Shure Applauds FCC Expansion of Wireless Microphone License Eligibility

The Federal Communications Commission recently completed a multi-year exploration of the role of wireless microphones in modern content production and the technical challenges that surround their use. According to a press release issued by Shure on June 3, the study included consultations with wireless microphone users across many different types of productions.

Concluding that the use of wireless microphones is an integral part of major productions and events, and essential to maintaining high standards of production quality, the release states the FCC has adopted new rules that expand wireless microphone license eligibility to include professional sound companies and venues that routinely use 50 or more wireless microphones. The move will insure that concert venues, theaters, convention centers, theme parks, professional sound companies, and other large-scale users will continue to be able to employ wireless microphones reliably as spectrum use intensifies.

The release continues, that after consideration of technical and regulatory factors, the Commission concluded that the use of wireless microphones (and related equipment such as in-ear monitors and production intercoms) at major productions and events could be effectively protected by expanding license eligibility. Wireless microphone users may request protection from interference from TV Band Devices (also known as "white space" devices) at the time and location of these events by registering in one of the FCC-approved TV Bands Devices databases. Licensed users are able to obtain protection in a more streamlined and efficient manner. Previously, only broadcasters, cable networks, and TV/film production companies were eligible for licenses.

"Shure applauds the FCC's thoughtful decision regarding expansion of entities eligible for wireless microphone licenses," said Mark Brunner, senior director, global brand management at Shure. "As spectrum demand is increasing from a wide variety of technologies and services, protection of professional audio operations is becoming more critical. We are pleased that the Commission has recognized the wide impact that wireless microphones have on our daily lives -- in broadcasting and media production, sports, live entertainment, and in corporate, civic, education, and worship venues. This action takes an important step forward in updating the regulations regarding professional audio operations that have become an integral part of American culture and aligns with views held by regulatory authorities around the world. Shure appreciates the careful attention the FCC has paid to this issue."