Whilst it is true that there will be major revisions to the available radio spectrum and the way it is managed, I think that the media have perhaps hyped up the issue for maximum effect, as usual.
There is no change to the 173MHz to 175MHz VHF band so radio microphones for hearing impaired are not affected.
The changes to the VHF band are between 209 and 217MHz which does not affect us but could affect a minority of programme makers (though most do not use VHF any more). The licence free spectrum in the old UHF Channel 69 that is currently used for radio mics will stay as is and the whole of channel 69 will probably become licence free. After digital TV switchover (which begins in Scotland in 2008 and is supposed to be completed by 2012) there will be 14 UHF channels released which will be auctioned off. Some radio mics will be permitted in this spectrum. Ofcom are making plenty of alternative spectrum available for radio mics and wireless cameras etc. It will mean that some professional equipment will have a limited working life if the frequencies cannot be altered but there has been plenty of warning so it shouldn't be a huge issue except, perhaps with very old or cheapo equipment.
As far as West End Musicals are concerned, their biggest issues will be
1) the possible need to change some equipment to other UHF channels and
2) additional licensing costs, either because they have to purchase spectrum directly (unlikely) or they have to obtain their licenses through yet another middle man from the spectrum owner - who would no longer be the Government.
Gareth Pont
Design Director
Connevans Limited
