Don,
Do you have any tips with using a preamp with the GL1? I tried it with my MM-1 (Studio 1 was set to line), and couldn't seem to get any improvement. It seemed like the autogain wanted to fight with the pre-amp. I've since switched to using the MM-1 with a minidisk that has manual settings and am getting really good results, although I have to admit I have no idea what I'm doing. What do you think? Forget about using the MM-1 with the GL1? I've tried all kinds of settings, and even used a variable attenuator, and I got some pretty good sound, but it wasn't arguably better.

The preamp should be set to have an output of around -35 dBV. Some mics like the ME66 may provide that output level w/o external preamps. A higher output, which many preamps provide, will put the GL1 into its AGC mode even in MIC ATT setting.

The "better" sound is mainly a lower noise floor. (Less background hiss) during quiet portions of the sound track.

More info on my Azden mic. It is an Azden ECZ-660 Zoom Shotgun Mic. It has had the minijack plug removed and converted to an XLR connector.

Could this be why it has NO gain?

Anyone know if the Azden SGM-1X would work? This is in my price range as the ME66 is not. =(

Also, would I need a preamp for the SGM-1X?

The SGM-1x is better than the ECZ-990 (current Azden model listed on their website, may be similar to the 660 but I've not seen anything about a 660 model?) and should work better.

If someone has modified the mic you have, that could be the source of the problem - especially if you hear NO output. Maybe have a technician friend check it.

Great Thanks. I will check out the higher end Azden.