Audio tests with the T3i, Rode Video Mic and Zoom H1

[Robert James]

Okay, so I picked up a Rode Video Mic to see if it stood up to the Zoom H1. I ran a series of tests (unscientific, please note). For the most part, I didn't tweak audio levels in the camera. I just let it go as is.

YouTube - ‪Rode Video Mic vs Zoom H1 vs T3i‬‏

Test 1: Rode Video Mic
Test 2: Zoom H1 in T3i
Test 3: Canon T3i
Test 4: Rode Video Mic in Zoom H1 Handy Recorder
Test 5: Zoom H1 solo
Test 6: Rode Video Mic with High Pass Filter on
Test 7: Rode Video Mic into Zoom H1 into T3i

Which one sounds better to you?

or

What could I do to better improve the audio tests with this equipment?

[Robert James]

So, is it me or does it rank this way:

1. Rode into Zoom H1
2. Zoom H1 solo
3. Zoom H1 into Rode into T3i
4. Zoom H1 into T3i
5. Rode with high pass on
6. Rode video mic
7. Canon T3i on board audio

?

[Keith Betters]

I think the rode plugged into the H1 is the best sounding. But I have to disgree with the onboard audio. I actually think the onboard audio is pretty clean. It was a little low but that can easily be brought up in post!

I really appreciate this test because I have the Zoom h4n and the t3i. I am about to buy a rode video mic pro next week. This was something that I was going to have to test out but since you already did it, I dont have to! How far away from the camera were you standing. Also, do you have an attenuation cord for plugging the H1 into your t3i?

[Robert James]

I was sitting about two feet away from the camera/mics.

I have a male stereo cable that plugged the Zoom H1 into the cam.

A friend of mine believes the Zoom H1 into the cam sounded the best...innnnnteresting. :p

[Robert James]

Any other comments on these unscientific tests would be most appreciated as I am trying to determine the best set up for my sister's wedding.

Right now I am thinking:

Mic and H1 on a stand near bride and groom.
2nd zoom H1 plugged into T3i for room audio and backup.

[Robert James]

YouTube - ‪Rode Video Mic vs Zoom H1 vs T3i - REDUX‬‏

This is my second test of this audio equipment for my DSLR. This time around, for the first part, all three mics were rolling at the same time and were edited as such. The second test shows the Zoom H1 plugged solo into the T3i and the third shows the Rode. Some info:

1) I was about 2 feet away from the mics
2) The source (me) was in front of a window with construction outside
3) Computer was on nearby some mics picked that up
4) Recorded in a bachelor apartment with high ceilings
5) Zoom mics were on auto levels
6) T3i was on auto sound
7) For the solo tests I adjusted the levels manually