Digital Video - May 2008 - (Page 34)

G IN IX M it BY ALICIA ZAPPIER This page, from top: the Sound Devices 302, Shure FP33, Sony DMX-P01. Opposite: The Azden FMX-42. UP hen two audio inputs on your camcorder simply aren’t enough, it might be time to consider a portable audio mixer. Most commonly used by ENG/EFP crews, portable audio mixers allow you to mix multiple microphone signals together on location. According to Karl Kussmaul, senior product manager for Sony Pro Audio, flexible internal and external power options, small size, easy operation and sturdiness that can withstand the rigors of location production are important factors to consider when looking at your portable options. Other basics that even the simplest of mixers should include are level control and metering. As the mixer W becomes more complex, it will probably offer more comprehensive features such as peak LED. All mixers need a limiter, according to Jon Tatooles, managing director of Sound Devices. “Limiters reduce the sound level when there’s uncontrolled levels,” he explaines. “So if someone starts yelling or something loud is going on in the background, we don’t want to overload the audio on the recorder. A limiter stops it cold at a certain point.” A preamp is also a good idea, Ta t o o l e s adds. “They’ll accept wide ranges and inputs. More expensive mixers will have a wider gain range and will be able to accept signals of all types.” Generally, you can expect almost the same sound quality from a portable unit as that of a studio mixer, though audio on location will undoubtedly sound different from sound recorded in the controlled confines of your studio. However, there are other limitations with a portable A MINI MIXER IS AN ESSENTIAL PART OF YOUR KIT. 34 dv may 2008 www.dv.com http://www.dv.com

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Digital Video - May 2008 Contents DV Update Close-Up AJ-HPX3000 Camcorder Sidecar Raid Zoom H2 Recorder Instant Expert 324 Flat-Panel Display Extreme 35MM Adapter Type-S JIB How Slow Can You Go? Global Gastronome Mixing It UP Long-Distance Runaround Tools & Technology DV 101 Production Diary

Digital Video - May 2008

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