Shure AD2TA/B87C=-X55 – Axient Digital Handheld Transmitter, Beta 87C, X55 (TAA)

Product Overview

The Shure AD2/B87C Axient Digital handheld wireless microphone transmitter (AD2TA/B87C=-X55) combines the Beta 87C cardioid condenser capsule with the Axient Digital wireless platform in the X55 band (941–960 MHz), with TAA compliance. Operating above the standard UHF TV broadcast window, the X55 band provides spectrum access in deployments where lower-UHF frequencies are congested or subject to local regulatory restrictions. The Beta 87C cardioid condenser capsule delivers smooth, extended frequency response ideal for corporate presenters, broadcast talent, and vocal applications in commercial AV environments. AES-256 encryption, High Density mode, and Wireless Workbench 6 integration provide enterprise-grade wireless management for integrators and AV system designers. The interchangeable capsule design allows the transmitter to serve multiple applications — see the Shure RPW122 Beta 87C Replacement Capsule for a genuine OEM spare for this transmitter.

Product Description

The AD2TA/B87C=-X55 is a professional Axient Digital handheld transmitter for commercial AV integration, bringing the Beta 87C cardioid condenser capsule to the X55 band (941–960 MHz). The Beta 87C cardioid pattern provides wider, more forgiving coverage than supercardioid designs, making it well-suited for corporate presenters who may not maintain fixed mic positioning and for broadcast talent in interview-style applications. Its smooth, extended frequency response delivers natural audio quality for spoken word and vocal reinforcement in commercial meeting spaces, auditoriums, and broadcast studios. The X55 band operates above the standard UHF TV broadcast window — verify local frequency authorization before deployment. Wireless Workbench 6 integration provides centralized RF coordination, spectrum analysis, and remote battery monitoring. TAA-compliant for federal and government procurement.

Key Features

• Beta 87C Cardioid Condenser Capsule — Smooth, extended frequency response with a cardioid polar pattern that provides forgiving, wider coverage for presenters and performers without precise microphone positioning requirements.
• X55 Band Operation (941–960 MHz) — Operates above the standard UHF TV broadcast spectrum, providing spectrum access in environments where lower-UHF bands face congestion or local regulatory constraints. Verify local frequency authorization before deployment.
• Interchangeable Capsule Design — The Beta 87C capsule is field-replaceable with any Shure RPW-series capsule (Beta 87A, Beta 58A, KSM8, KSM9, SM58, VP68, and others), enabling the transmitter to support multiple commercial AV applications from a single body.
• High Density Mode — Increases simultaneous channel count for commercial AV deployments requiring multiple concurrent wireless channels within the X55 band spectrum.
• AES-256 Encryption — Standard on every unit for secure audio transmission in government, enterprise, and legal AV environments.
• Selectable RF Output Power (2/10/35 mW) — Three levels provide control over the balance between transmission range and channel density.
• Automatic Gain Control — Real-time input level management for consistent signal quality across different presenters and vocal dynamics without manual adjustments.
• Rechargeable Battery Option — Accepts the optional Shure SB900A rechargeable Li-ion battery for up to 9 hours runtime with networked charging via SBC220 or SBC840.
• IR Sync — Infrared one-touch synchronization with Axient Digital receivers for rapid multi-channel deployment.
• Wireless Workbench 6 Compatible — Centralized RF coordination, spectrum analysis, battery monitoring, and remote configuration for enterprise commercial deployments.
• Durable Aluminum Housing — Moisture-resistant construction (340 g / 12 oz without batteries) for regular professional use.
• TAA-Compliant — Eligible for federal government procurement under GSA schedules and Trade Agreements Act contract vehicles.

Typical Applications

• Government and federal audio installations requiring TAA-compliant wireless microphones with AES-256 encryption in the X55 band
• Corporate conference room and boardroom AV systems where X55 band provides cleaner available spectrum
• Broadcast studio and on-camera wireless applications configured for 900+ MHz band operation
• Commercial meeting space and all-hands room deployments requiring condenser microphone quality with encrypted wireless transmission
• House of worship vocal applications requiring cardioid condenser coverage in X55 band deployments
• Multi-purpose room installations using X55 band for spectrum diversity alongside lower-UHF wireless systems
• Training room AV systems managed via Wireless Workbench 6

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Why would I choose X55 band over G57 for the AD2/B87C?
The X55 band (941–960 MHz) operates above standard UHF TV broadcast allocations, which can provide cleaner available spectrum in markets with heavy lower-UHF broadcast activity. It is also useful for spectrum diversity when deploying multiple wireless systems simultaneously across different bands. Always verify local regulatory compliance before deploying equipment in the 941–960 MHz range, as regulations vary by market.

Is the 941–960 MHz range legal to use in the United States?
Operation in this range is subject to FCC regulation and may require coordination or licensing. Verify current FCC frequency allocation rules and obtain any required authorizations before deployment. Creation Networks recommends working with an RF coordinator for X55 band deployments.

What Axient Digital receivers work with the X55 band?
Use an Axient Digital receiver (AD4D or AD4Q) configured for the X55 band (941–960 MHz). Frequency bands must match between transmitter and receiver. This unit is not compatible with ULX-D, SLX-D, or BLX receivers.

Can I swap the Beta 87C capsule for a different RPW capsule?
Yes. The AD2 transmitter body accepts all Shure RPW-series wireless capsules without tools: RPW122 (replacement Beta 87C), RPW120 (Beta 87A supercardioid), RPW118 (Beta 58A dynamic), RPW112 (SM58), RPW124 (VP68 omnidirectional), RPW170/RPW174 (KSM8), and RPW184 (KSM9).

Is the AD2TA/B87C=-X55 TAA-compliant?
Yes. This unit is TAA-compliant and eligible for federal procurement under GSA schedules and government contract vehicles requiring Trade Agreements Act compliance.

What warranty does the Shure AD2 carry?
Shure provides a limited 2-year manufacturer warranty on the AD2 handheld transmitter. Contact Creation Networks for warranty service and support inquiries.