Zoom H5: terrible static noise...stumped as to what it could be

N

Nicholas Natteau

Veteran
I first tried checking with the Zoom H5 user's guide in troubleshooting.

But for some reason, when I connect my XLR mic (Neuman TLM102) to my Zoom H5, there's terrible static noise in the background. Does anyone know what could be the source of this static?

Is it some incorrect menu setting. I just received my brand new H5 today but can't find in the instruction manual how to resolve this issue.

Thanks very much in advance for any help.
 
Is Phantom Power on? (if not, it should be for that mic) Through a known to be working cable?
I assume your plugged in through an XLR with mic level selected. (and Phantom pwr. engaged)
Can you hear anything from the mic at all?
 
Can you post a sample? It's really hard to guess what you're describing without hearing it.
 
Thank you both Rick and Alex. Phantom power is on because the TLM102 does not have it's own power source.
I'm connecting the TLM to XLR 1 of the Zoom H5.

In Phantom Power settings, I just realized that the static was at its noisiest because Voltage was set to 48V.
At 24V there was much less static, and least of all at 12V. Does that mean I should stay at 12V?
It's strange that I would get so much noise at 48V because according to its specs, the TLM102 operates on standard 48V power.
 
First, try other cables (if you haven't already) then try a dynamic mic (PP off) to confirm/deny a Phantom Power issue. (Basic troubleshooting) If no change, a setting issue or faulty unit. I can't think of a menu setting that would actually cause 'static'.. however, folk's perception/identification of 'static' varies, so post a short clip to clarify.
Neumann states the power requirement as 48V, plus/minus 4V.
Normally, a low-voltage condition usually exhibits a drop in output level w/ hash type noise. In some cases, no output at all.
 
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