The Harmonica Goes Wireless Using AKG WMS 40 Components(AKG | Posted 2003-05-21)  Harmonica players have always found it difficult to hold both their instruments and a microphone at the same time. To overcome the challenge of keeping the microphone from slipping and disrupting the cup formed by the hands to create specific sounds, inventor Richard Smith has created the world's first wireless electric harmonica using components from AKG's WMS 40 Microtools(tm). Based in the UK, Smith developed the harmonica with an inbuilt microphone and a belt-mounted preamp giving the instrument the power needed. This approach immediately removes the task of juggling instrument and a traditional microphone at the same time. Music greats, and harmonica aficionados, such as Mick Jagger and Stevie Wonder have given the thumbs up to the invention.
During development, Smith tested many wireless products, but none suited his demands until he contacted AKG Acoustics and was introduced to the WMS 40 Microtools Series MP 40 Micropen(tm). The components were integrated into the harmonica resulting in a fantastic sound plus perfect mobility. The patented instrument, given the brand name "Harmonix," will be available this year.
The first model Smith tested was a large 16-hole chromatic harmonica of the type commonly used by Stevie Wonder. Because of its size, the harmonica has two omnidirectional 6-mm condenser microphone capsules installed at the rear of the instrument. Smaller chromatic and blues harmonicas will only require one microphone. The MP 40 transmitter chip is integrated into the harmonica body and a 1.5v battery inside the rear panel battery compartment powers the whole system.
Smith began to plan the design for a wireless harp a few years ago after spending time in the studio with Stevie Wonder. The electric harmonicas were a huge improvement on existing instruments, but Wonder's blindness highlighted the fact that no cables at all would create the ideal instrument.
A serious musician who performs regularly with The Fat Marrow Blues Band, Smith (a former head of R&D designing gas oil burners) became interested in the harmonica early in his life. Due to his parents' job assignments, his family lived in various countries where he came into contact with various cultures. Although he learned to play several musical instruments, a long exposure to German folk music influenced his passion for the harmonica.
AKG TECHNOLOGY USED IN HARMONIX
The MP 40 Micropen(tm) provides the most inconspicuous and professional way to transmit a speech signal to the sound system. The microphone is nested in the transmitter. It's easy to get a quality UHF transmission and if necessary, detach the C 407 microphone from the transmitter to get a stronger audio signal. The Micropen(tm) operates on a single AAA size Alkaline or rechargeable battery. There are integrated charging contacts and optional charger for easy use of rechargeable batteries. The unit also includes an integrated antenna for optimum transmission and an ON/MUTE/OFF switch and battery status indicator.
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About AKG Acoustics
AKG Acoustics is widely recognized as the most innovative manufacturer of microphones, wireless systems and headphones in the world. Since its founding in Vienna, Austria in 1947, the company has been granted over 1500 patents-more than all of its competitors combined. Today, AKG employs over 60 engineers in full-time research and development, providing them with the most advanced tools available for computerized design, testing and performance simulation. AKG Acoustics, U.S. markets the full line of AKG Acoustics microphones and headphones and processing technology for recording, concert, sound reinforcement, commercial sound and broadcast applications.
AKG Acoustics, U.S. is located at 914 Airpark Center Drive, Nashville, TN 37217. The telephone number is 615-620-3800. The web address is www.akgusa.com.
AKG Acoustics GmbH is headquartered at Lemböckgasse 21-25, A-1230 Vienna, Austria. The telephone number is 43-1-86654-0. The web address is www.akg.com.
AKG Acoustics is part of the Harman International family of companies.
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