> If you need XLR
> inputs, the Tascam DR-100 MkII has them, and has much quieter preamps than
> the DR-40 that will work well with the ME66.
John,
I use a Tascam DR-100 and can't fault the recording quality on line in. I
use MKH 416 mics which are definitely quieter than the mic inputs of the
DR-100 using the pile of bedclothes test, but I've done some nice riverside
recordings with that light (ish) kit.
My standard rig can be seen on#;
http://www.stowford.org/recordings.htm#aprildawn
I use an old heavy and bulky SQN mixer for really quiet work, when the mic
hiss is the loudest system noise, which is as it should be, but there are
neater preamps which would do the same job on an upgrade path.
David,
The important thing is to get out there and start recording with whatever
you have, but be prepared to upgrade.
With windshields there are two considerations:
The active shielding layer should be one layer. If you double up by putting
a foam gag in a basket type, it sets up extra internal reflections which
alters the frequency response and the directivity.
Size. The windspeed where the air flow breaks up and causes turbulence rises
with the radius of curvature. In other words bigger windshields are better.
A dead cat on the outside makes a windshield effectively bigger as well as
smoothing the airflow, but there is a tradeoff because the false fur can
alter the mic characteristics. Also once the outside has generated
turbulence, nothing inside can remove it. Trial and error has got it about
right with the better makes when the outer layer is close to the basket
mesh.
A small claim to fame: I invented the first blimp cover and sold many to the
BBC Film Unit before Rycote took up the idea. I was a recordist not a
manufacturer and got bored with making them, but they were also waterproof,
which hasn't been copied. I got a lot of stick from colleagues as you could
use them for filming in the pouring rain. (eg the Softly Softly police drama
which had a tight schedule).
David Brinicoombe
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