MLiebergot
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Apr 9, 2008, 10:13 AM
Post #7 of 22
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Re: [fr0gm@n] Stop Being Cheap With Your Audio!
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Well Phillip, I new it was only a matter of time before someone picked up on that. 
While this is true, as Mark said, these devices are much cheaper than new cameras.
To start with I intentionally pickup some of these units for testing purposes for you all here. I'm not joking about this either, I really do.
In other instances, I get products from manufacturers to test out. Like my recent post on the Juicedlink XLR box.
The manufacturer sought me out to test the unit against some pieces of equipment that I own. I just wish Edirol would let e test some of their units...
But all in all, I use all of these recorders in my productions. It's just that certain units are better suited for certain tasks than others.
The Zoom H2 is good for quick setup and capture of musicians during a ceremony, which is what I use it most for. As well as for ambient audio capture during the reception. But I only use it for the built in mics, and don't use the external 1/8 mic or line inputs at all, as they aren't that good.
The Edirol R09 and Marantz PMD620 are great for external mic or line feeds and the on board mics aren't bad, but I prefer keeping the Zoom H2 for that purpose. So I'll use the R09/PMD620 either with a lav mic in a pocket for ceremony, on a podium for readings, or even to record additional musicians if needed.
I did have the Zoom H4 before I purchased my Edirol R4 for XLR mic use, mainly for phantom hyper card mics. And while it was great for it's built in XLR's the R4 was that much better and versatile since it gave me 4 channel recording. I use hyper card mics and the R4 in a live band or recital setups, as well as for a live audio work which I am contracted out for. I don't currently use it for ceremonies and reception work like Ron and mark do.
Since I didn't use the H4 much after the R4 purchase I sold it.
I did recently sell my R4 to finance the pre order of the R-44 which I know will be even better suited for me than the R4 was. I know the SD recording ability (no moving parts, which is the main reason that I switched), smaller form factor, longer run times, and even more versatility with setups will benefit me more. I promise, that this will be the last 4 track recorder I will purchase for a while. No really stop laughing it will be. No I mean it...
I wouldn't be surprised if this becomes my go to recorder for all recording, and as such will most likely sell of another small recorder or two. I'm trying to streamline my overall setup and needs as much as possible. With the main goal on owning the best overall quality I can afford, within reason.
My main point of my original post, isn't the fact that people purchase the latest and greatest new cams, as if it makes your produce a better end product or save you time, then it's great.
But rather to be smart with your purchases on both ends. It's easy to get caught up in all of teh hype and excitement when a new product comes out. But if you are ok currently with an older camera and your audio is lacking, then do a little research and make the best investment for your overall workflow.
I have to give Rick Steele props here.
I know we give him a hard time about being so cheap. But even though he spends no money on anything, he is happy with his current crop of cameras. But has been doing research to try to upgrade his audio, which he thought could be the biggest improvement to his productions. Although he is looking for the cheapest alternative (no supprise here ), he is researching to see what fits his overall needs (and has ruled out several inexpensive options), which is really my point.
We all should strive to produce the best productions that we can. That means just as much attention to both video and audio.
Now let HEAR it for audio!
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!
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Stop Being Cheap With Your Audio!
