I am curious if there is a difference between these below mentioned XLR to 3.5 mini plug adapters. Basically, I am looking for the best adapter to run a XLR mic into a Sony FX7 without having to mount a Beachtek underneath.
From what I gather, this cable

http://www.trewaudio.com/store/product.php?productid=146&cat=31&page=1

offers voltage blocking while this cable

http://www.tecnec.com/SearchProduct.asp?item=XLF%2DH8%2D10&off=1&sort=prod

offers a transformer from balanced to unbalanced in addition to voltage blocking. If I understand correctly, the addition of the transformer would allow one to benefit from the balanced properties of a longer run of XLR cable till it connects to the adapter.
Please correct me if I am wrong, which would not surprise me.

Well if the last thing before the camera is the adapter cable, and you're using a balanced mic and balanced mic cable to begin with, the unbalancing occurs at the adapter cable. If that's what you're doing, you don't need the transformer.

This isn't the same as using an unbalanced source such as an electric guitar or keyboard. Those are usually unbalanced. You plug them into a direct box with a balanced out and go from there back to a balanced console input. Direct boxes can have transformer outs or electronic forms of balancing.

Regards,

Ty Ford

The Tecnec works very well. I've used it over the last five years with various audio recorders and camcorders and it does what it claims to.

Best wishes,
Peter
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