can I use two mics with XLR connectors on a camcorder with 3.5mm stereo input?
 

can I use two mics with XLR connectors on a camcorder with 3.5mm stereo input?

I found this adapter:

"3.5MM (M) To Two XLR (F) Adaptor"
Hosa CYX-405F Right Angle 3.5MM M To Two XLR F Adaptor 5FT | BSWUSA.com

the XLR ends go to the mics and the 3.5mm end goes into my camcorder...
but I'm not sure if this will work or not...

any advice appreciated! :)

The short answer is yes but it depends on the mics. The mics must be dynamic style or self-powered condenser--ie. not phantom powered.

Look here: Studio 1 Productions | XLR-BP Belt Clip XLR Adapter with | XLRBP

That an interesting cable. I wonder if it mixes both the XLR inputs into one Mono signal or if it actually does keep them on separate channels. That would be cool.

I'd still recommend a BeachTek, JuicedLink or Studio 1 box. You'll get the benefit of attenuation control, impedance matching, and separate channels - ie Mic 1 is panned hard left and Mic 2 is panned hard right. That little cable most likely just mixes 'em all together.

You really need to know if the mics need phantom power or not. Some Beachtek adapters have it, some don't. A simple cable certainly wont.

yes, my AKG mics require 9V batteries inside...
I assume this means they won't require external power?

Yes, you're correct. Makes life simpler for what you're trying to do.

Y cables like that can be tricky. Some cameras apply voltage at their mic inputs (kind of like low level phantom power) that can cause problems with your mics. Also, they unbalance the connection. Better to use a quality adapter box like those from Sign Video or Beachtek. This would keep the connection balanced and feature a voltage blocking capacitor. Not crazy about Hosa in general to tell you the truth.

Or,

keep it simpler and use the cables Trew makes with a blocking circuit to keep those nasty camera voltages out of your mics.

Trew Audio - Cables, Connectors & Adapters - DV Cam Cables - DV Cam Stereo Input Cable

Good stuff.

Regards,

Ty Ford