Specifications

24
The mixer’s tone oscillator and meter can also be used to establish consistent
levels among several pieces of audio gear. For instance, during setup, the mixer’s
tone oscillator could be turned on, and the mixer’s Master Output level control
adjusted so that the mixer’s output is
set at a known level (as indicated on the
level meter). The input of the recorder
connected to the mixer would then be
adjusted until its level meter indicated
the same level as shown at the mixer.
This means that acceptable readings
on the mixer’s meter during taping
should also indicate acceptable levels
at the recorder.
Different pieces of equipment may
have dramatically different audio
performance. You may find that you
have to keep the mixer’s output level
very low to avoid overloading the input
of a video recorder. If the recorder’s
audio input is designed in such a way
that it overloads easily (without much
headroom in other words), there is not
much that you can do.
An important rule to remember
when adjusting levels is keep input
high, master low. In other words, it’s
better to have the input levels set at 7
or 8 and the master level set at 3 than
to have the input levels at 3 and the
master level at 8. Most of the internal
noise or hiss produced by a mixer
comes from the master output
section, so the higher your master
level control is set, the more
noticeable this noise will be.
Monitor your audio! It is not
uncommon for speaking or background
noise levels to change significantly
during a video shoot or other event, and
if you’re not listening, you won’t find out
until it’s too late. Use a pair of lightweight
headphones or a small earpiece to
monitor - after all, how often do you tape
an event without looking through your
camera’s viewfinder!
Average VU meter reading if level
is set too high; may result in signal
overload distortion
Average reading if level is set too low; may
result in inadequate signal.
Average reading if level is properly set.