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Aufklarung - Online Training - PDX-10

Sound



Camera Mic Setup (28.9 MB)

Your primary focus in setting up your audio will be to ensure that all mics are properly connected to the camera and that mics are suitably close to the subject to provide good levels. This does not mean you should neglect audio. Poor audio probably ruins more footage than poor pictures. Be sure to have headphones with you and monitor audio before you start recording. Be especially attentive to loud background sound and try to isolate it by placement of mic or the subject being recorded. Also listen for interference and electronic noise, especially from the wireless mic.

In news situations, you will generally be able to rely on the camera's automatic levels for recording audio, so don't overwhelm yourself by fussing with manual controls. Proper mixing of audio levels can usually be achieved in post production providing the recorded signal is loud enough, though not excessively loud. The auto gain function of the camera limits sounds that are getting too high.

The setup we demonstrate here allows you to record the wireless mic on input 1 and use the camera's mounted mic on input 2 to record "nat" sound or as a backup interview mic.

Some basic troubleshooting tips if audio seems distorted or noisy:

  • Wireless mic noise: check the batteries (always carry spare batteries). As batteries weaken, noise is frequently introduced into the signal. For audio purposes, the useable life of batteries is generally half of the manufacturer's recommended total life.
  • Persistent hum on the line: check to see if other electrical lines are crossing the mic cables.
  • Wireless mic intermittent noise: could be the result of interference on the same wireless frequency possibly coming from other nearby wireless sources (public address systems, intercoms, air traffic, etc).

Camera Mic Setup