wireless transmitter will be powered by a battery, battery life is a huge factor. Rechargeable lithium-ion packs are common, providing 6-8 hours of use before needing a recharge. But disposable alkaline batteries are also an option for convenience. Look for long battery life, especially if doing marathon shows or outdoor festivals.
Number of Channels
Higher-end wireless systems provide multiple channel options, allowing you to connect several transmitters and switch between different guitars seamlessly. Look for at least 2 channels if you want flexibility in your setup.
Compander
A compander compresses the signal on transmission and expands it on reception to preserve a full frequency response. Quality compander circuits are crucial for maintaining your natural tone.
EQ Controls
Onboard EQ controls let you shape your tone to compensate for any signal loss from transmission compression. Look for 2 or 3-band EQs on the receiver to tweak bass, mids, and treble.
Rugged Build Quality
Since you’ll be moving around a lot on stage, look for wireless systems made of durable materials that can withstand bumps, drops, sweat, and rough handling. Ensure all connection points and hardware are sturdy.
Best Wireless Guitar Systems of 2024
When it comes to top wireless guitar systems, there are many excellent options to choose from in 2024. Here’s a look at some of the most popular models across budget, mid-range, and high-end price points.
Budget Wireless Systems Under $200
If you’re just dipping your toes into wireless guitar technology, an affordable system under $200 is a great place to start. Top picks in this range include:
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Line 6 Relay G10 – A simple, no-frills 2.4 GHz digital system perfect for jamming and practice. Offers cable-tone sound quality and 6 hours of battery life.
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Boss WL-20 – A reliable UHF analog system with 3 switchable channels and over 10 hours of battery life. Great for small gigs.
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Donner Wireless Guitar System – Extremely budget-friendly with 100′ range and 10-12 hours battery life. Lacks some tone shaping features.
Mid-Range Wireless Guitar Systems ($200 – $500)
Stepping up to the $200 to $500 range provides increased range, better tone shaping, and more professional features. Recommended options include:
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Shure GLXD16 – Offers 16 channels in UHF band, ultra-compact design, and 20+ hours battery life. ToneMatch technology provides optimized EQ.
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Sennheiser XSW-D – Robust all-metal build with tunable EQ and 100′ indoor/300′ outdoor range. Up to 8 hours battery life.
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Line 6 G50 – Flagship Relay digital system with 128-bit encryption, cable-tone audio, and rechargeable lithium-ion battery.
High-End Professional Wireless Guitar Systems ($500+)
For pro gigging guitarists who demand the highest quality and performance, these premium wireless systems deliver exceptional sound with loads of features:
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Shure Axient Digital – The pinnacle of wireless tech with wide tuning bandwidth, AES-256 encryption and lithium-ion rechargeability.
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Sennheiser EW D1 – Top-of-the-line UHF system with ultra-low latency, increased dynamic range and 20 compatible frequency banks.
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Line 6 G90 – Flagship Relay system with 24-bit audio quality, 20 hours battery life, and guitar/bass/vocals models available. The best digital wireless tone.
The top brands to look for are Shure, Sennheiser, Line 6, and Boss when shopping for great wireless guitar systems across any budget. Consider the frequency range, audio fidelity, battery life, build quality and special features as you compare models.
Setting Up and Using a Wireless Guitar Rig
Connecting your wireless guitar system is a straightforward process, but proper setup is key for optimal performance. Here are some tips:
Connecting the Transmitter and Receiver
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Attach the transmitter unit to your guitar’s output jack or strap. Make sure it is securely fastened.
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Plug the receiver into your amp’s input jack. Some receivers may have multiple outputs to connect to PA system or effects pedals.
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Turn on the transmitter and receiver units. The receiver will scan for the transmitter signal and lock on automatically in most systems.
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If your system has multiple channels, select the desired channel on both units. Make sure they match to avoid interference.
Antenna Placement
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Position the receiver antennas for maximum exposure – pointing straight up or at a 45 degree angle works best.
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Keep the antennas away from amps, speakers, and other electronics to avoid interference. Extend antennas fully if possible.
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For handheld guitar transmitters, point the antenna towards the receiver location when playing. Your body can block the signal.
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Place the receiver in your amp’s line-of-sight for optimal range. Avoid obstacles between transmitter and receiver.
Avoiding Interference
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Scan for the clearest frequency before use. Switch channels if you encounter buzzing or choppy signal.
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Turn off nearby wireless devices like WiFi routers to prevent signal clashes. Bluetooth can also interfere.
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Try to maintain line-of-sight between transmitter and receiver. Obstacles degrade the signal.
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Use good quality cables between transmitter, receiver, guitar and amp. Faulty cables increase interference risk.
Following these wireless guitar setup tips will help you get the most out of your system with minimal signal issues. Experiment with antenna placement and channels to optimize range and tone.
Wireless for Bass Guitar and Other Instruments
Wireless guitar systems designed for regular electric guitars can also work well for bass guitars, but there are some unique considerations for bassists going wireless:
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Lower frequency response – Bass guitars produce lower frequencies than regular electric guitars, so you’ll want to ensure the wireless system can accurately transmit low end. Look for bass guitar specific systems or ones that advertise a frequency response down to at least 40Hz.
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Higher latency – Some wireless systems may introduce minor latency that is more noticeable on bass. This can make it harder to lock in with drums/percussion. Prioritize wireless rigs with low latency.
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More gain before feedback – Bass amps are often louder to keep up with drums. This increases the chance of audio feedback. Having more gain before feedback is important for bass systems.
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Greater cable length – With larger amps and more stage movement, longer cable lengths from the receiver to your amp is ideal.
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Multiple channels – Bassists sometimes double on guitar. Get multiple channels to easily switch instruments.
Wireless systems also work for other instruments like violins, saxophones, keyboards and more. The same core considerations apply like frequency response, latency, and avoiding interference. Some specialty wireless systems are optimized for instruments like violin with ultra low latency.
So while regular guitar wireless works, getting a system tailored for bass or other instruments can provide optimal performance. But don’t be afraid to experiment!
Wired vs. Wireless Guitar: Is It Worth Switching?
One of the most common questions guitarists have when considering wireless is how it compares to playing wired. There are a few key factors to think about.
Sound Quality
In terms of pure audio fidelity and tone, a quality wireless system should be nearly indistinguishable from a wired guitar. While early wireless units compromised sound, modern digital systems provide excellent audio quality that accurately captures the nuances and dynamics of your playing. The same crisp highs, warm lows, and rich harmonics can be transmitted wirelessly. That said, cheaper analog units may degrade tone and dynamics.
Convenience
Going wireless offers greater freedom of movement and flexibility on stage. You can roam the stage freely, get closer to the audience, and not worry about getting tangled in cables or tripping over wires. This allows for more energy and audience engagement. No more getting "leashed" to one spot.
Cool Factor
Playing without a cable has an inherently cool aesthetic appeal. Visually, it looks cleaner on stage without wires. It also projects a more modern, high-tech, rockstar vibe. While minor, the cool factor shouldn’t be overlooked when choosing between wired and wireless.
Cost Considerations
There’s no getting around the fact that wireless systems cost more than passive guitar cables. You’re looking at a $200+ investment for a decent entry-level unit. Higher-end professional systems run $500+. However, many guitarists find the benefits outweigh the costs over the long run. Avoid going with the cheapest wireless unit, as you get what you pay for.
In summary, for guitarists doing regular live performing, touring, or just wanting more freedom, going wireless can be a worthwhile investment if you choose the right system. While not completely necessary, it provides key advantages over wired rigs in many situations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there any latency or delay when using a wireless guitar system?
In general, modern wireless systems have nearly imperceptible latency that does not impact your playing. High-end digital systems boast latencies of 2-3 milliseconds, which is faster than the neural transmission time between your fingers and ears. Some older analog units may have slightly more latency, but it is still negligible for most guitarists.
How does the sound quality compare to a wired guitar connection?
With digital wireless systems that use high-bitrate encoding, the sound quality can be identical to a wired guitar setup. Even lower-priced analog systems often have compander circuitry to preserve the guitar’s dynamics and frequency response. The only potential downside is that wireless systems may have a slightly higher noise floor that could manifest as a faint hiss. Overall, modern wireless delivers great tone indistinguishable from a cable.
What if I experience signal dropouts or interference?
Start by ensuring the transmitter and receiver have line-of-sight and are within operating range. Interference can occur if the wireless signal is blocked or competing with other wireless devices. Try changing the channel or frequency band. Make sure the transmitter and receiver antennas are oriented optimally. Eliminate sources of interference like WiFi routers or other wireless instruments. As a last resort, upgrade to a higher-end wireless system with frequency-hopping capabilities.
How far can I be from the amp and still get a solid wireless signal?
Most wireless systems can transmit reliably up to about 100 feet indoors, with longer ranges possible outdoors and in line-of-sight conditions. Obstructions, interference, and certain frequencies will decrease the range. High-end digital systems boast ranges up to 300 feet. For large venues, remote antenna receivers or repeaters can extend the wireless coverage.
Conclusion
Going wireless for your guitar offers some fantastic benefits. It gives you the freedom to move around on stage without worrying about cables. You can engage more with your bandmates and the audience. It also improves your stage presence and "cool factor" as a performer.
Throughout this guide, we’ve covered the top wireless guitar systems on the market in 2024. Models from trusted brands like Line 6, Shure, Sennheiser and Boss provide excellent sound quality, extended range, long battery life and rugged construction. Whether you need a budget system under $200 or a pro-level rig over $500, there are great options available.
For most guitarists, making the switch to wireless is absolutely worth it. The minor tradeoff in tone is negligible compared to the convenience and improvements in your performance and connection with the crowd. It’s one of the best investments you can make as a guitarist.
If you’ve been hesitant about taking your guitar wireless, hopefully this guide has addressed any concerns and given you confidence to take the plunge. Go for it, cut the cord, and enjoy the freedom and flexibility of playing without cables! Your audience will appreciate it as much as you will. Wireless guitar systems have come a long way, and today’s models deliver a rock-solid wireless experience on par with wired connections.
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