The best wireless systems for guitar and bass offer virtually unlimited mobility, cutting players loose to perform energetically and confidently—without getting tangled up in cable spaghetti. Freedom to roam on stage and in rehearsal is a wireless system’s primary purpose, and, considering how practical they’ve become, there’s never been a better time to lose the cable clutter for a cleaner, clearer performance area.

Whether you’re holding down an intimate weekly gig or routinely embarking on international tours, the perks of a cable-free guitar or bass rig are undeniable. We’ll cover some of our favorite, top-selling and best-reviewed wireless systems for guitar and bass to help you streamline your setup. And if you happen to find yourself running faster and jumping higher on stage, too, well … consider it a side effect of going wireless.

Table of Contents

Comparing the Top Wireless Systems for Guitar and Bass
The Best Wireless Systems for Guitar and Bass
   Xvive U2 Wireless Guitar System
   NUX B-1 LITE 2.4GHz Wireless Guitar System
   Shure GLX-D16+ Wireless Guitar Pedal System
   Gemini GMU-G100 UHF Wireless Guitar System
   NUX C-5RC 5.8GHz Wireless Guitar System With Charging Case
   Positive Grid Spark LINK Wireless Guitar System
   Shure BLX14 Wireless Guitar System
   NUX B-8 Professional 2.4GHz Wireless Guitar System
   Xvive A58 Wireless Guitar System
   BOSS WL-50 Wireless Guitar System
   Sennheiser XSW-D Wireless Pedalboard System
   Fender Telepath Wireless System
How to Choose a Wireless Guitar/Bass System

Comparing the Top Wireless Systems for Guitar and Bass

Wireless System	Latency	Frequency Response	Range	Battery Life
Xvive U2	5 ms	20Hz–20kHz	70'	5 hours
NUX B-1 LITE	<5 ms	20Hz–20kHz	60'	5 hours
Shure GLX-D16+	<5 ms	20Hz–20kHz	200'	12–17 hours
Gemini GMU-G100	<5 ms	20Hz–18kHz	160'	4 hours
NUX C-5RC	<5 ms	20Hz–20kHz	100'	4 hours
Positive Grid Spark LINK	<3 ms	20Hz–20kHz	70'	6 hours
Shure BLX14	<5 ms	50Hz–15kHz	300'	14 hours
NUX B-8	2.5–8.7 ms	20Hz–20kHz	160'	6.5 hours
Xvive A58	5 ms	20Hz–20kHz	100'	5 hours
BOSS WL-50	2.3 ms	20Hz–20kHz	65'	12 hours
Sennheiser XSW-D Pedalboard	<4 ms	80Hz–18kHz	250'	5 hours
Fender Telepath	4 ms	20Hz–20kHz	70'	8 hours

The Best Wireless Systems for Guitar and Bass

Directed mostly at avid touring and gigging musicians, wireless systems occasionally find themselves in home practice rigs, simply because of the untethered fun factor and convenience they provide. Take Line 6’s ultraportable POD Go Wireless unit as an example: This versatile multi-effects processor is perfect for practicing, recording and gigging, with onboard wireless to be used for all three.

There’s really no reason why a bedroom guitarist/bassist can’t also go cable-free, and we’d encourage you to satisfy your curiosity regardless of whether you’re regularly hitting the stage. Of course, if you are frequently playing out, there’s an opportunity to up the onstage antics—or even just appreciate a more organized stage—by severing ties. However you plan to use it, the following are some of the top wireless systems for guitar and bass around.  

Xvive U2 Wireless Guitar System

Why It’s Cool: The Xvive U2 is a simple and reliable wireless solution, whether you’re a gigging musician or bedroom recordist.  

Things to Consider:

• Articulating jack fits majority of instruments
• Durable ABS plastic chassis
• Not recommended for active pickups

 

Pictured: Xvive U2 Wireless Guitar System

Xvive’s U2 is a plug-and-play wireless system consisting of a transmitter and receiver, each with a 1/4" jack connecting to your instrument and amplifier respectively. For some players, one of the fears associated with systems like these is tonal degradation, which the U2 combats with high-quality 24-bit/48kHz audio transmission and a wide, smooth frequency response.

Compact and lightweight, the Xvive U2 boasts an operating range of up to 70', so even large stages are covered. You’ll also never run out of juice mid-show, as both the transmitter and receiver last up to five hours on their batteries. After the gig, they can be recharged simultaneously using the included dual-ended USB cable and any standard 5V USB charger.

Because of its incredibly low latency and full-range signal transmission, you can even use the U2 for recording purposes. It offers the freedom to get up and stretch your legs or grab a snack without getting caught up in cables.

Don’t just take it from us. The Xvive U2 is a customer favorite at Guitar Center, amassing 350+ reviews for a rating of 4.51/5 at the time of writing, with 89% of users confirming they’d recommend it to a friend. See what everyone is saying.

NUX B-1 LITE 2.4GHz Wireless Guitar System

Why It’s Cool: With audio quality comparable to that of a premium cable, the NUX B-1 LITE is a competitively priced system for anyone seeking wireless convenience.

Things to Consider:

• Up to four sets can be used at once for yourself and bandmates
• Operates on 2.4GHz band with Wi-Fi interference protection
• Visual confirmation of battery level and signal transmission

Pictured: NUX B-1 LITE 2.4GHz Wireless Guitar System

The NUX B-1 LITE wireless system is ideal for first-time cable cutters on a budget, sporting premium sound quality and reliable transmission in a pocketable, pedalboard-friendly form factor. NUX’s anti-interference circuitry ensures rock-solid stability within its range of operation, while ultralow latency and 24-bit/44.1kHz audio retain the immediacy and sonic fidelity of a wired connection. And for those who’ve never used a wireless rig before, the NUX B-1 LITE automatically selects and syncs frequencies between the transmitter and receiver, so you’ll be up and running from the moment you plug in.

In addition to its ease of use, reliability and affordability, another great feature found in the B-1 LITE is an auto-sleep mode. After 10 minutes of inactivity, the system goes to sleep to preserve battery life. This is ideal for gigging instances where you may forget to kick the system back on after sound check, only to realize after you’ve struck that first silent chord—you can just leave it on until the show’s over. Overall, the NUX B-1 LITE is a fantastic entry point to wireless guitar and bass setups.

Shure GLX-D16+ Wireless Guitar Pedal System

Why It’s Cool: The Shure GLX-D16+ system contains a rugged, compact pedal receiver and bodypack transmitter with pro-level functionality.  

Things to Consider:

• Road-ready, all-metal receiver
• Transmitter also compatible with D14+ lavaliers and headsets
• Overall battery life dependent on band in use (i.e., 2.4 or 5.8GHz)

Pictured: Shure GLX-D16+ Wireless Guitar Pedal System

For fans of multifunctional devices, the Shure GLX-D16+ wireless pedal system unanimously fits the bill. The receiver, in this case, is a pedal, complete with a built-in tuner and bright LED screen to monitor the transmitter’s battery life on dark stages. Drawing 400mA of current, the pedal receiver is compatible with a majority of 9V power supplies, seamlessly integrating with your existing setup. A 1/4" output daisy chains to the next effect on your board, just like a regular stompbox. There’s even a 1/4" input, which permits dual wielding a cabled and cable-less instrument at the same time or switching between wired connectivity during rehearsal and wireless on stage.

This system’s bandwidth is extensive, too, running both 2.4GHz and 5.8GHz bands for guaranteed channel availability—even in crowded airspace. Shure’s smart pairing and frequency management makes startup and signal preservation a breeze, automatically syncing devices from the get-go and swapping to backup frequencies should any interference occur.

Shure’s GLX-D16+ pedal system is a powerful and flexible way to introduce wireless technology to your guitar/bass rig.

Gemini GMU-G100 UHF Wireless Guitar System

Why It’s Cool: The Gemini GMU-G100 offers solid wireless connectivity for around the price of a decent cable.  

Things to Consider:

• Wide range of instrument compatibility, including active and passive pickups
• Uses a micro-USB charging port (USB-A to micro-USB cable included)
• Runs on UHF spectrum (512–541.7MHz in the United States)

Pictured: Gemini GMU-G100 UHF Wireless Guitar System

When it comes to cost-effective wireless solutions, the Gemini GMU-G100 system delivers impressive performance for a practically unbeatable price. Like the plug-and-play designs we’ve seen previously, the Gemini’s GT10 transmitter automatically pairs with the R10 receiver for hassle-free connectivity. You can easily swap frequencies using the SET button, allowing you to find an interference-free channel in nearly any environment. And while it’s typically designated for electric and acoustic-electric guitar, it’ll work brilliantly on bass, or even with less common instruments like the keytar and electric violin.

Offering up to several hours of play time, the included USB cable is compatible with any brick-style charger or device housing a USB-A port, so you can keep the batteries topped off between gigs. The Gemini GMU-G100 wireless guitar system strikes a solid balance of excellent operation and budget friendliness that’s appealing to players of all types.

NUX C-5RC 5.8GHz Wireless Guitar System With Charging Case

Why It’s Cool: NUX’s C-5RC system keeps road warriors in mind and comes with a wireless charging case for touring musicians who don’t always have access to power outlets.

Things to Consider:

• Suited for active, passive, piezo and magnetic pickups
• Auto-sleep preserves battery life
• Fast-matching system for easy setup

Pictured: NUX C-5RC 5.8GHz Wireless Guitar System With Charging Case

The NUX C-5RC wireless system is a step up from the B-1 LITE mentioned earlier, similarly featuring low-latency, low-noise, high-fidelity transmission, but with a handful of key upgrades. First, the C-5RC runs on the less crowded 5.8GHz band, bypassing potential interference-related headaches caused by the more densely populated 2.4GHz band. Second, the unit ships with a portable power case to wirelessly charge the transmitter and receiver, delivering up to 15 hours of total runtime on three 0–100% refills.

NUX’s C-5RC system also includes a handy MUTE function for momentary breaks in transmission, as well as optional Cable Tone simulation recreating the capacitive effect of a wired signal for complete tone preservation. NUX knocks it out of the park with this compact, lightweight, feature-rich wireless system for guitar and bass—the fact it’s easy to use and reasonably affordable makes it a grand slam.

Positive Grid Spark LINK Wireless Guitar System

Why It’s Cool: The Positive Grid LINK is an extension of the Spark ecosystem, cohesive with their existing smart amps—as well as whichever rig you rock.  

Things to Consider:

• Sub three-millisecond latency rivals most systems in its class
• Slightly extended battery life compared to similar units
• Four channels support up to four concurrent sets

Pictured: Positive Grid Spark Link Wireless Guitar System

The Spark universe by Positive Grid includes a lineup of boundary-pushing smart amplifiers and accessories, including the LINK wireless guitar system. Experience the sonic superiority of 24-bit/48kHz audio as well as class-leadingly low latency for ultrasensitive touch responsiveness and a natural, “cabled” playing feel. Spark LINK is a perfect companion for any of the amps in the series, but it works effortlessly with the gear you already have, too.

Like many of the units we’ve covered so far, getting started is as simple as plugging the receiver into your amp, pedalboard, modeler or interface, and the transmitter into your guitar, bass, electrified acoustic, keyboard or any instrument with a 1/4" output. Select one of four channels at the touch of a button, and you’re off—four exclusive channels also mean the whole band can go wireless with individual Positive Grid Spark LINK systems.

Shure BLX14 Wireless Guitar System

Why It’s Cool: Pro-grade and expandable, the Shure BLX14 wireless guitar system caters to serious gigging and touring musicians while remaining cost-effective.  

Things to Consider:

• Adjustable output level
• LCD shows detailed RF and audio metering info
• Constructed from rugged ABS plastic

Pictured: Shure BLX14 Wireless Guitar System

Shure’s BLX14 wireless guitar system boasts the longest range (300') of all the units listed here and is tailored for professional performance straight out of the box. The tabletop BLX4 receiver benefits from one-touch frequency scan and selection; it also supports up to 12 channels per band for system expansion down the line. A Shure BLX1 bodypack transmitter conveniently hooks to your belt/guitar strap or fits in a back pocket, while the included WA302 instrument cable offers a secure connection to the unit and your instrument. It additionally utilizes a hard on/off toggle switch, so you’ll never accidentally power the transmitter down going wild on stage.

This multipurpose wireless system is also compatible with lavalier and headset mics, as well as Shure handhelds, should you ever need to repurpose the unit for a different kind of gig. In classic Shure fashion, the BLX14 system is rugged, reliable and ready to transform the way you play.

NUX B-8 Professional 2.4GHz Wireless Guitar System

Why It’s Cool: The NUX B-8 Professional wireless system offers a tuner and an onboard boost alongside its wireless capabilities.   

Things to Consider:

• Extensive I/O for versatile routing options
• Receiver doubles as charger for transmitter
• Customizable latency

Pictured: NUX B-8 Professional 2.4GHz Wireless Guitar System

If you’re strictly interested in wireless systems that integrate with your pedalboard, the NUX B-8 Professional is a feature-rich choice. Starting with audio specs, the B-8 transmits 24-bit/48kHz sound with optional cable simulation, preserving every ounce of your hard-earned tone. Inputs and outputs include 1/4" send/return jacks, and even a D.I. out for flexible routing in any scenario. In terms of latency, the unit runs between 2.5 and 8.7 ms based on a six-position selector prioritizing low latency at one end and stability at the other. This is extremely helpful for managing settings in various venues and environments.

The NUX B-8 guitar wireless system receiver incorporates a built-in tuner with different modes (Chromatic, Guitar Standard, Guitar Compensated and Bass), as well as a +12dB boost for an extra gain stage. With top-notch sound, generous I/O and stompbox-style functionality, the NUX B-8 is a high-performance pedalboard wireless system to enhance your rig.

Xvive A58 Wireless Guitar System

Why It’s Cool: Xvive’s A58 system transmits high-resolution digital audio with ultralow noise, plenty of range and ample battery life for two to three gigs between charges.

Things to Consider:

• Suitable for active and passive guitar or bass pickups
• Operates on the low-population 5.8GHz band
• Accessible battery compartment for ad hoc swaps

Pictured: Xvive A58 Wireless Guitar System

For many players, the thoughtful design, simple operation and rock-solid reliability of the Xvive A58 is all one could ask for in a wireless solution. It utilizes the 5.8GHz band to send 24-bit/48kHz audio from your instrument to your amp, pedalboard or interface, and does so with a crystal-clean signal-to-noise ratio of 110dB. Further optimize your sound with active and passive modes based on the style of pickups your instrument rocks.

The A58 features six onboard channels, and the receiver is able to auto-scan them and choose the one with the strongest signal. The unit will recall the most recently used channel, but if you’re having trouble finding a clear signal in a new room, it’s incredibly easy to do a rescan—just be sure to match the transmitter to the receiver each time.

Built for the long haul, the Xvive A58 wireless guitar system includes open, serviceable lithium battery compartments for reliable performance for years to come.

BOSS WL-50 Wireless Guitar System

Why It’s Cool: BOSS levels up the pedal-type wireless category with no-nonsense performance, top-tier sonics and imperceptibly low latency.  

Things to Consider:

• Onboard docking port charges transmitter
• Completely automatic operation
• Does not have a tuner

Pictured: BOSS WL-50 Wireless Guitar System

Roughly the size of a standard BOSS stomp, the WL-50 wireless system is compact, durable and intuitive. The only “advanced” setup required is placing the WL-50 first in your signal chain and outputting it to the next pedal in line. From there, the system automatically determines the best channel for a stable connection and maintains that signal with ultralow 2.3 ms latency—the closest to zero on this list. BOSS’ proprietary digital audio format sounds great to boot, and you can activate short and long emulated cable runs to further refine your tone.

Powered by the optional BOSS PSA-120S2 adapter, the WL-50 has an onboard DC output to send juice to the rest of your pedalboard. Simply wire up your effects with a daisy chain, such as the BOSS PCS-20A, and let the wireless system act as a hub for your entire board. In alternate scenarios, there’s also the ability to run the WL-50’s receiver on two AA batteries, which is great for mobile gigging.

Sennheiser XSW-D Wireless Pedalboard System

Why It’s Cool: The Sennheiser XSW-D pedalboard set is elegantly designed for ease of use, reliable sound and attractive aesthetics.  

Things to Consider:

• Includes USB-C cable for charging transmitter
• Includes female to male 1/4" extension cable and belt clip
• Clear audio with 106dB signal-to-noise ratio

Pictured: Sennheiser XSW-D Wireless Pedalboard System

The Sennheiser XSW-D Pedalboard wireless system allows you to freely roam the stage with a cable-free connection to the rest of your rig. Like the other pedal-style units we’ve seen so far, this one kicks off the signal chain and replaces your existing tuner with its own wireless and tuning functionality. Sync with one touch, pair a combination of transmitters to one receiver as part of a larger ecosystem and mute signals as needed from either the TX or RX—the XSW-D system is incredibly flexible and easy to use.

Connect the transmitter directly to your instrument’s 1/4" jack or attach it to your person with the included extension cable and belt clip. Plus, take on the biggest stages with up to 250' of range in optimal conditions and less than 4 ms of latency. Not to mention, this Sennheiser receiver looks great on a pedalboard.

Fender Telepath Wireless System

Why It’s Cool: Fender knows a thing or two about guitars and amps, funneling decades of design prowess into a wireless system to join those pieces—the Telepath.   

Things to Consider:

• Four channels support four simultaneous sets in a room
• Best-in-class battery life
• Pristine, full-spectrum sonics

Pictured: Fender Telepath Wireless System

Fender may sell plenty of instrument cables, though that hasn’t stopped them from jumping into the wireless game with their Telepath system. In fact, the brand’s wired expertise likely informed the Telepath’s design to a degree, enabling the unit to retain the tone and response of a traditional cabled connection. An active/passive switch accounts for differing pickup output levels, and built-in cable simulation ensures the sonics are always authentic.

The Fender Telepath accommodates both guitars, acoustic-electrics, basses, keyboards and practically anything with an output that can be routed to an amp, speaker, mixer or interface. Its articulable input jack also comfortably fits a variety of instruments’ plugs—including the Stratocaster.

This system supports four concurrent channels and multi-unit pairing, so you can quickly change guitars on stage without needing to rely on a single transmitter. The Fender Telepath probably can’t beam song ideas to your mind, but it can wirelessly amplify the sound from your hands—and that’s pretty nifty, too.

How to Choose a Wireless Guitar/Bass System

Style (standard receiver vs. pedal-type receiver), operating range and battery life are a few of the top considerations when shopping for the best guitar/bass wireless system for you. Others include whether it has dedicated settings for active and passive pickups, whether cable tone simulation is important to you and whether the system is expandable as your performance needs grow. Latency is a pivotal factor as well, though it’s virtually imperceptible in each of the units we’ve selected for this article.

We’re confident no matter which you decide, you’ll soon be enjoying unhindered mobility and freedom on stage as you say goodbye to pesky instrument cables once and for all. For even greater variety, check out our selection of used wireless.  

If you’re still unsure how to choose a system for your cable-free guitar or bass rig, let our helpful Associates assist you at your nearest Guitar Center store. Or, feel free to give us a call at 855-770-3373, and speak to a knowledgeable Gear Adviser who can help you make the right move based on your individual needs.