Hi Tim--
Not patronizing at all. You are absolutely right that one has to look
into a recording _system_ that will fulfill one's long-term needs.
Perhaps because its the "recorder" and prices are fairly affordable
these days, folks get understandably excited about this one,
component. Its actually easier to start examining mic/array options
first and decide on the recorder last. There's a mic/recorder
matching section in the FAQ: http://tinyurl.com/34ojchb
The H4n's input noise has been _measured_ at -107 dBu
http://tinyurl.com/2vpknz3. Applying this to the chart, its likely
this recorder will add (input) noise when used at high gain with mics
with 17 dB(A) or lower self-noise. One wouldn't expect this based on
the manufacturer's literature or the other features, but even the
numbers predict it.
You are also correct that being able to hear for oneself what very
low noise mics sound like is worth the effort and money. No one can
adequately describe the difference between external mics with 8dB(A)
self-noise in a full-fledged stereo array and built-in mics in a 17
dB(A) in a compact recorder array. Some pro dealers will agree to an
arrangement where one can try out some additional mics before you
commit. For example, one can agree to buy one pair of mics and charge
out 2 pairs with the understanding that one pair will be returned for
a full refund after you get a chance to compare them. Pro dealers
that also rent will sometimes apply the rental fee towards purchase.
Topic switch: Did you check to see whether your NT-4 has the
attenuation "pad" in the supplied 1/8" stereo cable? Since you're
using it with the Fostex, the XLR is pad free and good to go. But in
case you do use the 1/8th cable sometimes:
https://pantherfile.uwm.edu/type/www/audio-reports/Rode_NT-4_Cable_Mod/NT-4=
_CableMod-index.htm
Rob D.
=3D =3D =3D
At 7:00 AM +0100 8/12/10, Tim Nunn wrote:
>One bit of general advice, that I'm sure others have said the same -
>try it before you commit, rent, borrow, steal.
>I'm pretty new to this game myself and have similar goals to yours.
>I was also convinced I needed a unit with built in mics and bought
>the Zoom H4n. It's a great machine (really) but I then went on a
>wildlife sounds recording course, came home, sent it straight back
>and got a Fostex FR2-LE and started researching mics. I now have a
>Rode NT4 and will invest in some more. I'm not saying the same thing
>will happen with you but you really will not know until you get out
>there. Sorry if that's patronising downtalk!
>
>On 12 Aug 2010, at 00:26, scratchpaws wrote:
>
>> I'm finding it really difficult to give it up on this 661
>>business. This thing seems to rock. That thing about the mics being
>>designed for indoor use has got me spooked, though. If there's a
>>unit with a mic better suited for ambient wilderness sounds, that's
>>the way I'm gonna have to go. Maybe I'll hit the lottery tonight,
>>then I can buy the 661, the D50 and the D1. Now there's a thought.
>
>--
>Mobile: 07778 901198
><http://www.timnunn.com>http://www.timnunn.com
>
>P Please don't print this e-mail unless you really need to.
>
>
>
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