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Home: Video University Forums: Audio For Video:
Padding the signal

Sparky
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Mar 15, 2008, 1:22 PM

Post #1 of 10 (710 views)
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Padding the signal	Can't Post

This is actually a bit of a carry over from my thread on the members only section and my audio setup for plays and recitals.

I currently use the PD-150 and VX-2000. The PD-150 has the option for line input, mic, mic attn. I have mixed results when taking a feed from the board.

Michael mentioned padding the signal ... something I've never done before. I'm going to assume this would be with a direct box of some sort? I don't own one, but did some looking and it appears that it will take a line output from the board (aux feed) and convert it to a mic level feed.

I'm guessing that this is what I need for a consistent feed?

My other question ... do they make these with both a quarter inch and XLR input, so that you can use whatever is available?

Same with the outputs ... XLR and what ... rca or quarter inch outputs?

If you've got a specific brand that you would recommend I would appreciate that as well.

Thanks for the help.

Scott
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Vidiot Tech
Enthusiast

Mar 15, 2008, 2:01 PM

Post #2 of 10 (707 views)
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Re: [Sparky] Padding the signal [In reply to]	Can't Post

See this selection from B&H. The bottom three have different levels of attenuation. I have seen other similar products with selectable pads from 10dB to 50dB.

If the board has only 1/4" outputs you'll need one of THESE to adapt to an XLR cable.

Steve Godsey, CLVS

Silence is golden. Duct tape is silver.

Brackish
Veteran

Mar 15, 2008, 5:46 PM

Post #3 of 10 (693 views)
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Re: [Vidiot Tech] Padding the signal [In reply to]	Can't Post

I just use those barrel attenuators like you've linked, Steve.

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when all the birds are singing in the sky now that the spring is in the air with the flowers everywhere

MLiebergot
Veteran

Mar 16, 2008, 11:44 AM

Post #4 of 10 (680 views)
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Re: [Sparky] Padding the signal [In reply to]	Can't Post

I use the AT8202 from Audio Techinca.
It is switchable 10/20/30 db.

Michael

Cameras: I do use them.
Audio: Yes, it does come with audio if you like.
Software: I am learning...
Support: I need all that i can get.
Computer: MAC BABY!

Sparky
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Mar 16, 2008, 12:19 PM

Post #5 of 10 (675 views)
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Re: [MLiebergot] Padding the signal [In reply to]	Can't Post

So no one is using a direct box of any kind? For some reason I was thinking this was what a lot of videographers were using to patch into the DJs board at weddings for audio as well.
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MLiebergot
Veteran

Mar 16, 2008, 12:32 PM

Post #6 of 10 (673 views)
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Re: [Sparky] Padding the signal [In reply to]	Can't Post

A direct box is great if you need a mic signal (line to mic). But if your XLR input on your camera is set to line, then you shouldn't need a direct box. Also direct boxes can be helpful to eliminate hum.
The purpose of the attenuator pad is to prevent clipping of your audio, just in case the levels spike or are increased from the board during the performance. Not usually an issue for stage performances, but can be an issue with live bands or feeds form a DJ who tend to run their signals hotter.

In Reply To

So no one is using a direct box of any kind? For some reason I was thinking this was what a lot of videographers were using to patch into the DJs board at weddings for audio as well.

Michael

Cameras: I do use them.
Audio: Yes, it does come with audio if you like.
Software: I am learning...
Support: I need all that i can get.
Computer: MAC BABY!

Sparky
Veteran

Mar 16, 2008, 12:48 PM

Post #7 of 10 (671 views)
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Re: [MLiebergot] Padding the signal [In reply to]	Can't Post

Ok ... I understand how it would work for a live performance ... especially when I can run a cable for a feed.

I'm going to assume that if I wanted to use it in a wireless situation that I could use it with the DJ in conjunction with my hand held transmitter for toasts and music if I wanted. Of course I'll have my Zoom H2s by then. Cool

Yesterday I contacted a friend of mine who directs a small private school's programs. She's going to allow me to come in and test out my equipment on her shows before I use them for the one I'm contracted for at the end of April. Of course she's interested in having the video available to her students.

Everyone ... thanks for the suggestions. I guess I wasn't even aware of inline attenuators.
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Vidiot Tech
Enthusiast

Mar 16, 2008, 2:28 PM

Post #8 of 10 (657 views)
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Re: [MLiebergot] Padding the signal [In reply to]	Can't Post

That's what I was thinking of. Here's another with a little higher attenuation.

Steve Godsey, CLVS

Silence is golden. Duct tape is silver.

Sparky
Veteran

Mar 28, 2008, 3:18 PM

Post #9 of 10 (520 views)
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Re: [Sparky] Padding the signal [In reply to]	Can't Post

Bumping this up before next week ...

As I get ready to start shooting a few stage shows ... do you guys ALWAYS use some type of padding, whether direct box or in-line attenuation, when taking a feed from a board? And I'm talking anything from weddings to plays and dance recitals.

Thanks
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Mark Foley
Veteran

Mar 28, 2008, 3:23 PM

Post #10 of 10 (519 views)
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Re: [Sparky] Padding the signal [In reply to]	Can't Post

Quote

do you guys ALWAYS use some type of padding, whether direct box or in-line attenuation, when taking a feed from a board

yes...as my R4 can attenuate any line-in voltage thrown at it....

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Mark