Looking for wireless mic system recommendations for small theater
Our small, nonprofit theater is currently looking into replacing our existing audio system, starting with our mics. Our budget for new mics is essentially "as small as possible" (<$2,000 ideal, although we can petition the Board for a higher budget, within reason, if there's a decent compromise option to be had). We're aware that rules out lots of the most recommended options – for example, the Shure line that we'd otherwise love to invest in – so we could use your advice!
Our current equipment:
- 16-channel Onxy series Mackie Mixer
- Two Behringer Eurolive B210D speakers
- Two Behringer Eurolive B208D speakers
- One Behringer Eurolive B205D backstage monitor
- 8 AKG mini-XLR microphones
- 2 VocoPro microphone and receiver sets
Right now, our priority is purchasing new wireless microphones / transmitter packs / receivers (although we eventually intend to piecemeal a whole new system) as two of our existing mic packs have broken, so for now what we get needs to play nicely with our other equipment.
We'd need at least 8 new mics. Wireless transmission is a must. We have used lav mics but would probably prefer to move to over-the-ear, headworn, or other alternative styles, as long as they are discreet, as our shows are interactive.
We perform dinner murder mystery theatre generally to audiences of ~40-80. We also do private shows for audiences of all sizes, though the largest are usually ~300. Our venues vary (restaurants, event venues, or occasionally private residences, and even once a boat!) but are never acoustically ideal. In-between scenes, actors mingle with the audience in-character. Since the system needs to be portable, 4-channel (or higher) receivers are vastly preferable to each mic needing its own.
The #1 complaint we get from audience members during our shows is audio issues: they can't hear us, or we get issues with clothing noises or random popping. This is fairly clearly due to the quality of our equipment as it persists regardless of placement, broadcast loops, etc.
We've seen a number of cheap ~$300 systems on Amazon, but would prefer to spend just a bit more on something that's less likely to continue having issues and needing replacement every season: the problem is that most of the better quality suggestions we've seen are well out of budget. Your middle-ground recommendations are greatly appreciated! We're also open to suggestions on replacing other equipment, although it isn't our current priority.
Thank you!