Shure AD2/VP68 – Axient Digital Handheld Transmitter with VP68 Capsule

Product Overview

The Shure AD2/VP68 is a professional Axient Digital handheld wireless transmitter equipped with the VP68 omnidirectional condenser capsule, purpose-built for speech intelligibility in commercial AV deployments. Its omnidirectional polar pattern makes it the preferred choice for panel discussions, corporate meetings, and government spaces where consistent coverage is needed regardless of mic positioning. Operating on Shure’s Axient Digital platform with AES-256 encryption, the AD2/VP68 delivers pristine digital audio with 2-ms latency across G57 (470–616 MHz) and X55 (941–960 MHz) frequency bands.

Product Description

The AD2/VP68 fits into the entry tier of the Axient Digital wireless ecosystem, offering core RF performance without the ShowLink and Frequency Diversity features of the ADX2 series — making it a practical choice for installations where channel count and cost efficiency matter alongside audio quality. The VP68 capsule delivers a flat, natural omnidirectional response ideal for spoken-word applications: panel moderators, town halls, conference sessions, and auditorium Q&A formats where the mic passes between multiple speakers without repositioning. The transmitter runs up to 8 hours on included AA batteries or up to 9 hours with the optional SB900A rechargeable lithium-ion battery, with external charging contacts for docked charging in multi-bay chargers. IR sync, automatic gain adjustment, and a backlit LCD reduce setup time for integrators configuring multi-channel Axient Digital systems. For a compatible dual-channel receiver, see the Shure AD4DNP Two-Channel Digital Wireless Receiver. To step up to ShowLink remote control, consider the Shure ADX2/VP68.

Key Features

• VP68 Omnidirectional Condenser Capsule — Delivers consistent, natural sound from any direction, eliminating positioning concerns when the mic is passed between multiple speakers in panel or conference settings.
• AES-256 Encryption — Provides secure audio transmission for corporate boardrooms, government spaces, and sensitive commercial AV installations where confidentiality is required.
• 146 MHz Tuning Range — Wide RF tuning within the G57 band allows AV system designers to coordinate multiple channels and avoid interference in congested spectrum environments.
• Selectable RF Output (2/10/35 mW) — Allows integrators to balance transmission range against channel density requirements, supporting up to 100 m (328 ft) line of sight.
• Dual Power Options — Operates on two included AA batteries (up to 8 hours) or the optional SB900A rechargeable lithium-ion battery (up to 9 hours), with external charging contacts for networked charger compatibility.
• 2 to 2.9 ms Latency — Selectable low-latency modes ensure audio stays in sync with video in conferencing and broadcast-integrated AV systems.
• Automatic Gain Adjustment — Onboard auto-gain reduces manual level-setting time across multi-transmitter deployments.
• Interchangeable Capsule Design — The VP68 capsule can be swapped for compatible Shure capsules (KSM9, KSM8, SM58, Beta 87A, Beta 87C, and others) without tools, adapting the transmitter to different applications.
• High-Density Mode — Supports maximum simultaneous channel counts in spectrum-limited venues alongside standard coverage mode for flexible system design.
• IR Sync — One-touch infrared frequency synchronization with Axient Digital receivers simplifies setup during installation and changeovers.
• Backlit LCD — Displays frequency, group/channel, mute/lock status, RF output, and remaining battery life for quick at-a-glance system checks during events.
• Lightweight Aluminum Housing — At 340 g (12 oz) without battery, the AD2/VP68 is durable enough for commercial use while remaining comfortable for extended handheld operation.

Typical Applications

• Corporate boardroom and all-hands room panel discussions requiring pass-around microphone flexibility
• Government and municipal meeting spaces where omnidirectional coverage simplifies operation
• Conference room and commercial meeting space AV systems with multiple speakers sharing a single wireless channel
• Auditorium and multi-purpose room Q&A formats where consistent coverage from varied mic angles is essential
• House of worship spoken-word applications requiring natural, intelligible audio reproduction

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the VP68 capsule suited for conference and panel use?
The VP68’s omnidirectional polar pattern picks up sound equally from all directions, so audio quality stays consistent when the mic is passed between panelists or held at varying angles. This reduces the need for operator intervention during live events compared to directional capsules that require precise on-axis placement.

Which Axient Digital receivers are compatible with the AD2/VP68?
The AD2/VP68 is compatible with all Axient Digital series receivers, including the AD4D dual-channel and AD4Q four-channel rack-mount units. Match frequency bands (G57 or X55) between transmitter and receiver when configuring a system.

How does the AD2/VP68 differ from the ADX2/VP68?
The AD2 series does not include ShowLink remote control or the broader frequency-band options available on ADX2 transmitters. For installations where remote gain/mute adjustment from front-of-house is required, the ADX2/VP68 is the appropriate step-up. The AD2/VP68 is better suited to simpler deployments where direct transmitter access is feasible.

Can the capsule be swapped for a directional option?
Yes. The interchangeable capsule design allows field replacement with any compatible Shure wireless capsule — including cardioid and supercardioid options like the KSM9, KSM8, SM58, Beta 87A, and Beta 87C. Swap by unscrewing the existing capsule and threading on the replacement, no tools required.

What is the warranty?
Shure provides a limited 2-year manufacturer warranty. Contact Creation Networks for warranty support and pre-sale technical consultation on Axient Digital system design.