The object has been not only to anticipate the coming changes in spectrum availability, but also to offer more choice to rental customers in terms of price and brand.

Ofcom recently announced that from January 4 this year Channel 38 would be available (with regional restrictions) for radio mic use in the same way as Channel 69. This is to smooth the path to the loss of Channel 69 on January 1 2012 ( a direct result of the Ofcom spectrum sell-off following the Digital Switchover ). Hand Held has put together an investment plan for 2010 that includes systems from AKG, Sennheiser, Shure and Trantec. The plan covers a considered and diverse range of wireless systems which will allow it to fulfill clients' requirements through the spectrum changeover period and beyond.

At the same time the team at HHA have built more choice into their rate-card in terms of price. The aim is to provide good quality options at different price points, hopefully making life easier for rental clients in these ever more budget-conscious times. The 2010 rate card can be viewed on the website at  www.handheldaudio.co.uk (hire desk).