Shure Incorporated, a global leader in audio electronics and technology, is forming the Wireless Microphone Spectrum Alliance (WMSA), a coalition of stakeholders who are committed to ensuring access to RF spectrum for wireless microphones. This alliance will include end users, content creators, live production service providers, equipment manufacturers and other stakeholders.
Wireless microphones are essential for a wide variety of activities, including concerts, events, corporate presentations, houses of worship, sports, film production, television, music, conferences, community meetings, and more across the United States.
“RF spectrum is the lifeblood of all wireless communication systems like TV broadcasting, mobile networks, satellite systems, and wireless microphones. These wireless communication systems are all competing for this scarce vital resource,” the announcement states. “The goal of this alliance is to advocate for access to the RF spectrum that allows those events to operate using wireless microphones. Whether it is on a global stage or a community platform, the importance of preserving spectrum is vital for many reasons. Diverse industries rely on spectrum to successfully produce their events, which is a significant source of revenue, creating jobs, fostering innovation, and creating collaboration.”
WMSA‘s stated mission:
- Preserve RF Spectrum: Ensure the availability of spectrum for wireless microphone users across various industries
- Raise Awareness: Through education, highlight the critical importance of spectrum for concerts, live sports, live events, concerts, the film industry, broadcast, theater, worship and other content creators
- Foster Collaboration: Create a platform for stakeholders to join forces in advocating for spectrum preservation
- Engage Policymakers: Work closely with the FCC, Congress, and other policymakers to advocate for sufficient spectrum allocations for current and future wireless microphone use
- Conduct Public Outreach: Encourage public involvement through outreach and events that demonstrate the necessity of wireless spectrum and the impact its loss would have on various productions
“Without proper spectrum availability for wireless microphones, many cities may not be able to successfully operate large-scale sporting events like the Super Bowl or the Olympic Games,” the announcement continues. “
Wireless microphones are used extensively for a wide variety of activities during these events, including:
- Press conferences
- Onsite TV and radio production
- Pre-show concerts
- Fundraisers/community events
- National anthems
- Halftime shows
- Broadcast microphones
- Referee/official microphones
- Public address and public safety microphones
- Many other activities that require adequate spectrum for wireless microphones
“As the U.S. is preparing to host major events such as the 2026 FIFA World Cup and 2028 Olympic Games, the ability to support these activities with necessary spectrum is critical,” the announcement concludes.
Organizations interested in joining this effort can contact Prakash Moorut (Global Head of Spectrum & Regulatory Affairs at Shure) at moorutp@shure.com.
