For a good reason, many of us prefer the positive benefits of a brass or woodwind wireless systems in 2.4GHz. Not only the frequency band globally available and globally unlicensed, but it also has a greater chance of a more sustainable future.
As of right now, the two absolute best brass or woodwind wireless systems operating in 2.4GHz on the market are the Shure GLXD14R/B98-Z2 and the Shure GLXD14/B98. They both have incredible frequency-agile features to dodge signal interference.
They are very similar as they are both apart of the GLXD series by Shure. However, both have minor differences that may make one of these systems a better choice for you.
Below we will further breakdown both of these systems and why they are incredibly reliable, convenient, and produce excellent sound quality while operating in 2.4GHz.
Shure GLXD14R/B98-Z2 vs. GLXD14/B98
Benefits of Shure GLXD14R/B98-Z2
- Able to use 9 simultaneous channels where the GLXD14 can only use 4
- The receiver is made of metal for added durability and longevity
- It is rack-mountable
Benefits of Shure GLXD14/B98
- $100 cheaper
Why Both Of These Systems Are Incredibly Reliable: Little To No Dropouts
Reliability and signal strength is probably the most critical factor when determining an excellent wireless system. When a wireless system cuts out due to signal interference rather than cutting out from range, it is entirely different. You can be on stage, playing your life out with many potential fans. Then right when you’re at the climax of the song, your wireless guitar/bass cuts out. The buzz is killed, and your potential fans become slightly less of a possibility.
Below is a list of the technical reasons why both of these systems will not get signal interference. Even while the frequency band is in 2.4GHz.
- Shure GLXD systems are the only systems that feature Shure’s state-of-the-art LINKFREQ automatic frequency management and bidirectional communication that lets your transmitter automatically link to your receiver and follow any frequency changes.
- Each channel uses 6 different frequencies that continuously scan to monitor the frequency condition. Then transmits the audio signal on the 3 clearest audio frequencies of the 6 available. If one of the frequencies get interference or conditions deteriorate, it automatically changes to a backup frequency without interrupting the audio. This is why GLXD systems have been raved about for signal clarity.
- In the case your system gets interference, you are able to change the channel manually. I personally use the GLXD system. There was one case where the venue was entirely packed due to the Superbowl being in my city of Atlanta. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth frequencies were through the roof. I started to get extremely minor interference. I changed the channel on the receiver and it was interference-free for the remainder of the gig and every other gig since using the GLXD.
What’s New In The GLXD14R/B98-Z2
Metal Receiver
The GLXD14R/B98-Z2 has an all-metal receiver while the Shure GLXD14/B98 has an all-plastic receiver. Your equipment is consistently getting tossed around while traveling from state to state. Metal units are much more roadworthy and able to last longer.
Rackmountable
The GLXD14R/B98-Z2 is able to be rack-mounted. This is most definitely a massive benefit if you are planning on or already have a rackmount. Rack mounting your receiver not only keeps it safe, but it also decreases the setup and tear-down hassle.
Able to use 9 simultaneous systems
While the GLXD14R/B98-Z2 can only use four concurrent systems, the GLXD14R/B98-Z2 can use up to 9 systems simultaneously.
Similarities Of The Shure GLXD14R/B98-Z2 And Shure GLXD14/B98
- Both have the same frequency-agile features for superb reliability
- Both produce the same sound quality
- Both use the same microphone
- Both have the same all-metal transmitter
- Both have 16 hours of battery life per full charge
- Both use rechargeable Lithium-Ion batteries- eliminating disposable battery purchases
- Both have the same range; Indoors: Up to 100 ft. Line-of-sight (200 ft. max); Outdoors: Up to 65 ft. Line-of-sight (165 ft. ideal conditions)
- Both have the same frequency response 20Hz-20kHz
- Both have the same latency of 4 -7 (ms)
- Both use 2.4GHz digital transmission
- Both have 120dB dynamic range
Shure GLXD14R/B98-Z2 And Shure GLXD14/B98 Overview
Convenience
Both of these systems are incredibly convenient and easy to use. Once turned on, the receiver and transmitter automatically find the most transparent open channel than they connect with each other. They both have an incredible battery life of 16 hours using lithium-ion rechargeable batteries. The elimination of consistent disposable battery purchases saves money and hassle. The GLXD14R/B98-Z2‘s only convenience benefit is that it’s rack-mountable.
How to charge it
You can plug a USB into the transmitter, or you can take the battery out of the transmitter and plug it directly into the charging port. The port is located on the right-hand side of the receiver. 3 hours of charge time gives you a full charge of 16 hours. 1.5 hours of charge gives.
What instruments are they compatible with?
Both the Shure GLXD14R/B98-Z2 and Shure GLXD14R/B98-Z2 are compatible with every single brass and woodwind instrument: Saxophone, Trumpet, Clarinet, Trombone, wind instruments, etc.
Sound quality
The Shure Beta 98H/C is a tremendous sounding cardioid condenser microphone that clips on to the bell of your instrument. It produces the full frequency response of 20Hz-20kHz with a high output impedance of 150 ohms. It also has a very high max SPL of 155dB that can take on even the loudest of instruments. I love the fact that the condenser microphone is very articulate, capturing the true essence of whatever is directly in front of it. The cardioid polar pattern has excellent off-axis rejection which halts other instruments from bleeding through. Overall, the Beta 98H/C that comes with both of these systems is versatile, accurate, and produces great sound quality. You will not be disappointed.
Tech Specs
| Wireless Instrument System: | Shure GLXD14/B98 | GLXD14R/B98-Z2 |
| Range: | Indoors: Up to 100 ft. Line-of-sight (200 ft. max); Outdoors: Up to 65 ft. Line-of-sight (165 ft. ideal conditions) | Indoors: Up to 100 ft. Line-of-sight (200 ft. max); Outdoors: Up to 65 ft. Line-of-sight (165 ft. ideal conditions) |
| System: | Digital | Digital |
| Transmitter Battery/Life: | 16 hours/lithium-ion rechargeable by USB | 16 hours/lithium-ion rechargeable by USB |
| Latency: | 4 -7 (ms) | 4 -7 (ms) |
| Dynamic Range: | 120dB | 120dB |
| Receiver/Transmitter Build: | Transmitter Metal, Receiver Plastic | All Metal |
| Transmitter Type: | Body Pack | Body Pack |
| Receiver Type: | Table Top | Rackmount |
| Frequency Range: | 2.4GHz | 2.4GHz |
| Frequency Response: | 20Hz-20kHz | 20Hz-20kHz |
To Sum It Up
Overall, both Shure GLXD14R/B98-Z2 and Shure GLXD14/B98 are the best brass or woodwind wireless systems that operate in the 2.4GHz frequency band. While the 2.4GHz spectrum is congested, these wireless systems have unmatched frequency-agile features that dodge interference with multiple backup signals as a safety net. I highly recommend either one of these. If you prefer to look at more brass and woodwind wireless systems, see our article here.
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