The Audio-Technica 2000 Series UHF True Diversity Wireless Microphone Systems are the latest entry in A-T's extensive line of professional wireless systems. The 2000 Series is a 10-channel frequency-agile UHF wireless system designed to suit a variety of applications, including live performance, fixed installation, public address, A/V rental houses, and places of worship. It offers true diversity operation, easy setup, automatic frequency scanning with interference-free performance, and all the advantages of a high-quality, professional wireless system at an extremely affordable price.
Operating in the 600 MHz frequency band (656.125-678.500 MHz, TV channels 45-48) with 10 selectable frequencies and true diversity UHF wireless technology, the 2000 Series features automatic frequency scanning. At the touch of a button, this function automatically determines and sets the best available frequency (open channel) - particularly useful when employing multiple wireless systems, thereby avoiding interference and intermodulation. When there is a need to utilize multiple wireless systems simultaneously, any of the 2000 Series’ 10 channels may be used together without any frequency coordination problems or group selection issues. Additionally, the 2000 Series incorporates Audio-Technica’s digital Tone Lock™ squelch plus an easy-to-read LCD information display, which provides convenient visual indications of settings and operation status.
The 2000 Series is comprised of two system options: the ATW-2110 UHF UniPak™ Transmitter System, consisting of the ATW-R2100 true diversity receiver and the ATW-T210 UniPak body-pack transmitter; and the ATW-2120 UHF Handheld Dynamic Microphone System, which also includes the ATW-R2100 receiver, plus the ATW-T220 handheld microphone/transmitter. The ATW-T220 microphone is engineered with the same capsule as Audio-Technica’s acclaimed PRO 41 microphone, providing a focused vocal pickup while offering superior gain before feedback.
The true diversity ATW-R2100 half-rack receiver features an all-metal housing for superb shielding, as well as dual independent receiver sections. Its true diversity operation selects the best signal from the two independent receiver sections, thus reducing dropouts and minimizing multipath distortion. The ATW-R2100 offers 10 PLL-synthesized UHF frequencies, advanced digital Tone Lock squelch, soft-touch controls with LCD information display, detachable UHF antennas, plus a rack-mount kit. Also included is a transmitter battery indicator LED, XLRM-type balanced and 1/4" unbalanced outputs, plus a ground-lift switch.
Audio Technica 2000 Series Wireless System Features
Clear sound quality, rock-solid dependable performance
State-of-the-art design and manufacturing techniques ensure compliance with A-T’s stringent consistency and reliability standards at a very affordable price
Automatic frequency scanning
Easily finds an open channel at the touch of a button
Full channel compatibility
All channels will work together simultaneously without need for confusing frequency groups for ease of setup in multi-channel applications
True diversity operation
Automatically selects the strongest RF signal from two integral tuner sections, reducing the potential for RF dropouts caused by multi-path interference
Tone Lock™ squelch
Helps fight interference; eliminates need for standby switch on transmitters
Receiver level, squelch and transmitter trim controls
Allow system to be optimized with a wide variety of input and output configurations
Multiple outputs (balanced XLR type and 1/4")
Allow use with a wide variety of audio equipment
Ground lift switch (XLR output)
Helps eliminate audible hum caused by ground loops
All-metal receiver construction
Rugged half-rack design includes rack-mount kit and detachable antennas
Receiver LCD and soft-touch controls
Provide easy-to-see operational information, channel designation and active diversity tuner indication
along with multi-segment displays for both RF and AF level metering
Long battery life
Low-cost readily available AA batteries provide over 9 hours of transmitter operation
Exciting new multilingual packaging
Attractive self-sell package includes UPC and JAN barcodes and key specification information
The true diversity ATW-R2100 half-rack receiver features an all-metal housing for superb shielding, as well as dual independent receiver sections. Its true diversity operation selects the best signal from the two independent receiver sections, thus reducing dropouts and minimizing multipath distortion. The ATW-R2100 offers 10 PLL-synthesized UHF frequencies, advanced digital Tone Lock squelch, soft-touch controls with LCD information display, detachable UHF antennas, plus a rack-mount kit. Also included is a transmitter battery indicator LED, XLRM-type balanced and 1/4" unbalanced outputs, plus a ground-lift switch.
The versatile ATW-T210 UniPak body-pack transmitter has a multi-function LCD display, soft-touch controls for convenient set-up and operation, along with low- and high-impedance inputs (with a bias connection) for use with dynamic and electret condenser microphones as well as Hi-Z instrument pickups. In addition to its programmable functions, the ATW-T210 has a hinged cover to limit access to controls as appropriate for the application and user. The ATW-T210 is powered by two easily installed 1.5V AA batteries that provide approximately nine hours of operation. The ATW-T210 is compatible with the Audio-Technica Wireless Essentials® accessories.
The ATW-T220 handheld microphone/transmitter features the same resilient capsule as A-T’s popular PRO 41 Cardioid Dynamic Microphone. This element assembly, part of the R & D for A-T’s acclaimed PRO Series, was specifically designed with high-performance specifications in mind for clarity, volume, and durability. Providing a natural, focused vocal pickup while supplying excellent feedback rejection, its internal shock mounting reduces handling noise, making the ATW-T220 ideal for close-up vocal use in live performance settings. Whether used as a handheld mic or mounted on a microphone stand, the ATW-T220 handheld microphone/transmitter excels by virtue of its rugged metal construction, the included AT8456a Quiet-Flex® stand clamp, and extended battery life — approximately nine hours, powered by two 1.5V AA batteries.
Important Info: Wireless Tips and Advanced Topics
UHF Versus VHF
The mistaken idea that UHF wireless systems somehow have overwhelming inherent advantages over VHF systems is widespread. However, the facts simply do not support this notion. As is the case with many technical issues, there are both advantages and disadvantages to UHF, as there are for VHF. Accordingly, in a particular situation, UHF may, or may not, be the best choice.
There are a number of important factors to consider. These include where the systems will be used, how they will be used, and for what purpose or application. Cost is always a concern and invariably plays at least some part in the final decision. Other factors, such as whether the equipment will be used in many different cities, may also be important. Only by considering the entire situation can an informed choice be made.
Simply put, UHF systems do not hold any large technical advantage over otherwise similar VHF systems. The primary advantage of UHF operation is that there is less chance of interference because of more available frequency spectrum.
Interference due to spurious outputs from other radio frequency equipment is somewhat less of a problem at UHF frequencies because there are fewer transmitters operating at frequencies likely to cause problems. Interference due to electrical equipment, digital devices, computers and other electronic equipment is also generally lower at UHF frequencies. This is because noise from these sources becomes less intense as the frequency increases. Interference of all types does not travel over as great a distance as at VHF frequencies.
UHF wireless systems always cost more than similar VHF wireless systems. The extra cost of UHF equipment is due to the necessity of using more expensive ultra-high-frequency parts, the greater total number of parts required and the need for more expensive construction techniques. Other manufacturing costs are also higher, especially the amount of time required to adjust the equipment and verify its performance. While the cost difference between UHF and VHF equipment has been declining, it is unlikely to disappear.
Battery life for VHF wireless transmitters is almost always better than for similar UHF units; over the life of a system the savings in battery costs can be very significant. For larger wireless installations, the cost of antennas, cables, antenna splitters and preamplifiers is usually much less for VHF systems and performance is generally better.
As can be seen, cost considerations tend favor the use of VHF systems, while UHF systems are less likely to suffer interference. However, there are several other applications issues that can affect the choice: