Correcting the Canon 5D MKII's awful audio input
Following my last post on the DIY steadycam, I decided to improve upon the second downside of shooting video with the 5D—its audio input. The built-in microphone is completely unusable, adding a grinding noise to every video. I tried using an external mic with the 5D’s input port, but the audio was just as bad because the 5D still controls the levels.
My brother, Ben, is pretty big into audio. He has the Zoom H4, a portable recorder that provides true x/y stereo recording. I looked into it and found that Zoom upgraded it with the H4n. I took the plunge, but also purchased a hot shoe adapter with 3/8″ male thread so it could sit atop the 5D.
When picking up a quick release for the steadycam, I also got one for the recorder. Now, everything is set. Video is captured with the 5D, audio recorded with the H4n, and I have a big smile on my face.
Geeky goodness!
How is the handling noise and weight?
I just got a audio-technica ATR3350 (lavalier mic) for $20, which sounds good for interviews and whatever (it’s not a general mic though).
@Michael — I haven’t had a chance to use it too extensively, but from my initial tests the sound is pristine and it’s not too much additional weight. With L glass on-board, nothing feels heavy
Also, how do you sync?
@Michael — I need to pick up the cable to connect it to the 5D, but for the time being, I’ve been recording audio to an SD card and matching the tracks in a video editor. If the connection to the 5D still causes issues, I’ll just stick with matching the tracks. I really don’t mind since I don’t shoot video very often.
Any idea how well the timecodes match up in post? I’ve used audio from an external source one before and after time they became out of sync.
@Dabe — I haven’t used them enough to be out of sync, but I’ll let you know if I do. In my first video, I wasn’t able to match them up exactly—the time increments were too small to get any closer. You couldn’t tell visually though.