On my PD170 I split my Channel 1 audio input to go to both Channel 1 and Channel 2. The Channel 1 input I control the levels manually and my Channel 2 input is set to automatic gain control. This way I almost have an "audio backup" if things start to peak or get too soft on Channel 1.

How do I set this up on my new V1U? I have tried everything and cannot seem to get this extremely useful concept to work...

The V1U does not support the feature you request.

I really thought I was going to be impressed with the V1U, and while I am in many respects, it just is not giving me the warm and fuzzies like I got with my PD-170...

then step up to the Z1. it's more PD170-like than the V1 is. They're different animals entirely.

Thanks for the recommendation. I am going to try and work with B&H to make this necessary switcheroo.

then step up to the Z1. it's more PD170-like than the V1 is. They're different animals entirely.

Spot, didn't you have a comparison (or link to one) somewhere on the V-1 vs Z-1? I can't seem to find that and we've been thinking some "V-1 to Z-1" type thoughts...

That comparison would be really helpful.

I was able to get B&H to take a return on my purchase, so now I am at square one about what to buy... Not a bad problem to have though...

Spot, didn't you have a comparison (or link to one) somewhere on the V-1 vs Z-1? I can't seem to find that and we've been thinking some "V-1 to Z-1" type thoughts...

Found the link: http://hdvinfo.net/articles/sonyhdrfx1/compare.php

Note that the link above is FX1 vs Z1, not V1 vs. Z1 ...

Note that the link above is FX1 vs Z1, not V1 vs. Z1 ...

My bad... Thanks for pointing that out.

I agree that separate attenuation on two channels of the same mic is the best feature of other Sony cameras left out of the V1. I came from the VX2000 so I don't feel the loss, but I used the PD170 a few times and immediately recognized that as a nice feature.

Definitely. I am in a one-man run-and-gun situation, so it is nice to have that extra level of audio insurance.

Instead of sacrificing some of the great features of the V1U by moving to a different camera, you could always consider mounting a Zoom H4 recorder to it.