A guide for setting up the X70 camera for external mic audio recording and use of boom mics
Recording audio through the XLR handle attachment. Check the handle is attached securely - you might get intermittent audio if not.
Camera setting:- Menu > Audio Set > Mic Select > Auto or MI Shoe (auto will disable the internal mic)
If no mic attached, there should be no levels showing for each Channel on the flip out display of the camera
With the mic attached you should see the level moving for Channel 1 & 2 (depending on what additional settings you have chosen as explained later on this page)
Always connect headphones to the camera for monitoring.
If you are filming with both a camera operator and sound recordist, use a splitter connecting into the headphone socket which then allows both camera operator and sound recordist to monitor the sound with separate headphones.
To adjust headphone volume level:- Menu > Audio Set > Volume
RODE NTG MIC
This is a directional mic & therefore you should make sure it is facing towards the sound you are recording
XLR CABLE
Always check length of cable & that it will reach the distance you need to for your mic to be in the correct position
Keep cables tidy
Check cables for damage before you leave campus in case you need to swap for another cable
CONNECTING/DISCONNECTING MIC
Connect mic to Input1/Input2 by pressing the XLR cable straight into the input
Press release switch to remove cable from camera. DO NOT TRY TO PULL CONNECTOR straight from input, do not force!
Line = external audio device (e.g. mixer)
Mic = Dynamic mic or mic with built in power source (e.g. has own battery power)
Mic +48V = Phantom powered mic
One mic connected = ch1.ch2
Two separate mics connected = ch1
Stereo mic with two XLR connections = ch1
Turning the input signal down (generally used in loud locations)
Adjust before manual volume control
Be careful about reducing signal, ideally you want as strong a signal as possible
Switch to Man for the channel you are using for manual control of audio being recorded
Auto can cause hunting
Use Audio Level dial to adjust the recording level
If recording to both channels, useful to set different levels, one at a lower level as a safety net
Have switched on when wanting to minimize low frequency sounds (e.g. wind noise)
Removing loud/low noise before recording to disk
Boompole is a separate piece of kit on SISO (remember for when booking kit)
To extend the boompole, work from bottom end turning right to loosen, extend & then turn left to tighten
Make sure XLR cable is always secure/safe & not causing a trip hazard (think risk assessment)
Be aware of your surroundings when operating the boom
Double check which way the mic is facing & that it is pointing in the right direction
Listen for any sound being created either by the cable moving or a faulty cable
Holding boom can be quite physical - especially if holding overhead, think about position
Written by FR/LA