Help Save Wireless Microphone Frequencies

// February 26th, 2010 // General

The FCC’s ruling on the use of wireless microphone frequencies is quickly coming to a head.  Audio and video wireless technology has long used certain frequencies known as ‘white spaces’ in the analog television bandwidth.  All of the current technology we use in theaters, concerts, television, film, and churches are in danger of becoming obsolete overnight depending on how the FCC rules on this issue.

The Producers & Engineers Wing is at the helm coordinating a letter writing campaign.  But they have received very few letters.

Can you take a minute and write a short advocacy letter – and ask 5-10 friends to help too??

More info here: http://shure.com/stellent/groups/public/@gms_gmi_web_us/documents/web_resource/us_doc_700_spectrum-changes.pdf

Here are the key guidelines (be sure to use your letterhead at the top):

* Indicate what your place of business is (I work in live entertainment in x kinds of venues), and highlight the value that your work brings to the culture, economy, entertainment of your community

* Indicate you are writing to the FCC to protect wireless microphones from interference and ensure that wireless microphone users will be eligible for licenses.

* Mention how you use this technology:  Wireless microphones, intercoms, in-ear monitors used, for example, by vocalists, musicians, actors, worship services, etc.  Mention if your productions are broadcast, filmed or recorded because the FCC equates these activities with eligibility to obtain an FCC license.

* Indicate why it is critical for you to be able to use interference free wireless microphones/intercoms/in ear monitors.  For example, it enables critical real-time, crystal clear communication with congregants, constituents, live audiences, etc., it allows freedom of movement over a stage, altar, auditorium, etc., it enables creative and innovative productions, etc., it enables audiences an enhanced experience for sporting events, etc.  Negative consequences if your production experiences interference.

* Sample text for what we want the FCC to do:           “Please ensure that any rule changes that the FCC adopts will allow for a streamlined, effective and practical process that will allow my organization and business, as a music producer and audio professional, to obtain an FCC wireless microphone license and continue doing what I am doing today. Please ensure the process of applying for this license is streamlined, affordable, and easy to complete.”

EMAIL YOUR LETTER TO: p&ewing@grammy.com – they will submit to the FCC via the Electronic Filing System on your behalf.

LETTERS ARE DUE MONDAY, March 1 AT 5 p.m.

We must have 100 letters by MONDAY! PLEASE PARTICIPATE!!!

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