An update below -
As of July 2010, Channel 69 remains available nationally for wireless microphone use and continues to be licensable. However, the current Ofcom timetable will see access to channels 61-69 inclusive (790-862 MHz) cease during the second half of 2012. This means that any Channel 69 equipment purchased now will have a steadily reducing window of usability for most of its tuning range, with just over two years the longest period that it will continue to be usable for.
863-865 MHz (two MHz of Channel 70) will continue to be available for use by ‘wireless audio devices’ after 2012. This will support a maximum of six wireless microphone links (subject to range variant and local conditions), but is generally not considered suitable for professional use.
Channel 38 (606-614 MHz) has been assigned by Ofcom as the replacement band for Channel 69, however some geographical restrictions on its use currently apply. In these areas it is supplemented, where available, with additional spectrum in Channels 39 or 40.
In an improvement to the previous schedule, this month Ofcom announced that Channel 38 will effectively be available for both indoor and outdoor use by wireless microphones across the UK from 21 September 2011 - more than three months earlier than was previously indicated.
In the meantime, Ofcom-appointed spectrum management company JFMG has set up an online ‘Channel 38 lookup tool’ located at www.jfmg.co.uk, which lists local Channel 38 availability. Equipment users are strongly advised to check local availability of Channel 38 before using relevant equipment, as this is currently a legal requirement. JFMG is also the company that users need to contact in order to purchase their shared use licence.
“Operation of equipment in either Channel 69 or Channel 38 requires the user to hold a valid shared user licence (also available from www.jfmg.co.uk). During the period of transition this licence also covers parts of Channels 39 and 40, where geographically appropriate. Operation of any wireless gear on frequencies from 470 - 862 MHz without holding the appropriate licences is an offence under the terms of the Wireless Telegraphy Act.”