Field Mixer with HV20
 

I would like to add a mixer to my HV20 setup, for boom mic and maybe wireless lav input. 2 channels looks like it would be fine so Im tending towards Mixpre. Anyone tried this? How exactly would this all work and connect? Thanks.

Don't know brand, but I shot with a field mixer which was then fed into a my Beachteck via XLR cable to the camera. At each set up, sound guy gave me a 1K tone, that I pegged to -12 db on the camera. Everything worked out great. Here is film we shot for a 48hour film project:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9s3hDShqe18

Unfortunately, the MixPre only has a line level output. It's not a good match for a "mic in" only scenario.

I'd look at PSC's DV promix3 or Sign's ENG44 to match up better w/ the consumer grade 1/8" mic input.

If my memory serves Beachteck can take line level in and feed mic level to camera. A Beachteck box would be nice to have in any case.

Depends on your price point. I know some high end folks don't like the BeachTek's, but for the shooter with an $899 camera they make sense for someone that wants to add no hassle, clean XLR inputs for less than $200.

Although the Beachtek site recommends the smaller DXA-2S for the HV20, I personally like the weight and length of the longer DXA-4P. It feels better balanced with the HV20 - especially on a tripod.

Other tried and true recommendations would be as Jim said, the PSC DV ProMix 3 or Sign 44.

I haven't used the Azden or the Rolls, but they both make 'em - small and cheap full blown portable mixers with phantom power, limiters, VU meters, tone generators etc...I'd probably shy away from these even with the appealing price...or do a heck of a lot of research, ask a lot of questions...and make sure there is a fair return policy.

http://www.azdencorp.com/shop/customer/home.php?cat=3

Azden even makes a four (4) ch portable mixer these days.. with switchable mic/line outputs. On paper the specs (THD signal to noise etc) looks ok.

I think its comparable with the PSC DV ProMix 3 or Sign 44. See link above and do a search for the FMX-42 4-Channel Field Mixer.