Connecting Pro Mics to DSLR | Zoom H5 Recorder

[@Retipster]

6 minutes ago, I had no idea who this guy was. Now I think of him as a trusted father figure who can help me be the best version of myself.

[@GaryDmedia]

Thanks for the compliment. Not sure I can live up to that, but as a trade Teacher I do get a kick out of seeing people reach their potential. Thanks for taking the time to comment.

[@Retipster]

@@GaryDmedia - you bet! The H5 is a great tool, but I would've been lost without your tutorial. Keep up the good work!

@@Retipster i use the hn4 pro allso wery wery Nice

[@GaryDmedia]

Good to hear it works in the same way, appreciate the feedback.

[@CaptSureshSharma]

Yes ...very true

[@ScottIchniowski1989]

I run a small commercial studio in Arkansas , and a lot of artists want a hd film and audio of themselves from in the studio not just a song recorded ….it helps them promote themselves ….i got a sony ax43 and was so disappointed with the internal mics and was annoyed I was going to have to sync with a cue card it’s so much editing and time , then I found a zoom h4n and your video and now I’m recording anything and everything . You rock

[@terrencehamilton541]

You had me at "Quick Start Guide".....Even though I needed it all, the option to not have my time needlessly wasted if this wasn't for me is what we need more of on KZbin. Thanks!!

[@GaryDmedia]

Thanks Terrence, that's really great feedback. We're always letting lounge for the edge as there is so many videos out there. Stay safe.

[@AnneliesCosaert]

Hello Gary, I was looking for a versatile way that allows me to: - Audio interview with one or more participants (I used a lavelier mic + adapter instead) - Improve my audio recordings for online teaching (USB connection to my PC) - Improve my DSLR camera audio, while interviewing one or more people (I use a camera mount) And with some tweaking this set-up is relatively low cost for great quality! I watched soooooo many video's to figure out what equipment to buy and how to reconfigure for compatibility. Yours was (by far) the clearest and most straight forward explanation. Thanks a lot Gary! Zoom H5 should sponsor you. Kind regards, Annelies

[@GaryDmedia]

Annelies, you are so welcome. I appreciate your feedback and I am keen to create content to assist in those areas. I hope your video creation is a success.

[@PrimalVideo]

Great video Gary! Keep em' coming 😃👍

[@GaryDmedia]

Thanks buddy. Means a lot coming from you guys.

[@JustDavidMinistries]

Hi Sir Gary! Thank you so much for this well-explained video. I have the Rode macro and a Deity v.lav as my main microphones. I have been considering H5 or H6 though I’ve been told they do fade out.

[@jimbotayo3459]

Finally found you Gary who can help gets things sorted! Wow! Well done.

[@GaryDmedia]

Thanks Jimbo. I appreciate your comments. Glad the video was helpful.

[@yesurathnam6801]

Sir can connect H5 to XA 11 Pl explain

[@GaryDmedia]

I’m not sure about that unit sorry.

[@Techado]

thanks gary you just might have saved my channel. i bought this today for better audio, and i was not understanding how to decrease gain on my 80d , and your demonstration was spot on , i wish you sucess and good health

[@GaryDmedia]

I'm really happy the video was helpful. Thanks for letting me know.

[@Techado]

Gary Davies do you mind if i give a shoutout in my channel as i am making a segment on h4n pro while i am showing the different ways we can use h4n pro i want to link you as how to operate the zoom h4n pro

[@GaryDmedia]

That is very kind of you. Go ahead. I hope you have success with your project. Successful KZbin videos are a challenge.

[@PiNkSuGaRx2Alicia]

thank you so much for this instruction!

[@GaryDmedia]

Glad it was helpful!

[@max7w311]

Thank you I have done an endless amount of research and I'm happy to say your instruction on how to get amazing audio with a dslr is where I'll leave my research at. I'll be using this set up for my upcoming documentary

[@FFBpictures]

This is where I get into big arguments with audio/sounds guys on movie sets. I for one, don't see the point in doing sync sound anymore. I've done something similar to this but with the nux b-3 wireless system. I connect my sennheiser mic wirelessly through that system with a saramonic preamp in between it to make the quality better. I did test this set up in the video too and it works quite well, it has the added benefit of being able to record your audio twice, once on the zoom, and once on the camera at the exact same time, so that way, if one gets lost, you have a backup file either way. So in total, I now have a wireless boom set up for film projects and the audio sounds great.

[@GaryDmedia]

Great to hear what you are using. Thanks for sharing.

[@chorromoco483]

Hello, this video was exactly what I was looking for. I love your accent! Where are you from?

[@GaryDmedia]

Thanks Chorromoco, glad the video was helpful. I am from near Brisbane, Australia.

[@sandyande]

Good to hear from u Gary, my son is going to university to study film and media in September so this video will give him a good insight into the importance of good audio recording practices, thanks for sharing take care sandy

[@GaryDmedia]

Great to hear. That sounds really exciting for him. Video is such a powerful tool. Hope to see some of his work in the future. Appreciate you letting me know.

[@sandyande]

Gary Davies cheers Gary I'll get him to post some work soon cheers sandy

[@pwl4576]

What a brilliant tutorial. Love your style too. Thanks Gary.

[@GaryDmedia]

I appreciate the feedback PWL. Thanks. 👍

[@enricojakobsoriano]

Super helpful. You got my sub.

[@GaryDmedia]

Glad the video was helpful.

[@mrjosephcampbell]

Informative - thank you

[@GaryDmedia]

I appreciate the feedback Joe. Thanks.

[@rmerrasmussen4599]

Thank you so much! Just what I needed - easy tutorial in a non-nerd language :-)

[@GaryDmedia]

Happy to hear that thanks, glad the video was helpful.

[@vek0vek0]

Awesome video!

[@GaryDmedia]

Great, thanks vek0 for letting me know.

[@smedelightworks8700]

Great tutorial, but for me it just hammers home the benefits and peace of mind in having a professional camera with the proper audio recording capabilities built-in. The added connections, cabling, separate power supply, etc are all anxiety-producers for me. Thanks, though. This answered a lot of questions.

[@GaryDmedia]

Good point Smede Lightworks, purpose built production cameras can have much better audio features. Even in the light of that, professional camera crews will employ separate audio recorders and sync the tracks later. This I’m sure your familiar with. Thanks for taking the time to comment.

[@MrJoldroyd]

Incredible, thank you

[@GaryDmedia]

Glad the video was helpful John.

[@cathlainetea]

Big help. Thank you

[@GaryDmedia]

Thanks for the feedback Cathlaine. Glad the video was helpful.

[@_hueseyin]

It was very helpful! thanks...

[@GaryDmedia]

I’m glad the video was helpful. Thanks for letting me know.

[@matthewrakola]

Straightforward tips with the added benefit of not feeling like I'm getting yelled at by a 25 year old.

[@GaryDmedia]

Thanks Matthew, I needed that. You do get a bit tired of creators that thrive on creating rapid fire content. It tires me out. Probably just me getting old HaHa!

[@shujaawaupendo]

Wow! thank you so very much for the clear directions!! I have been trying to fing these answers for a while!

[@GaryDmedia]

Great to hear, thanks for letting me know. I appreciate the feedback.

[@yousefalshamrani]

Thanks for this informative video. Is it better to do exactly as you did or record my voice to the sound recorder without connecting it to the camera? To get the best audio result.

[@GaryDmedia]

Yousef, most professional outfits agree that separation of audio and video recording during production gives a better result. Dedicated audio recorders are able to capture much better quality recordings. That said, in practice, most KZbin creators try to minimise the post processing of audio. I definitely would try to improve camera audio first. I do all my recording on my own without any other helpers.

[@markanderson6639]

Very informative video. I've been wondering about the best way to hook up a Zoom H5 to my Canon DLSR. Thanks for posting this one. Just subscribed and clicked the bell.

[@GaryDmedia]

I appreciate that Mark, thanks. The setup is very versatile.

[@crittercamproductions]

Great video! Thanks, very helpful information, as I try to begin improving the audio quality of my video recordings.

[@GaryDmedia]

That’s wonderful CritterCam Productions. I’m really glad the video was helpful. I checked out your website and channel Deb and it looks like you are a true story telling creator at heart.

[@GuilDormeus]

Awesome video. Clear and concise

[@GaryDmedia]

Thanks for letting me know Guil, I appreciate the feedback.

[@muturikanini9513]

Thanks for this.. from Nairobi Kenya

[@GaryDmedia]

I'm happy it was helpful Muturi.

[@ryanneillund7611]

Great video. I've recorded to came and with more commercial work, I need to upgrade my audio. This video is clear, quick, and welcomed. Cheers!

[@GaryDmedia]

Thanks for the feedback. I appreciate you letting me know.

[@humans-of-planet-earth]

Awesome, thanks!

[@GaryDmedia]

Glad the video was helpful.

[@gilisreel]

I LOVE YOU!!!!! THANK YOU VERY MACH!!!!

[@GaryDmedia]

Glad the video was helpful.

[@thuphongmusicvideo5246]

Gary, your presentation is clear and easy to understand. I am using Zoom H4n connected to a Lumix GH4 camera for video recording. Please show me how to start recording the video on the camera and the sound on the Zoom recorder at the same time (synchonized). I guess we can synchornize the video and sound in post production or video editing, however it would be more complex. I subscribed to your channel. Thank you.

[@GaryDmedia]

I wish this was possible. I'm afraid if you want to use the audio recording from the Zoom you will have to synchronise during the editing process.

[@clarkparker4860]

This is exactly what I needed to know. Thanks a lot!

[@GaryDmedia]

Great to hear Clark. I’m happy the video was of help.

[@jeremymacey8923]

Thanks for the simple, lucid video and for responding to questions - lots of juicy tips on various setups! I subscribed. :)

[@GaryDmedia]

Thanks Jeremy for letting me know. I'm glad you enjoyed the video.

[@1230sandrag]

OMG!! Thank you Sooooo much for this SIMPLE and easy to understand video! Just what I’ve been looking for 🙏🏽🤗 You’re awesome!

[@GaryDmedia]

No worries at all. Glad the video was helpful.

[@mikeangel6841]

Hey brother, battery is a little low! don't want it to die while your teaching this class. thanks!

[@latithatsit2629]

You are so knowledgeable, and easy to understand you. I learned from you how to record with my zoom h5 on my iPhone use video and I am very grateful for it. Now I record on zoom (no iPhone this time) with XLR For sing and the top of the zoom I connected to my iPod to use karaoke, it’s sound together music and voice but when I transfer the file to my laptop I can hear my voice no with no music.. maybe you have an idea what should I do .. thank you 🙏

[@GaryDmedia]

Thanks for your comment. I appreciate the feedback. I will get back to you after I have a look at the H5 manual to give you some advice.

[@GaryDmedia]

Lati that’s it, make sure you have the mode set to multi-track recording. If you have it set to multi-track it will create 3 separate files. If you set it to stereo it will blend all channels to one stereo file. The other thing to check is that you have selected all inputs to make them active. Watch my video on mix monitor to see if there is anything that can help you with your problem. Hope you are able to solve your problem.

[@latithatsit2629]

Gary Davies thank you so much , I will try.. if I mount to any thing you are my angel.. many years I want to record songs and it’s all come to technical that hold me back Thank you again for taking the time for me and others coming youtubers 😊

[@latithatsit2629]

I got into your channel looking for a video on mix monitor, not found.. maybe you write a link or what is the title.. again thank you tremendously for all what you do to help.

[@lifeimpactbiblechurch67]

Very detailed. keep them coming!

[@GaryDmedia]

I appreciate your feedback, thanks.

[@sheskimusic]

Great video. Very informative and relaxing to watch

[@GaryDmedia]

No worries at all. Thanks for your feedback.

[@ramkumarpandey4865]

Welcome back Gary, it has been long time.

[@GaryDmedia]

Thanks Ram. Yes, finally got to spend some time to work on some videos again. Thanks for letting me know.

[@alexrobertson232]

You are a legend, great video and content Gary. I've just started using my H5 zoom as an input for my Cannon 70D. At the moment I am using the standard XYH-5 Shock Mounted Stereo Microphone Capsule. I found the recording I did picked up a lot of white noise in what was a very stable and quite environment. Perhaps I didn't set the levels on the camera high enough and it over compensated. Will do a few more tests. Anyway, thanks for the great video, liked and subscribed !!

[@GaryDmedia]

Alex, just a tip, record on your camera and also on the H5. Then listed with headphones to the recording on the H5 and see if there is hiss in that recording.

[@SonyaElleDee]

Thank you, super helpful and easy to follow as a novice!

[@GaryDmedia]

Thanks Sonya, I appreciate you letting me know. One of my goals is to make gear setup easy to understand.

[@SonyaElleDee]

I’ve now done this using my tascam dr 05 as a mic and it’s worked a charm. Thank you again.

[@GaryDmedia]

Nicely done Sonya, great to hear the method works with the Tascam recorder as well. Thanks for sharing your comment.

[@canalgustavosousa]

Tks my friend! Works!!!!!

[@claytonmenyweather9045]

Great video Gary, I have the Zoom H6 and a new Nikon D500 - so this advice will come in handy. Thanks! Clayton

[@GaryDmedia]

Good to hear. You may even enjoy the next video cause I go into the Monitor Mixer and how to set it up so you can record on the Zoom and only route the channels you want to the camera. Thanks for commenting.

[@JayRazor83]

Great video. I'm thinking of purchasing the zoom h6 for my sony a7iii.

[@GaryDmedia]

Nice, the H6 is a great recorder.

[@mvskspodcast3395]

Gary you Legend, Thank you for this very informative tutorial, I was struggling a little with my sound but this was by far clear and easy to process.

[@GaryDmedia]

Great to here. Thanks for the feedback.

[@TravelEcstasy]

Fantastic Info! Great Job!

[@GaryDmedia]

Really glad it was helpful. Thanks for letting me know. I appreciate it.

[@RodieOsc]

OMG thank you ! ive been trying to connect my mic to my DSLR

[@GaryDmedia]

Great to hear the video was helpful.

[@waliofficial1919]

Thank you Teacher i am happy on the lessons

[@GaryDmedia]

Thanks for letting me know Mohamed. I’m happy the video was helpful to you.

[@alrysin3154]

Thanks for the information.

[@Snailmale7]

2 words - Thank you, Finding NEW ways to use my trusty Zoom H5

[@GaryDmedia]

It's a good recorder. Great to hear your discovering new ways to use your gear.

[@piotrkulik2350]

Great video Gary packed with knowledge bombs! Just trying to figure out some upgrade audio options for my videos....Definitely hitting the subscribe button :)

[@GaryDmedia]

Piotr, thanks for your feedback.

[@PoetWithPace]

Love it! Thank you Gary!

[@GaryDmedia]

Thanks for the feedback, I appreciate it.

[@PoetWithPace]

@@GaryDmedia i'm still trying to work out how i can have two headphones both listening to what is being recorded and only one headphone jack to the recorder and how to plug the recorder to the camera to record the sound from my XLR mic....maybe i need to watch your video again?

[@jbasproductionseditorial1287]

Thangs alot! Benefitted from. Subscribed. Now, Gary: I'm guessing at audio... your accent. Durban? PE? East London?

[@GaryDmedia]

Oh dear! Durban? No I’m sorry, I was born in Australia and live in sunny Queensland. I’m allergic to cloudy a sky. Thanks for your interest in my channel.

[@annoybot]

Thank you.

[@GaryDmedia]

No worries Travis, thanks for the feedback.

[@PeteWoronowski]

Very well explained video, Thank you! Subscribed to your channel. Cheers, Pete

[@GaryDmedia]

Thanks for your support. Part two will be out next weekend.

[@roxannalewis8933]

You're wonderful, Gary. Thank you so much!

[@Sandervillamor]

Thankyou sir

[@goodtimefolkrock]

i enjoyed this video ...quick questions 1. will this work with a go pro? and 2. when the zoom is plugged into the camera i assume it cancels out the cameras internal microphone? thanks again for the concise and to the point video . im planning to make a video demo of my acoustic act for gigging porposes and i need good audio .....cheers mate g'day

[@GaryDmedia]

Depending on the input of the GoPro. If the camera receives a 3.5mm Jack it should be fine. I wonder if GoPros need a special adapter?

[@YoungBlaze]

As simple as this is, i never knew i can do it this way

[@sambarmankennels7355]

Very instructive. Consider me a new subscriber.

[@GaryDmedia]

Great to hear the video was helpful. Thanks for letting me know.

[@CraigSenior]

I struggled to set up a Rode NTG2 on a Canon 5D MkII, getting an unbelievable amount of noise. As a baseline, I connected the NTG2 to my iPhone 6 and it was surprisingly rich and quiet with no further adjustment. Your video was helpful in getting me much closer to a solution and no more hair-pulling tears. It might be worthwhile to discuss the low to high impedance matching transformer cable, like the Kopul LMT100, to the camera input. Do I need one? How would I know?

[@GaryDmedia]

Thanks Craig. Good to hear the video was helpful. There is no need for an impedance matching transformer if your are using the H5 as a preamp like in the video.

[@CraigSenior]

Thanks! I’ll stop messing with it then. One of my constraints is I am not allowed to edit the video in post, so I’ll have to test end-to-end against a baseline video for volume level. I tried your procedure with the -12db limit and it worked the best so far, just a little light on volume. One more adjustment on location and I’ll be good to go. You were most helpful!

[@GaryDmedia]

Thanks Craig, I hope it works out well for you.

[@sdbcreativemedia]

Great video, very useful, thanks. So the audio is being recorded both in-camera and on the zoom?

[@GaryDmedia]

Yes, that’s correct only if you press record on the Zoom recorder that is 👍.

[@PatrickChapmanuk]

I think you may have said this already in not so many words. But I assume with this set up you would no longer need to sync the audio with the video in post production?

[@GaryDmedia]

You are correct Patrick. The audio will go straight onto your video recording. With this setup you can record a higher quality recording to the Zoom recorder as well.

[@greatbigbadger]

Quite surprised you're setting up both H5 and camera to peak at around -12dB. Isn't the ideal to peak at around 0dB, so you don't have to normalise the sound in post production, potentially raising the noise floor in the process? Thanks for a very clear tutorial.

[@GaryDmedia]

Good observation Simon. Analogue audio equipment is a lot more forgiving when it comes to absorbing any peak levels that exceed 0dB. Digital equipment tends to distort just over 0dB. Subsequently this is why a buffer is often setup. If you are sure that the levels will never exceed 0dB you could confidently go closer but in practice it doesn’t seem to work out in the field. Hope that explains a little better why in practice I use the suggested -12dB as the marker.

[@johnnygiles9971]

Just starting out with video. I no nothing about video. With that being said what 3.5 mini do you recommend? There's a lot to choose from. Just found your channel. Will be watching. Thanks

[@GaryDmedia]

Johnny, some cameras have a very sensitive audio input. I just used a simple cable 3.5 to 3.5 mm

[@gabrielhollander8121]

Thanks again for the video. Is the mini-jack connector cable a specific one, or can any mini-jack to mini-jack cable work for the connection? Thanks!

[@GaryDmedia]

Gabriel, the cable in the video is a standard cable but if your camera has a particularly sensitive mic input you may need an attenuated cable like the Movo MV RC100: geni.us/MOVO_MV-RC100 hope that helps.

[@gabrielhollander8121]

@@GaryDmedia thanks!

[@bishfrie]

Please recommend a good microphone for youtube videos and podcasts thats not too expensive

[@JohnSmith-ws7fq]

Wouldn't you want to floor the camera's inbuilt preamp? It seems like the the lack of graduation on the H5's line output (i.e 5db increments) prevents you from matching it up perfectly.

[@GaryDmedia]

Thanks John, each camera has a different audio input sensitivity. The key is just to balance it by lowering the cameras sensitivity to a point where you can get most advantage from the preamp in the H5 or any other preamp you are using.

[@FairDinkumAussieBloke]

Thanks for the video. I use the zoom H6 and love it. One question I have is, If you set the camera level accordingly the first time and use the same setup regularly in different locations, would you then only have to adjust the recorder to -12 each time and expect reasonably accurate results or would I also need to adjust camera levels again?

[@GaryDmedia]

I’m sorry to say that you have to check your settings every time. You can use a setting to stop loud sound overdriving the audio but it is much better to check levels.

[@thearm95]

I just tested this on my Nikon P1000 with my new Zoom H6 and the camera levels held after turning the camera off and on. (I've set the ext. microphone to level 2 (1-60) on the P1000 and -15DB on the H6. Early days, new to all this)

[@user-bi3wp1ct1q]

Thanks for the video, very helpful. What if you have 2 XLR mic, and 2 Rode wireless Go mics?

[@GaryDmedia]

The H6 has more inputs but it would be possible on the H5 if you use an adapter into the lav mic input on the X/Y head. This would give you the 4 inputs.

[@user-bi3wp1ct1q]

@@GaryDmedia Thank you.

[@pharmtechprepgurubyalisonj5919]

Wonderful video! Thanks for explaining things so well. 2 questions: 1) We're using an audio technica mic with XLR cable into the zoom H5 input 1, we're recording in doors, should we also use XY mic or should it be turned and should we turn off input 2 as well? 2) We have an attenuated cable between a canon camera and the zoom H5, do we still need to adjust the line out put on the zoom H5 as well as the input gain on the camera? Thanks

[@GaryDmedia]

1. You don’t need to use the X/Y mics unless they are being recorded to separate tracks. Where you can, turn off any inputs you are not using. 2. You do still need to adjust the output of the Zoom recorder and the input of the camera. Set the input gain of your camera to low. Maybe one or two bars (not sure how it appears on your camera.) ten increase the output of the zoom recorder starting from low. This of course is taking for granted you have setup you gain settings for your chosen microphone. Hope this helps a bit.

[@pharmtechprepgurubyalisonj5919]

@@GaryDmedia Yes, thanks for responding so quickly.

[@RameshKumar-ng3nf]

Very Great explanation. Subscribed your channel. I have a Zoom H4n Pro , recently purchased. Please do help me out for the best equipment to mount it for Guitar recording at home.. I dont see anyone in youtube explaining of Zoom recording mounting equipments.. Please do help me out with a video tutorial on Zoom H4n Pro mounting for audio recording OR any other zoom recording would also be fine. Many thanks !

[@babyghelz]

Fantastic video. Me and my friends record our podcast on a zoom H6 but are looking for a decent camera with an audio input. Any suggestions? Roughly up to $600 we are willing to spend.

[@GaryDmedia]

Thanks Chris, I appreciate the feedback. There are so many cameras now that work well. I would suggest checking out the Chris Winter channel. He has made some great reviews on cameras that may just suit your needs. Here is a link to one of his videos. kzbin.info

[@falakoala4579]

bridging 3.5mm stereo phono lead. i wrote it down to cut and paste search it :)

[@GaryDmedia]

Yes they are everywhere, make sure the lead you buy is not too cheap. They can be prone to interference.

Awesome! How do I connect on the smartphone instead of the camera? I'd like to use with XLR and lavalier mic. Thanks!

[@GaryDmedia]

Good question, I have created a video for an iPhone if that is any help.

@@GaryDmedia thanks. I watched that video. I'm in doubt if it works for Android smartphone...

[@GaryDmedia]

Your right. Please consider the Roland GO: Mixer audio interface for mobile. They seem like a great option. There are many other cables and interfaces but they are costly.

[@ImightyAbhi]

That’s The Best Vidio I Was Searching For Loved It..Please Can You Tell Me What’s The Name of The Cable To Connect My Camera To Zoom H4n thanks :)

[@GaryDmedia]

From memory the H4n does not have a line out jack. If you use this cable you can connect the headphone jack on the H4n to the mic input of your DSLR. amzn.to/3poqT1R

[@ImightyAbhi]

@@GaryDmedia thankyou very Much Gary..I’ll buy this to connect my zoom to Dslr..Peace !

[@miked7427]

Were you using the xy capsule mic as well? I did not see them activated.

[@GaryDmedia]

Mike, I was not using the x/y mic in this example but you definitely could do that if you wanted to activate it as well.

[@mssapmaz]

Thanks for a great tip. With this setup You will have two audio files , one from zoom one from actual camera footage . Which audio source would you use in your final video project ? Assume high def recoding from zoom would be much better choice

[@GaryDmedia]

Sadik, the zoom recorder recording will be a far more superior recording, but you have to appreciate that the recording you get on most DSLR cameras using this setup is more than acceptable for KZbin videos. There is a lot more work in the editing process if you have to sync up audio recordings. Lastly, if you are wanting the very best audio production you should use the Zoom recording.

[@mssapmaz]

Gary Davies thank you very much

[@arieubay]

Thank you gary...

[@LeroyLytel]

Can you also record a backup track onto the zoom at the same time as recording the output track into the cameras soundtrack?

[@GaryDmedia]

Yes you can. You can use all the functions on the Zoom recorder in this setup.

[@bethdoman2371]

I had the same question, cheers

[@CraigLeePhoto]

Hi Gary, I have a Zoom H4n Pro. I have seen other video tutorials saying a Sescom cable is needed and to change the audio recording levels on the camera to manual and set it to the lowest possible setting, one-click up from the no audio recording setting. I notice you are not using a Sescom cable or the manual setting to the lowest possible setting on the camera. I am using a Canon 5D Mark IV. Is the Sescom cable not needed on the Zoom H5 or that method of lowest audio recording setting on manual?

[@GaryDmedia]

Most recorders Craig will give you the option of adjusting the output of the monitor output. Some recorders may only have a high output headphone socket. This unit may need a special cable to reduce the gain so the camera is not overdriven. To answer your question straight, no you don’t need a special cable if you can adjust the monitor output of the recorder.

[@Brittlejoints]

Hi there! Did I have to have the other microphones and XLR cables to do this? I was hoping to use the H5 Zoom as a mic itself, and just connect it to my Canon DSLR.

[@GaryDmedia]

No you don't need to use the extra Mic's. you can setup the H5 just like in the video and use the onboard Mic's. Select the L/R mic input instead of 1&2 instead.

[@Brittlejoints]

Thank you so much! Also wanted to say that you're video was the most helpful and clear one I've found and that you breaking it down the way you did/highlighting the equipment in detail was extremely helpful. It's been hard for me to tell which equipment is necessary in some other people's tutorials, so thank you for going slow for new users as well! Subscribing now!

[@GaryDmedia]

Really glad it was helpful Maria. Thanks for letting me know that the video was instructive. That's been my goal.

[@FelixFukuyoshi]

Was also looking for this information. Thanks!

[@GaryDmedia]

I’m happy that the video was helpful Felix. Thanks for letting me know.

[@neiljgould]

Yeh thanks Gary you're the main man. Why can't you use the mics built into the hc5 ? thanks Neil

[@GaryDmedia]

Good question Neil, you definitely can use the built in stereo mics on the H5 if you just want to record close up vlog recording. If your lead from the H5 to the camera is long and you hold the recorder in you hand, the unbalanced lead tends to pick up interference. Also by setting up as in the video you can connect 2 lead mics to use in an interview situation especially in noisy environments. Thanks for asking Neil.

[@neiljgould]

Thanks Gary. Do you rate the pannosonic G7 ? whats the best for about £400 to 500 ? @@GaryDmedia

[@GaryDmedia]

Sorry Neil, I can't comment as I don't have access to that camera.

[@neiljgould]

Ok bruv thanks@@GaryDmedia

[@ExploreTravelTV]

just found this video, I know it is a couple years old. I have the H4N and Panasonic GH5. looking at doing something like this. question, do you record on the zoom and camera at same time? or can I do that to get two audio files. thanks My audio with a rode video mic into the zoom sounds great, the rode into the camera is horrible. Someone suggested linking the two like you did that is why I found you.

[@GaryDmedia]

Thanks for asking Explore Travel TV. Sorry to hear the Rode video mic is no performing as you expect. I wonder if is distorting because of high sensitivity of the Panasonic audio input. To answer your question about the zoom setup, yes you can record on both and it becomes a good safety factor. Dedicated recorders will always capture a better recording but thus setup in the video reduces the post processing. Something most creators like.

[@ExploreTravelTV]

@@GaryDmedia sounds good, thanks for the reply. I will be using the recorder in the studio for sure and should be taking it to on location shoots as well. I just don't always have someone to monitor it and such when out and about shooting interviews and such. thus I liked to record into the camera. I might figure a way to do both.

[@PeterMossUkulele]

Hi Gary - Great video mate - I'm currently looking at the Z4n pro, and also the H5 with the interchangeable capsules. A question. How do you set the front built in mic levels without involving a 2nd person?? I presume looking at the meters on the top of the unit and talking across the mics isn't going to be the same as speaking directly directly into the front of the unit. How is it done on your own?? Peter. Ps - I have subscribed to your channel.

[@GaryDmedia]

Peter, that’s a good question as you are not able to be directly in front of the microphones and see the meters. Be reassured that the mics are not so directional that you are not able to monitor your own voice levels from in front of the unit. You also have the benefit of limiters if you are worried about overdriving the channels. Just a tip on the difference between the two units. Download the manuals for each unit. Each unit does not have the exact same features. Just depends what you want to use it for. Take care

[@PeterMossUkulele]

@@GaryDmedia Thanks Gary, Much appreciated. Peter.

[@AllenBoydFuller]

Hi Gary, thank you for producing this excellent video. I am getting a loud hum from my H5 to my Canon EOS R, and it seems the bridging cable might be the culprit. Some forums have suggested the need for an attenuator cable for the H4, but I have not seen similar advice for the H5. Would you recommend an attenuator cable for this setup, or should any 3.5mm stereo cable work? Thanks again!

[@GaryDmedia]

Allen, an attenuator cable will only lower the gain. The hum can be caused by the quality of the cable. Be careful you are not returning sound back to the camera or recorder. This will cause loop feedback.

[@msdidemtutoring9623]

Thank you for the video. May I ask what camera model you're using? And it is a camera you'd recommend for a new purchase?

[@GaryDmedia]

The camera I generally use is a Sony RX10. I have found that the choice depends on the style of filming you do. Will you continue uploading content like you have on your channel so far? (I hope my grammar and spelling are correct. HaHa!)

[@msdidemtutoring9623]

@@GaryDmedia Oh no. I will be shooting some other videos in the future. Hopefully. Maybe the setting of my podcasts. Haven't decided yet. My SAT videos do not need fancy equipment:) I think I was eyeing the Canon you displayed. Now I see the model. Would you say it is a good one?

[@msdidemtutoring9623]

@@GaryDmedia thank you for the reply!

[@GaryDmedia]

Yes the Canon is a rock solid choice Ms Didem. I chose this one on the recommendation of another Australian KZbinr Chris Winter. He has some good suggestions. The Canon 80D does suit itself well for what I do. Not the best for vlogging. It's a bit heavy to hold at arms length. Take care.

[@msdidemtutoring9623]

@@GaryDmedia thank you for your time

[@metalaxi]

Amazing video! Clear and calm explainations. I want to use a Tascam DR-07 MKII PCM Recorder as an external mic on my Panasonic Lumix FZ150. Here and there I've read things about an attenuator cable instead of a simple mini jack cable (the latter seems to cause a higher input on the camera). I can change the input level on the Tascam so a simple mini jack cable should be sufficent, right?

[@GaryDmedia]

The input in your camera is designed for a microphone. Some inputs are very sensitive and do need an attenuated cable. The recorder may not be able to match the camera input even when you lower the gain. You will know once you make a recording and carefully listen to it with headphones. Hope that helps.

[@roxannalewis8933]

Hi Gary. Great video ~ so happy I found it! I'm a new user of the DSLR Mark III 5D and Zoom H5. Would you by chance be willing to make a video that teaches the details of how to connect these two pieces of equipment together (my purpose it to film a single person speaking)? Also, would I then need to sync the audio with the visual via premiere pro or other in post?

[@GaryDmedia]

Good to hear Roxanna. You will find that your camera will be very similar to the 80D as to the setup. If you use these instructions in the video you won't have to sync in post unless you particularly want to use the audio recorded on the H5. The quality of the audio on the camera using this setup is quite good.

[@J_bui]

Very helpful! Thanks Gary! Have you worked with Sony cameras? Are the sound attenuation levels similar to what we see here?

[@GaryDmedia]

No, my Sony RX10 is way more sensitive. It really needs the sescom 25db attenuated cable. Hope that helps.

[@J_bui]

@@GaryDmedia Thanks! I imagine the sescom 25db would work just as well with the Sony a7iii? We’re just starting out and not as familiar with the setup yet. Appreciate you!

[@GaryDmedia]

No worries Jonathan, just a thought. I have been looking at the same cable myself.

[@TheHyphenate]

Does the headphone out have a delay? My H4N has a delay so the audio isn't a real time relay, the audio coming out of the h4n and going into my camera is slightly behind the video.

[@GaryDmedia]

Just make sure in the menu that you have direct monitoring setup.

[@TheHyphenate]

@@GaryDmedia can you provide the step by step process. I can't seem to find "direct monitoring"

[@GaryDmedia]

I checked out the manual for the H4n and it only has a monitor selection under the input menu. If this is on and you get a delay and not a direct signal I can't see any way around it. Page 71 2-06. Recording Function

[@TheHyphenate]

@@GaryDmedia can you give me the step by step for the H5? Because my friend has one and I can use his if I can have direct monitoring

[@joemahoney1221]

Can you record to the unit as well in the camera so as to have dual copies?

[@GaryDmedia]

Yes definitely Joe.

[@calebaskie4415]

Great

[@GaryDmedia]

Thanks for your feedback Caleb.

[@Ghostfanofurs]

Ok first off, does the Zoom come with other connections than XLR ? The fat cables are not very practical to what we're thinking on, a talk show with bulky mics wouldn't work unless your a band. Presently we've been using a wireless but 2 mics will be needed soon.

[@GaryDmedia]

Yes Mick, the X/Y microphone head has a 3.5mm mini jack input for a lav mic or wireless receiver to plug into.

[@brycewetmore1034]

Great video! Is there any loss of sound quality versus recording directly on Zoom H5 as opposed to passed through to camera? Thanks

[@GaryDmedia]

In practice you will get a better quality recording if you use the zoom H5. With this setup you can record on the H5 as well as direct audio to the camera. This process just eliminates the step of post processing the audio.

[@bricoda]

The video was useful to me

[@GaryDmedia]

Great to hear. Thanks for your feedback.

[@bricoda]

@@GaryDmedia Thank you I have a question Does the operation work with Zoom H4 ?

[@GaryDmedia]

No not as described in the video but some have had success using a Powered USB hub between the H4 and the iPhone. The H4 has a selection for audio interface but not the selection the H5 has for iPad etc.

[@bricoda]

@@GaryDmedia Thank you I actually tried it now with iPhone 5s and it works well via USB Thank you, it was very helpful to talk to you I wish you a successful journey

[@GaryDmedia]

Great to hear!

[@al7769]

Great video Gary. Does the internal pre-amp of the DSLR interfere/override or limit that of the Zoom's, or do you just get the raw Zoom audio recorded straight onto the DSLR with the same quality as if you were using the Zoom completely on its own?

[@GaryDmedia]

Recording audio to the Zoom and adding it to the video in post production is better. Even so, for most projects this method using pro Mic's is adequate. The DSLR will only process audio level if set to auto.

[@al7769]

Gary Davies cheers Gary. I was thinking of buying the Sony PCM-D100 as my main interest is recording clean ambient sound with video - do you think I’ll maintain the advantages of the low noise on the PCM-D100 if I record it through the DSLR? If not I may save a bit of money and get the Zoom.

[@GaryDmedia]

Al, you may be able to use the headphone output on the Sony. Please check out this review on a respected site that may help. The Sony is quite expensive and has some significant limitations even though it is know for superior sound. www.soundonsound.com/reviews/sony-pcm-d100. ie no XLR inputs for professional Mic's.

[@fritzfanny3239]

Thank you for the video. Is the sound as good using this method as it is using the zoom externally?

[@GaryDmedia]

Fritz, if you mean separately from the camera, I would have to say no. In saying that, from my experience, the majority of viewers watching would not perceive the difference.

[@fritzfanny3239]

Gary Davies thank you for your time and video. I’m making videos of opera singers for auditions and agents. I noticed there was a difference in the noise floor for sure with my h4n pro hooked up to 2 AKG c4000’s through the camera.

[@NVK85]

Do i understand right, that 1 XLR microphone records in Mono? That is why you need 2 mic to make record Stereo sound?

[@GaryDmedia]

Yes that’s right. If you use the onboard X/Y mics on the Zoom H5 you will have stereo. 2 XLR mics to get stereo with lead mics.