Hi, there. Anyone have/use the YAGH and can offer honest insight as to whether it's worth it as an investment. For example, is the audio quality dramatically improved with the YAGH than without the unit? Noticed a few used units for sale on Adorama/B&H for a lot less.
It sure makes getting audio into the camera a lot easier. I had a project I was working on and we had an audio recordist with use. We also recorded audio externally, but having the YAGH made it much easier. I dont feel it sounds much better but being able to have phantom power on both channels and no adapters for XLR is a good thing. Setting the record levels on the back and level meters is nice too.
Full size HDMI means I dont have to worry about breaking the Micro HDMI on the GH4 and it's a solid connection. The YAGH downconverts the 4K for external monitoring in HD. When the Shogun arrives the full size HDMI will be much appreciated
The first few days I used a Juiclinked box attached to a cage. It wasn't as simple. The downside is you have to get a good rig for it or you will never be able to shoot handheld.
I've been building mine up since the shoot. I wish I had this setup then. I used the Wooden Camera cage without the Zacuto VCT and shot only on sticks. This rig is so close to done and is balanced.
We just shot with the YAGH, and to be honest, I wouldn't go down that road again. With the need for Anton Bauer (or similar) batteries, the form factor completely changes, and I think that's really one of the best reasons to choose the GH4.
Personally I'd look at the Sound Devices MixPre-D (which with a bracket can mount to the bottom of the GH4). You get great pre-amps, phantom power, and all the other features of a great mixer, and you'll save a fair amount of money. Best of all, you can use the MixPre-D with any future camera you might get.
I wouldn't call it an investment but it does have its uses - mind you I got mine for less than half price.
Powering the unit is the big issue - I decided not to use V-locks even though I have plenty as they are just too big - you end up with a large rig which I felt defeated the purpose of the camera.
I'm using a couple of after market batteries designed for the Sony EX3 - they have a D-tap output. Mounting them is still an issue, at the moment that are being held on to the rails with a rubber band. Thankfully one batt seams to last all day so there hasn't been the need for quick changes.
The rails are mounted straight into the front of the YAGH unit thanks to a tiny adapter from Small Rig (I think)
Audio wise, I not too sure if there is a huge improvement in actual quality but being able to use pro mics & mixer without silly little adapters sure helps.
Thanks for sharing everyone. My big concern was that battery issue as well. I have a switronix that I used to use with the BMCC/BMPC and wear on a belt, but I really don't want to rely on that again. We're going to rent one this week, but I have a strong feeling it'll be a bust. I do love the idea of powering two lavs straight into the cam, but we'll see if that's worth it.