A unit of the LD Systems U500 system arrives at our test lab, specifically the LDU5XXHHD model. We put it through its paces, looking at the relationship between the performance it offers and its price of approximately €329. It seems that the Adam Hall Group, with an increasingly prominent presence on the industry’s international circuit, has developed this wireless package based on user suggestions. The idea is to offer quality, advanced technology at very competitive prices, aimed at professional and semi-professional users.
Unboxing
The mic and receiver come in a fairly sturdy plastic case with a handle. Perfect for transportation. Inside we find:
- Receiver
- Antennas
- Power adapter
- 1/4" TRS mono jack-to-jack cable
- Power supply
- Mic with built-in transmitter
- Batteries
- Price: €329
100 meters. Freedom of movement
Obviously, the main advantage of wireless systems is the absence of cables. Freedom of movement. What matters is that transmission and reception are strong, without dropouts, and that no unwanted noise is sent to the PA or amplification system.
The U500 features automatic channel scanning, a convenient infrared sync option and intuitive menus on easy-to-read OLED displays. The display shows remaining battery life and the user’s name. In short, they are easy to set up and ready to use in a flash. Selectable transmission power of up to 30 mW and the ability to mute noise using a pilot tone ensure the aforementioned audio quality and artifact-free transmission, with a range of more than 100 m in a free acoustic field.
We developed the U500® series in line with your suggestions, in order to offer wireless systems with advanced technology that are, at the same time, affordable and perfectly suited to the needs of professional users. Whether for vocals or instruments, or used as a wireless conference system, the U500® series sets live up to expectations in terms of first-class sound, reliability and ease of use.
Interchangeable capsules for versatility
From wireless conferences, audience question mics, singing, instruments and much more. Given the difference in intensity of each of these signals, the LD Systems U500 features interchangeable microphone capsules that allow the handheld transmitters to be adapted to the voices of different speakers and singers. For direct connection to guitar and bass amplifiers, the outputs of the single and dual receivers can be switched to instrument level, so that their wide frequency range (30 – 16,000 Hz) will also cover the lowest bass sounds.
The U500® vocal and instrument sets are available for three radio frequency bands: 584 - 608 MHz and 655 - 679 MHz, in each of which 12 systems can be used simultaneously, while in the 823 - 832 MHz + 863 - 865 MHz range six systems can be used at the same time.
Conclusions
It is worth noting that, as I said at the start of this article, the Adam Hall Group has an imposing presence at practically every international trade show we have attended. Strength in its developments. This apparently implies solid growth for the company and more strength in each of its areas: R&D, manufacturing, warranties, price competitiveness thanks to higher production volumes, etc.
That said, about the unit we had our hands on in the test lab (the best way to see what it is and how it "rolls"): in keeping with the brand’s philosophy, it is a well-made product, sturdy, nicely finished, presented in a practical carrying case with padded interior, and with clear manuals in every language. In my opinion, and after testing, I think the U500, in the version we received, passes several important aspects with flying colors: signal transmission without dropouts up to 100 m (with no obstacles), a competitive price compared with competitors of the same quality, very interesting versatility with the concept of interchangeable capsules, and decent audio quality for our different purposes.
At this point, the Adam Hall Group already has a clear identity and a track record that strongly backs its products and the company’s know-how.
