Sony V1 mic input

C

Cranky

Carbonite Member
Since there is no subforum for the V1, I will ask here. The V1 has no built-in mic, instead it has two 3-pin XLR ports. If I understand correctly, 3-pin XLR means mono, at least if it is used for balanced audio. So, how do I get stereo sound? By using a stereo mic with two XLR connectors? So much for V1 compact body.

What do I do with my consumer-grade mics, in particular with the AudioTechnica 88 radio system? I found RODE VXLR converter, but according to reviews, it works with stereo plug only, converting stereo to mono. It does not work with mono 3.5mm plug (tip-sleeve). Should I just get a set of cables, not just an adapter?

I wish the V1 had built-in mic, even a crappy one. The FX7 has one, why not the V1?
 
You'll need an unbalanced to balanced adapter (the better kind has a transformer inside and costs about $15) to match the consumer level gear to the XLR inputs. Be sure the switches are set for the appropriate stereo operation and that you choose LINE for line level devices (although with radio mics, some allow line or mic level output, so you'll have to refer to the wireless setup to determine what switch setting for sensitivity. Unless you're using phantom-powered condenser mics, turn off the 48VDC power.

The V1 is considered a semi-pro ENG camera, whereas the FX7 is a prosumer camera, not intended for ENG use, which is why the mic is not built in.

One precaution, the V1U has a radical bass roll off, so it's not recommended for recording music. Okay for speech though, with some mild corrective EQ in post.
 
I understand that I need an adapter. My question is: if I want stereo, does it mean that I need an adapter with two XLR outputs, each one being one channel (left and right)?
 
If such an adapter exists, yes, otherwise you'll need two adapters and perhaps a mini stereo phone to 1/4 phone jack cable, and then two 1/4 to XLR adapters.
 
There may be a way to plug a mono mic into one XLR input, then in the menu settings, have that one channel go to both left & right. I don't know the Sony V1 though. Read the entire audio section of your manual (they are usually short).
 
The V1U has a switch on the audio pod for routing CH1 to both inputs. But if he wants to record in stereo, he'll need to set that so the channels are separate.
 
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