What is the main purpose of the Radial HotShot 48V?

It is designed to allow a performer to switch their microphone signal between two different outputs, such as the main PA system and a private monitor feed for stage communication.

Does this device work with condenser microphones?

Yes, it features a built-in 48V phantom power supply that can be activated via a switch on the rear panel specifically for condenser mics.

Will I hear a pop or click when I press the switch?

No, the device uses a microcontroller-managed relay with a 5ms delay to ensure that switching is completely silent and free of audible artifacts.

Can it be used with dynamic microphones?

Yes, the HotShot 48V works just as well with dynamic microphones as it does with condenser microphones.

Is the switching footswitch momentary or latching?

The device typically functions as a momentary switch, meaning the signal is only re-routed while your foot is holding the switch down.

How long is the delay when switching?

The internal microcontroller introduces a brief 5ms delay to allow DC leakage to dissipate, ensuring the audio transition is silent.

Does the HotShot 48V require power to operate?

Yes, because it is an active device with a microcontroller and 48V phantom power capabilities, it requires an external power source.

Can I use this with a Shure SM7B?

Yes, the HotShot 48V is fully compatible with the Shure SM7B and other standard dynamic studio microphones.

Is this device suitable for headset microphones?

Yes, it can be used with condenser headsets like the Audix HT2 or Shure SM35-XLR, provided they are used with their appropriate XLR adapters.

Can this be used to mute a microphone entirely?

Yes, if the second output is not connected to anything, the HotShot 48V effectively acts as a hands-free mute switch.

How does the 5ms delay affect my performance?

The 5ms delay is used only during the relay transition to prevent pops; it does not introduce any noticeable latency to the audio signal itself during normal use.

Can I use this with a Neumann TLM 103?

Yes, the HotShot 48V can provide the necessary phantom power and silent switching required for high-quality condenser microphones like the Neumann TLM 103.

Gear article

Radial HotShot 48V Condenser Microphone Switcher

The Radial HotShot 48V is an active microphone switcher designed to facilitate seamless communication on stage by re-routing a single microphone signal between two outputs. Utilising a time-delay microcontroller, the device provides silent, pop-free switching for both dynamic and condenser microphones, making it a critical tool for band-mate or crew communication.

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Overview

The Radial HotShot 48V is a specialized foot-activated switcher that allows a performer to toggle their microphone signal between a primary Front-of-House (FOH) output and a secondary destination, such as a monitor desk or an intercom system. This functionality is essential for professional stage environments where musicians need to speak privately to band members or technical crew without the audience hearing the communication through the main PA system.

Microcontroller Technology

A primary challenge with switching microphone signals—particularly those requiring phantom power—is the presence of audible 'pops' or clicks. The HotShot 48V addresses this through an active design incorporating a time-delay microcontroller. When the footswitch is pressed, the device initiates a 5ms delay. This brief interval allows the switching relay to activate and any DC leakage to dissipate before the signal is passed, ensuring completely silent operation without artifacts.

Phantom Power and Compatibility

Unlike passive switchers that may only support dynamic microphones, the HotShot 48V features a dedicated 48V phantom power switch on the rear panel. This allows it to support high-end condenser microphones, such as the Neumann TLM 102 or the Shure SM35-XLR headset. It is equally compatible with dynamic microphones like the Shure SM7B, providing versatility for various vocalists and instrumentalists.

Application and Use Cases

The device is primarily intended for hands-free operation on stage. By depressing the momentary footswitch, the artist mutes the main output and redirects the signal to a secondary output. This is commonly used for:

Direct communication with monitor engineers.
Talking to bandmates through in-ear monitor (IEM) mixes.
Temporary muting of a signal during a performance.
Switching between two different audio channels for creative effects.

Build and Reliability

As is standard for Radial equipment, the HotShot 48V is built to withstand the rigours of professional touring. Its active circuitry ensures that signal integrity is maintained over long cable runs, while the robust mechanical foot switch is designed for frequent use. The unit requires external power to operate its active switching relay and to provide 48V phantom power to the microphone.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the main purpose of the Radial HotShot 48V?: It is designed to allow a performer to switch their microphone signal between two different outputs, such as the main PA system and a private monitor feed for stage communication.
Does this device work with condenser microphones?: Yes, it features a built-in 48V phantom power supply that can be activated via a switch on the rear panel specifically for condenser mics.
Will I hear a pop or click when I press the switch?: No, the device uses a microcontroller-managed relay with a 5ms delay to ensure that switching is completely silent and free of audible artifacts.
Can it be used with dynamic microphones?: Yes, the HotShot 48V works just as well with dynamic microphones as it does with condenser microphones.
Is the switching footswitch momentary or latching?: The device typically functions as a momentary switch, meaning the signal is only re-routed while your foot is holding the switch down.
How long is the delay when switching?: The internal microcontroller introduces a brief 5ms delay to allow DC leakage to dissipate, ensuring the audio transition is silent.
Does the HotShot 48V require power to operate?: Yes, because it is an active device with a microcontroller and 48V phantom power capabilities, it requires an external power source.
Can I use this with a Shure SM7B?: Yes, the HotShot 48V is fully compatible with the Shure SM7B and other standard dynamic studio microphones.
Is this device suitable for headset microphones?: Yes, it can be used with condenser headsets like the Audix HT2 or Shure SM35-XLR, provided they are used with their appropriate XLR adapters.
Can this be used to mute a microphone entirely?: Yes, if the second output is not connected to anything, the HotShot 48V effectively acts as a hands-free mute switch.
How does the 5ms delay affect my performance?: The 5ms delay is used only during the relay transition to prevent pops; it does not introduce any noticeable latency to the audio signal itself during normal use.
Can I use this with a Neumann TLM 103?: Yes, the HotShot 48V can provide the necessary phantom power and silent switching required for high-quality condenser microphones like the Neumann TLM 103.