tried dfferent mics on both Beactek inputs and only one channel works on the Sony HC1 and it plays the one microphone as a stereo signal.

batteries all OK. mics all OK.

help!

I haven't tried the Beachtek but is there some switch that toggles between Mono (L mics), Mono mix (same channel to both L and R), Stereo (both mics)?

You can't get stereo sound from the Beachtek unless you use both inputs.

If the switch is set to "Stereo" it keeps the two inputs separate and sends one to the left channel in the camcorder and one to the right. If it's set for "Mono" it sends both inputs to both channels. If you only have one input it still works that way and you can either have the one input recorded in one channel or both channels.

If you've already tried two mics at once with the switch set to stereo (it's not clear in your post) and you still get only one mic in both channels the problem is with your camcorder (unless the Beachtek is defective--which you can check with another camcorder, or a computer sound card, or a digital multimeter).

i wrote this request for an answer over a month ago. i went on a doco shoot for a month and couldn't reply. it seemed that the cable i was using had a faulty wire and couldn't produce a stereo signal. i changed the cable and all is well.

Beachtek has excellent support and have a great product.

however my gripes:
1. heavy - some people love this
2. sucks batteries - even with no phantom power activated
3. needs more brackets rather than just belt - hot shoe etc

2. sucks batteries - even with no phantom power activated
If you are using the DXA-6 with microphones that dont require phantom power you dont have to turn on the power on the DXA-6.

If you are using the DXA-8 you must have the power turned of all the time though.

/Roger

i wrote this request for an answer over a month ago. i went on a doco shoot for a month and couldn't reply. it seemed that the cable i was using had a faulty wire and couldn't produce a stereo signal. i changed the cable and all is well.

Beachtek has excellent support and have a great product.

however my gripes:
1. heavy - some people love this
2. sucks batteries - even with no phantom power activated
3. needs more brackets rather than just belt - hot shoe etc
I'm using the DXA-8 and I agree with you about the weight - it's a brick - it makes the Sony FX1 weigh so much more. The battery usage also surprised me. I'm thinking of getting the Maha/PowerEx rechargeable 9.6v NiMH batts. Has anyone here used them: http://www.thomas-distributing.com/maha-powerex-mh-c490f-9v-battery-charger_buy.htm