About the Clear-Com RS-701 1-Channel Beltpack
The Clear-Com RS-701 is a fundamental, single-channel belt pack that serves as the primary user interface for a wired party-line intercom system. This compact and rugged unit is designed to be worn on a user's belt, providing individual crew members—such as camera operators, stagehands, lighting technicians, or audio assistants—with clear, two-way communication connected to the main intercom channel. It features a straightforward control set with a large rotary volume knob for adjusting the incoming audio level, a push-to-latch talk switch that allows for continuous transmission without holding a button, and a call button to send a visual or audible signal to the main station or other belt packs. Its simplicity makes it highly reliable and easy to use, even in low-light or high-pressure situations common in live production.
Built for durability in demanding environments, the RS-701 is housed in a sturdy metal or high-impact plastic case that can withstand the physical knocks of daily use on set, backstage, or in the field. It connects to the intercom system via a standard 4-pin XLR connector, which carries both the intercom audio and power from the main station or a power supply, eliminating the need for batteries. This wired connection ensures consistent, uninterrupted audio quality without the concerns of RF interference or battery life that affect wireless systems. The belt pack includes a locking connector for the headset cable to prevent accidental disconnection, a critical feature when users are moving around actively during a production.
As a core component of countless professional intercom systems, the RS-701's value lies in its proven reliability and universal compatibility. It operates on standard two-wire party-line systems and is compatible with a wide range of Clear-Com and other industry-standard headsets via its 4-pin XLR jack. By providing a personal, portable, and robust communication node, the RS-701 belt pack empowers each crew member to be an active participant in the production's communication network, facilitating precise coordination, rapid response to instructions, and overall operational safety and efficiency during live events, broadcasts, and theatrical performances.