What frequency does this transmitter operate on?

This specific QTX transmitter operates on the fixed VHF frequency of 174.1MHz. It is important to ensure your receiver or PA system is configured for this exact frequency before purchase.

Which PA systems is this microphone compatible with?

It is designed specifically as a replacement or addition for the QTX QRPA and QXPA series of portable audio systems. It will only work with units that have a built-in 174.1MHz VHF receiver.

Is the frequency adjustable on this beltpack?

No, this is a fixed-frequency VHF device. The frequency is set at the factory to 174.1MHz and cannot be changed by the user.

What is the typical price for this unit?

The QTX Neckband and VHF Beltpack Transmitter typically retails for approximately £25. This makes it a cost-effective solution for replacing lost or damaged original equipment.

Does it come with a microphone?

Yes, the product includes both the VHF beltpack transmitter and the head-worn neckband microphone. The microphone connects directly to the beltpack via a cable.

Can I use this with a Shure or Sennheiser receiver?

Generally, no. While it uses the VHF band, it is specifically tuned for the circuitry in QTX portable PA systems. Professional receivers from brands like Shure or Sennheiser usually operate on different frequency bands or use different modulation standards.

What type of microphone is included?

The included microphone is a neckband or 'head-worn' type. It features a lightweight frame that sits behind the head and over the ears, with a flexible boom to position the mic capsule near the mouth.

Is this suitable for singing?

While it can be used for singing in a casual or public address context, it is primarily designed for speech. For high-fidelity vocal performances, a dedicated vocal mic like a Shure Beta 58A or Sennheiser e935 would be more appropriate.

Do I need a license to use 174.1MHz in the UK?

In the UK, 174.1MHz is typically part of the 'license-exempt' VHF range for radio microphones. However, users should always check current Ofcom regulations to ensure compliance for their specific location and use case.

How is the beltpack powered?

The beltpack transmitter is typically powered by a 9V battery (PP3). It is recommended to use alkaline batteries for the most reliable performance and runtime.

Can I use two of these 174.1MHz transmitters at the same time?

No, you cannot use two transmitters on the exact same frequency simultaneously as they will interfere with each other. If you need two wireless mics, the second one must operate on a different frequency, such as 173.8MHz or 175.0MHz.

How does the sound compare to an Electro-Voice RE20?

The QTX Neckband is a utility speech microphone, whereas the Electro-Voice RE20 is a professional broadcast-standard dynamic mic. The RE20 offers significantly higher fidelity, bass response, and build quality, but it is not wireless or hands-free like the QTX unit.

Gear article

QTX Neckband Mic and VHF Belt Pack Transmitter (174.1MHz)

The QTX Neckband and VHF Beltpack Transmitter is a wireless microphone system designed specifically for use with QTX QR and QX series portable PA units. Operating on a fixed VHF frequency of 174.1MHz, it provides a hands-free vocal solution for presenters and performers.

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Overview

The QTX Neckband Mic and VHF Belt Pack Transmitter is a dedicated wireless accessory for mobile audio applications. It is engineered as a direct replacement or expansion component for the QTX QR and QX series of portable PA systems. By utilising a neckband design, it allows the user to maintain a consistent microphone-to-mouth distance while keeping their hands free, making it ideal for fitness instructors, public speakers, and stage performers who require mobility.

Technical Specifications and Frequency

This particular model operates on a fixed VHF frequency of 174.1MHz. In the United Kingdom, this frequency is part of the deregulated VHF spectrum often used for low-power wireless microphone systems. The system consists of two primary components:

Beltpack Transmitter: A compact unit that houses the battery and wireless transmission circuitry, typically worn on a belt or waistband.
Neckband Microphone: A lightweight headset that plugs into the beltpack via a dedicated connector, featuring a flexible boom for precise capsule positioning.

Compatibility and System Integration

The unit is purpose-built for compatibility with the QTX QRPA and QXPA portable PA ranges. These PA units often feature built-in VHF receivers, and this transmitter is designed to pair directly with the corresponding internal receiver set to 174.1MHz. It is essential for users to match the frequency of the transmitter to the specific frequency of their PA unit's receiver, as these fixed-frequency systems cannot be tuned to different channels.

Sound Character and Application

The microphone is voiced for speech intelligibility, ensuring that the user's voice remains clear in public address settings. While it lacks the high-fidelity characteristics of studio-grade dynamic microphones like the Sennheiser MD 441-U or the Electro-Voice RE20, it is highly effective for its intended purpose of clear, mid-range vocal reproduction. The hands-free nature of the neckband makes it a more practical choice for active users than handheld alternatives such as the Shure SM58 or Sennheiser e945.

Comparison to Alternatives

When compared to industry-standard dynamic microphones like the Shure Beta 58A or the SM57, the QTX Neckband offers the distinct advantage of wireless mobility and hands-free operation. However, unlike professional-grade systems from Shure or Sennheiser which often feature frequency agility and rugged metal construction, the QTX system is a budget-friendly, entry-level solution designed for specific portable PA hardware. It serves a different niche than specialised microphones like the Shure 520DX 'Green Bullet', focusing on utility and ease of use rather than specific tonal coloration.

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Frequently asked questions

What frequency does this transmitter operate on?: This specific QTX transmitter operates on the fixed VHF frequency of 174.1MHz. It is important to ensure your receiver or PA system is configured for this exact frequency before purchase.
Which PA systems is this microphone compatible with?: It is designed specifically as a replacement or addition for the QTX QRPA and QXPA series of portable audio systems. It will only work with units that have a built-in 174.1MHz VHF receiver.
Is the frequency adjustable on this beltpack?: No, this is a fixed-frequency VHF device. The frequency is set at the factory to 174.1MHz and cannot be changed by the user.
What is the typical price for this unit?: The QTX Neckband and VHF Beltpack Transmitter typically retails for approximately £25. This makes it a cost-effective solution for replacing lost or damaged original equipment.
Does it come with a microphone?: Yes, the product includes both the VHF beltpack transmitter and the head-worn neckband microphone. The microphone connects directly to the beltpack via a cable.
Can I use this with a Shure or Sennheiser receiver?: Generally, no. While it uses the VHF band, it is specifically tuned for the circuitry in QTX portable PA systems. Professional receivers from brands like Shure or Sennheiser usually operate on different frequency bands or use different modulation standards.
What type of microphone is included?: The included microphone is a neckband or 'head-worn' type. It features a lightweight frame that sits behind the head and over the ears, with a flexible boom to position the mic capsule near the mouth.
Is this suitable for singing?: While it can be used for singing in a casual or public address context, it is primarily designed for speech. For high-fidelity vocal performances, a dedicated vocal mic like a Shure Beta 58A or Sennheiser e935 would be more appropriate.
Do I need a license to use 174.1MHz in the UK?: In the UK, 174.1MHz is typically part of the 'license-exempt' VHF range for radio microphones. However, users should always check current Ofcom regulations to ensure compliance for their specific location and use case.
How is the beltpack powered?: The beltpack transmitter is typically powered by a 9V battery (PP3). It is recommended to use alkaline batteries for the most reliable performance and runtime.
Can I use two of these 174.1MHz transmitters at the same time?: No, you cannot use two transmitters on the exact same frequency simultaneously as they will interfere with each other. If you need two wireless mics, the second one must operate on a different frequency, such as 173.8MHz or 175.0MHz.
How does the sound compare to an Electro-Voice RE20?: The QTX Neckband is a utility speech microphone, whereas the Electro-Voice RE20 is a professional broadcast-standard dynamic mic. The RE20 offers significantly higher fidelity, bass response, and build quality, but it is not wireless or hands-free like the QTX unit.