DSLR Audio

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Thought i'd share my cable wrapping method, as I was reminded about some people I saw relying on Electrical tape to tie down some cabling. There's a better way than using adhesive sticky tape on your gear that ends up leaving all kinds of gooey residue. Sure you can use velcro straps, but it just doesn't hold the same tension as the stuff i'm using which is 'Silicone Fusion tape'.

It's been around for a while, and it really is some brilliant stuff. I've used it for a number of different things including some underwater stuff (Don't ask - another Cheesy DIY project). Anyways, i've been using this stuff to wrap cables or other things on all my camera equipment (photo and video). It's pretty stretchy and provides constant tension to whatever you wrap up. Think of it like an adjustable wide rubber band. Don't be fooled in buying the stuff on infomercials, it's all the same stuff, just marketed differently (and they'll rape you on prices). It's a tough find in some hardware stores, but more than likely they do carry it.

I've purchased many rolls from my local Orchard Supply, Home Depot, etc. If you search online, they often call it 'Rescue Tape', 'Tommy Tape', or 'Mighty FixIt'. For people who love to stand out, they also come in a variety of colors. If you haven't tried it yet, you should. You'll find a ton of uses for stuff like this, especially if you're a DIY kinda guy/gal.


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find-price-button Silicone Tape on Amazon

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Question comes in from a Vimeo member asking which would be the better buy? So it's a Rode NTG-2 vs. Azden SGM-1X poll. Would you go for the Rode NTG-2 or the Azden SGM-1X Shotgun Microphone? Both appear to have very similar physical dimensions with size and XLR inputs. Both DSLR shotgun microphones can be self powered with a single battery but can also accept optional Phantom power. The Rode can be powered with a single AA for an estimated 1000 hours and the Azden can be powered with a single AAA for approx. 800 hours. The Rode NTG-2 does not come with any type of mount, while the Azden 'does' come with it's own integrated shock mount. Both are highly rated with 4.5 stars over at B&H Photo Video. Seems like the Azden has more to offer, but the Rode NTG-2 has more than twice the amount of reviews which appears to be the more popular of the two out in the field. The Rode is also more expensive, but does it yield better (noticeable) sound quality? I'm not familiar with both, so I decided to throw up this poll for those with more experienced between the two. Got another suggestion for a similar shotgun mic? Throw down in the comments...

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find-price-button Rode NTG-2 Battery or Phantom Powered Condenser Shotgun Microphone

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find-price-button Azden SGM-1X - Super-Cardioid Shotgun Condenser Microphone

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G.I. Joe always told me 'knowledge is half the battle'. So for the newbies in the hiz-ouse - If you're still shopping for a microphone to suit your DSLR audio needs, you'll probably already find that the Rode VideoMic is a very popular one. I've run my own tests and found that it does perform much better than some microphones going for twice it's price. But before you start throwing down a solid buck, you can read up some other interesting suggestions through the B&H Insights blog that might help you get a bit more 'knowledge' - Go Joe!.


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visit-button B&H Photo Video Insights Blog for DSLR Microphone Options

So a microphone will help you focus in on a little better sound than just the onboard microphone, but for the best sound processing, you'll want to shop for a portable audio recorder. The in camera audio of the DSLR's are just not up to par for the true audiophile. The link below jumps you to another B&H Insights article about different Portable Audio recorder solutions.

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visit-button B&H Photo Video Insights Blog for DSLR Portable Audio Recorders

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Super Clamp with Zoom H4n

The Zoom H4n is a great audio recorder and much cleaner floor noise than the H1. Whenever possible (which means when i'm not lazy) I try to break it out as the primary sound recording device. One problem is finding a place to put it. I usually move the microphone off camera and out of frame and run a long microphone cable to the Zoom H4n when doing interviews. With the Zoom H4n close to me, I can monitor sound and adjust levels.

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Super Clamp with Zoom H4n on LightStand

Something I like to carry with me are good accessory clamps. Having good versatile accessory clamps can help you mount much more than audio recorders. One trick I used in Vegas (no tripods allowed and super crowded) was to mount my DSLR camera to a small monopod, Rode VideoMic on top, and then clamp the Zoom H4n onto the Monopod. With the standard 1/4 x 20 thread you can even mount a small Ball Head for some tilt action.

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Clamped to Shoulder Rig

These clamps can mount anything from small cameras, flashes, LED video lights, microphones, and more. I'm using something like the 'Super Clamp' which is fairly large and costs quite a bit of money and is overkill for such light accessories. For a smaller clamp you can opt for the Manfrotto 'Nano Clamps', but those also will run you around $30-$40 dollars.

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Nano clamp

So (below) i've come across these cheap clamps normally used in Photography. It's an all metal construction with a wide clamp area. The V design helps clamps to round poles without slippage, but can be mounted to even flat surfaces. Table tops, chair legs, standing lamps, bike handlebars, you name it it might be possible. With minimal effort you can competely replace the Light Stand adapter with a Tripod Ball head, making it a smaller form factor with more flexibility. Through a retailer, they'll run you a good amount mainly because they are stamped with the scarlet letter word Photography, but at least online they aren't too shabby and can help clamp up a good amount of gear to just about anything.

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find-price-button Cheap C Clamps for Accessory Mounting

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The Zoom H4n is one of the most popular portable audio recorders for DSLR Film Makers. With tons of features and inputs, it's probably under utilized most of the time. Just in case you're looking to expand those features even more, Zoom has released new firmware for you to adjust the levels of your XLR inputs seperately. More info at the jump: https://www.zoom.co.jp/english/download/software/h4n.php

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I'm sure you're all planning on gathering up a ton of photos and videos this holiday season, and BorrowLenses.com is looking to hook you up. Not just Photography stuff, BorrowLenses.com has a HUGE amount of video gear, including microphones, field monitors, stabilizers, lighting and more. With the right rental selection you can grab yourself a 7-day Rental for the Price of 3 Days. That's right, you can get UP TO 4 days free if you do the following:

1. Order a 3-day rental that begins Monday, November 22nd.
2. Type the phrase "Turkeytime" into the coupon box before checkout.
3. Return the gear to us the following Monday, the 29th. That's 7 days for the price of 3!
4. Read the fine print below for more details.

A few more bit of information to know: This discount applies only to 3-day orders that would normally end on November 25th through November 27th. The coupon code "Turkeytime" must be used. Cannot be used with other coupons or offers. You will only receive 4 days free if your 3-day rental begins November 22nd. There you go fellas, check out the selection and see what you might be able to take advantage of this Holiday from BorrowLenses.com.

visit-button BorrowLenses.com

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Anytime you slap the words Audio, Video, or Photo on a product the rule of thumb is to mark it up about 500%. This applies even to small pouches and travel cases, but for people on the move, it's a necessary evil. I've found my own ways of staying organized with all the bits and pieces in my rolling bags, by using transparent tackle boxes made by a company called Plano. I wrote an article about this back in May found here: http://cheesycam.com/diy-camera-gear-organizer-tackle-box/

The clear tackle boxes from Plano have taken my beatings and it's a solid product. Small items are separated and the transparency helps me find things quickly. A quick dry erase marker on the inside helps me determine used or unused CF cards and batteries.

Now looking to break all of my Audio gear into a seperate case, I find myself turning back to Plano. I have a number of shotgun microphones, lav microphones, Zoom H4n, Zoom H1's, shock mounts, clips, and cables. Putting all the audio gear together and laying them out for easy access will help me stay organized instead of throwing things in a bag. A trip to the local Walmart revealed a number of plastic hard cases with handles for Guns, complete with break away foam lining. Some single layer cases start at just around $9 dollars.

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Of the ones on display, my favorite one is a 4 gun case designed with 2 stages of foam and extra deep. Plenty of space to store all of my different microphones and audio recorders with room to spare, while the handle makes for easy transporting. The break away foam will help to protect, keep items from shifting, and provide a clear view of what needs to go back in the case.

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There's a number of different foam lined hard cases in the gun section and even more that can be found online. From plastic to aluminum, deep and shallow. Great for protecting a variety of small video, audio, and photo gear. The only suggestion I have is you stray away from the Logo branded cases like 'Glok' or 'Smith & Wesson' in case you plan on jumping on a plane, and if someone asks you what's in the case, you should probably say 'Microphone' and not 'Shotgun'.

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Aluminum Foam Lined Gun Case

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There was a time when many said DSLR cameras with video capabilities wouldn't make much sense, but look where we are today. Now we're starting to see point and shoot cameras offering more into HD video features, but it's still nothing to get too excited about. Point and shoot cameras with HD Video still aren't quite at a level to make any filmmaker go nuts - but then again there are guys spending big bucks shooting short movies and music videos through an iPhone. Here's three cameras that have already made it as winners in this years popularity contest, but should be even more popular during the holidays. If you're like me, and you've got friends asking you about what new camera they should be getting into, keep an eye out for the Canon S95, Canon G12, and Nikon P7000.


Canon Powershot S95 Images

I'll dive into some fun novelty features that these cameras have built in on a different post, but for now a quick highlight of the external hardware and basic features. The Canon S95 is an improvement over the already popular S90. Many settings can be controlled manually like shutter, aperture, ISO, and white balance. For photos, the S95 can also shoot in RAW which will give you more dynamic range to edit images in post. A friend of mine recently took the Canon Powershot S95 on vacation and found the camera's ability to take such nice pictures in it's auto settings, there was no need to shoot in RAW and edit later. For serious photographers, the manual settings and RAW photo options are great features in a pocketable Point and Shoot camera. All three cameras use SDHC media cards for storage and are HD video capable @720 24fps with HDMI out as well as a port for USB AV out.


Canon Powershot G12 Images

Unlike the other two larger cameras, the Canon S95 does not have a hotshoe option and very little analog dials / buttons to manually change camera settings. If you're willing to carry a slightly larger camera, the Canon G12 and Nikon P7000 will get you closer to that DSLR feeling. These camera have several dials and buttons dedicated to quickly change camera settings. On the Canon G12 there's a single dial dedicated to ISO, and a single dial dedicated for Exposure compensation. Another dial controls the main menu for AV, TV, Video, and one more jog dial on the back controls the shutter speed. It's not in familiar places, but with short time you'll master these controls.

Comparing the Canon G12 and Nikon P7000, the Canon can accept a remote shutter. The Nikon P7000 does not have a port for this. For travelers who want to fire the camera remotely, or control it via Intervalometer (timer remote) for some nice Timelapse photography or to trigger for HDR bracketing, the Canon G12 would be the better camera. FYI - The remote does not start video mode. Also take note, the Canon G12 uses the same connection as the T2i or Canon 60D. The intervalometer shown is one I use for the larger DSLR's found here: http://cheesycam.com/canon-60d-timer-remote-timelapse/


Nikon Coolpix P7000 Images

For video mode, the Nikon P7000 does have an external Mic input. That's a very nice surprise for someone that is planning to do more video work than photos on this smaller camera. I can see myself mounting an LED video light and a good external microphone to enhance the whole video experience. Perhaps a tiny camera cage stabilizer would make it even more fun to take around events. One super huge advantage Canon has is that this type of camera has existed for many many years. Many adapters, lenses, and accessories have been designed for earlier G10 & G11 bodies, which is still compatible to the G12. You can find some additional Telephoto adapters, Macro Filters, and Wide angle lenses for the Canon G12 here: Canon G10, G11, and G12 Adapter, Lenses, and Filters
Even the Canon OEM waterproof housing for the G11 is compatible with the G12. This already makes for a perfect underwater HD video camera on the cheap. Special wide angle lenses, fisheyes, and step up Macro filters are widely available through Canon and aftermarket companies. Since this is something new for Nikon, I can't even locate the lens adapter for the P7000 yet. Hopefully we'll start seeing some new accessories for the P7000 by end of year to further expand it's usability.

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Nikon P7000 with Ikan Fly Kit, Rode VM, and Z96 LED Light

Since the Nikon P7000 has a 3.5mm input for an external Microphone, I quickly threw on my Rode VideoMic. Next I mounted it to the Ikan FlyKit DSLR Stabilizer (I'll get to that later). With a Flexible Power Arm, I also mounted the Z96 LED video light. I have nothing interesting to record right now, but testing it out, everything works great and the image stabilization in the Nikon performed well. I'm not sure if there's a way to set the video to 'manual' mode but I did notice some exposure changes in the video while running around. I'll have more stuff to show on the Ikan FlyKit DSLR Stabilizer soon.

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IKan Elements Fly Pack DSLR Kit

I know people will be looking for information about these popular cameras during the coming holidays, so i'll have more information to come. There's a ton of things I haven't covered like built in ND filters, Hybrid Image Stabilization, registering Custom Settings, built in Effects like Fisheye and Miniature Filters, built in HDR Processing, and much much more. I'll try to get it to it soon, but there's more technical specs at the product pages below. Showing right to left Canon S95, Canon G12, and Nikon P7000.

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Click for Product Information & Pricing

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Maybe not a full Audio Technica AT875 Short Shotgun review, but more of a quick look at what to expect if you happened to grab one. I'm still building up the audio part of the JuicedLink DT454 and decided upon this short shotgun after many referrals. This AT875 shotgun microphone isn't as simple as connecting it directly to the DSLR camera, for something that simple you'll need the Rode VideoMic. The Rode VideoMic is self powered through a 9Volt battery and uses a small 3.5mm connector that goes to your cameras mic input (if available).

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Click image for Rode VideoMic pricing

You've probably heard through the grapevine that DSLR's don't provide the best audio and most are limited by the camera's built in AGC. I wanted to have a little bit more control over the audio part of shooting video, while trying to save time in post audio sync, so here's where i'm at so far. This shotgun microphone requires 12V phantom power over an XLR cable. For my setup i'll be using it mainly with the JuicedLink DT454 that supplies the phantom power, and that box will further step it down into a 3.5mm direct to the DSLR. It's also nice that this JuicedLink allows for headphone monitoring of the audio. The DT454 also can accept 2 XLR inputs, so if I need to go with a LAV, Handheld Microphone, or Wireless setup, it's all possible with this expansion box. I could use the Zoom H4n, but with the DT454, I won't have to do any post audio sync work.

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Click image for DT454 DSLR Preamplifier pricing


The AT875 comes with just the short shotgun, foam windscreen, and a padded leather bag. You'll need an XLR cable to get things moving so here's a great package that comes with an XLR and a hotshoe shockmount: Audio-Technica AT875 Short Condenser Shotgun Microphone Kit

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Click image for Audio Technica AT875 pricing

This particular shock mount that I received with the package is quite nice. It definitely doesn't bounce around as much as the Rode VM. With this microphone, it's also nice to have the option to use a shock mount or not. Something you won't get with the Rode since the shock mount is all part of the assembly. I'll try and get the audio part setup soon to run some tests, but i'm not too worried. This should be a solid audio solution for the price and definitely better than from the camera microphone.

If you're wondering about those Power Arms, you can find those here: http://cheesycam.com/flexible-friction-power-arms-for-dslr-accessories/