Why does the DSO affect wireless microphone users?

The current situation
If you’ve bought a wireless mic in the past ten years in the UK, you’ve been using it along the 800MHz broadcast band - more than likely using it on either TV channel 69 or 70.
Channel 70 is licence-free nationwide and typically allows you to use a maximum of 2-3 units together at any given time. The drawback to this has been that others in your area may already be using the channel – meaning that there’s a higher risk of interference.

Similarly, Channel 69 requires a shared license and allows up to 12 users along the channel – therefore there’s less chance of interference again.
Alternatively, users have been able to pay a license fee to use either a channel or a frequency along the 800MHz band, thus offering an even lower risk of interference.

How does the DSO affect this?
After the DSO, the 800MHz broadcast band will no longer be used for TV broadcast as Ofcom is clearing the band TV channels 61-69 in order to match the European spectrum. These channels will be allocated to next-generation mobile broadband services. As such, wireless mic users will have to use other channels and frequencies.

What changes will be made?
Channel 70 will remain licence free and will not be affected by the DSO. Channel 38 will replace Channel 69 and will be available for use for those that have purchased a shared licence. Channels 21-30 and 39-60 will be available provided that you've purchased a coordinated licence from JFMG.