It does appear to be a compelling value but a note of caution: this unit appears to include prohibited frequencies within its operation range. There were changes in the FCC's allowed frequency range for this product type in the U.S. 10+ years back. Quoting the FCC:

"What frequency is banned by the FCC for wireless microphones?

"Certain wireless microphones can create interference over spectrum bands used for critical public safety communications and wireless broadband services. To preserve the integrity of those communications, the FCC prohibits the use of wireless microphones and similar devices that operate between 698 and 806 MHz (known as the “700 MHz Band”). Similar devices, such as wireless intercoms, in-ear monitors, audio instrument links and cueing equipment, are also prohibited. Wireless device operators -- including theaters, churches, schools, conference centers, and theme parks -- were required to retune or replace their equipment no later than June 12, 2010. Wireless microphone operations outside of the 700 MHz Band were not affected by this prohibition."

The unit's specs say it operates over 590-890 MHz (pg 17 of the pdf at https://downloads.monoprice.com/files/manuals/600060_Manual_220523.pdf).

I'm no expert here - just aware of the frequency issue from looking at used gear before buying my own Shure PGX-D system. One might consider setting the unit frequency to outside the prohibited range, but the FCC specifically states units that *can* operate in a prohibited frequency are illegal - even if they aren't set to one of those. It could be that this system omits the 700 MHz band from within the total spec'd range, but you may want to check on that before commiting and risking a potential fine.

-Don


On Wed, Nov 1, 2023 at 10:54 PM Joseph Erhard-Hudson via Contra Callers <contracallers@lists.sharedweight.net> wrote:
Without your review I would have dismissed the price as too good to be true. Thanks for sharing. 

On Tue, Oct 31, 2023 at 10:27 PM Robert Matson via Contra Callers <contracallers@lists.sharedweight.net> wrote:
We haven't had the trouble that you describe, Joe, or really any annoyance other than the one I described with the headset slipping.

Batteries are standard AA.  We use rechargeable batteries but one-use, e.g. Duracell are fine, of course.  When the batteries run down, it simply stops transmitting without any noise as it winds down.  I recharge the batteries before each dance.  No-brand AAs lasted about 30 hours.

Range is about 80 meters, according to the manual.  I've used it out to 75' with no drop in signal.

Each (balanced) XLR output carries a channel.  So, if you want stereo output use these.
Yes, there is a _quarter inch TRS _unbalanced_ output that combines the two channels into one mono signal.  I plug-in a 1/4" TS unbalanced (mono) cable and it carries both channels.

Manual w/ specs

Set up is just plug in and go with no technical skill required to operate the essential functions.

Were rather pleased with it.

Rob
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Robert Matson



On Tue, Oct 31, 2023 at 5:48 PM Joe Harrington <contradancerjoe@gmail.com> wrote:
I'm using a nice little wireless thing I bought for like $50. Sound quality is great...except when it isn't.  After working fine for a while, the sound gets dirty and then has dropouts until you power-cycle the headset.  It has USB-charged batteries. 

Does your unit have any trouble like that?  How far can you really get from it?  I see two XLRs on the back.  There's another output, which is an even mix of the two.  What kind of plug is that?  Is it a regular 1/4" or 1/8"?  Is it stereo, or just a mono mix?

Shoppingly yours,

--jh--


On Tue, Oct 31, 2023 at 2:12 PM Robert Matson via Contra Callers <contracallers@lists.sharedweight.net> wrote:
Hi All,

I hope this helps someone in our community save money on a cordless microphone.

Just now, a caller friend asked me about the ~$130 Monoprice-brand cordless mic system that we use for calling and teaching.  We've used this inexpensive but perfectly adequate cordless mic system for over a year and 16 dances.

https://www.monoprice.com/product?p_id=600060
2x mics, 2x headpieces, 2x transmitters, 1x 2-channel receiver.
Outputs: 2x XLR for ea. channel or 1x 1/4" combined.
~$130

We've noticed no downsides in spite of the low price, except that Ellen finds the headpiece slips.  I understand the issue as being that long thick straight hair prevents the head piece from clamping snugly.  She solved it once by wearing a baseball cap.  I've worn the mic about six times for calling single dances and to help teach walk-throughs and -- short hair no baseball cap and wearing reading glasses -- had a seamless experience.  Another semi-local caller, who calls a monthly dance and to whom I recommended the same set, hasn't mentioned to me any downsides or frustrations.

I have no relationship with the manufacturer or dealer.  I've bought other things from Monoprice.  The one time I had an issue, they quickly resolved it.

Hope this helps someone.

Rob

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Robert Matson
Cell: (917) 626-2675

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