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UHF, VHF or 2.4GHz?
UHF is the standard for anything that matters. It offers more usable channels, better range and far fewer dropouts, which is why theatres, churches and hire companies use it. VHF sits lower in the spectrum, costs less and works perfectly well for a single microphone in a small hall, but it is more prone to interference and offers fewer channels. The 2.4GHz systems share the same band as wifi, which makes them licence free anywhere in the world and very quick to pair, at the cost of range and resilience in a crowded venue.
How many channels do you need?
Count the number of people who need to speak or sing at the same time, then add one. A single channel receiver suits a presenter or a lead vocal. A dual channel unit covers a duo or a presenter with a spare microphone, and takes up the same rack space. Multi channel receivers keep four or more transmitters on one shelf and one set of aerials, which is far tidier than stacking separate boxes and much easier to coordinate frequency wise.
Handheld, headset or lapel
A handheld transmitter suits vocals, interviews and anything where passing the microphone around is normal. A headset keeps the capsule a fixed distance from the mouth, which gives consistent level and leaves both hands free, so it suits fitness instructors, presenters and theatre work. A lapel or tie clip transmitter is the least visible option and is favoured for lectures, weddings and video, though it picks up clothing rustle if it is clipped carelessly.
Range, aerials and true diversity
Quoted range assumes clear line of sight, and bodies, walls and metalwork all reduce it. A true diversity receiver uses two aerials and switches to whichever has the stronger signal, which largely removes the dead spots you get with a single aerial. Keep the receiver in sight of the performer rather than behind a wall or inside a metal rack, and lift the aerials above head height where you can.
UK frequency licensing
In the UK, the 863 to 865MHz band is licence exempt and free to use, which covers most of the systems here and is the simplest choice for schools, clubs and small venues. Channel 38, roughly 606 to 614MHz, needs a licence from Ofcom, and shared or fixed site licences are inexpensive and give you cleaner spectrum for larger multi channel setups. Always check which band a system uses before buying, as bands differ between countries and a system bought abroad may not be legal to use here.
Batteries and running all day
Transmitters are the weak point on a long day, so check whether yours takes standard AA cells or a rechargeable pack. Rechargeables pay for themselves quickly on weekly use, but keep a set of alkalines in the case as a backup. Change batteries between sessions rather than waiting for the sound to fail, and switch transmitters off when not in use, since most keep drawing power while muted.
Avoiding dropouts and interference
Set frequencies before an event rather than during it, and where a system offers automatic scanning, use it in the room you will actually work in. Keep transmitters away from LED walls, dimmer racks and wifi access points, and keep at least a few metres between transmitter and receiver, since standing on top of the receiver can overload it. If two systems must share a space, coordinate the frequencies rather than hoping.