As I write this I am on a plane bound for Washington DC, where I am going at the invitation of the Microphone Interests Coalition. We will be speaking with the FCC and some members of Congress about the push to open the "white space" around TV station to unfettered, unlicensed and unregulated personal communication devices. The problem, if you have not been following it, is that those "white spaces" are where our wireless mics and monitors live. We will go and try to talk sense to a group of people more known for listening to campaign contributions than reason. Yesterday, I read over the comments filed by the interested parties with the FCC, and the coalition lined up against us is formidable. Microsoft. Google. Dell. Philips. HP. Intel. But the thing that most struck me is the attitude this huge group is taking towards the use of wireless mics. In a nutshell they are saying that, although we have been using this bandwidth for some four decades, the use is technically illegal and therefore undeserving of any protection. In other words, "Those pro audio guys? Screw them."
We will not know for some time what the outcome of these talks will be and, inevitably, these consumer devices will probably be released. All we are asking for is a reasonable time period and some technology to protect wireless mics that has actually been proven. Right now, these tech giants are insisting that they have the technology to do so but refuse to demonstrate it. Which is kind of like that audio manufacturer who promises you the greatest console ever for five years without showing a working prototype — eventually we stop believing.
At this point, the companies listed above are the enemy. It is that simple. Keep it in mind when you make tech purchases. Buy an Apple and no Microsoft products (it is possible), but not a new one because they use Intel processors. Definitely don't buy a Dell. Avoid Philips, and buy any printer but an HP. This may sound extreme, but I want you to go further…
Go to these companies' Web sites and send them a note explaining your decision and the reasons for it.
I know we are not an industry that bands together. We are by our very nature independent and proudly individual. But this is a time when we need to speak with one voice. Unless you want all those wireless mics and monitors you have paid so much money for to become — very suddenly — useless.
Bill Evans
To read FOH's previous story, and to find letters you might send to your representative, follow this link. In addition, new legislation has been introduced on the House floor that could slow the opening of this "white space." The bill is HR 1320, introduced by Representative Rush from Illinois. Ask your senator or representative to support the Rush bill. To find your senator or representative, click here.
