AKG Introduces WMS 4000 Wireless Microphone SystemTrue-Diversity Wireless System Flexible Enough for Multi-user and Multi-channel Applications
 |
|
(Click for a close-up) |
March 23, 2003
AKG Acoustics introduced its new wireless WMS 4000 microphone system, a true-diversity wireless system that is flexible enough for multi-users and multi-channel applications with a wide range of components available that offer operational versatility.
"The WMS 4000 wireless microphone system has been created to meet the changing needs and demands of the fixed installation, system integration industry and performance applications," explains Tom Stotler, AKG's Market Development Manager, Music and Touring Sound. "The WMS 4000 is very rugged and extremely reliable in environments hostile to RF transmission. This system was designed to meet the needs of professionals in the field. The WMS 4000 should be of particular interest to system contractors, system integrators and other NSCA attendees."
WMS 4000 Components and Optional Accessories
The SR 4000 is a true-diversity frequency-agile UHF receiver on a 30 MHz-wide UHF wide bandwidth containing preset inter-modulation-free frequencies and access to up to 1,200 switchable frequencies. Three separate 30 MHz channels may be selected for use in the U.S., offering a maximum of approximately 50 usable channels that are limited only to other external RF interference. Unique signal compression and expansion circuits provide a dynamic range greater than 112 dB. An output level switch allows the selection of three output levels at -30, 0, +6 dB for optimum system gain structure.
The SR 4000 offers a broad range of controls and features, as well as a backlit display, jog wheel and logic control output. The internal software highlights features such as AutoSetup for inter-modulationfree channel selection, EnvironmentScan for scanning of the unit's RF range, and RehearsalMode selection for saving system data during rehearsal set-up. Important settings like squelch threshold, carrier frequency selection and user's name can be edited and stored in an easy menu structure. Programmable status indicators on the SR 4000 receiver include mute, audio level bar graph, RF level bar graph, and a 6x14 segment alphanumeric display and menu control. The unique, programmable Status Control Ring can display the most important system data at a glance.
The PT 4000 bodypack and the HT 4000 handheld UHF transmitters incorporate programmed, pre-matched, optimized frequency groups that allow for quick, easy frequency selection. Other features include backlit LCD displays for system status monitoring and a jog wheel for quick system setup and navigation. These transmitters are encased in magnesium metal chassis for rugged on-stage use, and have a usable operation distance of up to 330 ft., with a system audio bandwidth from 35 Hz to 20 kHz.
The HT 4000 handheld transmitter allows for interchangeable microphone modules with three dynamic models D880, D 3700, D 3800 and three condenser models C 900, C 5900, and the
C 535.
The PT 4000 bodypack accepts both microphone and line-level input signals and has an adjustable input sensitivity. A lockable TA-3F Mini-XLR connector is used for easy connection of a broad range of AKG headsets, lavalieres, instrument microphones and instrument cables. The PT 4000 bodypack transmitter also has a 2.5-mm jack connector for the optional RMS 4000 remote switch device.
Both HT 4000 handheld and PT 4000 bodypack transmitters can be powered either by 2 AA batteries or a BP 4000 rechargeable battery pack and incorporate integrated charging contacts for easy use with the optional CU 4000 charging unit.
The CU 4000 charging unit features two charging bays that are designed to hold two separate HT 4000 handheld, PT 4000 transmitters or BP 4000 battery packs. The CU 4000 can charge two battery packs simultaneously in one hour. A three-step LED display on the CU 4000 displays the charging status. The unit is based on a trickle charge system with inflection point switch-off automation to preventing the battery pack from overcharging. The CU 4000 identifies possible battery memory problems and suggests starting an optional recovery cycle via a recovery button on the CU 4000's front panel. This function refreshes the BP 4000 battery pack by charging and discharging cycles to determine the actual capacity of the battery.
The CU 4000 has a lockable DC connector on its rear panel that allows it to be powered by either an external DC adapter or by the optional PSU 4000 central power supply.
The PS 4000 multi-coupler provides an antenna signal and DC power for up to four diversity wireless receivers. The PS 4000 has a wide-band antenna signal amplifier/divider with a 220 MHz-wide UHF bandwidth custom-tuned to all available WMS 4000 channels. Two additional BNC outputs are also available on the rear panel for cascading the diversity antenna signal to another multi-coupler. Up to three multi-couplers can be cascaded to supply antenna signal to 12 receivers from a single pair of antennas.
The PS 4000 has several operation and failure status LED's that allow monitoring of correct cable and antenna signal operation. A 10-position switch on the front panel of the PS 4000 will adjust for signal loss caused by cable length, thus providing reception optimization.
Either a single DC adapter or an ASU 4000 central power supply unit can power the PS 4000. The PS 4000 is encased in all-metal chassis and is one standard rack unit high and one-half rack unit wide. When mounted it can be placed side-by-side with an SR 4000 receiver, another PS 4000 multi-coupler, an ASU 4000 and other WMS 4000 rack-mountable accessories. All rack-mountable WMS 4000 receivers and accessories include complete rack-mount kits at no extra charge.
The PS 4000 uses three different external antenna options, SRA1 passive directional, SRA2 active directional and the RA 4000B active omnidirectional. When cable length between external antennas and PS 4000 exceed the maximum compensation setting an AB 4000 in line amplifier can be added to gain an additional 17 dB of amplification.
An expansive line of additional accessories include the ASU 4000, an in-line power supply unit for use in large antenna networks, HPA 4000 Headphone Amplifier with eight line inputs, HUB 4000 Network Interface (designed for multi-complex systems) that features an ID switch, status display and 8 x SR in, an Ethernet out and the MCS 4000 PC Software that provides additional programming and monitoring of connected receivers, detailed RF and AF functions, a graphical scanner and enhanced auto setup mode.
For more information, visit their web site at www.akgusa.com. | 
