XLR Sound Input Way Over Modulated

[heisest]

I've used a Sony 300 DV-Cam and the auto sound balance via the XLR input, very loud sound are normal. But when I've used the XLR input on the DVX100 and it is on auto modulation is sounds really bad. If there is really loud music the sound gets real loud (over mod) and then the limitor kickes in and lowers the volume. Then it gets real loud again till the limitor kicks in. It's like a cycle that repeats every three seconds. Very distracting and the sound is unusable. When the bank stops and people are talking the sound is crisp.

Any ideas as to why? And how to fix? (I was using the SAMSON SW8SHQ wireless mics)

[Prairieboy]

Is your input set to mic or line?

[John_Q]

I was out following a rock band on tour with a dvx100A, and I was actually surprised how good the sound was.

And i was just using the panasonic external mic, and the built in mic.

[ransom]

heisest, assuming the mic/line switch is in the correct position sounds like you need to lower the input from your wireless receiver or add an attenuator between the two.

What do the audio signal meters reading when this happens?

[Boy]

I've used a Sony 300 DV-Cam and the auto sound balance via the XLR input, very loud sound are normal. But when I've used the XLR input on the DVX100 and it is on auto modulation is sounds really bad.

i'm not sure if you know this or not, or if i just mis-interpretted your post, but the dvx doesn't have an auto sound balance aka an AGC (auto gain control) like the sonys. it does have an auto limiter, which i see you've found...
anyway in order to control the levels, you must use the audio pots on the side of the cam below the LCD. it sounds like your gain is set too high - it sounds perfect for spoken dialogue but is way too high for the actual music.

[Shooter]

Also - it seems many mics come in very hot ( eg Senhheisers) and my tests found that a -10dB pad was required in the cable/plug.

Aslo use the menu options for the inputs ( -50db or -60db)

[heisest]

Is your input set to mic or line?
Sorry about taking so long to get back to this..

It was set to mic. Yes the signal meters were reading red. Lots of it. But when I've use this with the Sony 300 I would be red too and it sounded just fine.

Ah... so the DV100's limiter is the not same as what the Sony's does... That's too bad. I was hoping I wouldn't have to be constantly monitoring the sound and could focus on getting the right shots instead. :-/

[Jan_Crittenden]

So what is the output level in dB of the Microphone? Wireless? whatever the device is? Match that in the menus, and I think you will have better luck. And then you can concentrate on the pictures. ;-)

Best regards,

Jan