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May 2012

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Audio Review: WMS450 Wireless Choir Microphone System

A complete package offers the flexibility to place a choir microphone anywhere within range of the wireless receiver.

by Brad Doran

In the church audio world, we have churches that are small, big, contemplative, charismatic, Baptist, Evangelical, etc. And let's be honest, there are more differences than similarities. However, two similarities come to mind immediately. Foremost, we all believe that Christ is the Son of God and died on the cross to pay for our sins. Second, all of us most likely have had a choir in one shape or form sing on Sunday morning.

Researching microphones that accurately and evenly pick up each choir member, without feedback, can be an arduous and time-consuming task. Enter the AKG WMS450 Wireless Choir Microphone System.

For decades AKG has been known to both live and studio engineers as one of the best manufacturers of quality microphones. Whether it's the C414, D112, C451, C1000 or the C3000, AKG has produced high quality microphones at a reasonable price point when compared to their quality and features. The WMS450 choir system does not stray from this heritage.

The Complete WMS450
Choir System Package
With the WMS450 Choir System, AKG introduces a complete package including the option to attach a wireless transmitter and receiver to the already feature-rich gooseneck microphone series. Although many churches have dedicated choir lofts or risers with microphone lines easily accessible, this package offers the flexibility to place the microphone anywhere within range of the receiver as well as plugging it into a traditional stage input box. This can be a great asset to have in your back pocket when your worship pastor asks if the choir can stand in the one place you don't have an XLR nearby. In our case, we needed to move the microphones out of the way of camera shots during a service. The absence of XLR cables made it a much cleaner and easier transition.

Out of the box, the AKG WMS450 Choir System is a very well-made unit consisting of a height-adjustable floor stand (from seven to nine feet tall) with an integrated gooseneck. When put together, the whole system has a very low center of gravity due to the heavy base. It would be difficult to knock over, even if an overly enthusiastic choir member bumped into the stand. It also has a very low profile design that renders it nearly invisible for churches who use IMAG.

The wireless body pack transmitter sports a mini-XLR input to attach the microphone, a small display to show the name or frequency of the pack, and is encased in a plastic shell that is lightweight compared to other high-end wireless transmitters. You also have the option of a mute safe plug. Just insert the 1/8th-inch adaptor and no one can accidentally mute the transmitter-a welcome addition. It uses only one AA battery and is rated for six full hours. The system comes with a pretty nifty clamp that attaches the wireless body pack securely to the stand. This clamp allows you to move the entire unit quickly, without the fear of dropping anything and accidentally snapping cables in the process.

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BRAD DORAN is a husband, father of two, and is the audio and lighting systems director at Grace Community Church in Noblesville, Ind. In his spare time, he enjoys talking and learning from others involved in production ministries.