Recommended field audio mixer for H4N zoom pro.

[sigepwriter]

I used to own a little 4 channel field audio mixer, but I would run it directly into my cameras (DXV, XL2 etc). On a side note I do a podcast and have a "studio" mixer (Behinger 1204USB mixer) that I run both into my computer and out to the H4NPro. I notice that the signal is a little hot and I either have to dial it down on the H4N or use attenuators (regardless of if I use the RCA out or XLR out).

Will I have the same results with a field mixer? Is the H4N just built this way when sending a signal from a mixer out to it? Would I be better served sending the signal back to the camera again?

This will be for a short film. I would prefer to have the audio separate from the image for editing purposes.

Thanks!

 

[Rick R]

"Will I have the same results with a field mixer?"
Probably, especially with a Behinger. It may have helped an original H4n feeding it line level some due to it's anemic pre amps, but the newer H4n 'Pro' model is allegedly better.
For the VOs I would continue using the USB to computer, unless you have a premium pro audio A/D converter.

 

[David W. Jones]

You should grab a pair of vari-pads to feed your H4n inputs.

 

[Alex H.]

The H4n’s “line” inputs are not really what they claim to be. They’re actually designed for what they claim is “instrument” level... hotter than mic, weaker than -10dB line. It’s a terrible design. Use attenuators any time you’re feeding that recorder from a mixer’s line outputs.

Sending the audio back into the camera from the recorder presents its own set of challenges, too. If you’re running dual-system sound, there’s not always a need to have the mix going to camera unless your post team really wants a clean reference track, or if it’s the kind of production that has such a tight turnaround that they’d rather use a camera mix unless they absolutely have to go back to the recorder’s files.

How many mics are you using in total? Because the H4nPro only takes two inputs (unless you try to work around the 1/8” TRS mic input... you’ll need to defeat its plug-in power and impedance-match your signal down to unbalanced mic-level), you could look for a good deal on a used Sound Devices 302 or 442. 3 and 4 inputs, respectively, mixed to two channels of (stereo) output. The 442 has many more options for ouputs and signal routing, and would give you some room to grow.