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Photo credit: Jen Rosenstein
I am old school and would have never considered playing riffs or developing my guitar technique through a wireless system. Like many methods of transferring data over high speeds, nothing is as good, as an end-to-end connection. The typical internet user will experience hours of jammed signal and latency by means of transmitting data wirelessly. I can recount the amounts of wasted time and resources using a wireless connection.
When I hear that device is going to make my life easier, I will sit up and take notice. Until I hear that it is wireless. Suddenly, a host of story lines come rushing in, and will cloud my sense of reason. Especially in the case of a wireless environment between my PRS Guitar and Marshall Amp. I have considered a wireless approach to my musical components in the past. However, I was resolute to avoid anything that would impede upon my performance and sound quality. Until I heard about Xvive. Their A58 5.9 GHZ Wireless system. Initially, I did some light research on the investment. It was reasonably priced at 150.00 and I thought, there isn’t much risk for the price. However, days would pass before pulling the trigger, when I was given the opportunity by Xvive to test out their product. The cost was my time, and frustration. At least that is what I thought. The result that there was no frustration, so it just came down to time. So, let’s take a moment to get into the technical aspect of the Xvive wireless approach.
I was ready to squash the party before I tested the Xvive A58 wireless system. Reliability has always been a problem. Even despite the promises and guarantees that many brands promote.
Out the box it was an easy set-up. I had my PRS in one hand, and my Marshal amped up for a wireless connection. I literally counted down the minutes before I anticipated interference, or unwanted sounds from other electronics in the room. Also, I know what my PRS sounds like when it is hooked up via cable. It is all "Crème de la crème" or the best cream tones you want to hear. I was ready for anything that would interfere with my experience. Afterall, wireless systems do not have a great reputation.
However, I didn’t experience any of the cons from some of the other wireless systems that I have implemented. The one drawback is its design. I wasn’t excited about the cosmetics fhe device. However, with a wireless device we want something that works effectively. We will leave the design element up to Xvive.
Let’s’ consider some possible scenarios with a wireless transmitter and receiver.
Battery life
Wireless guitar systems are often powered by batteries, so you'll need to make sure they are fully charged before each performance. If you're using external batteries, you'll also need to have fresh ones on hand.
Multiple guitars
If you're using multiple guitars, you'll need multiple transmitters, which can be complicated and lead to errors during a performance.
Tone and sound
Some guitarists believe that wireless systems can negatively impact the tone and sound of their guitar.
Latency
Latency is the delay between when a musician plays and when the sound is emitted by the amplifier. While there will always be some latency, cheaper wireless systems may have more noticeable latency, especially if you're playing with other guitarists. However, most wireless systems today don't have latency problems, and latency below 8ms is usually not noticeable.
Interference
Some wireless guitar systems may experience interference from nearby 4G mobiles, which can be problematic for professional users or those playing at larger gigs.
I am stoked about the Xvive A58 for many reasons.
The Pros to owning one.
Wireless guitar systems can also offer advantages, such as increased mobility, reduced cable clutter, and the ability to move freely while performing.
I was ready to trash the Xvive A58 if I experienced any of the above. However, at a 5.8 Ghz frequency band, there was nothing but absolute bliss. I believe the main difference between other products is that it doesn’t offer the same bandwidth as the A58. It offers twice the amount of bandwidth that many of wireless devices do. Less crowding and more data transmission.
Guitar Thrills Broadcast
I tested the A58 at varying distances. Latency was never a problem. Now the Pros are obvious. Anything outside of the cons would win anyone over. However, let’s focus on why you should buy the A58 5.8 GHZ wireless system. The A58 can be purchased anywhere between 130.00 and 150.00. Which is a great investment for a wireless system. It gives you the freeness to move about. Warm creamy tones are not going to change with this wireless system.
Features:
- 5.8 GHz wireless frequency and six channels ensure super-reliable connections
- Replaceable onboard rechargeable battery
- Compatible with active and passive pickups
- Scans for wireless status and selects the best channel
- For guitar, bass, violin, and other musical instruments
Tech Specs:
- System Type: 5.8 GHz True Diversity wireless system
- Audio: High-resolution 24-bit / 48 kHz
- Battery Life: Up to 5 hours
- Latency: Less than 5 ms
- Channels: 6 wireless channels
- Dynamic range: 110 dB
- Signal-to-noise ratio: 110dB
- Frequency response: 20 Hz 20 kHz
- Wireless Range: Up to 100 ft; depends on RF signal absorption, reflection and interference
- Pickup Type: active and passive pickups
- In The Package: Includes transmitter, receiver, USB charging cable, user manual, carry case
- Use: For guitar, bass and other musical instruments
CONCLUSION: You can get the same sounds, and performance using a cable. Though, not every cable is made the same. Some our cheap, and rob you of sound quality, etc. So, buying a cable over a wireless system is not always the way to go. However, if you are tired of running a cable between your righteous shredder, and amp… a wireless system from Xvive is the solution. However, ensure that it is the A58 and do not buy some knock off brand that promises a 5.8 GHZ frequency band. If you didn’t see the review from Guitar Thrills Magazine, then you are wasting your money. Contact our gear techs with any question related to your gear questions.
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