Audio Distortion @ Low Recording Levels?

John J.

John J.

Active member
Started testing our new Sennheiser G2 wireless lav system with the HVX today. So far, recording to both DV tape as well as Firestore, I am encountering different amounts of distortion.

The darnedest thing about it is, I've got the sensitivity output on the Sennheiser transmitter set to it's very lowest setting (-30db) to the point that on the transmitter & receiver LEDs, it barely shows my voice registering (peaking at maybe 20%). To top it off, I have the potentiometer dials at the back of the HVX both set to around "1"!!

With these settings (using mic input 2) I still notice slight distortion on certain syllables. I've properly set all necessary functions regarding set-up of the transmitter/receiver, same is in this handy QT clip from Guy Cochran @ dvcreators.net ( www.dvcreators.net/products/sennheiser_wireless_movieframe.htm). Lav mic is positioned at mid-chest level.

Anyone else come across any mic input distortion with HVX gains set very low?? Thanks.

- John
 
Is the output of your receiver mic level or line level? Sounds like that may be your mismatch! Try setting your DVX for line input...
 
Thanks ullanta,

Yes the Sennheiser is mic level - receiver is xlr output to HVX.

Ends up upon further investigation that the AF output of the receiver to the HVX was pinned at +12 from the factory...couple adjustments there and audio sounds great now. The sensitivity setting at the transmitter was fine, along with LCD bars on both transmitter and receiver. The AF output from the receiver to the HVX mic input was the problem. Any future Sennheiser ew100 G2 owners keep these in mind :thumbsup:

- John
 
When using the mic input, try using the (-50) setting NOT the (-60) It stung me once. It refers to the mic output level not the preamp sensitivity level. I have that system. If the output meters at the receiver look reasonable you should have a healthy clean signal without distorion. The Sennheiser lavs are a little bright so you can try cutting SLIGHTLY lower than you might normally. (It is digital after all) This may help avoid the smearing in the sibillance range.
 
Sounds like you are set to MIC not LINE. Your wireless receiver is effectively a mic preamplifier so its output is line level. Make the switch and test again.
 
Thanks everyone,

Will try the -60 reset and line vs mic input and report back over the weekend. :thumbsup:

- John
 
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