The Mixer

[twointhemorning]

Hi, I use a dvx100b and the only mixer I have is a Yamaha MG 10/2 which I think is mainly used for music. Do I just connect the mic to the mixer and then the mixer to the camera via xlr cables? Or do I use some sort of other connection? This is my first time, I don't even know if it's correct to record in mono or stereo, if anyone would care to comment. Thanks so much.

 

[Bobonli]

I'm not familiar with that mixer (oy, it's a complicated looking bugger based on the picture. Are you going to lug that around with your camera?), but your basic premise is correct: mic goes into mixer, mixer goes out to camera.

Do you have the operator's guide for the mixer?

Does that mixer have a pre-amp for the mic? And I'm assuming that the mic you are using has the proper plugs to go into the mixer (XLR if that's what the mixer is configured for).

Make sure you know whether the mixer is sending the signal out as Mic or Line and configure the camera accordingly. It makes a BIG difference. You will get crap sound if you are sending Line out of the mixer and the camera is set for mic. I found this out the hard way.

 

[Alex H.]

Hi, I use a dvx100b and the only mixer I have is a Yamaha MG 10/2 which I think is mainly used for music. Do I just connect the mic to the mixer and then the mixer to the camera via xlr cables? Or do I use some sort of other connection? This is my first time, I don't even know if it's correct to record in mono or stereo, if anyone would care to comment. Thanks so much.

Not the most portable mixer out there... you'll only be able to use it where AC power is available. But handy if you're shooting studio-style.

Yes, connect the mic to the mixer, and the mixer to the camera. Be sure to connect the L out to the camera's input 1, and R to input 2. Set the camera inputs to line-level.

As for "mono" vs. "stereo," it's really a question of mixed or split-channel. If you are using one mic, use the pan pot on the mic's input channel and set to about 10:00 or so... just to make about a 5dB difference between the left and right outs. This way, channel two records lower and has more headroom. That's your safety channel in case of sudden peaks that start to overmodulate on the first channel.

If you have two mics, split them out to record on separate channels. Then you have total mix control in post... much better than editing with a mixed signal that you cannot change.

You might want to invest in a tone generator of somekind. There's a nice, little XLR "tone plug" for about $50. Based on the MG 10/2, here's how to set tone:

Start with the master level on the mixer all the way down, as well as the input controls on the camera. Pop the tone plug into an XLR channel on the mixer, and turn the gain all the way down. Set the channel level pot and the master level to the reference mark (roughly "8" on the mixer, signified by an arrow), and bring the channel gain up until the meter reads 0dB. Now, bring the camera's inputs up until the camera's meters hit their reference marks (-12dB). Now you're good to go.

And no, you cannot set it up once and mark the levels and still trust the gear. Set up with tone at the start of each tape, and go ahead and roll :30 of tone and color bars.

 

[twointhemorning]

So from the mixer to the camera, I'll need two xlr-to-1/4inch cables, one for L and one for R? Or can I just connect one to Input 2 on the camera and switch both channels to input 2? How do I change from mic to line on the dvx? And is there a difference in sound between line and mic or is that just two ways of transmitting the same information?

I have to admit I don't understand 100% about the tone generator. I really appreciate you guys taking your time to enlighten me .

 

[Alex H.]

So from the mixer to the camera, I'll need two xlr-to-1/4inch cables, one for L and one for R? Or can I just connect one to Input 2 on the camera and switch both channels to input 2?

Use two cables. 1/4" TRS>XLR Male. If you run one, and set the camera to record one input to both channels, you lose a lot of flexibility in signal routing. You won't be able to use the mixer to set your safety channel.

Here's the tone plug:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/197233-REG/GTC_Industries_TP1_TONE_PLUG_11_Function_Audio.html

1kHz tone is used to calibrate the sound levels through the entire signal chain, so that you know that the meters are playing nice together. The Tone Plug generates a few different sine waves, so you want to make sure and set it to 1kHz.

How do I change from mic to line on the dvx? And is there a difference in sound between line and mic or is that just two ways of transmitting the same information?

To change the inputs to line-level, use the switches on the front of the camera.

And there is a huge difference in signal strength. The mixer outputs line-level. If you set the camera to mic in and feed it a line signal, you'll get wicked distortion at best, and fry the inputs at worst. Always match mic to mic and line to line.

 

[RandomHero]

How's it goin, C2V? :0)

Twointhemorning, along with the great advice above, I'd recommend getting a more portable mixer for future reference, the SD 302 is a standard, there's also the Edirol R-44 and others... on down to simple XLR adapters with gain control, like the Juicedlinks or Beachteks. As stated above, that's nice for studio work, but you definitely want something with batteries as an option in the video world.

 

[Alex H.]

How's it goin, C2V? :0)

Twointhemorning, along with the great advice above, I'd recommend getting a more portable mixer for future reference, the SD 302 is a standard, there's also the Edirol R-44 and others... on down to simple XLR adapters with gain control, like the Juicedlinks or Beachteks. As stated above, that's nice for studio work, but you definitely want something with batteries as an option in the video world.

Second that! Definitely work towards purchasing a field mixer.

Too many benefits there not to have one:

- You aren't strapped to AC power.
- Built-in limiters that work very well to keep levels in check.
- High-quality pre-amps in the right device (such as the aforementioned Sound Devices 302).
- Built-in tone generator for accurate calibration.

If you can buy one, do it. You won't look back. Even the Sound Devices MixPre will make a huge difference, though limited to two inputs.

 

[twointhemorning]

Oh, I completely agree. But money's tight (non-existent) and I had the MG lying around without a use. So for now, I'll just shoot without a mixer or only by wall sockets! Rentals, perhaps...

Anyone wanna elaborate on the Beachtek adapters? The most local place that rents out audio equipment only has the beachtek dxa 4. Just wondering what that's all about.

 

[Alex H.]

You have a camera with XLR ins, so forget the Beachtek. it adds XLR ins to cameras with only 1/8" in.

But renting might be good for shoots where you need to be portable... until you can purchase your own mixer, of course.