Specifications

ULTRA HIGH FREQUENCY

including

Receiver
Carrier frequency 710 to 865 MHz range Audio bandwidth 40 to 20,000 Hz THD typically 0.8% at 1 kHz Signal/ typically 103 dB(A) noise ratio RF output Power requirement Battery life
SR 40 diversity PR 40 diversity GB 40
710 to 865 MHz 40 to 20,000 Hz typically 0.8% typically 103 dB(A)

micropen

710 to 865 MHz 40 to 20,000 Hz typically 0.8% typically 103 dB(A) typically 5 mW (ERP)
710 to 865 MHz 40 to 20,000 Hz typically 0.8% typically 103 dB(A) typically 10 mW (ERP)

Portable Receiver

guitarbug
snapon transmitter Handheld Transmitter Transmitter Module Bodypack Transmitter chargingunit

Im free!

Charging current: 550 mA typ. Charging time: 1 hour max.

WMS40 microtools

WIRELESS MICROPHONE SYSTEM

Optional Accessories

Suited for: GB40 MP40 120/230 VAC,50/60 Hz; 2 x 1.5 V AAA size batteries 1 x 1.5 V AAA size battery 1 x 1.5 V AAA size battery 1 x 1.5 V AAA size battery 2 x 1.5 V AA size batteries 1 x 1.5 V AA size batteries 2 x 1.5 V AA size batteries SO15 mA PR40 diversity <10 h (dry battery), <11 h (dry battery), <10 h (dry battery), >8 h (dry batteries), <35 h (dry batteries) TM40 <35 h (dry batteries) <10 h (dry battery), <6 h (rechargeable batt.) >6 h (rechargeable batt.) <6 h (rechargeable batt.) <5 h (rechargeable batt.) <5 h (rechargeable batt.) typically 10 mW (ERP) typically 5 mW (ERP) balanced XLR and unbalanced 1/4 jack, adjustable from mic to line level, 2 V rms max. 200 x 135 x g 12 VDC power supply
unbalanced line level (tip): -6 dBm (10 Kohms), headphones output (ring): 18 mW typically (15 ohms); 13 mW typically (10 ohms)
Audio balanced XLR and outputs unbalanced 1/4 jack, adjustable from mic to line level, 2 V rms max. Size (WxDxH) 235 x 142 x 43 Net weight (without batteries) 470 g Standard 2 side panels, 12 VDC accessoires power supply, screwdriver

77 x 55 x g

76 x 20 x g

20 x 25 x g

22 x 30 x g black battery compartment cover, 1 AAA size battery
258 x 40 dia. mm 245 g stand adapter, black color code clip, 2 AA size batteries
125 x 126 dia.mm 30 g charging adapter, colored battery compartment cover, 1 AAA size battery
64 x 22 x g belt clip, 2 AA size batteries
100 x 58 x 135 approx. 400 g 12 VDC power supply
belt clip, audio connect- long adapter plug, black necklace cord, black replacement clip, ing cable, Velcro strips battery compartment cover, 2 Velcro strips, 1 AAA size battery for camera mounting, 1 AAA size battery 2 AAA size batteries
One CU 40 chargingunit fits for all!

MP 40 GB 40 SO 40 TM 40

CU 40 chargingunit Battery charger. Works perfectly with WMS 40 microtools and PR40 diversity portable receiver. Gentle on the environment and your budget. No need to remove batteries for charging. CH 40 Carrying case CB 40 Neoprene bag for PT40 Bodypack Transmitter (included with Aerobics System) PA 40 Remote powering adapter for PR40. The adapter fits into the battery compartment of the PR40 receiver and allows the receiver to be powered from an external supply (e.g., AC power supply or camcorder supply output). The PA 40 operates on a supply voltage of 5 to 18 V PR 40 diversity RMU40 Rack mounting kit for installing one SR40 diversity in a 19 rack RMU60 Rack mounting kit for installing one or two SR40s in a 19 rack ST 102 A Floor stand for HT40 Handheld Transmitter MK 9/10 10-m (30-ft.), 2-conductor shielded cable w/male and female XLR connectors W 880 Windscreen for HT40 Handheld Transmitter W 90 Windscreen for MP40 micropen

CU 40 chargingunit

Microphones Headphones Wireless Microphones Wireless Headphones Headsets Electroacoustical Components

AKG Acoustics GmbH

Lembckgasse 2125, P.O.B. 158, A-1230 Vienna/AUSTRIA, Tel: (+43 1) 86 654-0*, Fax: (+43 1) 86 654-7516, www.akg.com, e-mail: sales@akg.com Hotline: (+43 676) 83200 888, hotline@akg.com
Bodenseestrae 228, D-81243 Mnchen/GERMANY, Tel: (+49 89) 87 16-0, Fax: (+49 89) 87 16-200, www.akg.com/de, e-mail: infode@akg.com Hotline: (+49 89) 87 16-22 50, hotlinede@akg.com

AKG ACOUSTICS, U.S.

914 Airpark Center Drive, Nashville, TN 37217, U.S.A., Tel: (+1 615) 620-3800, Fax: (+1 615) 620-3875, www.akgusa.com, e-mail: akgusa@harman.com For other products and distributors worldwide see our website: www.akg.com
Specifications subject to change without notice.

Printed in Austria.

02/04/PROA 1501
For detailed information on wireless and other products from AKG contact your dealer or visit:

www.akg.com

WMS 40 UHF Wireless Microphone System

AKG.WIRELESS.UHF

Unlimited Freedom.
Good news for vocalists and moderators, guitarists and brass players, lecturers and dancers! Even bass players have no excuse for remaining motionless at the back of the stage any more. Forget all prejudice against wireless systems! The WMS 40 is absolutely reliable, really easy to use, and incredibly cost efficient. Most importantly, you will get the same famous AKG sound as you would through a hard-wired microphone. This brochure describes many different applications to make it easy for you to put together the optimum system for your needs. Select a transmitter, a receiver, hook up your system, and play!

Contents

Lead / backing vocals Transmitter module NEW! Snapon Transmitter Instrument miking Guitar and bass Aerobics/sports Presentation Receivers Specifications Accessories 12 12
Have fun and thrill your audience with the sound of your WMS 40 UHF Wireless Microphone System! Your AKG Team.
For more information visit www.akg.com

WMS40 UHF

ANNUAL
Winner of the readers poll in the Wireless Microphones category. Tastenwelt 2001 (Germany)
TECHNICAL EXCELLENCE & CREATIVITY AWARDS

AKG WMS40 Diversity

Nominated for Outstanding Technical Achievement in the Category of

Wireless Technology

Tec Award Nominee 2003 in the Category of Wireless Technology
Bravo! AKG engineers actually came up with a little masterpiece. This extremely cost-efficient UHF system is far better than I had expected. Price/performance: excellent. Sound Check 5/02 (Germany)
Winner of the readers poll in the Wireless Microphones category. Sound Check 2003 (Germany)

Lead / backing vocals

For vocalists.
HT40 Handheld Transmitter

TRANSMITTERS

Your voice will cut through the mix LOUD AND CLEAR when you use the HT 40 transmitter. Its capsule is the proven EMOTION SERIES D 880 microphone element.
The well-shaped, pleasantly light mic settles optimally into the hand. Even when comparing it with a hardwire D 880, I could hear no coloration or distortion. (Sound Check 5/00) the WMS 40 wireless system can take a lot of abuse. (Tastenwelt 4/00)
High quality D 880 element for crystal clear vocal sound.
(. for vocalists, the D 880 is a viable alternative to the classic SM 58. Sound Check 2/01)
Operates for up to 35 hours off the same pair of AA size batteries.
Lowest operating cost in its class. DC/DC converter maintains constant transmission quality throughout battery life. Integrated antenna for optimized RF output and perfect transmission quality. Ease of use; controls include on/mute/off switch and battery status LED. Soft-touch finish for reduced susceptibility to handling noise. Replaceable color code clip for channel identification.

Select a receiver and a transmitter.

TECH NOTE

Working Distance and Proximity Effect
Receivers recommended by AKG

RECEIVERS

Transmitters recommended by AKG

Alternative TRANSMITTERS

SR40 diversity
PT40 Bodypack Transmitter + C 420 L head-worn mic
For performers who need absolute mobility, e.g., actors or singing instrumentalists. >> Page 7
SO40 snapon transmitter + dynamic mic (e.g., D 770)
Selecting Receivers >> Page 11
This transmitter turns any wired dynamic microphone into a wireless mic.
Your voice will sound bigger and fuller, the closer you hold the microphone to your lips. Proximity effect is a dramatic boost of low frequencies that occurs when you sing into the microphone from less than 2 inches and gives more body to your voice. Moving away from the microphone will create a more distant sound as the microphone picks up more of the other sounds in the room.

>> Page 6

High Quality Wireless Transmitter Module

TRANSMITTER MODULE

PURE REVOLUTION
The TM 40 connects to a variety of AKGs famous stage mics for you to be unconnected.
The TM 40 connects to EMOTION | TRIPOWER Series microphones D 3700 M, D 880 M and C 900 M Lowest operating cost in its class Input gain control for optimum matching to microphone output level ON/MUTE/OFF switch and battery status indicator for easy setup.
Three new handheld transmitters for

Microphones:

D 3700 M + TM 40 Transmitter Module
C 900 M + TM 40 Transmitter Module
Integrated charging contacts for easy use of rechargeable batteries
Input gain control for optimum modulation
D 880 M + TM 40 Transmitter Module
ON/MUTE/OFF switch and battery status LED

Replaceable color code

Wireless transmitter
A transmitter for your favorite mic.

SO40 snapon transmitter

TRANSMITTER

SMALL BUT INGENIOUS.

Probably the smallest wireless transmitter around today, the SO 40 turns your favorite microphone into a wireless mic that sounds exactly the same as it does with a cable.

The SO 40 transmitter turns every hardwired dynamic microphone into a wireless microphone. Maintains the sound of your microphone your mic sounds the same as if you were using a wired microphone. Optional CU 40 battery chargingunit reduces operating cost to a minimum. Efficient DC/DC converter maintains constant transmission quality throughout battery life. Glass fiber reinforced body for extremely low weight (1.3 oz.) and high durability. Integrated antenna for easy handling and compact size.
CU 40 chargingunit: Integrated contacts for available from AKG only. easy battery charging.
Ease of use; controls include on/mute/off switch and battery status LED. Input gain control for optimum modulation. Replaceable color coded battery compartment cover for easy frequency identification.
A wireless transmitter for the users own microphone is an ingenious idea. With the vocal mic, I found no difference at all between wireless and hardwire modes. This means the transmitter will in no way affect the microphones performance. (Sound Check 5/02)

Actual size.

SO40 snapon transmitter + dynamic mic How to maintain the sound quality of your microphone
Dust, perspiration, lipstick, moisture, etc. gradually but dramatically deteriorate any microphones sound. However, all you need to do to maintain excellent sound for many years is clean your mic regularly. Use methylated spirits or alcohol to clean the microphone body and the wire-mesh cap. 70% isopropyl alcohol or soap suds to wash the windscreen and allow it to dry overnight. (An instruction sheet is included in every AKG microphone package.)
D 660 S the dynamic vocal microphone with all abilities.

Other recommendations

D 770 the multi-functional tool for stage use works as hard as you. C 1000 battery powered condenser microphone for many different applications

PR40 diversity

Selecting receivers >> Page 11

Instrument miking

Acoustic instruments

PT40 Bodypack

DIFFERENT INSTRUMENTS need different microphones. AKG MicroMics cover a wide range of instruments, and all MicroMics connect to the PT 40 Bodypack Transmitter.
Versatile UHF bodypack transmitter for many different applications. Professional mini XLR connector accepts all AKG MicroMic Series microphones. Operates for up to 35 hours off the same pair of AA size batteries.
Lowest operating cost in its class. Rugged plastic body. Lightweight. Controls include on/mute/off switch, mic/line selector, and battery status LED.
An absolute sensation, though, is the fact that the current consumption of both the bodypack and handheld transmitters is so low that a pair of standard AA size batteries should last for approximately 35 hours. (Gitarre & Bass 6/00)

How to set signal levels

TRANSMITTER: Set to line level if connected to instrument or mic level if connected to microphone. Set GAIN fully clockwise. Play or sing as loud as you can and watch the Peak LED. If Peak LED flickers red occasionally, level is O.K. If Peak LED is lit red constantly, turn GAIN down to flickering point. RECEIVER: Use console metering to set receiver VOLUME control and listen for distortion. To minimize noise floor, set transmitter gain as high as possible and receiver volume just high enough to drive console to optimum level.
PT 40 Bodypack + MicroMic

C 416 L for accordion

C 411 L for acoustic guitar, violin, viola, banjo

C 418 L for percussions

C 419 L for brass and drums

C 420 L for flute

D 409 the dynamic alternative to the C 419 L

Guitar and bass

For guitar and bass players.

GB40 guitarbug

The GB 40 transmitter mates with every guitar. Just plug the FlexJack into the instruments output jack.
The FlexJack extendable swivel jack plug connects the GB 40 to any guitar jack,

Typ: Stratocaster

Typ: Telecaster

oblique,

on the top, or on the side.
CU 40 chargingunit: Integrated contacts for available from AKG only. easy battery charging There seems to be no easier way than to use this small transmitter. (Guitar 5/02) passed the dropout test with flying colors. (Gitarre & Bass 5/02) Unlike many other transmitters criticized by guitarists for restricting the dynamic range, the GB 40 gets the audio across in its full dynamic splendor. (Tastenwelt 3/02) The radio link works perfectly even in difficult environments. Talking about sound, the GB 40 does a great job, too. Try as I might, I could hear no difference between wireless and hardwire modes. (Tools 2/02) Actual size
Frequency response optimized for guitar and bass. Optional CU 40 battery charger for extremely low operating cost. DC/DC converter for constant transmission quality throughout battery life. Integrated charging contacts and optional charger for easy use of rechargeable batteries. Extremely easy to use. ON/MUTE/OFF switch and battery status indicator for easy setup. Input gain control for optimum modulation. Replaceable color coded battery compartment cover for easy frequency identification.

Make the GB 40 and PR 40 work for you!
Use the PR 40 to reduce cable lengths when using a pedalboard. Instead of running a long cable from a stationary receiver to the pedalboard, place the small portable receiver on or near the pedalboard and connect it with a short cable. Powering the receiver: a) Use dry or rechargeable batteries. b) Use the pedalboard supply and the optional PA 40 power adapter. c) Use a separate supply and the optional PA 40 power adapter. d) Place the receiver in the optional CU 40 battery charger. The CU 40 charger that also keeps the receiver in optimum position.

SENDER TRANSMITTERS

Miniature Guitar System
The smallest wireless guitar system in the world. The system comprises 1 PR 40 miniature receiver 1 GB 40 miniature transmitter 1 connecting cable to the guitar amp 1 neoprene bag

Typ: Les Paul

Aerobics/sports

For trainers.

C 444 L head-worn microphone
100% AKG sound. Extremely easy to use. Secure and comfortable fit. Moisture shield protects the microphone from perspiration. High ambient noise rejection.
FITS PERFECTLY during any exercise. Even perspiration will not affect this wireless head-worn mic system.
definite winner of the price/performance category. no doubt an excellent head-worn microphone. C 444 L (TOOLS 3/02)
Operates for up to 35 hours off the same pair of AA size batteries
Lowest operating cost in its class. DC/DC converter maintains constant transmission quality throughout battery life. Rugged plastic body. Lightweight. Controls include on/mute/off switch, mic/line selector, and battery status LED.
PT40 Bodypack Transmitter + C 444 L head-worn microphone
Transmitter recommended by AKG
Perspiration may cause microphones or transmitters to fail
Do not remove the small plastic shield from the C 444 L microphone. The shield prevents moisture from penetrating into the transducer. Always use the transmitter with the CB 40 neoprene bag included with the Aerobics System. Make sure the connector and antenna point to the ground to keep out moisture. If you expect to perspire heavily, slip the supplied pop screen onto the microphone, wipe the microphone dry during breaks, and disconnect the microphone from the transmitter after use. After use, allow the bag, transmitter, and microphone to dry before placing them in the packaging. This extends the useful life of the system.

PR40 diversity Aerobics System includes
CB 40 light, padded neoprene bag protecting the transmitter from perspiration and impact.

Presentation

For lecturers, moderators, and trainers.

MP 40 micropen

NO BIGGER THAN A BALLPOINT PEN, the MP 40 is a transmitter and an integrated microphone. Just put it in a convenient pocket and get your message across.
Clever, simple wireless microphone for lecturers, moderators, trainers. Integrated, detachable C 407 omnidirectional lavalier microphone for excellent intelligibility. Detachable mic - can be removed from the transmitter and mounted closer to the users mouth for better noise rejection in noisy environments. Integrated antenna Optional CU 40 battery charger reduces operating cost to a minimum. DC/DC converter maintains constant transmission quality throughout battery life. Ease of use; controls include on/mute/off switch and battery status LED. Input gain control. Replaceable color code element for easy frequency identification. Complete with necklace cord.
CU 40 chargingunit: Integrated contacts for available from AKG only. easy battery charging Small and slim, it is easy to mount and even clips on inconspicuously to a strapless top or formal evening gown. The beauty of the design, however, is the detachable microphone. Being an omni mic, the C 407 provides a perfect voice sound even if you dont remove it from the transmitter. (Sound Check 5/02)

Actual size

How to prevent feedback
Alternative TRANSMITTERS:

SR 40 diversity

HT 40 Handheld Transmitter
For situations where the user holds the microphone in his hand, e.g., interviews.
1. Make sure to place the speakers in front of the user, i.e., in front of the microphone. This will dramatically improve usable system gain before feedback sets in. 2. Reducing the distance between the users mouth and the microphone will also increase gain-before-feedback. In a critical situation, you can remove the integrated microphone from the transmitter and mount it closer to the users mouth.
>> Page 4 PT40 Bodypack Transmitter + C 444 L head-worn microphone

PR 40 diversity

For those who prefer using a head-worn microphone.

>> Page 9

MP40 micropen

Unique AKG Features

Selected Reviews

Receivers

WMS 40 UHF
Wireless Microphone System
TRANSMITTERS HT40 Handheld Transmitter
World-famous ORIGINAL AKG sound.
Up to 35 hours of continuous operation off a single set of batteries means lowest operating cost in this class (HT40/PT40). Modular wireless system provides optimum transmitter/receiver combination for every application. CU 40 chargingunit for easy, costefficient battery charging (for microtools and PR 40 only).
Market leader in its class.
Relying on a proven design, the SR 40 is a reliable, easyto-use, cost-efficient single-antenna receiver. It is AKGs hottest selling wireless component and highly praised within the industry.
Front-panel mounted, swiveling antenna facilitating rack-mounted operation. On/off switch with status LED. RF reception indicator LED. Adjustable squelch for noise-free reception. Professional XLR and 1/4 outputs. Frequency color code. Easy to mount in any 19 rack using optional rack mount-kit.
>> Page 4 Lead / backing vocals

TM40 Transmitter Module

>> Page 5 Lead / backing vocals
PT40 Bodypack Transmitter
Absolute reliability and clever features.
The deluxe model SR 40 diversity is as reliable and easy to use as the proven SR 40, it provides more features. Additional metering, a high quality all-metal case with a new styling, and diversity technology for absolute reliability in the most difficult transmission situations will satisfy the most demanding perfectionist.
>> Page 7 Instrument miking >> Page 9 Aerobics / sports
Ease of use and clear metering.
Soft-touch enamel finish.
An absolute scoop, though, is the low current consumption of the bodypack and handheld transmitters that will work perfectly for approximately 35 hours off a pair of standard AA size batteries. Gitarre & Bass 6/00 (Germany)
Swiveling jack plug with extension plug matching all electric guitars and basses (GB40 guitarbug).
Sound: Piece/performance: excellent

1 peak

Two front-panel mounted, swiveling antennas facilitating rack-mounted operation. Full metering for easy status monitoring. LED metering of audio/peak levels and RF signal strength. Diversity LEDs indicating which antenna is active at any time. Professional XLR and 1/4 outputs. Automatic squelch. High quality all-metal case. Frequency color code. Easy to mount in any 19 rack using optional rack mount-kit.

GB 40 guitarbug

>> Page 8 Guitar and bass
>> Page 10 Presentation
Sound Check 5/02 (Germany)
Congratulations, AKG! The uniquely affordable WMS 40 is more reliable and sounds better than anyone would have expected. Tastenwelt 4/00 (Germany)
The microtools recommend themselves as a flexible and easy-to-use system: Hook it up, insert batteries, and play. The front panel is laid out clearly to avoid confusion. Three LEDs provide all essential information. The transmitter, receiver, and charger add up to a very useful system at an affordable price. Tastenwelt 3/02 (Germany)
Editors award for innovative products. Tastenwelt 2002 (Germany)
Miniature receiver for unlimited freedom.
Small, light, and handy, the PR 40 bodypack receiver ensures unlimited mobility. It is both a convenient tool for guitarists (see Miniature Guitar System on page 8) and an ideal solution for video shootings where the action forbids using a hardwire microphone.

Detachable microphone

(MP40 micropen).
WMS40 UHF WMS40 microtools
Patented Varimotion transducer for extremely clean sound (HT40).
Better than anything else! From 40 to 20,000 Hz, the WMS 40 system provides the same perfect audio as a cable. Normally, each microphone maker creates its own wireless standard. AKG however, justifiably proud of its own microphone elements, has a broader vision and provides a perfect, versatile solution called the WMS Series: ease of use, good performance, very acceptable price. Tools 2/02 (Germany) Although the WMS 40 is one of the lower priced systems in the AKG wireless line, it maintains the high level of quality, sound, ruggedness, and reliability that AKG is world-famous for. The HT 40 handheld microphone transmitter with its futuristic styling feels pleasant to hold even after a long period of time. On the whole, the WMS 40 Series from AKG is the first choice for applications where both quality and usability are important criteria. MusicMaker 09/01 (UK)
The AKG system worked right away, disproving all rumors that wireless systems are a hassle. The audio is of high quality, too and there is no audible distortion or coloration. I never managed to throw the SR 40 off its balance. Akustik Gitarre 4/00 (Germany)
Glass fiber reinforced body for extremely low weight and high durability. Four-level diversity antenna management system for reliable reception. ON/OFF switch with status LED, battery status LED. RF reception indicator LED. Integrated contacts for easy battery charging using the optional CU 40 charger. Audio level LED.

>> Page 6 Snapon transmitter

>> Page 11

Professional XLR and 1/4 outputs.
CU 40 chargingunit: Integrated contacts for available from AKG only. easy battery charging

WMS 40 microtools

Can the new AKG WMS40 withstand not one but TWO Roadtests?
Words: Simon Croft and Chris Underwood
AKG WMS40 Wireless System

What is it?

A revamped range of easy-touse wireless systems, offering high quality vocal and guitar performance, with a wide range of choices.
We gave a singer who plays
guitar for only part of his bands set a wireless guitar system and told him we wanted to see more six string action on stage. Then we gave a guitarist whos only comfortable on stage with a guitar in his hands a wireless mic and told him to front his act. Why? Obviously, pure sadism played a part let em squirm under the lights. But there was more to it. We know that when you buy a new piece of gear, its for the same reason that we do youre hoping that it will help you to be a better singer, player or performer. Knowing that Chris doesnt

Why Should I Want one?

When youve seen how much more of a show you can put on once the cords are cut, you definitely want part of the action that is going wireless. Moreover, now that wireless systems are affordable to the rest of us, there is no reason to be anchored to a small spot on the stage. Plus, AKG is a very respected brand, so youre left in no doubt that youre buying good gear with strong after-sales suport.
the new PRO offering. A quick look reveals that the receivers now have metal casings, which is welcome, but thats not the whole story. Perhaps the more important change is that there are a lot of different systems within the WMS40 PRO range but choosing the right one for you is much easier than it used to be. Instead of leaving you to figure out which mic/transmitter goes with which receiver, AKG now bundles the two parts together for you nice and easy. The two systems we are looking at today are in the WMS40 PRO Single range. This means you get
The third range is the WMS40 PRO FLEXX range. With these, you still get the receiver box with two antennas but you only get one transmitter. Thats because these are diversity systems, so the channel with the best reception is used. (The comparison between the two is continuous and the switching seamless.) All AKG WMS40 PRO systems operate in the UHF band but there are differences between the maximum system size you can achieve on a gig. You can use up to nine FLEXX systems at once, providing they are all on different frequencies. AKG has made each

Wire not?

Wireless systems used to be expensive. Not only that, if you wanted to use several at once, you needed technical knowledge to be sure it would be legal. If you got it wrong, you could mess with the emergency services, or mini-cabs could mess with your performance, neither of which is much fun for you or your audience. In short, wireless systems were for rock stars and cables were for the rest of us. But things have got simpler in recent years. We gave the AKG
One thing Ive learned about
being on stage is that if you look as if youre confident and put on a bit of a show, most people will think youre okay unless youre really crap. The flip side is you can be playing great music but if you have all the stage presence of a sensible pair of shoes, expect to be greeted with total indifference, Armed with this experience but balancing it against the fact that I am not the worlds best singer I decided to try out the AKG WMS40 PRO Single vocal pack at home.
We first looked at a WMS40 system way back in issue four. So whats changed to
normally take on lead guitar duties in his band and knowing that Simon usually restricts himself to backing vocals, we thought wed put them slightly off base and see how they made out. The results? Two Roadtests for you to read on the following pages. But first, heres some background on the AKG WMS 40 PRO range. We first looked at a WMS40 system way back in issue four. So whats changed to make us take a second look? Well, the two systems we are looking at today are part of one transmitter, operating on one channel. You can spot the receivers because they have a single antenna. Then theres the WMS40 PRO Double range. As the name implies, you get two transmitters working on different frequencies. The choice includes two vocal mics, or one mic and a guitar transmitter. You only get one receiver per box but it has two antennas. Thats because inside, there are actually two receivers one for each transmitter. FLEXX unit switchable between three frequencies, which gives you more flexibility in the future. In contrast, Single and Double systems are not frequency switchable. You can legally use as many as five at the same time in the UK on different frequencies.

make us take

SRP Vocal Set: 239.99 Instrument Set: 219.668222 www.akg.com

a second look?

In reality, you have to push your luck a long way before this system lets you down.
Sod that, said Hannah Hamilton, We need you to get on stage and really work an audience with it. Err, all right. So I did, but heres a bit of technical detail before I tell you how I got on. Although youd be hard pushed to find this out from AKGs promotional material, the capsule on this mic/transmitter is from the D880 from the Emotion series. I dont know why AKG isnt shouting about this, because its a very respectable supercardioid vocal mic and its used with the much more expensive WMS400 and WMS4000 wireless systems. As the antenna is included within the body of the mic, the casing is lighter than you might expect. Thats because the antennas signals would never reach the receiver if it were encased in thick metal, so plastic is used instead. Youll probably be relieved to know that the only switch on the transmitter is simply marked In reality, you have to push your luck a long way before this system lets you down. I tried too close, too far away and with the receiver stood on a metal mixing desk. None of those seemed to cause any problems. When I finally got it to fail, it was because Id put it inside a metal computer case I had kicking around at home. No great surprise. Later that night, at a secret location in south east England, I arrived as a special guest at my friend Steves karaoke night. The reason Im not naming the venue is because I did fine, the mic sounded really good and Steve runs a great show but. well I dont want anyone disagreeing about my performance. So, if youre happpy to take my word for it, I was brilliant. Obviously, my competition did include three pissed housewives doing James Blunt, a Top 10 hit but the AKG WMS40 PRO Vocal set helped me to set myself above that. No really. PM
off/mute/on. When its all systems go, a light by the switch comes on to tell you so. There is also a stylish coloured insert. On multi-channel systems, these can be swapped around so that every transmitter is colour coded to the receiver. Other than that, all you need to do is switch everything on and start making some noise. AKG advises you to put some care into where you position the receiver; 3-5m from the transmitter and at least 1.5m from any large metal objects is said to be optimum.

WMS40 the thumbs up two-anda-half years ago. Since then, the range has expanded, the gears got even better and the price remains extremely attractive. Plus, you can now get an astonishing 30 hours performance from one set of batteries longer if you get the battery recharge pack, which is also kinder to the environment. But has the range improved enough to earn a double thumbs up from our two Roadtesters? On the this page you can read Simons verdict on the handheld mic transmitter, while on p.102 Chris will handle the guitar pack and put it through its paces. Can the AKG WMS40 PRO stand up to two Playmusic Roadtests? PM

playmusic4100

playmusic4101

AKG WMS40

Thankfully the nice people
at AKG know that its not just the singer in the band who wants to strut their stuff, jump around and generally be adored by awestruck fans. This is why their WMS40 PRO radio transmitter system comes not only as a microphone system but as a guitar belt-pack too. There are plenty of reasons why a belt-pack transmitter is infinitely better than a crusty old guitar lead. For starters, itll give you free run of the entire venue, as oppose to leaving you tethered to a distance of no more than a few feet from your amp. For example, if you wanted to enter the venue throwing molten riffs from your guitar, aboard a flaming chariot pulled by a pack of scantily clad beauties, then this would be possible with a transmitter system. Probably best to check the fire safety regulations first, however, as some pubs are funny about this sort of thing. The other main reason a beltpack is an exemplary idea is that it means fewer leads trailing all over the stage floor. If youve ever yanked a lead out of an amp simply by attempting to move across a stage covered in cables, youll know that fewer leads on stage is a very good thing. So how does the AKG WMS40 PRO instrumental set measure up as a potential escape route from the world of leads? For starters, its an incredibly dinky little thing, smaller than most mobile phones. On top is a single button marked On/Mute/Off, a tiny plastic aerial and the input for the guitar lead. On the front of the unit is a perspex screen, which looks as if it might do something really exciting but in fact displays nothing more than a green On light. Immediately below is the battery compartment.

I tried this transmitter system in various places. I thought where could I boldly go where no man has gone before? and so played the intro to one song from the ladies toilets admittedly this was only in a rehearsal situation. Whether the wireless system would make me play more guitar during a regular gig is an interesting point, because its actually a lot easier to put down and pick up a guitar if youve got a transmitter attached to the strap. So although the idea was to get me playing more guitar on stage, it could actually get me playing less. That said, were playing a surprise gig for someones birthday in the next few weeks so Ive decided Im going to try and get hold of one of these systems for each of the band. That way we can start playing the first song outside the venue. Hopefully the birthday person will think hang on, that song sounds familiar, at which point well burst into the room to the thrilled amazement of our friend. Either that or hell be thinking: Oh sod it, not that lot! I wanted a DJ! PM
I thought where could I boldly go where no man has gone before? and so played the intro to one song

from the ladies toilets.

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