GH4 Dual wireless audio suggestion

[dpavid]

I just got my GH4 two weeks ago. Love the footage! Now on to my real problem. Audio.

Most of the content we produce requires dual channel wireless audio. We currently have a few HPX370's with Lectrosonics SR dual channel wireless receivers and a bunch of SMV and HM transmitters. I'd hate to buy more wireless gear if we can use what we have.

• I have considered using Tascam audio recorders (TR60D or TR680) as a stand alone audio solution but want the minimal amount of gear possible. I'd hate to build a Rig around a GH4 just for audio with too many components.
• YAGH to record audio internally via XLR outputs from Lectrosonics SR?

What's the best way to get dual channel wireless audio using GH4's?

 

[Jim Simon]

Mount the Tascam on top of the GH4 and send it's signal out to the GH4. Record it both places.

 

[Thomas Smet]

I agree with Jim. You can use many external audio recorders as an external pre-amp that feeds a cleaner signal directly into the camera. I use the DR60 for this although Tascam has a newer recorder that is a smaller form factor you may want to check out.The Tascam DR70D sits below the GH4 like the YAGH unit and takes up much less space than the DR60. If you want to stay as compact as possible that might be a better option for you. I love my DR60 but it does add a lot of bulk to the camera for run & gun projects.

 

[Sol M.]

If your goal is for a minimalist setup, then I'd focus on recording audio in-camera rather than an external recorder. If your wireless receivers can output to 1/8" and deliver a strong enough signal, then you can get really minimal with a 2-channel attenuator like Beachtek's MCC-2.



If you need to add gain, you can use a preamp like JuicedLink's Riggy Micro or Beachtek's DXA SLR-Ultra. Different preamps have different benefits and drawbacks (form-factor, battery life, gain, price) that make them suited to different users' needs.

I have the Tascam DR-60D. It's a nice recorder, but it is bulky and makes for tall & top-heavy setup when mounted to the camera. However, it's biggest weakness is its short battery life. If mounting the recorder under the camera isn't absolutely necessary, you may want to look at Zoom's H5. Audio quality and battery life are impressive and when the top-mounted mics are removed, the unit is quite compact.



I also put together a brief guide to audio input options for the GH4 that may be helpful in bringing some order to the different options you're considering so that you can choose the one that's best for your needs.