Audio-Technica Adds 700 MHz Trade-In Program

Audio-Technica is offering discounts for trade-ins to encourage wireless mic system users to move out of the 700 MHz spectrum range.

"Though a final [FCC] ruling on using 700 MHz products has not been reached, A-T strongly recommends that owners of these models vacate the 700 MHz spectrum," it stated in the announcement.

Owners of A-T's discontinued 7000 Series, U100 and 1400 Series wireless microphone systems that operate in the 700 MHz range are being offered a 15% rebate on the purchase of new A-T products from an authorized Audio-Technica U.S. dealer with the exchange of 700 MHz receivers.

The 15% can apply to any dollar amount spent on new A-T product from an authorized dealer. The receivers must be turned in by Sept. 30.

"Over 10 years ago, the FCC made the decision to auction off television spectrum in the 700 MHz frequency spectrum," the manufacturer stated in its announcement. "At that time, Audio-Technica decided to develop all-new wireless microphone systems outside of what would eventually become a hostile RF environment. As a result, A-T brought to market the successful 200, 700, 1800, 2000, 3000, 4000 and 5000 Series wireless systems, all of which operate below the 700 MHz frequency range. Expecting continued reduction of available spectrum for wireless microphone users, and to provide new technology solutions, A-T introduced the SpectraPulse Ultra Wideband (UWB) wireless microphone system in 2007, which operates in the 6 GHz range, well outside of the TV bands in question.

"Audio-Technica's U100, 1400 and 7000 Series products continue to operate successfully today, well after their introduction over a decade ago," the company continued. "They were subsequently discontinued in favor of newer models that operate below 700 MHz. The regulatory environment surrounding wireless microphone use continues to evolve as a result of the FCC's actions, and though a final ruling on using 700 MHz products has not been reached, A-T strongly recommends that owners of these models vacate the 700 MHz spectrum."

Details, terms and conditions are on its Web site.