"I'm really chuffed with this system. Its high quality sound, high quality rugged build (unlike the Relay) and it is dead easy to use. Is it a must have?  No, is it worth £400?  Definitely if you have the money. Mines going nowhere !!!"
paulmapp8306, MusicRadar.com, 26th February 2010
Full review on-line at http://www.musicradar.com/forum/showthread.php?p=677601
"...operation with my Strat has been exemplary. It’s so easy to use too, which I think is something that’s too often overlooked by engineers. "I’m really enjoying using it. We played a gig in a theatre on Saturday night and I managed to run off stage, up a spiral staircase onto a balcony for the finale of our set – all without a hitch. Great fun!"
- email from Steven Lawson, Editor, Total Guitar, 8th July 2009.

"the Jack is so well designed, so well executed and delivers with such quality and reliability that we believe it justifies its price tag.  An essential buy? Hardly.  A good one? Undoubtedly.  This Dutch-designed system seems to have addressed all our technical concerns with wireless devices."
- Steven Lawson, Editor, Total Guitar, issue 196 (Christmas 2009)

"...I rather like the simplicity and effectiveness of the stageClix, and though it might cost a little more than a conventional system, it offers good noise performance without those dreadful compander side effects, which counts for a lot.
There's also no question of it being outlawed when the digital TV switchover and expanding mobile device market eats up the existing radio mic frequencies."
- Paul White, Editor in chief, Performing Musician, June 2009.

Link to the full review: http://www.performing-musician.com/pm/jun09/articles/stageclix.htm
http://www.stageclix.com/UserFiles/file/PerformingMusician_stageclix_review.pdf

   There have been wireless systems for guitar and bass guitar for many years now.  With a few (extremely expensive) exceptions, they have all been analogue systems, and this type of system has a couple of distinct disadvantages.

The first is that they all employ a piece of circuitry called a 'compander' (short for compressor/expander) to squash up your signal before transmission so that it will fit in the VHF or UHF band, and then expand it back again at the receiver end to try and get near what it sounded like originally.  As with 300dpi to 72dpi photo's, or wav to mp3's, once you remove information to reduce the file size, you can't get it back.

And the second is bandwidth.  Even the more expensive models roll off the bass at around 60Hz (bottom E on a bass guitar is 44Hz; and if you've a bottom B string, that's about 31Hz).  So, much of that big fat bottom end you have worked hard to get doesn't even make it to the input socket of the amp!  And they roll off at the top end around 14-15kHz, so the subtle, higher end harmonics and sheen are discarded, too.

Now of course some of that top and bottom end gets through, albeit considerably attenuated, and the brain tries to psycoacoustically make up for what is missing.  But really, wouldn't it be better to have an un-tampered-with, full range signal to start with??

   Enter the stageClix Digital Wireless System from Holland.  Firstly, because it is digital, there is no compander because there is no need for one.  And secondly, the bandwidth is 20Hz to 20kHz, ±1dB (that's CD quality).

So now there's a new, much higher standard.    And a new set of rules.    At a similar price to the better analogue systems.

The system uses a frequency of 2.4 GHz, which is both legal to use, and available worldwide.  It is also a long way away from the current analogue bands that are due to be sold off by the British government in the Digital Television switchover, so stageClix is entirely unaffected by what happens there - future proof! NO "UPGRADE PASS" NEEDED!

The stageClix Jack system consists of a jack plug transmitter, with the jack itself on an articulated knuckle so that, when plugged in, the transmitter body can be turned flush to the guitar.  This transmitter uses two rechargeable AAA batteries (supplied) and has a battery life of at least 15 hours straight use.  When the transmitter is plugged into the receiver, the batteries are recharged quickly and automatically, 80% in 3 hours.  Batteries can be user-replaced (and will be supplied FOC if within 2 years of purchase, so keep your invoice), or returned to Holland for exchange and environmental disposal.

The materials used for both the transmitter and receiver casings have been carefully selected and tested, and have proven to be "roadproof".  The shell of the transmitter is manufactured from indestructible polycarbonate (also used to make safety goggles). 

The receiver is housed in a robust metal case.
The system uses a patented transmitting technique which stageClix calls ’triple-diversity’.  By using three frequencies within 1 channel at the same time there’s practically zero chance of dropout or interference.  Compare this with hopping from one single channel to another after interference sets in.  It’s also really easy to use, there is no menu to navigate, nor an installation procedure.  Plug into the guitar, switch on, and play!

The transmitter has been designed to fit almost all makes of bass guitars and guitars without needing a beltpack - although a beltpack version will be available shortly for those instruments where there is a physical problem, or interference from active electronics.  A nice touch is when you withdraw the transmitter from the charger/receiver, it is automatically switched off to prevent a possible thump as you plug it into your instrument.


And the whole package comes in a quality moulded briefcase with an interior foam cut-out for protection, convenience and speedy setup. With a user guide in properly written English!


Features and Specifications:

- No audible delay (less than 2.4 milliseconds), an end to latency problems.
- CD quality from 24 bit digital converters (no compander), frequency response is 20Hz-20kHz ±1dB.
- Extremely quiet - signal to noise ratio typically 97dB.
- Small, light and strong - transmitter is about the size of a lighter, housed in a polycarbonate case.  Impedance 1.5MOhm, RF power 20mW.
- Can be used legally worldwide, operates in the 2.4 GHz band: 2,400 - 2,488GHz
- Uses rechargeable batteries, which are (quickly) recharged when the transmitter is plugged into the receiver.  Cheaper to run, and greener.
- Stompbox sized receiver in a rugged metal housing. Output impedance 1kOhm, sensitivity -82dBm.  No fiddly menus - true plug'n'play.
- Long Battery Life - 15 hours non-stop playing.  Fast charging: 1 hour charge = 4 hours playing.  
- Battery type is Texcus 950 mAh AAA Ni-Mh 1,2 V - User replaceable, old batteries can be returned to stageClix for "green" disposal, and   replacements are available at modest cost.  Battery life expected to be at least 5 years.
- Virtually zero dropout - uses unique 'Triple Diversity' transmission, i.e. it transmits on 3 frequencies at once in any one band.
- Flexible and practical - 12 stageClix transmitters can be used simultaneously in one venue without interference.
- 60 metres range (line of sight), approx 300 feet.  Transmitter weight: 68 grammes, including batteries.
- Digital UK power supply for receiver.
- Suitable for all passive instruments - and many active ones, although the belt pack version is recommended for active instruments.

Accessory: Extension Lead.

 There are a (very) few guitars and basses where the physical position of their output jack means it is not possible to plug in the Jack transmitter.  Also, some active instruments with less than perfect screening of their active electronics can create spurious noises.  The answer in both cases is the Extension Lead and pouch. Simply put the transmitter in the leather pouch, plug the jack into the Locking Neutrik Jack socket on the lead, and the mono jack at the other end into your instrument.  The pouch with transmitter can be put in your back pocket, or attached to your belt or guitar strap by undoing the press studs at one end.  A side benefit for some users is that the cable introduces typical cable impedance, which some players prefer.

A new name to you, but one you will be pleased to count among the brands you use. The word is already spreading.  A genuinely superior product, better in just about every way possible than what is on offer from other makers.  Even more surprising is that, with such excellent European design and build quality, the price really is very fair and affordable.

And just look what's coming as the year progresses.....

"stageClix XLR"

The stageClix XLR can be used with all existing XLR microphones. It is as easy as it sounds!  Keep on performing with your own beloved microphone (any make) but do it wirelessly and digitally and full range and without a compander!  Coming later this year...

"stageClix RACK"

The company is currently working on a 19" rack version called stageClix Rack. The self powered stageClix Rack can combine up to 4 different versions of stageClix in just one rack.  Coming this year...

"stageClix PACK"

The digital revolution continues with a belt pack version called stageClix Pack. Weighing only 70 grammes, this can be used for:- All Active Instruments - Keyboards - Microphones - Wind instruments - Guitars - Bass guitars - Body microphones - Piano microphones - Drum microphones. Coming very soon...

 
      "stageClix VOX"

  Market research tells us there are no good In-Ear Monitor Systems at a sensible price. So stageClix will develop one!  With   the companies patented transmission technique in combination with the always easy to setup and use stageClix way.  And   you know that monitor wedges, which have served you well up till now, really are yesterday's way.  This might make a   brilliant Christmas present....

Available separately:

Extra/spare "Jack" transmitters - use with the same receiver, and switch quickly between guitars.
A stand-alone charger - charge one transmitter while using the other.
Spare rechargeable battery pack.
Spare digital power supply with UK, European and USA pins.
Spare jack-to-jack link lead.
Spare moulded foamed carry-case.

Link to a demo video on Youtube: courtesy of Musik Schmitt, it's in German, but you get the idea...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uo_RMzmR_dg

UNSOLICITED USER QUOTES

First ever UK user:

"I got it just as promised, Squire.  And I really like it.

It makes my previous Audio Technica system seem lo-fi in comparison. The low end is pure and tight and my fears of the bug falling out disappeared minutes after using the unit for the first time.  Simplicity and a tank-like build quality.  And I like the fact it's designed for touring bands - complete with adaptors and a mains adaptor that can travel anywhere with it.  All hail the Dutch......"

Andy Duke, bass/vocals, "Buckbrothers" 3.4.09     http://www.myspace.com/buckbrothers

Second UK user:

I've now had chance to give the Stageclix system a thorough test. I'm frankly amazed!

Having used VHF wireless since the Nady 101, through Samsons new and old (Stage and Concert series) to AKG and Sennheiser UHF multi-channel systems I had got used to the limitations of each and every one. The Stageclix outperforms them all with ease. I no longer suffer inductance/impedance issues and all the top and bass is fully restored to my guitars as is the proper "feel", even when rolling off tone and volume. The Stageclix copes with pedalboards and valve amp front ends equally well.

The system even performs under harsh conditions that usually cause problems for other systems - racked with large power amp transformers, other wireless users in proximity & no constant "line of sight".

The "icing on the cake" is the tiny, but robust, transmitter - no more belt packs and endless batteries!

This is truly the best system I have ever owned. It really is plug and play (and play and play and play)!  The Stageclix has done 10 very different venues so far since I bought it and performed flawlessly every time from small pub to large theatre.

Paul Hobday, 21.5.09

Now with the StageClix system, I'm getting the same sound as I was getting with my Planet Waves guitarcable!!  I'm really not kidding here!  It's absolutely amazing how this little instrument works. There is no delay, no compression what so ever, no weird hum (other than the one my amp and pedals are creating anyways...). It's crystal-clear and basically pushes out, what I push in. I love it .

Dennis, 24.6.09

"took it straight to a gig, charged it for an hour and then took it straight on stage for a 90 minute set. It lasted the whole way through and even managed to take it for a bit of a walk round the venue (fairly large, 1200 capacity) with no drop outs. Everything is really well thought out and simple to use, needs more testing but very impressed so far :-) Let me know when the in-ears have been developed, if they're as good as the Jack system put the whole band down for them!"

 Darren Taggart (Mullit) 16.2.2010

Gigged it a number of times now and so far I can honestly say that the Stageclix Jack is the most reliable, easy to use system I have come across. The attention to detail is outstanding and the sound quality is superb. I cannot recommend the system enough to anyone.

Darren Taggart -( Mullit) 22.2.10

More on Licencing matters (and the great government digital ripoff selloff): http://www.jfmg.co.uk/index.htm

Dealers:
Phoenix Soundworks, Earls Barton, NORTHAMPTON.  www.phoenixsoundworks.com - 01604 466499
Absolute Music, POOLE. www.absolutemusic.co.uk - 0845 025 5555
Chandler Guitars, Kew, LONDON, TW9 3NG.  www.chandlerguitars.co.uk - 0208 940 5874
Studiospares, LONDON NW2.  www.studiospares.com - 0844-375-5000
Charlie Chandlers' Guitar Experience, KINGSTON-UPON-THAMES - www.guitarexperience.co.uk - 0208 973 1441
The Bass Merchant and The Guitar Merchant, COLCHESTER.   www.bassmerchant.com and www.guitarmerchant.co.uk - 01206 751173
Guitar Guitar, GLASGOW, EDINBURGH, NEWCASTLE.  www.guitarguitar.co.uk - 0141 552 9896 - 0131 334 7100 - 0191 261 1568
10 out of 10, LONDON SE26.  www.10outof10.co.uk - 020 8659 2558
Kingfisher Music, FLEET.  www.kingfishermusic.com - 01252 621210
PSS Music, GRIMSBY. www.poolesmusic.co.uk - 01472 343211
The Music Shop, NUNEATON. bramsmusic@live.co.uk - 024-7634-6863
GAPco/Audiotoyz, ASHURST, Kent. info@gapco.co.uk - 01892-740894