Levels Calibration: D7000 and Tascam DR-40

I

iservin

Member
I've been shooting on DSLR for a little over a year and a half now. It's been awesome, but one of the issues that always crops up is getting decent audio. I started out using mics that plugged directly into camera and then graduated to using dual system sound with higher end mics.

Because the work that I do usually requires fairly quick turnaround, I only use the second system for interviews and other "mission-critical" audio, b-roll and ambient stuff uses the in camera mics. I'd like to keep my streamlined workflow, but get better quality audio all the time. So, I took the 40 dollar plunge and bought a Sescom 25dbV pad w/ headphone jack online so that during the shots I would normally stick to the internal mics, I can feed in the good quality audio instead. I'm still planning on using dual system for interviews because the quality on the recorder is definitely better than my camera's input.

I started thinking about the easiest way to calibrate my recorder's audio levels and I think I might have overcomplicated things in my head. I also talked to our tech guy at work which just made me think of more questions.

So, what's the easiest way to match up the levels I see on the recorder with what I'm getting in camera? I have a Nikon d7000 with no audio meters, just low, med, high, and auto settings.


Also, if there's a better audio solution, let me know. I'm saving my pennies for a newer camera w/ headphone monitoring and more manual control, but the 7000 still gets the job done so I'm not in a hurry to upgrade.
 
I gotta say - the #1 thing on your list should be upgrading to a 7100 (your 7000 should fetch $500-$650 on eBay, or do an Adorama or B&H trade-in - they've both been fair with my trades. You get less $$ but it's hassle free if you can be without your camera for a few days).

7100 gets you audio meters and headphone jack, better level controls, less-to-no moire and less jello. Side-by-sides are showing it just shy of the Canon Mk.III in quality. And the still quality is a huge leap ahead. You'll still need aperture-ring lenses for full control when shooting.

Other than that, I'd say just use the D7000's audio for synch and not worry about perfect levels and quality. It's still pretty lame audio compared to about any dedicated solution. I shoot one-man all the time, and sticking a mic on a stand, using a wired or wireless lav - worth it to get the best audio possible. Even shooting DSLR, I use my Panasonic broadcast cam as an audio recorder and 2nd cam.
 
Thanks for the reply. I definitely want to upgrade, but while I might be able to afford it, I'm currently very busy with projects both at my work and on the side so I can't really afford to lose a body even for a day or two. I'm planning on upgrading to whatever's good come Christmas time when work is slower and I have time to shop around and compare cameras, brands, retailers, warranties, etc.

I definitely still want to keep using dual system for interviews and capturing important audio, but for b-roll and non-essential stuff I'd love the better audio quality going into the camera since it's just a cable away. I'm not expecting miracles or anything. The main purpose of my thread here is to make sure I'm setting everything up right with what I have now.
 
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