Shure UA860SWB – Passive Wideband Omnidirectional UHF Antenna

Product Overview

The Shure UA860SWB is a passive wideband omnidirectional UHF antenna designed to improve RF reception for commercial Shure wireless microphone systems. Operating across 470–1100 MHz with an omnidirectional dipole pattern and 2.15 dBi gain, it provides 360° coverage without the directional constraints of a log-periodic antenna, making it well-suited for conference rooms, boardrooms, and other commercial spaces where transmitters move freely across the coverage area. It is compatible with BLX4R, SLX, QLX-D, ULX-D, UHF-R, and Axient Digital wireless receivers.

Product Description

Unlike directional antennas that require careful aiming toward a defined coverage zone, the UA860SWB’s omnidirectional pattern delivers consistent RF coverage in all directions from the antenna’s position, making it particularly appropriate for applications where presenters or performers move freely throughout the room. Its wideband 470–1100 MHz coverage makes it usable across the majority of commercial UHF wireless frequency bands, including newer multi-band systems. The passive design requires no DC bias power, simplifying installation in systems where active antenna power is unavailable or where the antenna runs directly to a receiver without a distribution unit. For larger multi-receiver commercial installations, the UA860SWB pairs effectively with the Shure UA845UWB Antenna Distribution System. Mount options include standard BNC connection to the receiver or distribution system via 50 Ω coaxial cable.

Key Features

• Omnidirectional Dipole Reception Pattern — Provides 360° RF coverage without requiring directional aiming, making it appropriate for commercial spaces where wireless transmitters move freely throughout the room.
• Wideband 470–1100 MHz Coverage — Covers the majority of commercial UHF wireless frequency bands in a single antenna, supporting BLX4R, SLX, QLX-D, ULX-D, UHF-R, and Axient Digital systems.
• 2.15 dBi Typical Gain — Provides modest gain over an isotropic radiator, improving system reception margin relative to whip antennas in commercial wireless installations.
• Passive Design — No DC Bias Required — Requires no power supply or DC bias from the connected receiver or distribution system, simplifying installation in straightforward commercial wireless deployments.
• Improves Wireless Microphone Reception — Purpose-built to enhance UHF wireless audio system RF performance in commercial AV environments, particularly when replacing stock receiver whip antennas with remote-mounted antennas.

Typical Applications

• Conference room
• Boardroom
• House of worship
• Government space
• Commercial meeting space
• Training room
• Multi-purpose room
• All-hands room

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the UA860SWB require a power supply or DC bias?
No. The UA860SWB is a passive antenna and requires no DC bias power from the receiver or distribution system. It connects directly via BNC coaxial cable.

What is the difference between the UA860SWB and a directional antenna like the UA874WB?
The UA860SWB provides 360° omnidirectional coverage without requiring directional aiming, making it appropriate for spaces where transmitters move freely. Directional antennas like the UA874WB offer higher on-axis gain and are preferred when coverage needs to be focused toward a defined area, such as a stage or podium.

Is the UA860SWB compatible with Shure Axient Digital systems?
Yes. The UA860SWB is compatible with Axient Digital, UHF-R, ULX-D, QLX-D, SLX, and BLX4R wireless systems operating within the 470–1100 MHz frequency range.

Can the UA860SWB be used with an antenna distribution system?
Yes. The UA860SWB can be connected to Shure antenna distribution systems such as the UA845UWB, allowing one or two UA860SWB antennas to serve multiple receivers simultaneously in a commercial wireless installation.