From Sports to Stage: How Q5X Transmitters Redefine Reliability
Transmitters from Q5X are, unfairly, one of the best kept secrets of the UK professional sound market. Since 2002, they have offered exceptional niche solutions for difficult scenarios. With flexible slim rubber casings, completely waterproof units, and remote-controlled functionality, these transmitters have features that can make a real difference in a production. Let’s take a closer look at some standout products from the range and their unique features.
Q5X QT-5100 PlayerMic
Both durable and water-resistant, this bodypack transmitter was designed to endure everything professional sports could throw at it – from crushing blows to pouring sweat, the PlayerMic stands strong until the final whistle. Developed for the NBA, the Q5X PlayerMic is the world’s only flexible rubber bodypack, designed to protect players from injury if they fall on it or take a direct hit. Weighing roughly 2 ounces and less than a 1.3cm thick, this transmitter fits almost completely flush with the body. The internal lithium battery provides 8 hours of run time. However, if a smaller size is more important, the scaled-down PlayerMic S is 40% shorter with a runtime of 4 hours.
Broadcasters, leagues and teams across multiple professional sports use the Q5X PlayerMic as their transmitter of choice. Although the PlayerMic was specifically designed to offer the ruggedness required in professional sports while ensuring ultimate safety for the wearer, it is simply the most comfortable audio RF transmitter ever developed – something equally appreciated by players or performers on stage.
Q5X QT-5100 AquaMic
This innovative product addresses a growing need in various productions, especially films and reality TV. AquaMic is completely waterproof up to a depth of 10m, eliminating the need for the numerous creative but never entirely effective workarounds used when talent or contestants are at risk of getting soaked.
When paired with a certified waterproof mic, you can be confident that your TX pack will remain protected. Even if complete submersion isn’t likely, AquaMic easily handles moisture in all forms. Mud, wet sand, and sweat present no challenge for AquaMic. Additionally, the battery life exceeds industry standards, with the L version providing over 16 hours of power! Whether buried in the outfield or riding the waves, AquaMic delivers unparalleled reliability and exceptional performance.
Q5X QT-5100 Incognito
Divide and conquer – Incognito’s unique selling point is its separate mouldings for the transmitter and its battery compartment. This design revolutionises concealment; the ultra-thin profile of the Incognito can be hidden virtually anywhere, even the most complex costumes, while still allowing easy access to the battery pack for quick changes. This tiny product offers talent high levels of comfort and minimal intrusion, allowing them to remain fully focused on their performance.
Control
You’ll notice that all Q5X transmitters have an uncluttered design – no screen and a minimal number of buttons to be fiddled with. This is where the MicCommander comes in: a handheld or PC-supported remote control solution for multiple units. MicCommander allows the user to view, monitor, and adjust Q5X transmitters at a range of up to 50m. As a stand-alone unit, the MicCommander can communicate one-to-one with up to 32 transmitters, or it can group and control multiple transmitters simultaneously, allowing access to all necessary settings for a group through a simple interface.
The transmitter’s power state (on or standby), RF power (up to 100mW), frequency, microphone muting, mic gain, groups, and other operational parameters are remotely configured using the MicCommander without physical access to the transmitter. Additionally, USB connectivity allows the MicCommander to be connected to a Windows laptop running MicControl software, which enables enhanced features such as naming transmitters.
Compatibility
Q5X transmitters are available in a choice of three frequency bands, covering the entire UK UHF licenseable spectrum. There’s also a choice of modes to allow use with a wide range of the industry’s top receivers, including those from Wisycom, Shure and Lectrosonics.
Conclusion
Q5X transmitters provide the performance and reliability needed to be a “day in, day out” go-to for professional sound engineers. Yet, they truly shine when a challenging situation demands more rugged and innovative solutions. From the PlayerMic’s unparalleled safety and comfort in professional sports to the AquaMic’s total waterproofing for extreme environments, and the Incognito’s discreet design for seamless concealment, Q5X offers versatile tools that adapt to any production scenario.
Explore the full Q5X range on our website, where you’ll also find in-depth product support. If you’d like to discuss the best configuration for your needs, feel free to get in touch with us.
