Hi Charles,
You are not hearing preamp noise, it is all coming from the microphones.
The PCM-M10 preamps are very quiet for a small recorder and are only
adding about 0.02 dB of noise to the mics. The BSM-9 have (published) self
noise of 36 dB compared to 17 dB for the PCM-M10 mic capsules. That's
almost 9 times more noise. Increasing sensitivity would not help, because
the preamp noise is already inaudible and it can't get more inaudible.
If you want quiet and inexpensive, I'd suggest building a small and simple
boundary array, with EM172 mic capsules, like Vicki Powys' foam block
SASS. 13 dB self noise, and the signal-to-noise ration is improved several
decibels by the boundary. Very satisfying results.
Lots of fun info on her site
http://www.caperteebirder.com/index.php?p=3D1_17_recording-gear-1
best wishes,
John
> My thought was if it increases the sensitivity
> or output I'll be relying less on the internal preamp and thus have less
> noise, but feel free to tell me why I'm wrong.
>
> - Charles
>
John Crockett
Let us live in harmony with Earth
And all creatures,
That our lives may be a blessing.
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