what are people using to record audio

[Brendan Brooks]

Hey everyone, I need to find a good portable audio recorder--what are people using? I found out the hard way it's not a good idea to record via the camera (XL1) using a shotgun mic connected to the back (rookie move). So what's out there?? Are DAT's obsolete?? I have a shoot in a couple of weeks and would like to practice.

Thanks,

Brendan

[Tom Wills]

At my work we just use the camera's XLR ins, but then again we're shooting on relatively epxensive DVCams with Sony wireless systems. I think Marantz has a Microdrive and a CF recorder, but I think it'd be a little expensive for your tastes. Have a look at Markertek ( http://markertek.com ) and see what they have.

[Brendan Brooks]

Thanks Tom, those marantz's are pretty sweet, but like you said a bit pricey so I'll probably rent something the day of the shoot.

thanks,

Brendan

[Brad Jefferson]

For some of my audio recording, I use the Sony wireless transmitters/receivers ("Sony UWP-C1 (62) True Diversity Portable Camera Mountable UHF Wireless Lavalier Microphone System (758 to 782 MHz)").

I've used them before for the last several years and recently purchased another set.  I use them for weddings.  One for the groom.  One for the wedding official (pastor, priest).  You can change the frequency quite easily.

They transmit back to my Sony VX2100 camera with the help of a Beachtek XLR (DXA-4 Audio Adapter).

As a backup, I use the shotgun mic.

I got the wireless mics both from B&H and have been very happy.

--Brad

[Wade Francom]

The XL1's, XL2's, DVX100's and others actually have a pretty high quality audio setup. Having a high quality mic selection is the place to start. Plus, no sync issues. For field production, if my budget allows it, I rent a Marantz from a local rental house.  I think that's your best bet. But then again, you'll have to slate every take...yada yada yada. It may be worth your while to hire an audio guy with his own gear.....so you can get a pro audio guy, and he'll probably cut a break on the rental of his equipment, too.

[Trevor Crump]

I also use direct to camera audio, saves a lot later in edit room. We use 2 wireless mics (up to 2) and a boom mic if required. all feed direct to camera. XL series can handle 4 tracks audio at once.

We still slate our shots (old habits are hard to die) we have on occasions hired a audio person, but XL cameras do not handle outside SMPTE so slating is serious.... NO just walk in front of camera with a marker.