4 Best Wireless Headset Microphone Systems For Singers (Under $550)

In this article, you will find the top headset microphones with the full system including the transmitter (bodypack) and receiver for singing. If you already have a transmitter and receiver but you’re only looking for a headset mic by itself, see our top 9 here.

The top 4 highest rated wireless headset microphone systems for singers is about to commence. After playing in churches and event bands for years while being lucky enough to have a reliable group of friends in the music and audio world; We have developed the list of the 4 top systems together.

All of the systems below were carefully picked based on three factors; (1) Best quality performance at the lowest price, (2) precisely optimized for singers, (3) Reliable and dependable enough for all small to medium-sized venues for any application.

Although the list of our four wireless headset microphone systems is great for singing, any one of them can be used for the following as well.

• Musical theatre
• Speakers of any application
• Plays
• Pastors

A few things to keep in mind before we get started…

• Each microphone headset is attached to a transmitter that is usually placed on your belt or in your pocket.
• Most systems below can use a different transmitter than the headset it comes with; such as a handheld mic, different headset, instrument system, etc. It’s best to contact the company directly if you later decide to add a different transmitter.
• All of the systems below are the highest-rated wireless headset microphone systems for the low price.
• Some people call it headset, some call it headworn. Don’t get it confused they’re both the same.

In Short, Here Are The Best Wireless Headset Microphone Systems For Singing

• Shure GLXD14/SM35
• Sennheiser XSW 2-ME3
• Shure PGXD14/PGA31-X8
• Shure BLX14/P31

1. Shure GLXD14/SM35

The Shure GLXD14/SM35 is an incredible headset microphone for singers. It operates in the globally unlicensed and unrestricted 2.4GHz frequency band.

Sound Quality
Although it is more than capable for speakers and presenters, the microphone is specifically customized for singing. The SM35 performance headset uses a condenser microphone for better vocal articulation and clarity. Keep in mind that condenser microphones typically sound better than dynamic microphones. The reason why most microphones for live vocals are dynamic is because they are better at rejecting background noise. However, the SM35 headset microphone is a very tight unidirectional cardioid polar pattern that has flawless off-axis rejection. In other words, you are getting the best of both worlds with this microphone system; (1) Condenser microphone for better vocal clarity and sound quality, (2) Great background noise rejection.

Reliability
The Shure GLXD14/SM35 is an incredibly reliable wireless head-worn microphone system with little to no dropouts. Each channel uses six different frequencies that continuously scan to monitor the frequencies condition. After that, it transmits the audio signal on the three clearest audio frequency of the six 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 are raved about for signal clarity, strength, and reliability. In my experience, the Shure GLXD14/SM35 has never once had a single dropout. However, there is one review that claims the system did not work well in an area with wifi. If the system ever gets interference, it instantly goes away by changing the channel.

Convenience
Frequently needing to purchase disposable batteries ends up becoming costly, depending on how much you play out. Not only expensive but an inconvenience of continually stopping at the store to buy batteries and keeping up with them. The Shure GLXD14/SM35 does not only have one of the longest-lasting battery life of all headworn microphone systems with 16 hours, but it also uses lithium-ion rechargeable batteries. The lithium-ion batteries have a total lifespan of 10,000 hours. To charge the battery, you can either plug it into the receivers charging port or connect a USB cable into the transmitter. The setup is straightforward with this system. The transmitter and receiver automatically change through frequencies together using bidirectional communication.

Features

• LINKFREQ Automatic Frequency Management
• Intelligent frequency management feature locates the clearest open channel. Effortless setup
• Able to use a minimum of 4 systems simultaneously. A max of 8 in optimal conditions
• Battery charging port located on the right side of the receiver

Pros

• Incredible battery life of 16 hours
• Rechargeable batteries
• High SPL: 150 dB
• Effortless setup
• Durable metal transmitter
• Transmitter and receiver automatically change through frequencies together using bidirectional communication
• Great sound quality for singers and speakers
• Condenser microphone for better vocal articulation

Cons

• Plastic build receiver
• Does not include a USB charger for the transmitter
• Slightly low range of 100 ft. Line-of-sight (200 ft. max); Outdoors: Up to 65 ft. Line-of-sight (165 ft. ideal conditions)

Tech Specs

2. Sennheiser XSW 2-ME3

The Sennheiser XSW 2-ME3 is an analog rack-mountable wireless headset microphone system with a sweat-resistant bodypack. It operates in the 548-572 MHz frequency band. This head-worn microphone system is very unique due to its sweat resistant transmitter and its design for physical activity. However, it is also optimized explicitly for excellent vocal quality. I guess it’s safe to say the Sennheiser XSW 2-ME3 is a great choice for dancing singers, active speakers, or fitness coaches who want nice vocal clarity.

Sound Quality
The 2-ME3 headset’s microphone has a condenser microphone for maximized vocal articulation. Like the previous system, this unit has a cardioid polar pattern for reduced background noise. The overall sound quality of the Sennheiser XSW 2-ME3 is very good with an incredible transient response for fast vocals and movement. It produces a beautiful full bass sound while maintaining a clear high-end with a divine presence. I would say this microphone is excellent if you prefer a more authoritative and fatter vocal sound.

Reliability
The Sennheiser XSW 2-ME3-A is very reliable with its true diversity. In case your not familiar, true diversity systems are the most interference-resistant analog systems on the market. Basically, it’s when both antennas work independently to secure the clearest and most available channel. If one antenna gets hit with interference, the other antenna automatically and unnoticeable picks up the signal. Little to no dropouts from signal interference has been recorded with this system so far.

Convenience
The Sennheiser XSW 2-ME3-A uses automatic remote synchronization and frequency management for easy setup. While the setup is effortless, unfortunately, the transmitter uses 2 AA disposable batteries. The battery life is pretty good at 10 hours. Keep in mind that the majority of wireless headset microphone systems use disposable batteries. The only system that uses a lithium-ion rechargeable battery was the previous system, GLXD.

Features

• Unique sweat-resistant body-pack
• Great for singing and fitness coaches
• cardioid polar pattern
• Up to 12 simultaneous system

Pros

• Uses true diversity
• Multiple options on the receiver’s screen
• Metal receiver
• Headband fits perfectly and does not move
• High SPL: 150 dB
• Incredible range: 250 feet
• no latency with analog systems
• Condenser microphone with excellent vocal presence

Cons

• Some people get defective units where they need to return them
• A few people say it takes a bit of Equalizing for the perfect sound

Tech Specs

3. Shure PGXD14/PGA31-X8

The Shure PGXD14/PGA31-X8 is an extremely high-rated digital headset microphone system. If you’re looking for incredible dependability at an affordable price, this is the pick for you. Keep in mind; this system operates in the 900 MHz frequency band which is not available in countries outside of the U.S.A and Canada. Therefore, if you live in or planning on touring outside of those countries, your better off skipping down to the next wireless headset microphone system.

Sound Quality
The Shure PGXD 14 uses 24-bit/48kHz uncompressed digital transmission for the most accurate wireless representation of your microphone. The headset has a condenser microphone designed for greater voice articulation. Its sound quality is clear and even with its unidirectional cardioid polar pattern for reduced background noise. The headset microphone is also able to withstand higher gain before feedback occurs. Overall, the Shure PGXD14/PGA31-X8 sound quality is very good perfectly suitable for singers.

Reliability
The Shure PGXD14/PGA31-X8 is one of the few wireless systems that operate in the 900 MHZ frequency band which is less congested than other frequency bands. In other words, there is a much less chance for signal interference. It also uses True Digital Diversity, meaning both antennas work independently to scan for the best open channel. If one antenna starts to get signal interference, the other antenna acts as a safety net. The PGXD Automatic frequency selection feature finds the clearest open channel with a push of the button on the receiver. Overall, the Shure PGXD14 is incredibly reliable. Based off of my experience in the audio world mixed with every single review of this product, there are no recorded dropouts with this system.

Convenience
Like most wireless guitar systems, the PGXD 14’s transmitter takes 2 AA batteries for 9 hours of playtime. Another convenience downside of the PGXD 14 is the units do not automatically sync up with each other. After turning on both the transmitter and receiver for the PGXD 14, you must sync the transmitter to the receiver by keeping the transmitter case open toward the receiver, then press the circular button on the right of the receiver.

Plastic systems are more susceptible to damage than those that are metal. Unfortunately, one of the reasons the PGXD 14 is at a cheaper price is because both the transmitter and receiver are made of plastic. It’s best to purchase a Neotech Wireless Pouch for added protection for the transmitter.

Features

• True digital diversity
• Less congested 900 MHZ frequency band
• Gain adjustment range: 10dB
• 1/4″ and XLR audio outputs
• Very accurate sound with 24-bit / 48kHz digital technology
• Included Accessories: PGA31 headset microphone, Power supply, carrying case, windscreen, clip, user manual, and 2 AA batteries

Pros

• Digital transmission
• Extremely reliable: zero recorded dropouts
• Great bang for the buck: Affordable for exceptional performance
• Highest rated wireless headset microphone system on the market for the price below $600
• 24-bit / 48kHz 
• Great range: 200 feet
• Comfortable headset

Cons

• Not available outside of the United States and Canada
• Plastic receiver
• Plastic transmitter

Tech Specs

4. Shure BLX14/P31

The Shure BLX14/P31 the most budget-friendly wireless headset on this list. It offers an incredible range of 300 feet with its analog transmission in the 512-542 frequency band. Designed specifically for small to mid-sized venues, the Shure BLX14/P31 makes a great all-around choice for singers and speakers of those applications.  

Sound Quality
The BLX14/P31 is yet another condenser microphone with a cardioid polar pattern. It sounds very clear and has excellent background noise rejection.

Reliability
Anyone familiar with Shure, knows their wireless products are some of the most reliable and dependable systems on the market. The QuickScan feature automatically locates the clearest available channel to ensure little to no signal interference. The receiver has a built-in microprocessor-controlled internal antenna for removing any chances of damage or nuisance of antennas. The system uses diversity transmission.

Convenience
A huge benefit of this system is the 300ft radius of range. Speakers or singers can walk around the venue without any sound dropouts. One of the benefits of the Shure BLX14/P31 is the quick and intuitive setup. Shure’s state-of-the-art 1-touch QuickScan technology locates the clearest open channel automatically with the touch of a button.

Features

• Analog diversity transmission
• Able to use up to 12 simultaneous systems per band
• Comes with a mic windscreen

Pros

• Incredible range: 300 feet
• Headset designed for comfort
• Cheapest system on this list

Cons

• Plastic receiver build

Tech Specs

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