Where should I set my manual audio setting?
 

I have a Sony HDR-HC1 HD camcorder.

I am using a Beachtek DXA-2s connected to the camera via the minijack and a Rode VideoMic (minijack) and wired lavalier (XLR) connected to it.

My questions are:

*Where should I set the Manual Audio setting on the camera?

*Do I set it all the way up and use the gain control on the Beachtek to adjust the audio levels?

Thanks in advance!

Not all the way up ...

First, turn on automatic gain and have someone speak in a "loud normal" for the mic while you watch the meters in the viewfinder - the level you see for the peaks represents what the designers considered "optimal." Then go to manual control, set the gain to between midpoint and 2/3 of the way up, and adjust the Beach controls until you are getting the same peaks on the meter.

No, not all the way up. There is something called "gain staging" in which the various stages are adjusted for maximum transfer of low noise and undistorted audio.


Knowing the ins andd outs of your gear is all that's required.

Regards,

Ty