Backup audio suggestions?

[Edward Calabig]

I'm looking for a backup of my current audio setup for the ceremony/speeches.

I currently use an h4n hooked into the soundboard, along with two wireless sennheiser mics.

I'm looking for another audio source in case one of these goes awry such as an external audio recorder.

I would like something I could put into the groom/officiant's pocket, on the altar, or hide it in a flower arrangement.

I would prefer not to use another lav mic since my wireless mics are already using one.

Does anyone have any suggestions? I have been looking at the Zoom H1 and the Yamaha C24, but hear the Zoom H1's quality is not as good while the C24 has a terrible UI and can be unreliable. I wouldn't mind picking up 3 or 4 voice recorders for safety.

[Dave Partington]

I've used the H1 extensively and have no complaints for the price. It's a little on the large side for putting int he groom's pocket if his jacket is tight though.

[Steve Bleasdale]

Olympus dm-70 with lapel mic very slim for the pockets or cheaper version dm-550/650

[Adrian Tan]

One option: dynamic microphone on microphone stand pointed at soundspeakers. Can run it into any sound recorder. Generally gives you better sound than random concealed recorder.

[Edward Calabig]

Ah yes I forgot to ask about the mic. Any suggestions for a dynamic microphone?

[Adrian Tan]

Shure SM58 or SM57, depending on which you like the sound of.

[Robert Benda]

If you go with a pocket recorder (we're very happy with the Olympus' slim profile), may I recommend the Matchstick Microphone? We love ours - the sound is great and you can put it anywhere - I use fabric tape to hide it in the jacket, tie, or collar.

MM Series Matchstick Matchstick Lapel Style Microphone

[Taky Cheung]

I put voice recorders everywhere :)

[David Pierson]

I have had no issues with the Zoom H1, I used the H4n for the sound desk as well as recording on the inbuilt mics as well. I have 2 RODE SmartLavs, one the pastor/celebrant and another on the groom.

[Taky Cheung]

Does the smartlav works with your H1? I thought they aren't compatible?

[Bernard Lau]

Originally Posted by Taky Cheung

I put voice recorders everywhere :)

lol, love the squished H1!

[Kyle Root]

If you're still in the market for a recorders - BandH has a super deal right now on the Tascam DR05 for $59!!

I'm picking up another one because they are super handy.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/757065-REG/Tascam_DR_05_DR_05_Portable_Handheld_Digital.html
I've got an older XLR-Pro 2 input box that I can use in conjunction with the DR05 if I need XLRs. So if you've got something like that, it's a nice option as well.

I like these Audio Technica ATR3350 ( $18 !!) with the DR05 as a backup for my Sennheiser G3 system. You've got to be careful with the on/off switch though. I use a piece of painters tape over it to make sure it doesn't accidently get turned off.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/664437-REG/Audio_Technica_ATR3350_ATR3350_Omnidirectional_Condenser_Lavalier.html

[David Pierson]

Originally Posted by Taky Cheung

Does the smartlav works with your H1? I thought they aren't compatible?

Hi Taky, no the SmartLav is not compatible with the H1, I have iPhones that I plug into the SmartLav. I set up the H1 in a different location, depending if there are additional speakers or what not.

Cheers