Washington, D.C. (October 30, 2026)—Modern wireless technologies make efficient use of ever-smaller swaths of spectrum, but they still need room to work in. With that in mind, the Wireless Microphone Spectrum Alliance (WMSA) has been roaming the halls of Washington, D.C., meeting with politicians, the FCC and more to ensure that spectrum is available and protected for professional wireless audio use.
The organization of 660-plus manufacturers, engineers and broadcast pros, was founded last year with the aim of protecting spectrum for professional wireless audio use so high audio quality remains the norm for broadcasts and events across the country.
Recent key meetings included briefings with Congressional Offices, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), and the White House. Meetings were conducted by members of WMSA, which included Shure, CP Communications and Freeman.
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One of the organization’s key priorities is to protect TV-UHF spectrum, so the WMSA continues to advocate for reliable, long-term access to the 470–608 MHz spectrum that is critical to wireless microphone use. It has been monitoring proposals affecting the upper TV-UHF band, including the Landover Saturn 5 LLC petition concerning 554–608 MHz, while supporting efforts to identify additional spectrum opportunities in the 608–614 MHz, 1.2 GHz and 1.4 GHz bands.
To that last point, the WMSA has been actively supporting wireless microphone access at 1.4 GHz: The wireless microphone industry is investing in equipment and technology capable of operating in the 1435–1525 MHz band, where access is coordinated with incumbent users. WMSA continues to engage with policymakers on proposals affecting this band, including potential changes associated with space launch and re-entry operations, and has participated in the FCC process through comments and reply comments.
Meanwhile, it has also been exploring opportunities in the 1.2 GHz Band, advocating for expanded wireless microphone access to spectrum in the 1240-1350 MHz range, while recognizing the need to protect existing federal operations, including aviation radar systems.
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Crucially, WMSA has been making a point of educating policymakers about the complex spectrum requirements of professional wireless microphone operations, from major productions and sporting events to everyday uses in schools, houses of worship, theatres, live entertainment and other community venues.
Looking ahead, WMSA plans to continue its advocacy efforts in Washington, D.C. early next year once congressional leadership and committee assignments after the upcoming election are finalized.