Split Channel 1 to Channel 2 with AGC
 

On my PD170 I split my Channel 1 audio input to go to both Channel 1 and Channel 2. The Channel 1 input I control the levels manually and my Channel 2 input is set to automatic gain control. This way I almost have an "audio backup" if things start to peak or get too soft on Channel 1.

How do I set this up on my new V1U? I have tried everything and cannot seem to get this extremely useful concept to work...

The V1U does not support the feature you request.

I really thought I was going to be impressed with the V1U, and while I am in many respects, it just is not giving me the warm and fuzzies like I got with my PD-170...

then step up to the Z1. it's more PD170-like than the V1 is. They're different animals entirely.

Thanks for the recommendation. I am going to try and work with B&H to make this necessary switcheroo.

Spot, didn't you have a comparison (or link to one) somewhere on the V-1 vs Z-1? I can't seem to find that and we've been thinking some "V-1 to Z-1" type thoughts...

That comparison would be really helpful.

I was able to get B&H to take a return on my purchase, so now I am at square one about what to buy... Not a bad problem to have though...

Found the link: http://hdvinfo.net/articles/sonyhdrfx1/compare.php

Note that the link above is FX1 vs Z1, not V1 vs. Z1 ...

My bad... Thanks for pointing that out.

I agree that separate attenuation on two channels of the same mic is the best feature of other Sony cameras left out of the V1. I came from the VX2000 so I don't feel the loss, but I used the PD170 a few times and immediately recognized that as a nice feature.

Definitely. I am in a one-man run-and-gun situation, so it is nice to have that extra level of audio insurance.

Instead of sacrificing some of the great features of the V1U by moving to a different camera, you could always consider mounting a Zoom H4 recorder to it.