Alteros Launches GTX Series L.A.W.N. Ultra-Wideband (UWB) Wireless Microphone

Alteros is debuting the GTX Series L.A.W.N. (Local Area Wireless mic Network) Ultra-Wideband (UWB) Wireless Microphone System, alongside two handheld transmitters — the GTX24-HHP (performer handheld) and GTX24-HHB (broadcast handheld) — and the system’s feature-rich remote and network control platform.

The GTX Series L.A.W.N. UWB system is a professional broadcast/live performance solution that the companys says offers immunity to radio frequency spectrum regulatory changes, bandwidth loss and channel crowding. The GTX L.A.W.N. UWB system is a fully digital 6.5 GHz solution. The UWB technology uses pulsed RF rather than a modulated carrier signal. This enables easy setup of the L.A.W.N. without the need for frequency coordination, database registration, FCC part 74 licenses or expensive support equipment. Fitting seamlessly into modern workflows, the operationally cost-effective L.A.W.N. system supports unlimited repeat deployment (studio-to-studio and location-to-location) of 24 simultaneous, high-quality, low-latency (< 3ms), uncompanded 48 kHz/24-bit audio channels in any indoor or outdoor broadcast or performance environment in a system that is easier to set up and operate than a computer wi-fi network. With up to 64-way diversity and direct digital delivery of audio, dropouts and other typical RF anomalies are virtually eliminated.

Available system components include the GTX3224 control unit, GTX24 body-pack transmitter, GTX32 transceiver, GTX24-HHP (performer handheld) microphone transmitter, GTX24-HHB (broadcast handheld) microphone transmitter and a direct-to-fiber option. The GTX24-HHP “performer” version wireless handheld mic is intended for live performance applications and features a lightweight, comfortable design which accepts popular thread-on microphone capsules using a 1.25″/28 thread pitch, allowing the performer to select the preferred microphone sound and performance from a wide range of manufacturers, including the new selection of Audio-Technica capsules. The GTX24-HHB “broadcaster” version wireless handheld mic includes additional features such as a dedicated “flag mount” section and incorporated “talkback button.” The GTX24-HHB also incorporates interchangeable microphone capsule mounts, allowing for maximum flexibility in sound and performance. Dual built-in antennae ensure signal strength is preserved regardless of where the microphone is held. Available now, the GTX24-HHP (performer) and GTX24-HHB (broadcast) handhelds round out the Alteros GTX L.A.W.N system, making this wireless microphone system the ultimate in performance and flexibility.

The system’s sophisticated network and control platform makes it extremely simple to set up and operate this advanced professional wireless system.

To gain insight into the features and performance required for the quick and simple integration of the GTX Series L.A.W.N. into a facility or venue setup, the Alteros R&D team worked closely with key professionals in the live, touring and broadcast markets to identify their desired workflows, interfaces and functionality. The resulting ethernet-based system allows setup, control, monitoring, naming, network and clock management in a sophisticated user interface that can be accessed directly or remotely on multiple device platforms. The GTX Series L.A.W.N. system allows 24 channels of wireless microphone operation to be deployed and operated with nearly “plug-and-play” ease (more simple than hooking up a computer and wi-fi).

The product of seven years of dedicated research and development, during which it underwent real-world testing in conjunction with major broadcasters and wireless audio professionals, the GTX Series system offers several significant benefits. It operates far beyond the UHF and VHF television bands, requires no frequency coordination, license, database registration or STA, and does not cause interference or create intermodulation products. The system is ideal for studio-to-studio operation since it emits less intentional radiation than the typical PC and will not interfere with surrounding signals.

The GTX3224 simultaneously supports up to 24 channels, an additional 24 channels of talkback audio, and eight group assignment channels in just 3U of rack space. The unit features MADI, Dante and AES67 digital outputs that are all available simultaneously and allow for seamless integration with IP-based infrastructures. Fiber outputs support long-distance runs. The 7-inch front-panel touchscreen provides access to system settings, monitoring tools, performance reports and other controls.

Up to 48 GTX32 transceivers may be deployed at distances to 10,000 feet, connecting to the GTX3224F over standard fiber through the GTX-FX8 fiber break-out boxes and another 16 may be direct wired via shielded Cat 5 cable. The GTX Series system’s powerful management software maximizes operational efficiency, enabling users to set up and confirm operation of 64 transceivers and 24 transmitters in only a few hours.

The GTX24 body-pack transmitter is terminated with a standard LEMO connector, and may be operated with the user’s preference of several popular high-quality microphone brands or one of two Alteros Subminiature Omnidirectional Condenser Lavalier Microphones, the GTX899 or, the GTX899SW, latter equipped with an in-line talkback switch. The GTX24’s talkback function allows talent to easily speak to production staff, eliminating the need for a separate wired talkback box, or may be used as a momentary “cough switch.”

Broadcast-friendly features of the GTX3224F and GTX3224 control units include two separate and fully redundant AC power supplies and the ability to synchronize directly to the house clock, with failover to an accurate internal clock. The front-panel GUI offers a real-time battery gauge that displays the remaining operational time for each transmitter and additionally allows users to set custom battery level alerts. The unit may be remotely monitored and controlled from a PC or computer network and offers a timestamped event logger tool that can track and record the performance of every GTX32 and GTX24 for up to one month.

Here are the details.

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