Low audio level on DVR with XLR mic
 

Problem:
Resulting movie has very VERY low audio level

Equipment:
+ Sennheiser K6 with ME64 cardioid
+ Studio 1 XLR-BP 3 Pro XLR adapter
+ nNovia Quickcapture A2D

Hookup:
+ Mic to XLR cable to XLR adapter
+ XLR adapter has stereo 1/8" jack
+ 1/8" jack to adapter to stereo 1/8" jack cable with two RCA plugs
+ Two RCA plugs to two RCA sockets on nNovia DVR

Diagnostic attempts:
+ Checked all cables
+ Checked all settings on XLR adapter
+ Hooked up miniDV cam to XLR adapter (rather than DVR) and audio comes out fine (grr)

Please help! Any suggestions welcome.

The DVR inputs are probably expecting a -10db line-level signal. You need to use a preamp to boost the mic-level signal.
If you're in a fixed location you can do this with a common audio mixer.
If you're mobile you need a battery-powered preamp like a BeachTek DXA-10 or a field mixer like a SoundDevices MixPre.

Jay thank you for your information. Larry at nNovia confirmed the DVR is expecting line level.

This setup is going into a racecar so size, weight and space are a premium. I'd prefer something that has it's own power too. Suggestions for a pre-amp I can get my hands on quickly?

If I understand you correctly then this Beachtek DXA-10 could replace this Studio1 XLR-BP 3 Pro for my purposes?

Kenny,

Yep, the DXA-10 will give you the levels you're looking for plus the ability to adjust for what I expect will be pretty high audio levels in a race car.

Jay, Rob, thank you very much for your help, much appreciated.