What Audio System would be good for a 5D2 user?

[Steve Mullholand]

I'm looking to shoot a documentary - kind of an arty doc - and wonder what mics and recorder I should look at. The 5D2 has a built in mic... stinks... and a min-plug...stinks as well. I'm unsure what kind of recording devices are out there - and I'm sure this is the joint to ask!

I was hoping to get two wireless mics and whatever I need to have to record. The smaller the better - but need good deep sound. And what software - if any do I need? I'm working with Premier Pro.

Thanks! _steve

[Steve House]

First questions have to be, what are you shooting - not just doc but I mean interiors, exteriors, one person, multiple actors, interviews, all the details - and what is your budget? Depending on your needs suitable recorders could cost as little as a few hundred dollars for the Zooms, etc all the way up to the $20 thousand range for multi-track recorders such as Deva and Cantar intended for feature production.

For wireless mics, Sennheiser G2 at about $600 per setup is the entry point for professional work with Lectro and Zaxcom as other pro-level, more expensive, options.

[Steve Mullholand]

^ Thanks for the reply -

I am mostly shooting interviews - indoors / outdoors (streets of NYC type of thing). I have around $1,500 to spend but could go up or down some... would rather go down in price if possible but I really don't want to sacrifice too much quality or ease of use. I'm new to this so I really don't need anything too fancy.

How easy is it to synch up something like this? I'm using Premier Pro right now. Do I need additional software?

Thanks - ! _steve

[Guy Cochran]

BeachTek has added the DXA-5D to their lineup - an XLR adapter specifically designed for the Canon EOS 5D Mark II. It will be a nice fit to the camera if you'd like to use XLR mics with phantom power. Welcome to the new BeachTek website!

I would consider 2 Sennheiser Evolution G2 Wireless units or for simplicity Audio Technica has a dual receiver / lav package for around $1295 Audio-Technica - Microphones, headphones, wireless microphone systems, noise-cancelling headphones & more : 1800 Series Camera-mount UHF Wireless Systems
Note the receiver is pretty big, but if I were running around doing quick set-ups
I'd probably go with a handheld mic with the AT wireless 1823 package. The kit contains 1 bodypack lav and 1 plug on transmitter, plus the big ole receiver. The specs say the receiver is 85.0 mm (3.35") W x 133.0 mm (5.24") H x 36.0 mm (1.42") D
and weighs 15oz.

Everything should stay in synch, no additional software needed.

Hope this helps,

[Steve Mullholand]

^ Ah man - this helps for sure!