Application Questions

General Audio Questions

Do I Need A Mixer To Get Better Audio? Part 3

By Paul Terpstra

It has been quite a long time since I address the topic of amplifiers (preamplifiers) so it is time for an update.  Over the last two years I have worked with the in-line amplifier from Microphone Madness (see part one of this post), the RA222 from JuicedLink, and the DXA-Micro Pro from Beachtek.  (I hope to create a video of a side-by comparison yet this summer.  But plans sometime don’t work out.)

DXA-Micro Pro Amp

While all three are good units, we really like the Micro-Pro.  In fact, we now offer the Micro Pro as a standard accessory for our Sound Shark bundles instead of the unit from Microphone Madness.  The Micro Pro is a stereo unit and works with both 3.5mm microphones that require “plug-in power” AND XLR microphones that require “phantom power.”  This allows our Equalized XLR microphone to be used with a Sound Shark, which provides the best possible audio.   This provides a very convenient, cost effective package that provides great sound for any DSLR.  Even if you are using a camera with great audio quality, such as the Lumix GH series, the package will provide a more natural sound.

The JuicedLink unit is considerably more expensive and only works with XLR mics.  I believe many of our customers would like to be able to use 3.5mm microphones on occasion as well.  The Beachtek unit will allow you, for example, to record a Rode Video Mic on one channel and the Sound Shark with Equalized XLR mic on the other.  This would be ideal for recording birds, or other animals, with the Sound Shark while using the VideoMic to record the narration.

Another benefit of using a preamplifier that is becoming more apparent to me all the time is recording a “safety” track.  This amounts to recording the same audio at two different levels.  If one channel is set lower than the other, you have usable audio even if the audio level jumps unexpectedly.  This can be a real lifesaver.

An added benefit of using a good preamp, that was just pointed out to me recently, is that it allows audio to be monitored even if your camera does not have a headphone jack.  I don’t know how many modern cameras don’t have a headphone jack but they are out there.

Stay tuned for more.  (Go to Part 4)

Previous Post
No previous post
Next Post
No next post
"Sad Sam the Cameraman" mascot for KLOVER MiK parabolic microphones.

Bringing the Distant Near & Keeping Your Vision Clear.

Rain soaked version of "Sad Sam the Cameraman" mascot for KLOVER MiK parabolic microphones.
We will be closed from February 22 to February 29.  We will hold all orders until March 1 for processing.
We apologize for any inconvenience that may cause.

Can Your Mic Reach As Far Your Lens?

"Sad Sam the Cameraman" mascot for KLOVER MiK parabolic microphones.
We will be closed from February 22 to February 29.  We will hold all orders until March 1 for processing.
We apologize for any inconvenience that may cause.
"Sad Sam the Cameraman" mascot for KLOVER MiK parabolic microphones.

Bringing the Distant Near & Keeping Your Vision Clear.

Rain soaked version of "Sad Sam the Cameraman" mascot for KLOVER MiK parabolic microphones.
KLOVER MiK Stealth is a long-range surveillance parabolic microphone equipped with cutting-edge audio technology and discreet design for security and military applications.
We will be closed from February 22 to February 29.  We will hold all orders until March 1 for processing.
We apologize for any inconvenience that may cause.
We will be closed from February 22 to February 29.  We will hold all orders until March 1 for processing.
We apologize for any inconvenience that may cause.

Clear Vision in Seconds, No Contact Required!

"Damp Dan the Cameraman" mascot for Klear Shot lens cleaning system.
Industry Leading Technology & Safety. The Klear Shot is a user friendly, non-contact system for removing moisture or debris from a camera lens. The Klear Shot uses compressed gas to blow moisture off the surface of the lens.
We will be closed from February 22 to February 29.  We will hold all orders until March 1 for processing.
We apologize for any inconvenience that may cause.