The Essential Guide to Finding the Best Wireless Guitar System + Reviews
With so many musical products available these days, finding the best wireless guitar system might prove to be a challenging task. To help you with that, we have examined multiple guitar wireless systems and customer feedback and concluded that the Shure GLXD16 is the first product to consider. The receiver can be easily mounted on/powered from a pedalboard and features a built-in chromatic instrument tuner. Furthermore, when used indoors, the product has an operating distance of up to 200 feet under ideal conditions. If this item is no longer available for sale, a reliable alternative is the Line 6 Relay G50.
Comparison Table
Our Top Choice
Including anything you need to start using it right away, this wireless guitar system is worth paying attention to. The package includes a wireless guitar pedal tuner and receiver, a transmitter as well as the power supplies you need for operation. When used indoors, the unit has a 100-foot operating range while outdoors it has an operating range of up to 65 feet.
Several users mention signal problems in a few online reviews we have found.
Easy to use and offering a generous operating distance as well as up to 16 hours of continuous use, this unit should not go unchecked.
2nd Best
Providing a dynamic range of more than 110 dB as well as a broad 10Hz – 20kHz frequency response, this product is designed to level up your musical experience. It is committed to ensuring a pure signal even when used at up to 200 feet. It broadcasts over the 2.4GHz band, uses multiple layers of signal protection, and comes with various accessories.
A few buyers say the product stopped working after limited use. Signal problems were also mentioned.
Enjoy that pure signal you need for your sonic adventures to cut a fine figure by adding this wireless guitar system to your musical gear.
Also To Consider
The benefits you get to enjoy when using this wireless guitar and bass system include a 20Hz - 20kHz frequency range, a clean RF signal as well as a clear sound. What’s more, due to the lockable interface, you don’t have to worry that settings might accidentally change. The compact design and the carrying case ensure easy and comfortable storage and transportation.
At least one user says signal strength might be lost at times, otherwise, the unit works well.
Whether you play the guitar or the bass, this system has you covered. Consider it if you’re interested in a strong RF signal and a clear sound.
7 Best Wireless Guitar Systems (Reviews) in 2020
Finding the best digital wireless guitar system can take lots of time, considering the many options out there. To simplify your shopping experience, we have reviewed below some of the products that have gathered appreciation and positive feedback from the users who tried them.
- 1. Shure GLXD16 Digital Guitar Pedal Wireless System
- 2. Line 6 Relay G50 Wireless Guitar System
- 3. Shure PGXD14 Digital Wireless System for Guitar/Bass
- 4. Audio-Technica System 10 ATW-1101/G Wireless Guitar System
- 5. Sennheiser Instrument Wireless System Band A1
- 6. Xvive U2 Black 2.4 GHz Wireless System for Guitar
- 7. Line 6 Relay G10 Wireless Guitar System
- Yearly Guide & Report
- Frequently asked questions about wireless guitar systems
1. Shure GLXD16 Digital Guitar Pedal Wireless System
Boasting specs that will take your sonic journey one step further, this Shure wireless guitar system is a product to consider. The package includes anything you need to get started right away.
You will thus get a wireless guitar pedal tuner and receiver, a transmitter as well as a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, a power supply, and a wall battery charger.
The GLXD16 receiver can be mounted on/powered from a pedalboard with ease. It includes a chromatic instrument tuner that offers needle and strobe tuning views and, when used indoors, has a typical operating distance of up to 100 feet or 200 feet under ideal conditions.
Thanks to the battery featured, you will get to enjoy up to 16 hours of continuous use. The GLXD1 transmitter included has an ergonomic design and boasts a reversible belt clip so you can use it in various conditions.
Pros
This model features the LINKFREQ automatic frequency management and bidirectional communication that will let the transmitter and receiver follow any frequency changes.
The system is powered by rechargeable lithium-ion batteries that will give you up to 16 hours of continuous use on a single charge.
It is a perfect wireless system for both guitarists and bassists, and it delivers exceptional digital audio clarity.
Even if you are a beginner, you won’t have to worry that using the system for the first time will be hard since the brand prides itself on the intuitive operation of its products.
The signal strength that this model ensures is excellent since it offers a transmission radius of up to 200 feet.
Cons
The cord attaches to the top of the remote instead of the bottom, and this creates tension that may cause cord damage.
The signal goes in and out sometimes despite being under the advertised transmission radius.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($449)
2. Line 6 Relay G50 Wireless Guitar System
Equipped with all the accessories you need to start using it upon arrival, this Line 6 wireless guitar system is also worth taking into account.
With a dynamic range of more than 110 dB and a broad 10Hz – 20kHz frequency response, this unit is committed to elevating your sonic game.
Designed to redefine the wireless guitar experience, the unit ensures a pure signal so you can get a high-end sparkle when playing your guitar or that loud low-end punch when using it for your bass. What’s great about it is that it will deliver such benefits even when used at distances of up to 200 feet.
The system broadcasts over the 2.4GHz band and boasts exclusive signal protection technology.
It provides 8 hours of battery life and comes with a receiver, a transmitter, a power supply, a locking cable as well as batteries. The LCD display will give you info on power, battery life, and status.
Pros
The system operates on the same 2.4 GHz band as a standard Wi-Fi router, and this makes it very reliable and not at all prone to sound interference.
The package includes the transmitter and receiver together with all the accessories you’ll need to start using it right away.
The latency is very low, and the receiver works just as good when it is a few inches apart from the transmitter as it does when it is on the very limit of 200 feet.
It has multiple layers of signal protection, and it broadcasts simultaneously on multiple channels to ensure that the signal never gets interrupted.
Cons
The battery door opens very easily and, when you are on the stage, even a slight nudge may cause the batteries to fall and the unit to disconnect.
Most of the advanced features of this unit aren’t controllable, which can be an issue for professional musicians.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($349.97)
3. Shure PGXD14 Digital Wireless System for Guitar/Bass
Another product that comes with remarkable specs is this model from Shure. Engineered to ensure a 20Hz – 20kHz frequency range, a clear sound, and a strong RF signal, this compact unit will add to your experience while providing you with ease of use and a comfortable design.
The product comes with a lockable interface in order to prevent setting changes that may occur by accident. It can also be used as a wireless bass guitar system since it is not limited to guitars.
The package includes a PGXD4 receiver and a PGXD1 bodypack transmitter as well as the accessories you need to start using it immediately.
You will thus receive a guitar cable, two AA batteries, and a power supply. Easy storage and transportation are ensured by the carrying case included. No need to worry if you don’t know how to use such a product as you will get a user guide as well.
Pros
It is one of the few options on the market that operates in the 900 MHZ frequency band, and because this band is less congested, there are fewer chances of signal interference.
With this model, you also get automatic frequency selection so that even if you perform in a busy venue, the system will automatically switch to the clearest open channel with a push of a button.
It uses uncompressed digital transmission, and that will help you and the audience to get the most accurate representation of the instrument you are playing.
It features a rugged body that can clip easily onto a guitar strap or belt so that it doesn’t get in your way when you’re performing on the stage.
Cons
If you’re a fan of rechargeable batteries, this unit, unfortunately, runs on 2 AA batteries.
The cords don’t look very durable, so you’ll need to be careful with them.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($349)
4. Audio-Technica System 10 ATW-1101/G Wireless Guitar System
Providing an advanced 24-bit operation as well as natural sound quality, this unit should not be ignored before placing your order.
The specs it boasts and the performance delivered have been praised in several Audio Technica wireless guitar system reviews. The unit operates in the 2.4 GHz range and offers instantaneous channel selection.
You can thus use up to eight channels without encountering any frequency coordination problem.
Clear communications are ensured by the Frequency Diversity, Time Diversity, and Space Diversity options. These levels of diversity assurance will maximize the signal integrity and ensure an interference-free communication.
The unit is ideal not only for guitarists but also for presenters as it is available in various system configurations so you can use it with electric guitars as well as with instrument, headworn, or lavalier microphones. The receiver features AF Peak and Pair indicator lights and a volume control.
Pros
This model has two antennas on each transmitter and receiver, and the true-diversity operation will choose the better signal so that you don’t experience unwanted dropouts.
The LCD provides easy-to-read and convenient visual indicators of the operation status and available settings so that even amateurs can get the most out of the system.
This option is available in multiple system configurations that can be used with electric guitars, head-worn and instrument microphones as well as lavaliers.
The ground-lift switch will eliminate the audible hum that is caused by ground loops between the system and the receiver.
Cons
This is an excellent entry-level system, and as such, it doesn’t come with all of the features that more advanced users require, but this is understandable considering the price.
It uses 2 AA batteries and, when compared to rechargeable batteries, they are not as convenient to use since you’ll need to replace them after 7 hours of use.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($349.95)
5. Sennheiser Instrument Wireless System Band A1
Wireless versatility is what you get with this wireless guitar system from Sennheiser. The unit was designed to enable you to enjoy freedom when on stage without compromising the quality of the sound you produce.
What makes this model stand out is the fact that it can be used with a variety of instruments as long as they boast a 1/4″ plug.
You can thus consider this model not only for your guitar but also for your electric ukulele, banjo, bass, or mandolin.
The unit has a frequency range of 470-516 MHz and the package will provide you with anything you need to take it on stage upon arrival.
You will receive the EM 100 G3 rack-mount receiver, the SK 100 G3 bodypack transmitter as well as the accessories needed for operation including an instrument cable, a power supply, and two AA batteries. Operating instructions are also included.
Pros
The lightweight bodypack transmitter features an intuitive graphic display that lets you navigate through the menu and change settings with a push of a few buttons.
The transmission range of up to 330 feet is very impressive, and it makes the system suitable for all types of live events, not just musical performances.
Bass players will appreciate the enhanced AF frequency response that starts at 25Hz, and this frequency is perfect for players with 5-string bass guitars.
This system can handle the rigors of stage performance since the sturdy metal housing guarantees that the sensitive internals are well protected against falls or bumps.
Cons
It is one of the most expensive options on the market, which makes it perfect for advanced users, but people who don’t need all the bells and whistles will need to look elsewhere.
While you can power this option with a rechargeable battery, you will need to purchase one separately since it doesn’t come in the package.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($574.95)
6. Xvive U2 Black 2.4 GHz Wireless System for Guitar
As a guitarist, you’re most probably concerned about the tone you get to enjoy. When using a wireless guitar system, you want to enjoy the same uncompromised tone as when you use a cable. The Xvive U2 guitar wireless system is committed to making sure you benefit from that.
The product offers a broad 20Hz – 20kHz frequency response and simultaneous broadcasts on four channels and has a range of more than 70 feet.
By broadcasting in the 2.4GHz band, the unit avoids interference that can be caused by cell phone towers, TV stations, and other such high-powered sources.
The package will get you the transmitter, receiver, and the accessories you need to use it right away.
The rechargeable lithium battery offers 5 hours of continuous use. Both pieces are compact, foldable, and easy to store and transport. The system is available in a variety of colors.
Pros
It is one of the most affordable options on the market and, despite its small price point, it manages to offer all the basic features one might need.
Latency is undetectable with this model and, since it broadcasts simultaneously on four channels, you won’t have to worry about ever losing the signal.
The build quality is also excellent, considering the price point, and the ABS plastic feels very sturdy and well made so that it can protect the electronics inside from damage.
It is a perfect choice for beginner players since, to use it, you only need to plug and play and the system will do the rest of the work for you.
Cons
The main downside with this option is that it can’t be used with active pickups.
The plug will fit most guitar output jacks, but it has some issues with a few instruments, and this may cause the connection to suffer.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($154.9)
7. Line 6 Relay G10 Wireless Guitar System
Sound quality and ease of use are the things that Line 6 had in mind when designing this system. Using it is as easy as using a standard guitar cable.
You just need to plug in the guitar and the unit will automatically select the best channel. No setup needed, as simple as that.
This ease of operation makes it ideal if you use multiple guitars as you will be able to switch instruments in no time as the transmitter works with different types of guitars.
Enjoying your tone in great detail is possible thanks to the 24-bit digital sound quality. The rechargeable transmitter further adds to the performance delivered by this model.
You can use it for continuous play for up to 8 hours on a single charge. When the unit is out of use, the Sleep Mode is automatically activated, which further extends battery life.
Pros
The system features a wider frequency and a more dynamic range so that the signal from your instrument can get to your amplifier in its purest form.
This model uses a fast and simple rechargeable transmitter that can provide the system with up to 8 hours of continuous play on a single charge.
The simple design of this model will eliminate any unnecessary headaches since once you plug it in your guitar, the transmitter and receiver will select the optimum channel and will sync automatically.
You won’t have to worry about latency with this model since, at 2.9ms, it is so small that it is insignificant to the human ear.
Cons
For guitars that have a non-standard jack, you will need to purchase an additional mono adapter.
The charger pack comes with multiple adapters and, while this will help you during your travels, it makes the charger very large and easier to break since the plastic looks flimsy.
Buy from Amazon.com
Yearly Guide & Report
If you often engage in live performances or you simply don’t want your practice setting to be about cables that get in your way, then a wireless guitar system is a must. Designed to provide musicians with the freedom to move, these products are also committed to delivering high sound quality.
Finding the best cheap wireless guitar system or a more expensive Behringer wireless guitar system if your budget allows you might prove to be intimidating, though. Today’s market offers a variety of such systems that feature various specs, which might confuse you even more. To help you find the right system for your needs and budget, we have highlighted below some key factors to consider.
Analog vs digital wireless systems
Wireless systems are divided into two types: analog and digital. While analog systems might be somewhat more affordable, they come with both ups and downs. However, the burden of cables will be history no matter the type you go for. In the case of an analog system, the audio signal is compressed in the transmitter and then expanded in the receiver through “companding”.
The thing with this process is that some of the original audio signal may be lost, which will affect the final audio output, and thus your tone. Unlike their analog counterparts, digital wireless systems no longer involve companding and avoid radio-frequency interference by converting analog audio to digital data.
The digital wireless systems are thus preferred because of their ability to preserve the complete dynamic range of the original signal and deliver better quality audio. Moreover, such systems use encrypted data transmission.
Dynamic range and frequency response
Two other important factors you need to keep in mind when looking for a quality wireless guitar system include the frequency response and dynamic range. The two are measurements of sound quality, therefore, paying attention to what a wireless system is capable of in these terms is of great importance.
As far as the frequency response is concerned, you might want to go for a system that can reproduce a range of frequencies from 20 Hz to 20 kHz because this is the range covered by the human hearing. Simply put, such a frequency response means you will enjoy a more natural sound.
Another measure of sound quality is also given by the so-called dynamic range, which is the ratio between the loudest undistorted sound and the lowest noise floor. What you want to get is a wireless system that has a higher dynamic range because this means there will be less noise. The minimum you should get is 100 dB as far as this spec is concerned.
Frequency agility and diversity features
What one might think of when it comes to a wireless guitar system is the problems caused by interference. You might thus want to consider a model that comes with frequency ability as such a system will switch between different channels in order to avoid interference. Some models will even automatically select the best suitable channel and switch between frequencies.
To further make sure that interference is not a problem, you also need to keep an eye on the diversify features provided by the model you want to buy. Such features protect the system from interference by using multiple different communication systems.
There are various diversity features and methods used by wireless guitar systems and, although none of them can fully eliminate the threat of wireless audio dropouts, they do play an important role in making it less likely for them to occur.
Operating range, battery life, and materials
There are many factors on which the operating range of a wireless guitar system depends ranging from the walls in the path of the signal to the signals in your area. The typical operating distance is somewhere between 50 feet and 300 feet. The greater the distance, the higher the price. Keep in mind that, in practice, this varies.
If your guitar gigs or practice sessions are usually long, you also need to consider the battery life provided by the system you buy. Lithium-ion batteries are recommended for their longevity. Such batteries will get you hours of use before they need to be recharged.
Even if you can’t afford a more expensive system such as an Alesis wireless guitar system but you don’t want to go for a DIY wireless guitar system either, you should not compromise on quality. Get a durable product that won’t fail after a few uses even if you intend to use it just now and then. An all-metal unit is desirable.
Build quality
When playing at a venue, it is not always possible to mount the wireless guitar system on a rack, and more often than not, you will end up placing the unit on your amp or the floor. No matter how careful you are with a product, it is impossible to avoid a little bump, fall, or getting stepped on by a band member.
This is why you must invest in a product that looks durable and that comes with a rugged case. If a guitar system looks flimsy, then it is best to avoid it and focus instead on a more durable alternative.
Purchasing a plug-and-play system eliminates these concerns entirely since the system plugs directly into your amp. By incorporating a wireless guitar system directly into your rig, you won’t risk damaging the gear anymore, and you’ll be able to focus instead on playing and entertaining your audience.
Latency
If you ever find yourself having to choose between two products that seem to offer similar features, one factor that can help you decide is the latency that the units offer. When comparing products, you should get the one that has the lowest amount of latency.
Latency refers to the amount of time that it takes for the signal to travel from the transmitter to the receiver. While it is desired for the time to stay as close to 0 as possible, this is not feasible even if the transmitter and receiver are very close.
Modern products have very good latency, but older models and cheap systems tend to be more susceptible to latency issues, so do make sure to keep this factor in mind before purchasing a product.
Budget
Another aspect that can help you get the product you need is how much money you are willing to spend on the system. Not everyone can afford to get the newest and most expensive wireless guitar system on the market, but this doesn’t mean that you will have to settle for a bad product.
There are plenty of decent set-ups available at an affordable price, but if you are serious about the sound quality, then it is certainly worth it to shell out more money for a better product.
To decide if your budget is too low or too high, you will need to consider the size of the venue where you intended to play, the expected audiences, and the number of instruments. The higher these numbers are, the better the wireless guitar system will need to be, and hence more expensive.
Still, the market is flooded with tons of affordable options that still provide optimum quality. As long as you make use of helpful reviews, it shouldn’t be that difficult to find cheap options that come with all the bells and whistles such as automatic frequency, string signal strength, and rechargeable lithium-ion batteries.
Frequently asked questions about wireless guitar systems
Q: How to use a wireless guitar system?
You first need to make sure that the battery of the wireless guitar system is charged and ready to go. Make sure all of the equipment, effect boxes, pedals, and amps are turned off, then plug the transmitter included in the system into the jack featured on your guitar.
The wireless receiver should be plugged into the main input found on the effects pedal system you use. In case you use only one effect box, it should be plugged directly into the input jack. Then connect the pedals or effects to your amp with a guitar cable and turn on the wireless system and then the effects/pedals and the amp.
Q: How do wireless guitar systems work?
A wireless guitar system includes a transmitter and a receiver. The transmitter will be plugged into the jack on your guitar in order to turn the analog signal that comes from your instrument into a digital one. This digital signal is then transmitted to the receiver included in the wireless system by using a radio frequency band.
Such systems usually use two bands, the Ultra High Frequency (UHF) and the Very High Frequency (VHF). Both of them use FM. The receiver’s duty is to decode this piece of information and then feed it to your amplifier and do so in an analog format.
Q: Do wireless guitar systems affect tone?
Analog wireless systems can affect the tone because the dynamic range of the audio will be compressed in the transmitter and then expanded in the receiver, a process known as companding. A cheap wireless guitar system may use companders that will affect your sound but even more expensive analog systems will still not deliver the original audio signal perfectly.
However, things are different with digital systems because they don’t need a compander. The audio signal will hit an analog to digital (A to D) converter and will then be reconstructed by a digital to analog converter (D to A), a process that should not affect the tone.
Q: How popular are wireless guitar systems?
Wireless guitar systems have increased their popularity over the years thanks to the many benefits they offer. Moreover, the latest technological achievements further enhance the advantages delivered. Such a system will not only increase your mobility and give you the freedom to explore the stage while performing but can also eliminate group loops.
By carrying the signal of your guitar to the PA system wirelessly, this system will enable you to walk freely with your instrument during your gigs or practice. Plus, the digital wireless systems will make sure that the freedom you enjoy is coupled with a clean tone.
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