I've got a GL2 and am seriously considering the purchase of a better mic. I'm leaning toward the Audio-Technica AT835B (if it matters for my question).

I need to convert the XLR to the stereo mini-plug on the GL2. Looks like I've got several options. I can use the Canon accessory hot shoe 2-XLR adaptor, or I could get one of the small belt clipable adaptors that do a similar function, or I could get a battery powered field mixer with XLR inputs and a stereo output. All of these options run in the $100-$200 price range and have various pros and cons.

Why is this so complicated I was asking myself.

Then I found a simple XLR to stereo mini in-line conector for dirt cheap. Why can't I just use one of these? Here is a link to the actual item at B&H:

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=cart&A=details&Q=&sku=158476&is=REG

Is there some specific reason I can't use one of these connectors? The GL2 (unlike the GL1 as I'm aware) has manual level controls for each stereo sound channel. So I don't need dials on some box or mixer to adjust volume, I can adjust it right on my camera. Would this simple solution possibly damage my camera (something about 'phantom power') ?? The mic in question has its own power from a 'AA' battery inside, it should be fine?

I've also heard about the ME66 that the 'level is too high' for some cameras and must me 'dialed down' at the factory? Will I have this problem using the forementioned mic with my GL2?

Thanks. So much to learn, so little time. ;-)

About your XLR question, please follow this post (www.dvinfo.net/conf/showthread.php?s=&threadid=12300&highlight=a96f)

ME66 vs. 835b: the output of the 835b is not so "HOT" and you should not experience any problem especially if used with an impedance matching transformer.

There is absolutely no reason why this wouldn't work. I use one on my VX2K sometimes.

Bryan,
Are you talking about the Cable or 835b?

While the cable may work and sound OK it is still recommended to use a transformer since the output of the 835b is about 600 Ohms vs 2.5K Ohms (+/-) on consumer camera mic input.

There may be some loss due to the mismatch but the GL2 has clean audio and the gain can be adjusted up higher than my VX2K. I use the sennheiser me66 without a matching xfmr and the hosatech cable and it works fine. I'd have trouble using a quiet mic like the 835 on the VX2000., there shouldn't be a problem with the GL2.

Without a balanced adapter you may or may not get interference. The odds are against it for such a short run. It's going to cost $9.50 to find out.