Tag Archives: Zoom H6

• 11 Comments

•

What is your typical Multi-camera Setup when recording a performance, recital, concert, etc? Well here's a quick look at my most basic gear for three static camera angles. I typically go with (3) Panasonic GH4 cameras as I love the super long battery life, and 4K video recording all day (deliver 1080 but flexible in post for faux zooms and crops).

cheesycam-core-multi-camera-angle-shoot-gear

If i'm doing a 3 camera angle shoot, I find it's easier to match footage when you have the exact same cameras (same color profile, set same exposure, etc).

I also make sure to add a good microphone to each camera as you need really good scratch audio to do a quick sync in post. As a backup I also run timecode on all cameras and match them as close possible for post sync. In the photo you'll see i'll use either a Rode VideoMic Pro or Azden SMX-30.

I also try to use Sandisk 128GB SDXC Cards so I don't have to swap cards during the event, and record each video clip as long as possible. I find it's easier to sync a few long clips in post than a hundred small clips. Once the clips are synced in post, it's easy to cut out all the dead time.

For audio, I make sure to bring a few portable audio recorders (like Zoom H1) and set them up close to Audio Speakers, but i'll bring a Multitrack recorder (like Zoom H6) to plug directly into the sound board. The Zoom H6 offers dual recording in case sound peaks, and worst case scenario I can sometimes grab audio from the cameras (since they are mic'd up).

aspenmics-eartec-ultralite-headset-wireless-communicatorLearn-More-sm Ultralite Full Duplex Wireless Headset Kit

I also break out my hands free wireless headsets for each camera operator to make sure everyone is on the same page. Good communication is key between multiple operators.

Finally and totally optional, i've rigged up a dual monitor setup with Camera Motion Research Connex Wireless Video Kits. Super reliable and long range systems. So while i'm operating the main camera, I can get a feed from the two other camera angles and make sure I have a clear visual what everyone is covering. With our wireless headsets, I can direct the other two operators to make sure we cover the entire performance.

So that's a quick look at the core parts of how I tackle these quick Multi-camera angle shoots. Do you have any favorite pieces of gear of tips you'd like to share?

Related Articles You May Like:

• 8 Comments

•

Here's one new product from Zoom i've already went ahead and ordered. I've been looking at the Zoom F8 Multitrack Recorder for some time, but now that they have just announced this less expensive Zoom F4 Recorder with similar features as the F8, it's pretty much a done deal for me.

I also currently have all the various Modular Zoom Mic Capsules that I use with my Zoom H6, and the F4 allows me to continue to use them. What may not be clear is the Zoom H4 does have a 1/4" tripod mount underneath, and also comes with a Camera Mount Adapter. So you'll be able to use the Zoom F4 mounted under your camera (something I can't do with my H6). Available now (here).

zoom_zf4_f4_multitack_field_recorder_1473187634000_1260110zoom f4 camera adapter-ccam
Learn-More-sm Zoom F4 Multitrack Recorder

Related Articles You May Like:

• 8 Comments

•

The RodeLink Wireless Filmmakers Kit has been a highly anticipated product for those looking for an affordable wireless mic system. Today they've officially announced the units will be shipping to authorized dealers worldwide!

The RodeLink is consistently monitoring and hopping between frequencies to maintain the strongest possible signal level at a range of up to 100 metres (over 100 yards). The RODELink is so intuitive that it works straight out of the box, with no channel selection necessary. For users with multiple RØDELink devices the system offers eight discrete channels that can be setup in seconds.

Power & Secure
Using a series II 2.4GHz encrypted digital transmission that is sent on two channels simultaneously, RODELink automatically selects the strongest signal and ensures your audio is as reliable and secure as a cabled connection.

(Click here for this Audio TIP)
audio setup a7s zoom h6 redundant
Setup for (3) Wireless G3 Mic Kits on Zoom H6 each with an attenuated Backup Audio Track

Because i'm using a technique that allows me to have an attenuated backup audio track for every person I mic up, I've been seriously looking into adding a few more wireless systems to my arsenal. I haven't found solid results in anything under $700 bucks, so I'm hoping the RodeLink kit really delivers as they say. Remember they begin shipping units out to retailers today worldwide.

I've seen retailers announce a list price of $599, but are currently listing pre-orders right now for just $399 (found here).

Rode Wireless FIlmmaker Kit
find-price-button Rode Wireless Filmmaker Kit - Wireless Lav Mic System

Related Articles You May Like:

• 9 Comments

•

Having come back from a recent project where I needed to place Lav microphones on three subjects, it's always a good idea that you have some type of backup plan. Here's an audio tip I thought i'd share using the new Alzo 3.5 mini stereo to XLR adapter.

The Alzo 3.5 Mini Phone Female to XLR Stereo Adapter Cord is simply advertised as a way to connect a basic stereo microphone into a camera that offers dual XLR mic inputs. One important feature I think they missed in their product description is the ability to use the cable for backup audio recordings. By splitting your signal into separate tracks you can record one at a normal level and one at a lower level in case your original audio becomes distorted from peaking (clipping).

So the next time you place a microphone to a subject, think about making sure you have a backup audio in place. I highly recommend you consider this tip in your future audio setups. You can find this Alzo Stereo to XLR Y Cable (click here)

alzo stereo to xlr cable splitter adapter microphone audio backup
find-price-button ALZO 3.5 Mini Phone Female to XLR Stereo Adapter Cord

It's a good idea to always carry a few of these cables in your audio kit, and if you're working with XLR body packs or microphones, there are also XLR splitters available (found here).
XLR Audio splitter backup audio recording
find-price-button XLR Female To Dual XLR Male Y Cable

Related Articles You May Like:

• 2 Comments

•

If you've always wanted to ugprade from the Zoom H4n your next choice was the $400 dollar Zoom H6. Well finally the latest and more affordable H5 portable audio recorder from Zoom is finally in stock today via B&H. Similar to the more expensive Zoom H6, the new H5 carries the same quality preamps and compatible with the Zoom line of Modular Micrphones.

Product Details
The H5 Handy Recorder from Zoom is a portable handheld recorder that features an interchangeable microphone system. The recorder ships with an XY microphone capsule and is compatible with the existing line of H6 modules including the optional shotgun mic and XLR/TRS input modules.

The H5 will ship with an XY stereo microphone module that features a built-in shockmount system and a 140dB maximum SPL. The recorder is also equipped with two inputs for external sources, allowing you to record simultaneously with the included stereo XY mic for a total of four input channels. Each input is controllable by its own analog gain knob.

zoom h5 h6 mid side miczoom shotgun microphonezoom xlr mic input
Optional Modular Mic Input System - Midside Mic, Shotgun, Dual XLR Input

The recorder also has an LCD screen and a side-mounted toggle control for navigating through the menu options. It gives you fast access to transport functions, offering physical control buttons right underneath the screen, and conveniently stores its recorded audio to external SD cards.

Built to many of the same specs as the H6 including:
•Same S/N ratio and maximum gain as H6
•Headphone output for monitoring
•Stereo line output for connecting to your camera
•Supports +4dB input

Zoom H5 Portable Audio RecorderZoom H5 Portable Recorder
find-price-button Zoom H5 Portable Audio Recorder Modular Mic System

Related Articles You May Like:

• 26 Comments

•

This recent video from Robert at JuicedLink shares a review from some of the latest Portable Audio tools used for video capture today. The video includes battery tests (runtime), audio comparisons, and what may be pros and cons of each tool. If you can sit through the technical specs, there's quite a bit of information that may help you decide which tool fits your workflow better and help you achieve better audio.

600761
Zoom H4n 		857043
JuicedLink RM333 		929347
Tascam DR-60D 		967366
Zoom H6

Related Articles You May Like:

• 19 Comments

•

Here's a few images unboxing the new Zoom H6 Portable Digital Audio Recorder. You can see what it comes with, including it's own travel case.

Zoom-H6-Cheesycam-1 Zoom-H6-Cheesycam-2
Nice Packaging..
Zoom-H6-Cheesycam-3 Zoom-H6-Cheesycam-5
A few accessories include X/Y Mic & Mid-Side Mic..
Zoom-H6-Cheesycam-7 Zoom-H6-Cheesycam-8
The back of the box shows optional accessories..
Zoom-H6-Cheesycam-9 Zoom-H6-Cheesycam-10
Zoom-H6-Cheesycam-11 Zoom-H6-Cheesycam-14
Comes with it's own travel case..
Zoom-H6-Cheesycam-17 Zoom-H6-Cheesycam-4

Now it's time to fire her up and see how she performs. With the additional XLR inputs, I will already be satisfied if it sounds exactly the same as the Zoom H4n. Of course if it sounds better, that's just more of a bonus.

[Update] I have my first sample with a Rode Procaster (listen here).


Samson Zoom H6 Portable Audio Modular Mic Shotgun Stereo XY TRS XLR
find-price-button Samson Zoom H6 Modular Mic Input Portable Digital Audio Recorder

Related Articles You May Like:

• 9 Comments

•

As far as recent portable digital audio recorders go, there has been quite a buzz around the 929347 Tascam DR-60D Portable Recorder + Field Recorder. The Tascam proves to have good quality sound as a preamp, but when compared to something like a Zoom H4n, the Tascam does not offer a single built in microphone. Besides having to carry around a separate microphone, the form factor is a bit on the large side (so does that still qualify as a portable recorder?).

Samson's Zoom line of portable recorders have always included a set of microphones, but the new Zoom H6 Zoom H6 Portable Digital Audio Recorder takes it to the next level by offering a very modular Mic and Input system among other new advanced features. The Zoom H6 basic kit includes includes an XY Microphone, Module, Includes Mid-side Microphone Module, Four XLR/TRS Inputs, Record Up to 6 Simultaneous Channels, Record Up to 24-bit/96kHz Audio, Doubles as USB Audio Interface, Uses SDXC Memory Cards. Add-ons will be available such as a Shotgun Mic, XLR/TRS Inputs Module, and Hot Shoe Mount. The brand new Zoom H6 Zoom H6 Portable Digital Recorder is available for pre-order now via (B&H) Click here.

Samson Zoom H6 Portable Audio Modular Mic Shotgun Stereo XY TRS XLR
find-price-button Samson Zoom H6 Modular Mic Input Portable Digital Audio Recorder

Related Articles You May Like: