Product Overview
The Shure UHF-R wireless microphone system offers advanced wireless technology, excellent sound fidelity, and robust reliability. It is designed for easy setup and operation, featuring advanced functions suitable for professional installations requiring multiple wireless microphone systems.
The system operates within various frequency bands, selected to comply with specific country or regional regulatory requirements, which help minimize radio interference and protect public communication channels.
System Components
All systems typically include:
- UR4S or UR4D Receiver
- Two Half-wave Antennas
- Two Antenna Cables
- IEC Power Cable
- IEC Extension Cable
- Ethernet Network Cable with "Ether-Con" connector
- Wireless Workbench Software
- Carrying Case for Handheld or Bodypack Transmitters
- 2 Blanking Plugs (for antenna openings)
- 4 Screws for Rackmount brackets with washers
- LR6 Batteries
Handheld transmitter systems include:
- Microphone head (choice of models like SM58, SM86, Beta 58A, Beta 87A, Beta 87C, KSM9/BK, KSM9/SL)
- UR2 Handheld Transmitter
- Microphone Clip
Bodypack transmitter systems include:
- UR1 Bodypack Transmitter
- TA4F Threaded Adapter
Receiver Controls and Connections
The receiver front panel features:
- SYNC IR Connector: For transferring group, channel, and other settings to a transmitter.
- Diversity LEDs: Indicate signal reception status (Blue = signal acquired, Off = no signal or squelch active).
- RF LEDs: Display RF signal strength from the transmitter for each antenna and diversity state (Orange = normal, Red = over-modulated).
- Audio LEDs: Show audio signal strength from the transmitter (Green = signal present, Yellow = normal peak, Red = over-modulated). Gain adjustment on the transmitter affects this level.
- Frequency Band Display: Shows the receiver's frequency band designation and range.
- Control Interface: LCD and buttons for programming the receiver from the front panel.
- Monitor Connector: 6.35mm (1/4") jack with volume control for headphones. Includes a Clip LED for the audio limiter. A Dual Receiver button allows switching between receiver channels.
- Power Switch: Turns the unit on and off.
The receiver rear panel features:
- IEC Power Input: For 100-240 V AC power.
- IEC Power Pass-Through: Allows passing power to other devices via an IEC extension cable.
- Diversity Antenna Inputs A and B: Provide bias voltage for active antennas. Use only compatible accessories to avoid short circuits.
- Mic/Line Switch: Adjusts the output level by 30 dB for the XLR output.
- XLR Balanced Output: Electronically balanced output.
- Lift/GND Switch: Disconnects the ground connection to Pin 1 of the XLR connector (default is GND).
- 6.35mm (1/4") Impedance-Balanced Output: For connecting to audio equipment.
- USB Interface: For computer connection.
- RJ-45 Ethernet Port: For network connection, compatible with standard RJ-45 and "Ether-Con" connectors.
A temperature-activated fan ensures optimal performance in high temperatures. Keep the fan grille clean.
Receiver Operation via LCD
The LCD interface allows for parameter adjustment:
- Menu Access: Press the Navigate button to select menu commands.
- Parameter Changes: Turn the Control knob to change parameter values. Press Control to move to the next parameter.
- Saving Changes: After changing a parameter, the ENTER button will blink. Press ENTER to save the value.
- Exit/Cancel: Press the Exit button to cancel changes and return to the previous menu.
Key receiver parameters include:
- Group and Channel: Set to match the transmitter settings.
- Frequency: Manual frequency selection in 0.025 MHz steps.
- Automatic Frequency Selection: Features Group Scan and Channel Scan to find optimal frequencies.
- Automatic Transmitter Synchronization: Updates group and channel settings from receiver to transmitter via IR.
- Receiver Name: Assign a custom name to the receiver.
- Output Level: Adjusts the signal level for XLR and 6.35mm audio outputs (-32 dB to 0 dB), with a mute function.
- Squelch: Adjusts the threshold for audio signal reception.
- Receiver Lock: Prevents unauthorized changes to receiver settings.
- LCD Display/Contrast: Customize menu display and screen contrast.
- Pilot Tone Control: Mutes outputs unless a transmitter signal is detected.
Network Parameters
The receiver can be configured for network operation:
- Network Mode: Set to DHCP for automatic IP assignment or Manual for static IP configuration.
- IP Address/Subnet: Configure network settings manually.
- Device ID: Assign a unique identifier for use with Wireless Workbench software.
User-Defined Groups: Allows creation of custom frequency groups for specific installations.
Transmitter Controls and Connections
Handheld and Bodypack transmitters feature:
- Replaceable Microphone Head: (Handheld)
- LCD Display: Shows settings and status.
- Power Switch: Turns the transmitter on/off.
- Control Buttons: Navigate menus and adjust parameters.
- IR Input: For synchronization with receivers.
- Battery Compartment: Uses standard LR6 batteries.
- Flexible Antenna:
- Power LED: Indicates power status.
- TA4M Microphone Input: (Bodypack)
- Reversible Belt Clip:
Transmitter Operation: Menu navigation and parameter adjustment are done via the LCD and control buttons. Changes are saved using the ENTER button.
Transmitter Batteries: Battery status is shown on the LCD, indicating remaining operating hours based on normal or high RF power settings.
Transmitter Parameters
Key transmitter parameters include:
- Group and Channel: Must match receiver settings.
- Frequency: Manual selection.
- Gain: Adjusts audio level (-10 dB to +20 dB).
- Sensitivity (Sens): Adjusts audio input level (+15 dB, 0 dB, or -10 dB).
- Name Display: Assigns a 12-character name.
- Frequency Lock: Prevents accidental frequency changes.
- Power Lock: Prevents the transmitter from being turned off accidentally.
- RF Transmit Power: Select normal (10 mW) or high (50/100 mW) power.
Input Gain Adjustment: Set gain and sensitivity so that audio LEDs on the receiver peak within the yellow range. For bodypack transmitters, sensitivity can be adjusted for different instruments or microphones.
HF Security Mode: Temporarily mutes RF transmission, allowing frequency changes without interfering with other active channels.
Automatic Transmitter Synchronization
This feature automatically updates group and channel settings from a selected receiver to a transmitter via IR. Other transmitter settings can also be transferred.
- Sync Procedure: Open transmitter battery compartment for IR access, align IR ports, select Sync > Sync on receiver.
- Transferring Other Settings: Use Sync > Setup on the receiver to select which parameters (Sensitivity, Gain, RF Power, Lock settings, Group settings) to transfer.
Troubleshooting
Common issues and solutions:
- No Audio Signal: Check power, gain, and cable connections. Ensure receiver is muted.
- Weak Signal/Distortion: Adjust gain/sensitivity settings on transmitter or receiver output level. Check Mic/Line switch.
- Poor Range/Dropouts: Ensure transmitter/receiver are in the same group/channel. Check band compatibility. Reduce interference sources. Maintain line-of-sight.
- Transmitter/Receiver Lock Issues: Use specific button combinations to unlock controls.
- Hum: Use the Ground Lift switch on the receiver's XLR output.
- RF LEDs: Orange LEDs indicate signal strength; Red indicates over-modulation.
Compatibility: Ensure transmitters and receivers use the same frequency band. Refer to the compatibility guides for specific band information.
Reducing Interference: Use different channels, perform automatic scans, ensure line-of-sight, and keep antennas away from metal objects and other RF sources.
Increasing Range: Use directional antennas, antenna splitters, or RF boosters.
Technical Data
Detailed specifications are provided for frequency bands, output power, range, frequency response, gain, modulation, dynamic range, sensitivity, noise rejection, power requirements, operating temperature, dimensions, and weight. The manual includes extensive tables detailing frequency band compatibility across various regions and system configurations.
Key Specifications:
- Frequency Range: 518-865 MHz (varies by region).
- Operating Range: Up to 150m (typical) or 500m (open field) for UR1/UR2.
- Frequency Response: 40-18,000 Hz.
- Dynamic Range: >105 dB(A).
- RF Sensitivity: Typically -110 dBm (UR4S) / -107 dBm (UR4D) at 12 dB SINAD.
- Power Requirements: UR1/UR2 use 1.5V LR6 batteries. UR4 uses 100-240V AC.
Frequency Band Compatibility Guides: The PDF contains detailed tables listing compatible frequencies for various Shure UHF-R system configurations across different frequency bands (H4, J5, L3, Q5, Q9, R9, A24, JBX, Q6, Q10) and regional preferences. These tables are essential for setting up multi-channel systems without interference.
Inputs and Outputs
Detailed schematics and specifications for transmitter audio inputs (UR1 TA4M, UR2 XLR) and RF outputs (SMA), as well as receiver audio outputs (XLR, 6.35mm), antenna inputs (BNC), and network interfaces (Ethernet, USB) are provided.
Spare Parts and Accessories
A comprehensive list of included accessories, optional spare parts (microphone heads, grills), and compatible antennas, cables, and network components is available.
Certifications
The Shure UHF-R system complies with various international standards and regulations, including FCC (Part 15), IC, CE, and R&TTE Directive (1999/5/EC). Specific certifications and compliance statements are provided for UR1, UR2, UR4S, and UR4D models. Licensing information for wireless microphone operation is also included, advising users to check local regulations.
Important User Information: The device is a Class B digital device compliant with FCC Rules, designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference. Users are advised to follow installation and operation instructions to minimize interference. The device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
Important Safety Instructions
Users must read and keep these instructions. Observe all warnings and follow all instructions. Do not use the device near water, clean only with a dry cloth, do not cover ventilation openings, and avoid heat sources. Do not bypass safety features of plugs. Ensure the power cord is not damaged or stepped on. Use only manufacturer-approved accessories and equipment. Unplug during thunderstorms or long periods of non-use. All repairs must be performed by qualified service personnel. Protect the device from drips and splashes.
[Warning Symbol] indicates hazardous voltages within the device that may pose an electric shock risk.
[Manual Symbol] indicates that the accompanying manual contains important operating and service instructions.
CAUTION: Voltages within this device are life-threatening. Do not attempt to service the unit yourself. Safety approvals are void if operating voltage settings are changed.