For those not using a mixer.

[JoeFowler]

I just bought a shotgun and have started to experiment. I noticed that if I turn down the "volume" on the dvx and get the mic closer the sound is much better. My question to you who use the dvx as a "Mixer" what level do you set the dvx to to get indoor sound that gets the most out of your shotgun?

 

[joelgardner]

Joe:

A few things you should know on using a shotgun with the DVX.

1) If the shotgun is your only audio input, you can set up the camera to record from the mic at two different gain levels, each into a separate channel. Meaning you will be covered, even if the dynamic range of what you're shooting varies widely. You'll set one channel to a low setting, so it won't peak - even if someone laughs or sings - the other to a high setting, so you can pick up whimpers or off-axis quieter talk. You will need to determine the balance by testing in each situation. It is best to mount the camera to a boom, but for a sit-down interview you can get great audio with very few distractions.

Here's how:

Plug the mic into Input 2. Make sure the switch is set to mic, not line (front of camera). Flip out the LCD. Set Ch 1 switch to Input 2. Set Ch 2 switch to Input 2. Phantom power ON for Input 2 (if your mic can be phantom powered - not all can). Now swing the audio pot for Channel 1 to a low setting (third dot from left or halfway between second and third), then set audio pot for Channel 2 to a higher gain level, maybe two dots or three.

Do some testing. In a normal vocal range, the low-set Ch 1 should NEVER peak (go red), the hi-set gain on Ch 2 should be CLOSE to peaking; go into the red a few bars.

On capture, much of Ch 2 will be unusable. but you'll have everything you need on Ch 1 for the quieter stuff.

2) Below the second notch on the audio pot on the DVX - going up from the left or "west" the camera's audio intake is extremely sensitive: Tape down the pots if you are doing a lot of handheld or are likely to get jostled during the shoot. A very slight change in level will abruptly cut all audio to nothing.

3) You can alter the mic sensitivity in the menu. I recommend -60db rather than the stock -50; this gives you a little more play on the bottom end of the audio pots should you need it.

4) For best quality, a mixer and soundperson running a boom can be a lifesaver.

Good luck!

- Joel.

 

[joelgardner]

Corr: "you'll have everything you need on **Ch 2** for the quieter stuff."