MA-100 & Sennheiser ME66/K6 installation problem - Not working!?!!?!!
 

I just received the MA-100 and Sennheiser ME66 mic with K6 power supply. I bought a 15' XLR cable from Radio Shack and put them all together and it did not work. It didn't work whether I disconnected the onboard mic or not.

Please help!

Update---

I put up the volume and checked all the settings and made sure the Menu settings had MIC on it also - It works on Audio 1 only and it is very very low. The onboard mic that came with the camera is 30x louder than my ME66 connected to the MA-100!

Any ideas on this problem? I'm going to need to use it very soon!

Did You Check?
 

Be sure you set the Input Select switch behind the audio controls door on the left side of the camera to Audio 1. Also, be sure the MA-100 power is plugged into the DC out terminal and the RCA connectors from the MA-100 are plugged into the Audio 1 terminals, not Audio 2. Set Audio 1 Record Level if you are not using AGC.

Check the battery in the K6 and make sure the power switch is on.

When the Input Select switch is in the Audio 1 position, the onboard mic is disconnected so it will make no difference whether it is connected or not.

You have probably already checked all this but it wouldn't hurt to go over all the settings again. You have most likely just overlooked something.

Ed Frazier

It sounds like you've checked to make sure the Audio One IN menu is in MIC, not LINE or ATT 20, and that you have Audio 1 selected. I also presume you've checked both channels. So....

I'd suggest either going to a camera store that carries mics, or one where they sell musical instruments, and either trying another mic, or trying your mike on one of the store mixers -- most musical instrument stores have a Mackie or something similar set up, and usually have lots of various mics.

I haven't used the Senn -- does it require phantom power other than the K6?

I know that 'panic feeling.....best of luck.

Vic

I believe I got it to work - Thanks for your help.

But the onboard mike still sounds louder than my ME66. I have to speak directly into the ME66 to hear it. Maybe it's because of my cheap headphones? But I hear the onboard one fine.

This is important because I'm filming durning Carnaval next month in Trinidad and I want to be sure I'm picking up the sounds of the crowd and all. I'm planning on purchasing the lightwave equalizer windscreen.

Any thoughts?

The on-board Mic on the XL-1 is an amazing device and I'm always amazed at its pickup. I've used both Peavey super- cardioid and Shure PZM mics and they both sound pretty good without having the sound source right on top of the mic. It might do you well to compare to some others. It doesn't sound like a headphone issue to me. In my experience, the Canon mic is slightly louder than the externals, but not dramatically so. Keep in mind, though, that the Senn is more of a shotgun pattern than the Canon -- that might make a little difference, but it shouldn't make a lot.

Vic

I work with the Sennheiser comination and it works quite good. But I only use it for interviews. For all the rest the Canon mic is enough.

Just a comment on the windscreen: Check out
www.vas-online.de

They have a simple windscreen for XL-1 that costs around 40 € and works great.


Markus

For specific XL-1 issues, it's hard to find a better place than right here. However, there is a lot of pretty good general information regarding audio, mics, etc. on the DV Magazine forums. The Audio Solutions forum is moderated by Jay Rose, who also writes the audio column for the rag.

Check: http://www.dv.com/db_area/cgi-bin/Ultimate.cgi

Vic

How do I install a onboard monitor to XL1s with and MA-100 external microphone setup?
 

I just ordered an onboard video monitor and it looks as if it uses the same Yellow, White and Red cords that the MA-100 I have uses. How can I get both to work together?

You probably don't need to feed audio to an onboard video monitor, so if I were you, I wouldn't connect the audio cables. If you really want to, then connect them to the jacks on the back of the camera, and plug the MA-100 audio cables into the second set of RCA jacks on the right side rear of the camera handle.

There's no yellow video cable on the MA-100. There is on the MA-200, though. You'll have to decide if you want to cable to your monitor from the back of the MA-200 or the back of the camera; it's up to you. Hope this helps,

The only reason you might want to connect audio cables into the LCD monitor is to listen to audio on its crummy little speaker while in playback. Otherwise, stay on the headphones and don't use the LCD audio feature--save the jacks for your MA-100.

BTW, it would have been nice if Canon had made the MA-100 cords removable so it wasn't necessary for everything to be hooked up when all you needed was a better shoulder mount.

Vic

Thanks
 

Thanks alot for the help! I did mean the colored inputs on the XL1s not the MA-100 - That's what I get for trying to type on 4 hours sleep!

Gents:

I am planning to build a custom base/back for my XL1 that will, as well as distribute power and video in various ways, also provide 4 XLR jacks for input a la the MA200. I have been reading your posts here and want to ask for advice on this.

My intention was to provide balanced audio inputs so that an external mixer or long mike cord could be used, but also allow for wireless mikes to be mounted directly to the camera in other circumstances. In other words, multiple uses including mike and line at various lengths.

It sounds like the Beachtek units have the correct circuitry to do all this, and more versatility than the MA200. My intention is to rehouse the innards of two Beachteks into my new custom housing.

Any thoughts, suggestions, red flags anyone can think of?

Thank you in advance!

Since you plan to pitch the Beachtek box and only use the innards, you may find it lower cost to buy good audio transformers, pots, switches, and XLR connectors and not pay for the Beachtek packaging and profit.

OK as long as the time you spend doing it does not represent a cost to you since even at a measly $10/hour, you will probably spend far more time than the cost of a MA-200, or a pair of Beachteks or Studio Ones doing this project.

Note many folks feel that the Studio One is better than the Beacktek. (But I have no personal experience with both to make a judgement.)

DPalomaki,

I currently have an MA100 on my XL-1 and I've been using a BeachTek unit with my Sony TRV900. I now have an XL-1s and I'm thinking of buying an MA200. The only advantage I see to the 200 over the 100 is a video output and an extra set of XLRs. I think the 200, like the 100, comes with the plate to attach the dual battery charger. I'll be using both XL-1 cameras in a two camera shoot, fed from the same mixer.

There's a question somewhere in here somewhere. I was planning on using the BeachTek in lieu of the MA200 and I'm still wondering if the MA200 worth the expense. The BeachTek has dual pots and a stereo/mono toggle as well as a mic/line switch. But the dual battery holder of the MA200 is a big plus and I'm not sure it can be rigged some other way.

Any thoughts on the issue? (Sorry for the verbiage of the question.)

The MA-200 also offer some additional adjustment for the shoulder pad portion.

If you do not neet the second pair of XLR inputs on the MA-200, consider a MA-100, cheaper thatn a Beachtek and you have the mounting plate and shoulder rest. You could use the Beachtek with the MA-100 if/when you need four XLR inputs.

I am trying to understand the various differences between the Beachtek and the Studio 1 XLRPRO. It appears that the Studio 1 product comes more recommended, but it outputs a stereo miniplug (mike level) where the Beachtek outputs dual RCA's (line level). So really they are not doing exactly the same thing...

I am also trying to understand how the MA 200 connects to the XL1s; does it output two sets of RCA's, for the Line 1 and Line 2 connectors (on the back and on the handle) or does it also output a miniplug for the mike connection?

Still trying to build a unit that does the job of the MA200 better and with more versatility...

MA200 Connections
 

The MA200 has two cables with RCA connectors hardwired to the XLR Audio1-In jacks on the adapter . These can be plugged into either Audio1 or 2 jacks on the XL1. It also has two RCA jacks that are internally connected to the XLR Audio2-In jacks on the MA200. Included with the MA200 is a short cable for connecting these Audio2 RCA jacks to either Audio 1 or 2 RCA jacks on the XL1. I hope that isn't too confusing.

I believe that only Mic levels are available as output from the MA200 as well as the Beachtek units. The problem with inputting line levels to the MA200 was discussed earlier in this thread. Don't do it!

The Beachtek units can accept either line or mic levels, but output to the camera is mic level even though it might have RCA plugs. I could be wrong about that, but I contacted Beachtek to see if my DXA-4S, which is the Sony TRV model, could be used with the XL1 and they said that internally it was the same as the unit designed for the XL1. It could be connected to the mic input with supplied mini plug or by using a mini plug/RCA adapter, connected to Audio 1 or 2.

<<or does it also output a miniplug for the mike connection? >>

There is no miniplug on the MA200 for connecting to the mic input although with adapters it could be done. The miniplug that you may have seen in pictures of the MA200 is for DC power. The MA200 must be connected to the DC port on the back of the XL1 or it will not work.

MA-100 & AKG mic.
 

Hello,

I'm having problems using an AKG C-2000 B condenser mic. with the MA-100 adaptor.

Is the DC plug on the adaptor for the so called "phantom power" some mic's require? Even if it is, this mic. still does not work. If I plug in a cheaper mic. that does not require "pp" it seems to work fine but quality is not there.

Hope someone might have encountered same issue and can help me.

Thanks!

The small cord on the MA-100 is to power only the MA-100 -- it has active electronics in it. There are no conditions under which the MA-100 will supply phantom power to an external mike. I use either a Mackie mixer, or a phantom power box for that purpose, depending on the need.

MA-100 & phantom supply
 

Thank you. I happen to have a Mackie, but can you recommend a separate phantom supply mfr? And there wouldn't be any conflicts w/ camera DC?

I have an Audio Technica 4-channel, although I believe that there are several others out there. I got mine from B&H. Most of the time, unless I'm strapped for room, I use the Mackie. It gives me more control over the audio. I've also found that, when running 100+ feet of XLR cable, stray hum has been more of an issue with the A-T box than the Mackie. Best to experiment.

Phantom
 

Thank you again Vic. I'll check around. Also, looks like we can just yell across the lake!

You're welcome -- that's what these forums are all about, and you'll find an amazingly helpful, non-judgmental group here -- probably the best of all the boards.

Until you mentioned it, I didn't notice you were close -- these days, though, you'd have to yell loud to get through the damn snowstorm!

Cheers

I use the AKG C-1000S which requires phantom power. If power is not available from the mixer, a 9V battery can be placed inside the mic. Your model may not have that capability, but for those that want to use condenser mics connected directly to the camera without first going through a mixer, battery power is a simple alternative to external phantom power supplies.

MA100 questions
 

MA100 or Beachtek? best mic? lav? wireless?

I'm expecting my new XL1s to arrive this week and am looking int the sound equipment I should buy. I've had some experience using a Beachtek with both the XL1 and the Sony VX2000, but havn't even touched an ma100.

I'll be using the camera for a variety of purposes. I'll be shooting narrative shorts (maybe even a feature length in the future), documentary, music videos for local bands and (because I also have to eat) wedding and business/corporate videos.

I've followed several threads on this forum and have gotten a few insights (pluses on the Beachtek being more easily accepting line inputs, etc.) I had some bad experiences with the Beachtek on the VX2000 (hiss and a little hum - many people had the same problems), but since Im getting an XL1s, I wanted to get some input on which might work better for the types of videos I'll be shooting.

Also, what are some of the best mics (shotgun, lav, wireless) - and then - what are some of the best mic for someone on a budget (I don't want to sacrifice quality though).

Derrick

In addition to XLR inputs, the MA-100 also provides a better shoulder rest -- if that's not a concern, the Beachtek gives you more versatility. I've used both, and I've never experienced a hum issue with either. I suspect you had something external going on. Since the Beachtek is a passive device, it's not subject to overloading, as is the MA-100.

On the subject of microphones, there are entire books written about the subject. No one genre of mic will do it all. They need to be tailored to the situation. There is quite a bit of info on various adapters, mics, etc. on these boards, and in the articles on the XL-1 Watchdog pages. Search around a little -- there's a wealth of knowledge. In the audio arena, there is a good forum moderated by Jay Rose (DV Magazine audio editor) at the dv.com forums.

Enjoy spending the money -- these things absorb it like a sponge!

Second on Jay Rose
 

Jay Rose is well worth a cruise through.

Your VX2000 problem may well have been related to early problems with VX2000. That problem has been resolved.

You can spend lots of money on mics. Best thing is to stay with the brand names. Sennheiser, Audio-Technia, Lectsonics, etc all make great equipment.

Cruise through the threads here on mics and stuff and you will find loads.

Nathan Gifford

Using the XL-1's Mic and the MA-100
 

Does anyone have any tips on how to use a Wireless Mic and the XL-1's mic both going into the MA-100. You see I want to use the Xl-1's Mic in 16 Bit mode while still using the Wireless mic as well. The thing I hate is that if you only have one Wireless mic and you want to record in 16 bit you only get the one channel.

Thanks,

Mat Sutor

Your question is discussed in the following thread:

http://www.dvinfo.net/conf/showthread.php?s=&threadid=502&highlight=xl1+mic

Thanks, Ed... I suppose this should be in a FAQ somewhere.

MA100 noise
 

Ok, I'm using a balanced "vocal" mic [not sure, but I think it's an EV @$150], about 30' cord and only one channel @48k. XL1S. Shortest cord that'll do the job.

I seem to have a good amount of noise (ie bad s/n) that is better with a pd150. Okay, I admit to using ACG on both. I understand this will pump up the gain during soft passages, but even at normal levels, the s/n is poor, IMO.

First with only one xlr input, should I connect both rca plugs? Is it possible I'm getting some noise because the open channel is causing the gain to pump up and it bleeds to the channel in use?

Isn't y-cording the one into two channels going to also cause some degradation of signal?

What do you recommend for a solo xlr input?

What model is the mic? Condensor or dynamic?

How are you connecting the mic to the XL1s?

How are you monitoring the noise level?
How is the nosie level in manual gain mode?

Is the noise in one channel more thtn the other?

Y-cording may result in some loss of level, whether or not this is serious depends on the precise configuration and impedances involved.

Azden 400 UDR too heavy for MA-100
 

I use my XL1S predominately for weddings where I put a cordless mic on the officiator and the groom. I have been using 2x Azden 400UDR's for about a year but they are extremely heavy, and my MA-100 finally broke (the little duck-bill like piece that is wedged in the back of the XL1 broke off).

I also find the weight too uncomfortable for longer periods of handheld work.

I've just ordered the MA-200 and 2x Samson UM32's.

Does anyone else use this combination - please share your experiences.

Is anyone else using 2x cordless mic's with the XL1/S - What brand and models?

thanks in advance,
Keith

Consider the VariZoom Media Pro (called the SP7 shoulder brace on the Watchdog). It's big enough and sturdy enough for all this plus an XLR adapter. www.dvinfo.net/xl1.htm > Articles Menu > Support Options > SP7 Shoulder Brace. Hope this helps,

Thanks Chris,

I tried the SP7 at the WEVA Expo last August and although its a nice accessory, I don't think its for me

The style of shooting I do, requires equipment that can be set up and packed up quickly (eg between the wedding ceremony and the cocktail hour) I like the fact that I can fit the XL1 in my camera bag with the MA-100 and wireless receiver attached. I would have to desemble the SP7 before trasporting between venues and this would waste valuable time.

It also never quite felt comfortable to me, although a mate of mine liked the way it felt.

My MA-100 has a noise problem. This is not uncommon from what I gather. I've spoken with several other XL1 owners around the bay area whom have had similar issues with their MA-100s.
A local pro audio place I spoke with said that it may be a grounding problem and a simple fix may be to construct a ground out of two alligator clips and a piece of wire. Run a clip from the MA-100 and the other to a grounded source and it should take away the noise.

BTW- It has also happened with my Beachtek once in awhile.

I'm not a "mic" guy, but it's a ElectroVoice n/d 257B dynamic cardioid. XLR mic to MA100. That's it. I'm guessing that maybe it's just low output, but maybe I'm wrong.

The MA-100 should be rather quiet. If you are getting high noise, there may be a problem somewhere in the system, perhaps an open ground.

Assuming that the N/D 257 is similar to the N/D 257 ther shoudl be adequate output if the talent is close miked (within a foot or two).

MA-100 question
 

I have a question regarding the MA-100. There are two XLR inputs and I assumed that I could go from the XLR out on my wireless receiver into one of the XLR inputs and from the XLR out on my shotgun to the other input. Is this possible? If not what do I do? Do I have to go XLR out on the shotgun to the Audio 2 jacks?