Shure BLX1288/MX153 Wireless Microphone System

Experience professional-grade wireless sound with the Shure BLX1288/MX153 Wireless Microphone System. Built for live performances, corporate events, houses of worship, and demanding conference settings, this two-channel UHF system pairs dependable signal handling with pristine audio quality and simple operation. The BLX1288/MX153 is designed to minimize setup time while maximizing reliability, so you can focus on delivery rather than frequency hunting or signal dropouts. With an operating span from 542 MHz to 572 MHz, a faithful 50 Hz to 15 kHz frequency response, and an impressive 300-foot line-of-sight range, this system delivers crisp, natural sound across a wide variety of venues and applications. Whether you’re expanding an existing setup, upgrading a single-channel system, or equipping a multi-speaker stage, the BLX1288/MX153 offers the versatility and durability that professionals expect from Shure.

• Two-channel wireless performance in a compact, rack-ready receiver simplifies stage setup while offering the flexibility to manage two presenters or performers on separate channels without interference. This dual-channel configuration is ideal for panel discussions, live performances, or multi-speaker events, allowing you to route each mic to its own channel for independent EQ, gain control, and processing. The result is clean, intelligible sound with minimal cross-talk and hassle during high-energy performances.
• Wide audio bandwidth from 50 Hz to 15 kHz reproduces vocal nuances, musical detail, and natural speech with clarity suitable for live sound, broadcasting, and corporate events. The system preserves the warmth of a vocalist’s voice and the dynamic contrast of a speaker, while ensuring intelligibility on broadcasts or large-room gatherings. Expect consistent output across a range of mic elements and vocal styles, from storytelling to high-energy stage performances.
• Robust UHF operation in the 542–572 MHz band minimizes dropouts and keeps your signal clean in environments crowded with wireless devices, ensuring stable performances even on busy stages. The wide, interference-resistant spectrum is well-suited to venues with other wireless gear, choirs, and events with multiple wireless systems, helping you avoid common RF conflicts that can degrade sound quality or disrupt performances.
• Reliable range up to 300 feet (about 90 meters) of line-of-sight coverage provides freedom to move around the stage, auditorium, or worship space while maintaining a consistent capture. This reach supports dynamic performances, stage choreography, and presenter movement without requiring mic relocation or constant re-patching, delivering consistent feedback control and dependable monitoring for engineers and performers alike.
• Simple setup and configuration with automatic frequency selection and Sync capabilities reduce setup time and user error, making this system accessible for both professionals and aspiring technicians. QuickSync pairing and intuitive controls let you get on-air quickly, while the rugged construction and standardized components simplify maintenance, spare parts, and service for busy production schedules.

Technical Details of Shure BLX1288/MX153

• Operating frequency: 542 MHz to 572 MHz (UHF band)
• Frequency response: 50 Hz to 15 kHz
• Maximum operating range: up to 300 ft (90 m) in line of sight
• System type: 2-channel wireless microphone system with a dual-channel receiver
• Build: rugged, road-ready construction designed for live sound and touring environments

How to install Shure BLX1288/MX153

Setting up the BLX1288/MX153 is straightforward and quick, designed to get you from unpacked gear to on-air sound with minimal complexity. Start by selecting a stable location for the receiver, whether you’re installing it in a rack, mounting it, or placing it on a secure surface near your mixer. Ensure good airflow around the receiver and position the antennas to cover the space where performers will be most active, optimizing reception across the venue. If you’re mounting in a rack, secure the unit firmly to prevent vibration and take care to keep the power and signal cables neatly organized to reduce interference and trip hazards.

• Power on the receiver and the transmitters, and verify both channels are ready to pair. If needed, use the Sync button on the receiver to automatically synchronize with the transmitters; this step ensures both transmitters are set to the same frequency range and operating parameters as the receiver.
• Connect the receiver’s balanced XLR outputs or the 1/4" outputs to your mixer, audio interface, or PA system. Check that the mixer channels corresponding to each wireless mic are active, and verify that the level meters show healthy signal without clipping.
• Insert fresh batteries into the handheld or headset microphone elements as specified by the MX153 setup, ensuring they are seated securely. Monitor battery indicators if available and replace batteries as soon as low power is indicated to avoid unexpected dropouts during a performance.
• Confirm the signal quality by performing a quick sound check with each microphone. Move the talent around the stage to test for dropouts and check gain staging, EQ, and compression to preserve intelligibility without introducing distortion or feedback.
• Lock in your settings and perform a final test run. If interference is detected, adjust the receiver’s frequency band or move the antennas to higher placements, always prioritizing a clean RF environment for stable performance in the venue’s layout.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What frequencies does the BLX1288/MX153 operate on? A: It operates in the UHF range from 542 MHz to 572 MHz, chosen to minimize interference in typical live-event environments.
• Q: How far can the wireless signal travel? A: The system provides up to about 300 feet (90 meters) of line-of-sight range, though real-world performance depends on venue geometry, walls, and RF activity.
• Q: How many channels are included? A: The system is a two-channel wireless microphone system, enabling two independent microphones or mic elements to operate simultaneously on separate channels.
• Q: Is setup easy for beginners? A: Yes. The BLX1288/MX153 features user-friendly controls, automatic frequency selection, and a Sync function to rapidly pair transmitters with the receiver, reducing setup time for technicians and presenters alike.
• Q: What type of audio quality can I expect? A: With a 50 Hz to 15 kHz frequency response, the system delivers clear vocal and instrument reproduction suitable for live performances, presentations, and broadcast applications, while preserving natural dynamics and intelligibility.