Federal Communications Commission FCC 15-100
STATEMENT OF
COMMISSIONER AJIT PAI
Re: Promoting Spectrum Access for Wireless Microphone Operations, GN Docket No. 14-166; 
Expanding the Economic and Innovation Opportunities of Spectrum Through Incentive Auctions, 
GN Docket No. 12-268.
A wireless microphone is not a technology that gets a lot of headlines, but as someone that’s been 
known to frequent a karaoke bar or two, I know the difference they can make.  The opportunity to 
broadcast my musical adventures is critical for me and, I daresay, my captive audiences.  I’ll concede 
that, even though I’d like to think my style and vocals resemble some of the all-time greats, like Frank 
Sinatra and Prince,
1
my friends tell me I have more of the “sand and glue” style of Bob Dylan.
2
  But that’s 
okay—I can settle with being the voice of my generation.
In all seriousness, wireless microphones serve important purposes.  They enable broadcasters and 
other video programming networks to meet the needs of consumers by covering breaking news and other 
live events.  And they are critical tools for businesses and productions across the country.
The upcoming incentive auction will leave substantially less room for wireless microphones.  It is 
therefore critical that we find them new homes.  This Order isn’t a perfect solution, but it does adopt a 
number of rule changes that should help wireless microphones take advantage of additional spectrum 
bands.  I therefore support the Order and am voting to approve.
                                                     
1
See also .
2
See David Bowie, Song for Bob Dylan (1971).