July 12th, 2024

Schaffer–Vega Diversity System

The Schaffer-Vega diversity system (SVDS) revolutionized wireless guitar technology in the 1970s, enhancing sound quality and stage performance for iconic rock bands. Despite production ending in 1981, its impact remains influential in music history.

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Schaffer–Vega Diversity System

The Schaffer-Vega diversity system (SVDS) was a groundbreaking wireless guitar system developed in the mid-1970s by Ken Schaffer and manufactured by the Vega Corporation. It addressed technical issues present in earlier wireless systems, providing reliable sound quality and freedom of movement for performers. This innovation allowed major rock bands like Pink Floyd, the Rolling Stones, AC/DC, and Kiss to tour with elaborate stage setups. The SVDS utilized advanced technology such as space diversity and companding to ensure high interference rejection and a wide dynamic range. Despite its success, production ceased in 1981 as Schaffer shifted focus to other ventures. The system's impact extended beyond live performances, with artists like Rick Derringer and Eddie Van Halen using it in recording studios for its unique tonal characteristics. In recent years, the SVDS audio section has been reintroduced as a standalone effect, recognized for its historical significance in the music industry.

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By @Sporktacular - 8 months
Questionable whether switched receivers can be called "true diversity" when there are techniques to combine the RF signals for diversity gain and higher SNR.
By @eternityforest - 8 months
I'm surprised diversity isn't used more often with LoRa. Would it not give any extra range or reliability? Couldn't you combine data at the bit level to estimate which bits have errors?