Qtx QR15PABT

Author: John M

Rating: 5

Review: This item has been purchased for the local WI branch, to meet the need for an easy-to-use, portable PA system for use by visiting speakers, for larger meetings, and so on. It comes with two handheld VHF radio microphones, on frequencies 174.1 and MHz and 175MHz (see below). The mics are plastic bodied, with a metal mesh covered foam windshield. They have a two position switch, OFF-MUTE-ON, and despite being low cost items they work well and are easy to use. They are very directional and need to be 'aimed' at the presenter's mouth; the upside of this is that they are not prone to feedback howl even when the presenter is in front of the PA. Radio mics are usually used with a separate receiver that is plugged into the mixer/amplifier. The QR12PA has the receiver built in, with controls on the back of the unit. The receiver has its own power switch and separate volume controls for each mic in use. (the main unit volume control does not govern the volume from the radio mic channels) . The built in receiver handles two mics, on 174.1/175.0 MHz, so any additional VHF mics you plan to use with this unit need to be on one of these frequencies. I have also bought a pair of QTX 'neckband' VHF mics (order one of each frequency if you want them, items 178.851 and 178.852) and they work fine. There are 2 separate 1/4" jack inputs for a lead microphone, or a guitar for example. There are also 3.5mm and phono inputs for other sources (such as a phone or MP3 player for music) and the built in MP3 player has a USB and a SC card slot. There is also a pair of phono output sockets for the whole mix. There is an echo function that will operate on the radio mic inputs, and presumably on the lead mic inputs if used. There is also a VCV switch, which will partially mute any music being played when speaking into a mic. This does NOT operate on the radio mic source. The manual, which covers the QR12PA and the QR15PA, refers to an FM tuner - the QR12PA does not appear to have one. The unit contains its own battery, which was at least partly charged on arrival, and it worked right out of the box before being plugged in. There is a detachable 'kettle' lead for the mains. There is no obvious way to change the battery, and no reference in the instructions which counsel the user not to open the unit. I believe it is a lead-acid battery that could probably be replaced by a competent person if necessary, and I'm pretty sure that one reviewer mentioned having done that. For what it's worth, my experience of larger lead-acid batteries in boats, caravans etc. is that they last a long time if they are not repeatedly run flat, or left flat, so whilst the battery is claimed to give up to 8 hours operation, I would suggest using it for no more than 3 or 4 without recharging if you want it to last well. This is a fairly heavy item (the spec says it's14Kg,) if you need to lift it on to a stand or even in and out of a car - fit people should have no problem, but it could be awkward for a frailer/weaker person. Just moving it around is helped by the extending handle and wheels. There is a moulded 35mm socket on the base. I'd recommend getting it off the floor, even if it is just put on a side table - it sounds much better. Regarding the sound, it is not hifi, but it is capable of decent volume and with the aid of the tone controls sounds perfectly acceptable and loud enough for a small hall, though not of course for a disco as you could probably still hear yourself speak.... Reliability I can't yet speak for, as I have just set up and tested the items, but so far, so good and I am happy with the choice.

Author: Kevin L.

Rating: 4

Review: It is portable as in light but wheels are flimsy - worth buying a trolley. However sound quality given size limitations was good and volume enough for a singer / guitarist to project through the noise of a crowded pub. Mikes ok ish but an upgrade to a basic shure makes sense