We’ve all been there – yanking a cable out of the amp, tripping over it mid-set, or wrestling with a tangled mess when packing up. It has happened to me during my gigging tenure over the last 15 years more times than I care to remember. Although guitar cables are part and parcel of most typical players’ rigs, adding one of the best wireless guitar systems to your rig can be a great way to speed up your setup, allowing you to focus on your performance.
A wireless system for guitar sends a signal from your guitar to your amp or pedalboard, usually via the combination of a transmitter on your guitar and a receiver on the other end, whether that’s your ‘board or straight into your amp. Guitar wireless systems used to be for touring-level players, inaccessible to your average bedroom guitarist, largely due to their price and the complicated nature of their setup. Thankfully, that’s all changed now, thanks to cheaper manufacturing and, in particular, the advancement of digital 2.4 and 5.8GHz systems.
Having worked in music retail for 10 years, I had direct access to a plethora of different wireless systems to test. If you’re looking for the best overall, I recommend the Boss WL-50. It strikes a balance between dependability and affordability, thanks to a long-lasting battery and bulletproof construction. On the other hand, the kings of budget Behringer have made a great product with the Airplay Guitar AG10.
If you’ve been limited by your guitar cable for too long, read on to discover the best wireless guitar systems that can free you from the constraints of traditional cables. Otherwise, if you’re new to wireless systems, my how to choose section points out key considerations, whilst our glossary will clear up any unfamiliar jargon.
Best overall
✅ Buy if you want dependability: Having gigged with this wireless system, it has yet to let me down.
❌ Avoid if you need a very long range: 65 feet is good enough for most, but if you’re rocking much larger venues, you’ll need something with longer range.
Overview
The WL series was introduced back in 2018, and its wireless technology can now be found across the Boss range. Whether it’s in the Boss Katana Air or in pedalboard format, its dependability, affordability, and durability make it one of the best wireless guitar systems on the market. Personally, I’ve played many gigs with my WL-50, and it has always done exactly what I need it to do. To this day, it has yet to go down – touch wood.
Build quality
When it comes to music gear, Boss has to top the list for reliability. Whether it's a compact stomp box, a masterfully designed modeling amp, or, indeed, a wireless guitar system, their units are built like tanks – able to withstand anything you throw at them.
Usability
The WL-50 offers 65 feet of range, extremely low latency, and a very respectable frequency spectrum that makes it a great all-rounder for a wide variety of players. It is primarily designed for those who use pedalboards, with the receiver not too dissimilar to a Boss stompbox in terms of dimensions. The receiver charges the transmitter when you place it into the housing, but be aware that it will drain the battery if there’s no power coming from your pedalboard power supply.
Of course, with this system being conceived by the world leader in pedals, you also get a few welcome extras such as a compact form factor, an onboard docking port for charging the transmitter, and a DC output, which allows you to power a few extra stomps on your board. It also features a cable tone system that allows you to simulate longer and shorter cables with some high-end cut-off.
Best budget
✅ Buy if you need wireless on a budget: With a 100-foot range, this affordable wireless system puts others twice its price to shame.
❌ Avoid if you want something more sturdy: The AG10 doesn’t have the most durable casing, which isn’t surprising considering the price point.
Overview
Behringer is a leading force in affordable music gear, be that overdrive pedals and portable PA systems, synthesizers, and other accessories. Of course, that extends to wireless systems, with the Airplay AG10 offering outstanding value for money.
Build quality
At this price point, it would be unfair to expect a premium titanium chassis, but the plastic casing does a decent enough job to convince me of its durability. On the other hand, useful features like a double-hinged joint and battery indicator with a little LED display are thoughtful additions for this budget option.
Usability
Like many of the other options on this list, the AG10 is truly plug-and-play – clearly, we guitarists like things as simple as humanly possible. As well as simple operation, this nifty wireless system also offers ultra-low latency of around 5ms, around 30 meters of range, and 24-bit / 48kHz signal transmission audio quality. The 6.5 hours of battery life are pretty generous, and it is made even better thanks to the auto sleep and wake-up function.
Offering 100ft of roaming capabilities, this affordable wireless system competes neck and neck with models twice its price in terms of range. So if you are looking for a cheap-as-chips option that certainly won't break the bank, you'll want to check this one out for sure.
Best for beginners
✅ Buy if you value battery life: Lasting 30 hours from a single AA battery is fantastic news for those who play long sessions.
❌ Avoid if you’d prefer a smaller transmitter: The transmitter in this package is a little larger than others on the list, a dealbreaker for some.
Overview
Setting out to create a "true plug 'n' play wireless solution", AKG's WMS 40 Mini Instrument ISM2 is a brilliant unit for those who want to avoid the faff of setting up this sort of device. At the end of the day, we aren't all audio engineers – we just want to plug in and rock!
Build quality
Well, thankfully, the AKG offers just that. With a professional 3-pin mini XLR connector, the PT40 Mini body-pack transmitter is compatible with electric guitars, bass guitars, headsets, and instrument mics – meaning it's appropriate for many different musicians. Being both lightweight and rugged, it is easy to toss into a gig bag and move seamlessly from rehearsal room to gig venue without too much worry.
Usability
With 30 hours of use off a single AA battery, no less, the AKG will even keep on rocking through your never-ending, experimental jam sessions. You've also got a generous 100 feet to roam around, offering a newfound freedom that'll easily accommodate most, if not all, local venues.
This was the first wireless system I owned, and I took great glee in being able to take my guitar downstairs in my house while my amp blared from my bedroom, no doubt to the annoyance of my parents. I never suffered from any dropouts, but it is important to make sure you have spare batteries handy, as it’s easy to lose track of how long you’ve been using it for.
Best for gigging
✅ Buy if you want to play live: This is pedalboard-friendly, has a built-in tuner, a 250-foot range, and is housed in a rugged metal case, making it perfect for regularly gigging guitarists.
❌ Avoid if you’re after something simpler. This is a fairly advanced wireless system with plenty of bells and whistles, perhaps too much for the casual player.
Overview
When it comes to pedalboard wireless solutions, you'll be hard-pressed to find a better example than the Sennheiser XSW-D Pedalboard Set. To be fair, that's hardly surprising, considering Sennheiser makes some of the most renowned wireless microphones, headsets and headphones in the world.
Build quality
This being said, world-class wireless technology isn't what sets this system apart from the rest. Rather, it's the special functionality, specifically designed for guitarists, that got us interested in this unit. Namely, the purpose-built case that makes it pedalboard-friendly, while the incorporated tuner means it isn't just dead space on your 'board.
Usability
Now, of course, with this being a Sennheiser wireless system, you get a one-touch set-up, 2.4GHz digital transmission for worldwide operation, and a whopping 250ft of range. Wireless systems can often be a little flimsy, for lack of a better term, but Sennheiser has pulled out all the stops by housing the transmitter in a rugged, metal casing – it's super sturdy. So, if you’re looking specifically for a rock-steady wireless system for playing in a band, look no further than the XSW-D.
Best for professionals
✅ Buy if you’re regularly touring: You can run up to 12 channels per frequency with this system; you’ll be unlikely to need more.
❌ Avoid if you’re not a professional guitarist: A 300-foot range is excessive for a lot of guitarists playing local gigs.
Overview
It makes sense if you want a truly outstanding live sound that you'd go to a pro audio specialist, and that's exactly what you get with the Shure BLX14. Be advised though, this is one for guitarists who make their living playing. The deep feature set and huge cost would be wasted on bedroom players.
Build quality
To begin with, the hardy bodypack transmitter will endure even the most enthusiastic performances. Of course, something aimed at pros needs to come with gig-friendly features, and if it suits your setup, you can upgrade to the URT2 rack tray for the receiver to better protect it in your live rack.
Usability
Delivering up to 14 hours of continuous use with AA batteries and an operating range of up to 100 meters, this system will handle myriad different venues and situations. The brilliantly designed BLX4 receiver includes the One Touch-QuickScan feature which, as the name suggests, allows for effortless connectivity – meaning you never need to worry about linking to a weak frequency.
Although 100 meters is fantastic, it may be overkill if you’re only playing small venues. That being said, this unit's reliability and ease of use tip the scales overwhelmingly in favor of this professional-quality wireless system from Shure.
Best for home
✅ Buy if you have active pickups: With a flick of the switch, the A58 is capable of handling both active and passive pickups.
❌ Avoid if you need something more robust: There are more durable options out there. Whilst it isn’t fragile, it’s not going to outlast metallic options.
Overview
Xvive is known for making budget-friendly wireless systems that perform just as well as options twice the price. Its latest offering, the Xvive A58, is a dongle-style system with a 100ft range and another excellent USP that metal guitarists will appreciate.
Build quality
The plastic casing isn’t particularly durable, but neither is it fragile. Since this is geared more towards home use, chances are you won’t be in danger of any breakages. The ¼-inch connection allows you to use the A58 with anything that accepts it, and the double hinge gives you enough movement to plug it into a pedal, guitar, or amplifier.
Features
The A58 operates at 5.8GHz, which is ultra-reliable and far less crowded than 2.4GHz, meaning you are much less likely to encounter interference. It also automatically scans for the best wireless channel, ensuring you have the most stable connection.
While Xvive produces a number of cheaper systems in its range, the A58 stands above its siblings thanks to the inclusion of an active/passive switch, meaning it works just as well with any type of pickup, ideal for metal guitarists with active pickups.
A two-and-a-half-hour charge gives you around five hours of playing time, or more importantly for real-world use, just 30 minutes of charging provides around an hour of play. That’s particularly handy if you’ve forgotten to charge up before a gig.
Also consider
Didn't find what you were looking for above? Don't worry we've got you covered. Here are some more excellent wireless systems for you to take a look at.
How to choose
Working in music retail for ten years teaches you many things, some of which I’ll leave for another time, but mainly how to select the most suitable gear for people’s needs. This is the same when it comes to wireless guitar systems. Let’s face it, they can be a little confusing, especially with frequencies and bandwidths. Here are my top considerations when selecting your next wireless system.
1. Range
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Firstly, and most obviously, think about how much range you actually need. Of course, you may think that the further the range, the better, but typically this will cost you more money, as it tends to be the more advanced systems that offer the longest range.
If you are only playing at home or in small venues, you aren’t going to need 300+ feet of range. Choosing a suitable range for where you play will save you money and give you a product better suited to your needs.
2. Frequency
Next, pay attention to the frequency range. This is the wireless radio spectrum that transmits your guitar signal. There are three main frequency ranges typically used in guitar wireless systems.
2.4 GHz is the most common. It’s the most affordable and often the easiest to set up, but it can be more crowded, which may affect signal strength. 5.8 GHz is less busy, allowing for a more stable connection, but it’s typically a bit more expensive. Lastly, professional units tend to operate on UHF frequencies. These are the most expensive, but also the most reliable and best suited for pro-level use.
3. Latency
Perhaps one of the most frustrating things about bad guitar wireless systems is high latency. Otherwise known as lag, this refers to the delay between striking your guitar strings and hearing the sound. If latency is high, that delay becomes more noticeable.
Of course, when playing music, this can be an absolute killer for timing. Most guitar wireless systems will list their latency in milliseconds, and the lower the number, the better. It’s always worth checking this spec before you buy.
4. Battery life
Last but not least, keep an eye on battery life. Since these are wireless units, it’s incredibly important. If you play long sessions or gigs, a longer battery life can save your bacon.
Some systems run on replaceable batteries, which can be a preferred option if you like the idea of carrying spares that you can quickly swap in if your system dies. This isn’t something you can do with units that have internal rechargeable batteries.
FAQs
Will a wireless guitar system affect my tone?
Modern wireless guitar systems shouldn’t affect your tone in any negative way. Sure, in years gone by, your tone may have been slightly compressed on older systems, particularly lower-quality ones. However, technology has come a long way, and that includes wireless gear.
Most of the time, you won’t hear any noticeable difference compared to using a high-quality guitar cable. That said, there are still some poor-quality systems out there, and I certainly wouldn’t vouch for those. Stick with reputable options, like the ones in this guide, and you shouldn’t have anything to worry about.
Will there be noticeable latency with a wireless system?
Much like modern systems not having a negative impact on your tone, they shouldn’t have noticeable latency either. Most, if not all, brands will list the unit’s latency in the specifications, usually in milliseconds, which is typically too fast for the human ear or your muscle memory to detect.
The only time you may encounter issues is in crowded frequency environments, most commonly on the 2.4GHz range. In busy areas where lots of devices are using the same frequency, performance can be affected. If you’re concerned about this, upgrading to a system that operates on 5.8GHz or, even better, UHF, can offer a more stable connection.
What are the differences between 2.4GHz, 5.8GHz, and UHF systems?
Ultimately, it comes down to signal strength and reliability. Starting with 2.4GHz, it’s the most crowded, as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi devices also operate on this frequency. Generally speaking, it offers a decent range and is the most affordable option, which is why so many devices use it. I like to think of frequency like a flight. The cheaper the ticket, the more people are crammed in, and the more chance there is of your signal getting interrupted (or booted off).
5.8GHz is the next step up. It’s far less crowded, offering a more stable connection and low latency, making it ideal for guitar systems. However, it typically has a slightly shorter range than 2.4GHz. Lastly, UHF is the pro-grade option found in higher-end wireless systems. It offers the best signal stability and penetration, meaning it performs well in busy environments and over longer distances. So, if you’re planning on headlining Wembley, it’s probably the one to go for.
What happens if the other guitarist in my band has a wireless kit?
If both you and another guitarist in your band are using wireless systems, you’ll need to make sure you’re operating on different channels. If not, you risk interfering with each other’s signals, which can lead to dropouts or unwanted noise.
Most wireless systems offer multiple channels on both the transmitter and receiver, making it fairly easy to stay out of each other’s way. If you can, using systems that operate on different frequency bands, for example, one on 5.8GHz and the other on UHF, is an even safer way to avoid interference altogether.
Can I use a wireless guitar system with active pickups?
Yes, you can use active pickups with a wireless system, but it’s worth choosing one that has an ‘active pickups’ mode if possible. I’ve used wireless systems with active pickups in the past, and while some work perfectly, others can be a bit hit or miss.
Active pickups rely on a battery-powered preamp inside the guitar, which is typically engaged when a cable is plugged into the output jack. Some wireless systems don’t interact with that connection in quite the same way as a standard cable, which can occasionally lead to compatibility issues or unwanted noise.
I’ve also come across slight tonal inconsistencies when using systems that don’t cater for active pickups specifically. So, if you’re gigging regularly, it’s worth saving yourself the hassle and opting for a system that includes an active mode.
Will the transmitter fit into my guitar jack?
In most cases, yes, it should fit your guitar’s output jack without any issues. I’ve yet to come across a wireless system that doesn’t use a standard ¼-inch connection, or at least offer compatibility via a regular guitar cable.
That said, it’s worth being mindful of recessed or angled output jacks, Stratocaster-style guitars being a prime example. If the transmitter is too bulky or doesn’t have a rotating or hinged design, it may not sit properly. This can lead to an awkward fit or even an insecure connection.
How far away can I get from my amp?
This depends on the range your wireless system is capable of, as well as the strength of your connection. Every system will list its optimal range in the specifications, giving you a good idea of how far you can move from your amp.
Most modern systems will comfortably allow you to get around 50 feet away, while more professional options can reach up to 300 feet. Of course, factors like interference or crowded frequencies can reduce that range, but for most players, today’s systems offer more than enough freedom to move around.
Key terms
- 2.4GHz: A radio frequency range with a mid-to-long range. It is the most affordable and therefore the most crowded, as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth devices also operate on this frequency.
- 5.8GHz: A higher-frequency radio band with a typically shorter range than 2.4GHz, but with a more stable connection due to less congestion.
- AD/DA conversion: This stands for analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog conversion. The transmitter converts your guitar’s analog signal into a digital signal, and the receiver converts it back into analog for your amp or pedalboard.
- Bandwidth: Refers to the amount of data a frequency can carry. Higher bandwidth allows for more stable and detailed signal transmission.
- Bodypack: A type of wireless system where the transmitter is worn on your body, typically clipped to a belt or strap, and connected to your guitar via a cable.
- Cable tone simulation: A feature found in some wireless systems that subtly EQs your signal to replicate the tonal characteristics of a traditional guitar cable.
- Carrier frequency: The specific radio frequency your wireless system operates on, such as 2.4GHz, 5.8GHz, or UHF.
- Dongle: A compact wireless transmitter with a built-in ¼-inch jack that plugs directly into your guitar, rather than being worn as a bodypack.
- Dropouts: Temporary signal loss, usually caused by interference, obstacles, or operating on a crowded frequency.
- Dynamic range: The difference between the quietest and loudest signals a system can handle without introducing noise or distortion.
- Impedance: Refers to the resistance your signal encounters. Matching impedance between your guitar, wireless system, and amp helps preserve tone and signal strength.
- Latency: The delay between striking a note and hearing it through your system. Lower latency is crucial for a natural playing experience.
- Line-of-sight: An unobstructed path between transmitter and receiver. Obstacles like walls or people can weaken the signal.
- Plug-and-play: A system that requires minimal setup, allowing you to plug in and start playing immediately.
- Squelch: A noise-reduction feature that mutes the signal when it drops below a certain threshold, helping to prevent unwanted hiss or interference.
- Sync: The process of pairing the transmitter and receiver so they operate on the same channel or frequency.
- UHF: A professional-grade frequency band used in higher-end wireless systems. It offers strong signal stability, long range, and excellent performance in busy environments, ideal for professional use.
How we test products
Here at Guitar Player, our writing team are guitarists first and foremost. That means we've had our hands on lots of different wireless guitar systems in our personal and professional lives, and tested them at home and on stage.
When we look at a wireless guitar system, we'll examine various factors starting with how easy is it to set up. Is it a 'plug-and-play' type system or does it require a little more fine-tuning like scanning for frequencies? We'll set it up at home and in a live scenario to make sure we get the best overview of how it works in the real world.
Next, we'll look at the build quality. Will it put up with the rough and tumble of life on the road? Is the transmitter versatile enough to fit into a variety of guitars? Are the any extra features that make using it a little easier? Is it more suited to home use or can it be easily utilized during live gigs?
Finally, we'll do a direct comparison of sound versus a regular cable. Is there any high-end roll-off? Does it pick up interference from other electrical items in the nearby vicinity? We'll also compare to other wireless units we've reviewed previously, comparing and contrasting how each one holds up.
Read more on how we test gear and services at Guitar Player.
