Contents

• How do Wireless Microphones Work?
• Wireless VS. Standard Microphones - What's the Difference?
• Types of Microphone Inputs
• What ION speakers have microphone inputs?
• What if my speaker only has a 1/8" (Aux) input?

How do Wireless Microphones Work?

Despite popular belief, wireless microphones usually do not use Bluetooth.  As Bluetooth microphones are less common, this article does not cover the use of Bluetooth microphones.

Most wireless microphones use radio frequency technology to transmit audio signals from the battery-powered microphone to a powered transmitter, which then sends the signal wirelessly to a receiver connected to the sound system or speaker. The transmitter box, is typically equipped with a 1/4" cable output that connects to the receiver.

Wireless VS. Standard Microphones - What's the Difference?

Wireless microphones have become increasingly popular among performers, public speakers, and event hosts, as they offer greater mobility and flexibility than traditional wired microphones. However, despite the name, wireless microphones still require a connection to a sound system or speaker.

Types of Microphone Inputs

It is important to note that while wireless microphones eliminate the need for a physical cable between the microphone and the transmitter, they still require a connection to the sound system or speaker via a cable.  Standard microphones, on the other hand, typically use an XLR cable to connect directly to the sound system or mixer.

XLR Cable :

1/4" Cable 

Wireless microphones, in particular, often use a 1/4" cable to connect directly to the sound system or mixer, although some other types of microphones may also use this type of cable.

What ION speakers have microphone inputs?

The most common type of ION speakers that are going to support a standard or wireless microphone input are the "Loud Speakers". ION Loud Speakers will often have 'combo-jack' inputs, so both XLR and 1/4" inputs are compatible.  

Some speakers from our "Portable Speakers" series, such as the Party Rocker Max, Sport XL MK3, or Explorer XL will include a microphone input as well.

What if my speaker only has a 1/8" (Aux) input?

If your speaker does not have an XLR, or 1/4" input - and only has an 1/8" (Aux) input, it is still possible to transmit your microphone's audio to your speaker by using adapters.  However, this is probably only possible if you are using a wireless microphone with a 1/4" connection to your speaker, as the speaker has no ability to power a microphone from the 1/8" aux. A wireless microphone will usually be powered from the transmitter box to the receiver, but not always - so it is very important that you are aware of the requirements of your microphone.  

Note:  We cannot answer questions concerning the compatibility of wireless microphones to our speakers, or provide technical assistance with setting up third party devices.  This article has been produced to inform users on the functionality of ION Audio speakers when it comes to microphones and wireless microphones in general, so users are well-informed about the capabilities of ION Audio Speakers concerning input methods.