Hey Guys -

There are a few times when I will be using an AT897 on the cam (with a shock mount). My question is - once I plug into the Beachtek - do I turn off the AGC on the cam's audio? Also, what recording levels/settings do you recommend for this non-optimal situation? I did a couple of tests, and while the audio is a little too low, I am getting a higher pitched tone as well.

Any advice/recommendations would be helpful ...

As a general rule, you should never use AGC. It adds noise where there was none, and suppresses dynamics that you likely would like to have. If your camera doesn't have full time level control, I'd strongly recommend using the Beachtek most of the time.
Remember, Audio is 70% of what people see.

Me, I prefer Sound Devices products. Some of the Beacktek gear doesn't have phantom power. Some of it has passive circuitry. That means you can't turn the mic up, you can only turn it down.

Beacktek is made to sell at a lower price point than Sound Devices gear. There are good reasons why SD gear costs more and they all result in better sound.

I own a Sound Devices 442 mixer and a Shure FP410 automixer. I only use the FP410 for special situations. The 442 is truly amazing. SD makes the 302 and MixPre. They have fewer inputs and features, but still provide excellent quality. You will use these mixers a long, long time.

Regards,

Ty Ford