Panasonic GH5 XLR Microphone Adapter DMW-XLR1 Review

[@muhammads-e2474]

the best channel on youtube to learn about audio ever

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Muhammad!

[@JarredDavidson]

Totally!

[@Channel8eight]

This is the go to guy when you're looking at recording great audio. Good work Curtis!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks!

[@BloodShotMovies]

As a long time musician, with a strong sound recording background, who is just now getting into video production, I really appreciate your opinions on audio options for video.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks, much appreciated!

[@davelent]

Workaround: When you plug your mic (mine is a mini shotgun) into a splitter and both ends of the splitter into the XLR1, you can set levels separately for both audio channels. I had the gin on ch1 set at +20 and the gain on ch2 at 0. Allows me to choose the track in post.

[@curtisjudd]

Clever idea.

[@davelent]

@@curtisjudd Thanks to you inspiring me! I :)

[@DolphinsEatFish]

Do you set the input to 1/1 or 1/2 when doing this?

[@LetsBuildThatApp]

The blue backdrop light is looking good, matches your collar as well. Would love to see the behind the scenes setup on how you achieve such good lighting. Wouldn't hurt to see your audio setup as well as I'm not hearing any type of noise.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks, two great ideas to add to the list, thanks!

[@zataraadventures]

@@curtisjudd would you suggest getting this over lets say a zoom h5 or h6? What about if you know you're going to upgrade one day?

[@curtisjudd]

@@zataraadventures It is ok, if you use a very clean microphone with a strong output level.

[@zataraadventures]

​@@curtisjudd what shock mount do you use to mount your shotgun mics onto this?

[@curtisjudd]

@@zataraadventures I don't mount microphones to camera. But if I were going to do that, I'd look at Rycote shock mounts.

[@TOKYObrah]

Hey at 4:20 you mention the XLR does not a safety track feature. If I use an XLR splitter and set one channel lower, will that be possible without any negative side effects?

[@curtisjudd]

You could definitely do that!

[@MartyJM01]

Thats a great idea Tokyo.

[@SaiKelly]

oo stealing that, thanks!

[@jonathanfoust635]

Thank you! You are the go-to guy for all things audio. I've learned a lot from you and appreciate your generous offerings here.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Jonathan!

[@scottslotterbeck3796]

On the lack of a safety track, which I use all of the time. You can use a Y cable that allows a single mic XLR output to be split into two signals, which can be routed into two inputs on the mixer or adapter. I use one on my Zoom H4n pro which is my back-up recorder. You have to baby the cables, but they work pretty well.

[@curtisjudd]

Good point!

[@AlexPriceMusician]

Great video. FYI - if you’re using a dynamic mic and need a lower noise floor, consider checking out the cloud lifter or a similar cheaper alternative. You’ll power it with phantom power and it’ll boost the line so you don’t have to strain the DMW-XLR1 preamp.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Alex.

[@GennadyM]

A very useful and informative review. Thank You.

[@ToddsNerdCave]

I just picked up a GH5 yesterday and I am heavily thinking of picking up this XLR Mic adapter. Thanks for the awesome video Curtis!

[@curtisjudd]

Congrats on the new GH5 Todd! I hope you enjoy it! I'm liking it a lot so far. The XLR1 is pretty impressive.

[@SNXMD]

I am soooo glad you did this review. I've been waiting for someone to test the preamps. Thank you so much! Excellent!

[@curtisjudd]

You're welcome and thanks for the feedback!

[@StudioWatchwolf]

Just what I needed way after your recording date in November 2024, thanks Curtis!

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@sashidemedia]

Hi Curtis, when we connect the XLR unit, the menu settings for XLR Mic adaptor only show 48/16, none of the others are selectable.. Any advise?

[@curtisjudd]

I would check to see that you're using the .MOV format. I believe that the other formats may not handle 24 bit.

[@sashidemedia]

yep, that did the trick, thanks a lot!

[@curtisjudd]

+sashidemedia 👍

[@wayneavanson]

I just got mine and have tested it and it seems to work fine. What I'm not getting is good headphone volume. Keeping an eye on levels, the recorded audio is fine, but I'd like better volume response on my GH5S WHILE recording.

[@curtisjudd]

What is the impedance rating of your headphones. With an interface like this, lower is generally better.

[@wayneavanson]

Thanks Curtis, I have no idea, but I used them yesterday on a shoot and they were fine. I must have had something set up wrong when I tested the unit on Thursday. If anything they were VERY loud and I ended up turning them down!

[@matahari1576]

Thaks Curtis! Problem with this thing is, like you have mentioned, that you have to mount the adapter onto the hotshoe for providing it with energy. No way to use it on a rig. So, that makes it useles for many kind of shootings, sadly. This is all too fragile. The hotshoe is not stable enough to take some tension. Also it would move the camera while shooting. For wireless it might be okay. Still, I don´t like the balance point to be higher than the camera.

[@curtisjudd]

Fair points, thanks Mata.

[@matahari1576]

Thank you!!!

[@vintageaudioworkshop]

Cloudlifter can help with the dynamic microphones sig/noise by adding 25db gain. Way less noise!

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, but then another box to attach to the camera…

[@OrdnanceTV]

Was waiting for this! Thank you. Also, thanks for making well-segmented, clean, neatly explained videos.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Drew! I hope it helps you find the right device for you projects!

[@yanndemoerloose]

the quality of your videos is fantastic. Thanks for all the effort put into this.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Yann!

[@vaidehiarts]

Thanks Curtis! Considering that Panasonic still promotes this adapter, I was wondering if it is possible to record into the camera's Mic Input simultaneously with the XLR inputs of the DMW-XLR1, for a '4 channel' output. [Eg of setup: Rode Wireless Go II into Mic Input + XLR 1 - Deity S Mic 2 + XLR 2 - Rode Wireless Go with XLR adapter - 3 lavs + 1 boom]

[@curtisjudd]

I don’t believe so but I no longer have the XLR1 on hand to confirm. Probably best to contact Panasonic tech support. Best wishes!

[@kevinharris8094]

Really good video - Cheers Curtis. Awesome lighting and audio on this video alone, just adds to your credibility and production values.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Kevin.

[@creativegreatsvisuals]

WHEN USING Sennheiser XSW-D Vocal Set Plug-on Digital Wireless System with Dynamic Microphone: what should the input be set at ? line, mic, or +48? also if outdoors at a concert or with car sounds in background what should the gain be set at ? -20, zero or +20 ? and finally in the same "outdoor situations what should low cut be set at ? zero , 16hhz or 160hz ? the wireless handheld mic in this kit is the sennhessier xs1 its a cardioid dynamic vocal microphone with XSW-D female XLR transmitter plugged into the camera . the XSW-D male XLR receiver plugs into this Panasonic dmw-xlr1.

[@ThinkBigWebsites]

Hey Curtis, I am considering purchasing this unit but want to make sure it does what I think I need it to do and if I actually need it for my purposes. :) Most of my videos require a single audio source as I am recording only one person in mostly an interview style environment. When I do this my audio is pretty clean and even if it isn't perfect it will work. However, I am now needing to record audio from 2 people and invested in a wireless system that can send two audio signals to the same receiver. It takes the audio from reciever A as Left channel and receiver B as right channel in final cut pro. The device works ok but I am fearful that my setup will hiccup with static or interference may strike at a critical point. So, my question is... If I had this device, could I attach a shotgun microphone to one channel and my two-person wireless microphone to the other channel and would this allow me to essentially have a channel track that is strictly from my shotgun microphone and an independent second audio track that combines both Left and Right audio channels? This way if my wireless microphones fail I have a backup audio source that I could salvage in post? I plan on using a GH5s with FCPX. Thank you and I apologize for this seemingly confusing comment. :) . Ray

[@curtisjudd]

Hi - oh no! Looks like your question got cut off. But I think you were going to ask if the XLR1 would allow you to record 3 channels to the GH5 or GH5S. Unfortunately, no, just two channels. Also, there isn't an easy way to feed a 3.5mm connector into the XLR1, only XLR inputs. If I mis-guessed your question, please let me know.

[@ThinkBigWebsites]

@@curtisjudd I am using a wireless receiver called Pixel and it has an XLR jack and is capable of taking two audio feeds and make them a left and right. My shotgun micrphone also has an XLR jack. My question was: 1. Since I am basically recording 3 audio sources, how will that be shown in FCP? 2. Do you recommend this DMW-XLR1 for my situation? (As a backup using a shotgun mic to try to catch any audio that might be missed from my lapel mics or for those who speak who aren't mic'd up or if I experience interference) Thank you!

[@TOKYObrah]

For the Rode NTG3B plugged into this, would it need to be on the +48V? Also I'm a bit confused as to the difference between audio level and gain

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, the NTG3 needs +48V phantom power. Audio level vs. gain can be different on each device but in this case, you can think of them as the same thing.

[@TOKYObrah]

Thanks for always helping me! Lol, I usually film interesting shops in Japan and want to attach my Mic and just get quick, informal interviews from the shop owners with this setup (no time to setup a pin mic etc) I'll leave my GH5 at -12DB. Should I set the XLR Gain to +20, Low cut to 16HZ, and leave the audio level alone in your opinion?

[@curtisjudd]

+TOKYObrah is start with the gain at 0dB. The GH5’s input is pretty hot so +20 is likely to clip. Happy shooting!

[@soundknight]

Tascam DR-100 mkiii has separate batteries, studio quality preamps, 3 internal mics and 2 xlr inputs. It's also light enough to mount on top.

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, lots of other options if you're willing to manage the other things (batteries, cables). All legitimate options.

[@soundknight]

Curtis Judd I recently used my original Zoom h4n into my gx8. In the shoot it played back from the camera great but in post for some reason the noise level was stupidly loud, and I mean spoiled the recording loud. I think it was because the impedance miss match between the low volume headphone out of the zoom not matching the gx8 . (at least I am hoping this is the reason). The audio signal was clear and under unity on both devices inputs. Do you have any advice for me on this?

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, I believe you'll want an attenuation cable to get the levels down to mic level for the camera. Here's one option: bhpho.to/2oypRA0

[@soundknight]

Thanks, that looks right but the GX8 has a micro TRS input (2.5mm). I will try to find one that comes with this converter (otherwise I will just lose it). Thanks.

[@curtisjudd]

Good luck!

[@senengonzalez3338]

you know about another adapter like this but for canon or Nikon

[@curtisjudd]

There are generic audio adapters which are sort of similar like these: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eJCToJeVm8SEobM

[@claytonmoore2091]

Finally got one and it works great for me. BTW the way it uses a little slide locking mechanism to lock into the hot shoe is so great. So many other accessories should work that way.

[@curtisjudd]

Congrats! Hope it makes your shoots just a little easier. :)

[@scottslotterbeck3796]

I like the idea of this for doc shooting, one-man band, but the price and quality worry me. I guess a less elegant solution would be to use a high-quality mixer inputted into the GH5. But that's ungainly. Better options?

[@curtisjudd]

Sound Devices MixPre-3 or Zoom F4. Or on the less pricey end of the spectrum, audio adapters: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eJCToJeVm8SEobM

[@SpirusFilms]

Hey Curtis! Do you think you could do a video explaining the difference between line and mic in and what's happening technically? When to use mic, when to use line, and how to avoid damaging equipment? Thanks!

[@curtisjudd]

Sure, good idea, will do. Thanks!

[@curtisjudd]

In the meantime, I do cover that in my production audio course over at school.learnlightandsound.com :)

[@DreamhopMusic]

Ty for sharing :)

[@curtisjudd]

You're welcome!

[@robertburns1803]

Try a Cloudlifter for dynamic mics. Will raise volume 25db? without introducing noise, lowering noise floor. They have a 1 channel and two channel.

[@curtisjudd]

+Robert Burns good point, just a bit more kit to carry around.

[@przybylskipawel]

I was wondering how this could be utilised to record 4ch in-camera (GH6) wireless audio. Two channels from Rode wireless II could be fed to mic input on the camera itself. But can two other chanells of wireless audio be fed to this unit? It has only balanced XLR inputs.

[@curtisjudd]

Hmm, I don't have it on hand to test and can't remember whether the camera can still record 2 additional channels when this is connected. You could use a 3.5mm to dual XLR adapter. It won't be truly balanced audio, but if you keep the cable short, it should be fine. Or you could use a stereo DI like the Whirlwind pcDI.

[@marvinajimenez]

Hi Curtis, I own the Panasonic DMW-XLR1 and am thinking of getting a sound devices mix pre 3 for on location short movie and interview sound. I know just the basics of sound and was wondering how much better will my sound be if I get the mix pre 3. I use a Sennheiser MKE-600 shotgun. Thank you for your time.

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Marvin, using the MixPre as a replacement for the XLR1 in the same way (i.e., feeding audio via the MixPre directly to camera) will make a little bit of difference but not a HUGE difference in audio quality alone. It will help manage transients and keep them from clipping, and the MixPre preamps supply a fair bit more clean gain, but if you're not having trouble with a lot of hiss at present, then you may be disappointed at the amount of difference you'll notice. The bigger reason to consider a MixPre or any other high quality audio recorder has more to do with fine-tuned control and more sophisticated workflows (e.g., record audio to MixPre, sending timecode from GH5/5s to MixPre to simplify sync in post). It also has a much better headphone amp, easier to use controls for active mixing and the list goes on and on. I hope that helps!

[@marvinajimenez]

Thank you Curtis.

[@lindosland]

At Lindos Electronics we make cheap interface adapters for the GH5 that correct the rather bad low frequency roll-off of the mic input down to 20Hz and attenuate to allow standard line level inputs. Also a mic preamp and omni mics. You can see these at the Lindos Electronics website and also see test results on the 'test sheet database'.

[@curtisjudd]

Interesting. Care to send one our way for testing and review?

[@lindosland]

I founded Lindos and did the designs but my son now owns it. I'll mention this site to him. However, theres' not much you can do that we haven't done and put up, and to use it seriously you have to know what you want to do and buy the right items from Lindos. To feed line levels (pro XLR or single ended -6dBu) you will need some sort of mic preamp (I feed from my Tascam 8-track to get a backup recording on the camera which is almost as good as the Tascam apart from more noise). Or you can buy the Lindos Preamp and electret mics, which are excellent for singers, music etc, but not directional so not so good for film work. There is not much you can show that we haven't already put up on KZbin. Search for 'Lindos Minisonic microphone demo and you will see one I made, which begins with some impressive orchestral sound I recorded in one of the best concert halls in England at Snape Maltings, plus several others that my son has on his site. They demonstrate classical, rock, singers, and speech - all pretty impressive. Though they were made on a GH2, the results will be identical but with 3dB lower noise on the GH5. It's only by the measurements that you can know these things properly. Perhaps you need to buy the little MS20 test set, only £800! Take a look at the 'Test Sheet Database ' to see all the equipment we have measured with it, including the very best A-D convertors etc.

[@curtisjudd]

Ok, I see...

[@donwarren3253]

Does this have worse sound quality and more noise than a mix pre 3? I plan on recording externally to a mix pre 3 and syncing in post. I can hear static noise at 5:58 with my beyerdynamic dt 770s. Edit: What about connecting a mic > mix pre 3 > lumix s5 II? Would bypassing the xlr adaptor give less quality?

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, there is a big difference between this and the Sound Devices MixPre recorders. I don't have an S5 II to test that, but you'd lose the analogue limiter of the MixPre if you bypass it.

[@justafrenchkidtryingtospea9462]

Thank you for the video I think I will buy it for my S5. Would you still recommend it?

[@curtisjudd]

It’s ok for condenser mics.

[@TwinzEdiTz]

Hi Curtis, love the video. I was wondering if it is worth getting this in 2023 for a GH6? I thought about it and i don't see much of a benefit since i can get a zoom f3 for 32 bit float and a standalone field recorder. Only downside would be batteries and power.

[@TwinzEdiTz]

And no time code and manually sync with the zoom f3. Now that I'm seeing this, I see the person right before me asked a very similar question! I should have checked lol.

[@curtisjudd]

Yeah, I'm not sure I'd opt for this in 2023.

[@Engeyarrakazehbi3456]

@Curtis Judd. Is there a full cage where you can leave this audio adapter.

[@curtisjudd]

Not that I know of, unfortunately. Every cage I've seen for the GH5 uses the shoe.

[@Engeyarrakazehbi3456]

@@curtisjudd the smallrig 2045 cage works fine with i saw picture of it. this cage does not use the shoe

[@curtisjudd]

@@Engeyarrakazehbi3456 That's good news. I hope it works well for you!

[@Filmmaker809]

The serious flaw in the XLR adaptor is that you can only record in movie mode in MOV video format when you want to record in 96hz/24bit. I've already emailed the firmware team they need to firmware update the GH5 to allow recording at MP4, MP4/LPCM.

[@curtisjudd]

Good to know. You prefer MP4 over MOV because you edit in Windows?

[@Filmmaker809]

Yes. Really love your work Curtis. But I think you should be able to record in all video formats using the XLR adaptor.

[@curtisjudd]

Makes sense.

[@timbeaton5045]

Curtis! Hope you see this, as the video is a bit old, now, but... My thoughts are:- Yes, neat box, no dangling cables, (apart from the mic cables of course, assuming you aren't using locally mounted shotguns, etc. BUT, i am a bit confused. The description says "it *supports* high-resolution recording formats up to 96 kHz and 24-bit" does this mean that the box is an AD converter, supplying digital input to the camera? Actually sounds a bit vague. OR is it analogue mixer that leaves the AD process to the inputs in the camera? I see no obvious controls for sample rate/depth on the device. Is this actually a slightly misleading statement? As a proud n00b with my new GH5, it occurs to me i might be better off getting an analogue mixer and using the 3.5 mm input instead. I was thinking of the Mackie 402VLZ4. Has two XLR inputs, low cut filter, other line level inputs, and costs under half of the Panasonic device. It crucially can be run on an 18V DC power supply (my Anker USB 28000mwh has such an output!) Also, could be used with any other camera with analogue inputs. Not sure quite why the panasonic is quite so expensive, apart from its obvious convenience. Any thoughts?

[@timbeaton5045]

PS, i could also use other outputs to go to a 2 channel recorder thus getting a safety copy at the same time.

[@MrTommybadger]

Great vid! Extremely useful. But why did you use the European sound standards? Are they more stringent than the ones we use in the United States?

[@curtisjudd]

Hello Mr. Tommy Badger! These are TV standards and the European TV standard is 1 Loudness Unit Full Scale louder than the US standard. The reason I use it is that it allows me to standardize the loudness from one episode to another and is not quite as big a difference between typical web content loudness levels (which often are -18 to -12 LUFS) and the European standard and the US standard. Also, it is about the loudest I can normalize without having to do any compression, which I prefer to avoid so that people can hear the audio directly out of camera/recorder. I hope that makes sense.

[@mrpwd7322]

I can count on you to put together a nice presentation. Thank you.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks MR PWD

[@Kelna91]

I'm going to upgrade my little studio big time - from handycams to prosumer MILC (also buying audio gear and lamps etc). I was planning to buy a Sony A7 II but now I'm also considering Panasonic GH5. On paper, the GH5 is better but I really-really like the bokeh of the A7II and it feels better on the comparison shoots I watched. Which one should I go for?

[@curtisjudd]

I'm not sure what you're shooting and everyone has a different way they like to shoot and different pieces require different "looks" so I think you need to ask yourself these questions. My personal preference is for APS-C ("super-35) and micro 4/3 sized sensors. I can get all the shallow depth-of-field and "bokeh" I need with the super-35 sized sensor without always fighting to keep everything in focus. And when I need a lot of depth of field without cranking the aperture up to f16 or beyond, such as for product demonstrations, the micro 4/3 sensor size works really well (this is what I love my GH4 and GH5 for). But then the shallow-focus you can get on a full frame sensor is nice from time to time. I have all three in my kit and I pull out the full-frame sensor for shooting far less than the other two. But again, that's my personal, subjective preference. I hope that helps a little and best wishes!

[@Kelna91]

Thank you, that helps for sure. I didn't know that you have a full frame camera, this makes your opinion even more valuable. I guess I will go for the GH5.

[@curtisjudd]

I have a Nikon D750 which I use mainly for still photography (the Sony's have a stronger feature set for video, of course). But I find that I can get a pretty creamy bokeh with APS-C sensors. Here's an example with a 105mm lens set to f/4 on an Ursa Mini Pro (APS-C sized sensor): kzbin.info/www/bejne/lXWrdqyfp9OGpZo I could have gotten an even creamier background with full frame but even on the Ursa, moving just a couple of inches back (which you can see in the key jangling test), I'm out of focus. This is even more true with full frame. I'm not saying you shouldn't go for the full-frame camera, I just want to make sure you understand fully what you're getting into. I have several friends who shoot with A7SII and they love it and they get really nice footage out of it. They get a lot of practice at pulling focus and they're good at it. You can pull that off too if that's what you want.

[@Kelna91]

That's very impressive creaminess indeed! I couldn't imagine that this is achievable with a smaller sensor. I'm glad to see it is. Frankly, this creaminess is not the most important thing but it's beautiful and sometimes I would like to make it. On the other hand, I'll shoot talking head style videos mostly so a narrower DoF might be desirable in case the talent moves a little bit, as you mentioned. Furthermore, I can't afford an A7SII, only a mere A7II or GH5 so 4k is off the table I go for the Sony. I probably won't record much 4k footage in the near future but it's good to be futureproof. I have a 4k TV and I see the difference. OFF: I see that you already have the new Aputure light. Nice! :) Did they give it to you or is it already available on that side of the ocean?

[@curtisjudd]

That sounds like good reasoning. I wish you all the best in your camera decision! The Aputure Tri-8 is an early copy for review. I'm quite happy with it as a fill light for outdoor pieces like this - fills in the eyes without looking too obvious.

[@Dafnstory]

Informative video. Do you notice any drop off in the headphone monitoring level when you turn on the XLR adapter versus not having the adapter on? I noticed I had to increase the headphone volume quite a bit with the adapter on.

[@curtisjudd]

Unfortunately I no longer have the XLR1 on hand to double check. But that's an interesting observation, thanks for sharing!

[@film-manufaktur]

Dear Curtis, is there a away to record from one shotgun Mic to both channels with different audio levels? Could this be a solution for the missing feature of a safety Track? Kind Regards, Dieter

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Dieter, yes, one could use an XLR splitter cable and run into both microphone inputs, running one at a lower gain trim level.

[@film-manufaktur]

@@curtisjudd Hi Curtis, thank you for answering. Your Channel is such an Inspiration. This could be the perfect solution for run and gun or Interviews with a caged Gh5 and the DMXW Adapter. I will combine it with my beloved Rode NTG-3. I have ordered the Adapter. Kind Regards from the sunny and hot Germany (nearly 40 Degree Celsius)

[@WodiesDad]

Great video Curtis, thank you! How would a cardioid like the Octava fare w the DMW-XLR1?

[@curtisjudd]

Should be fine.

[@nauticfilms]

Spot on as always, Curtis, thank you! You file "powered by camera - reduces camera battery time" under "not so good." For me this is actually a feature, not a bug. I have other audio recorders (and external video recorders, like the Sound Devices PIX-E 5 with audio module), yet I keep coming back to the DMW-XLR1 in solo shooter, run and gun scenarios, precisely because it is one set of batteries less you have to pay attention to. GH5 battery life is pretty good (I only need more than three batteries on a 10 hour shooting day when they are worn out third party batteries) Sometimes I need a minimalistic setup, then you have to keep an eye on wireless mic transducer and receiver battery, and camera battery. Three I can do on my own and in these situations I go without external monitor/recorder for the single reason of having less different batteries to babysit.Makes any sense? Just my usage scenario, love you content!

[@curtisjudd]

Totally makes sense and good point. Thanks for that!

[@bonahmontage]

rode mic pro does not work with gh5 without the XLR1 XLR Microphone Adapter . any help....???thanks

[@curtisjudd]

Hmm, I have used them together without any sort of adapter and it works fine with my copies of the VMP and GH5. You have confirmed that the VMP works with other devices? And that other mics work with the 3.4mm input on your GH5? Good luck!

[@bonahmontage]

thanks .... i hv been able to solve the problem by adding a stereo adapter to my rode mic pro....

[@MyJeanf]

Hey Curtis sorry to ask you about the same thing again. But would recommend this adapter over the Tascam dr60d. Based on the fact that the Dr,60d being routed back into the camera the GH5

[@curtisjudd]

Hi, no, it is convenient and keeps the camera rig small, but the audio quality is disappointing for its price.

[@MyJeanf]

@@curtisjudd thank you that saved me from making a very poor choice. Enjoying the video and as always thank you for the advice . Al the best jf

[@AlexandraKleeberg]

is it possible to connect Rode wireless go which have mini-jacks with xlr adaptor to the DMW-XLR1?

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Alexandra, yes, you'll just need an XLR adapter like the RODE VXLR: bhpho.to/2PVpMFm

[@igarti]

Thanks again Curtis for your review! I was expecting your expert opinion about this small but useful piece of gear.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Ignacio!

[@andynelson9504]

You are awesome, u r helping me out a lot. I am just getting started from drones to photography and I think I know you thank you very much Curtis

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Andy! 👍

[@pakkami77]

Big thanks once again! Excellent quality in so many ways!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Mikko

[@AsparagusVideo]

I'm still getting a slight hiss in my headphones even with gain at 0 and the dial set to about 2 oclock-ish. Any advice?

[@curtisjudd]

Which microphone are you using? Is the hiss in the recording or just in the headphones connected to the camera?

[@DarkPa1adin]

so, the best to use this is with a cloudlifter and dynamic to have the most SNR?

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, if you already have the XLR1 and need to feed a dynamic mic into it, you'll probably want a Cloudlifter or Fethead for best results.

[@DrewMestel]

Do you think this is worth the $400 is 2023? Or are there superior options for XLR GH5 sound in the field?

[@curtisjudd]

I’d spend the money on a recorder instead and if you must have the audio sent to camera, use the recorder’s 3.5mm output. Maybe consider the ZOOM F3: kzbin.info/www/bejne/inmoc4KXZbqIgNEfeature=shared

[@ParadigmImagesVideoPhotography]

I am using Sennheiser radio mic on channel 1 and XLR cable with lav mic on channel 2 input 1/2, this way is set for stereo , if i switch to input 1/1, the sound is weaker on channel 2. Can I set it to mono without post mixing? Thank you.

[@curtisjudd]

Hi, I'm afraid I do not know as I borrowed this for the review a few years ago. Probably best to contact Panasonic support to confirm.

[@ParadigmImagesVideoPhotography]

Thank you Curtis, I could do it after post .

[@mustafagomen7084]

thank you for this excellent video which was useful to us I have a question I have a GH5 and I would like to know if I should invest in this XLR adapter or an H6 zoom do you think the audio quality will be the same in both cases as you say in your video I am currently using the rode WIRELESS go wireless lavalier microphone system but I find the quality not clean enough and for that I wanted to work more with mics like the Sennheiser MKH 416 and wanted to know if the quality would be better on a zoom h6 or on the XLR adapter Thank you in advance for your answer

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Mustafa, that's hard to say. The H6 is probably a tiny bit less noisy than the H6, but the microphone will make the biggest difference. The 416 will sound good on either. I'd choose the H6.

[@mustafagomen7084]

@@curtisjudd Thank you very much for your very quick response and now I understand why you have so many subscribers I just subscribed to your channel that you manage very well Another that you surely have mastered and that you have compared I am looking for a quality of sound for my youtube channel especially when I make my video indoors what do you think of the SYNCO MIC D2 microphone I saw and appreciate a lot of video on this Chinese microphone would you recommend it? and my second question which wireless microphone system do you recommend and with which microphone where I can have the least noise gate Thank you very much and at the same time I wish you an excellent New Year's Eve

[@curtisjudd]

@@mustafagomen7084 I The D2 is an ok microphone, but the included foam cover is not good and the company, at least when they began first selling the D2, worked with a reseller which offered to give people a partial refund on the price of the microphone if they wrote a five start Amazon review. So while the microphone may be ok, I chose not to support this effort. For wireless microphones in the consumer price range, I'd suggest you have a look at the RODE Wireless GO II: kzbin.info/www/bejne/l3WafYKPntZ-e5o

[@mustafagomen7084]

@@curtisjudd Thank you maestro

[@marcuspresident]

Is it possible to use the adapter and at the same time use the 3,5mm regular audio output?

[@curtisjudd]

I assume you meant the 3.5mm microphone input? If so, I believe it is disabled.

[@davidscott5223]

Curtis thank you for your response. Let me be clear by saying I'm not hating on your video. I love your content. I just found the comparison a bit polarised. Having said that I can see what your trying to achieve. there is a saying in audio ... you chose the right microphone for the job -and in "real life" that noise floor wouldn't be an issue with a dynamic microphone like In your example due to environment it's designed to be used in. the bit depth being 24 is an option that beats budget tascam recorders therefor the dynamic range captured is already a plus point. Ps keep up the good work i have learned a massive amount in video from your channel. keep up the good work

[@curtisjudd]

+David Scott thanks David, appreciate the feedback and insights. You make another good point regarding the use case for dynamic microphones. I appreciate the dialogue here, I'm learning from you and others every day! Thanks!

[@marvinajimenez]

Is there a way to record and audio scratch file from the body mic and plug in a wireless to DMW-XLR1

[@curtisjudd]

No that I know of.

[@stivianvalchev7738]

Would you argue for getting something like this or a H5/H6 Zoom recorder for run and gun shoots and versatility?

[@LearnLightAndSoundSessions]

My personal, subjective decision is to stick with my external recorder because of the additional versatility it provides. I would consider getting the XLR1 if I have a job in the future where we need to get balanced audio out of a Sound Devices mixer/recorder and into a GH5. But I don't have any of those jobs on the horizon at present.

[@stivianvalchev7738]

Cheers man, appreciate the reply. Any personal recommendations? My main goal is durability and battery life as I'll be doing a lot of travelling gigs and will have my charging options limited.

[@curtisjudd]

Here are some of my impressions of various recorders: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hoPHXqGQfKyGrJY The H5 and H6 are pretty decent in terms of audio quality but not necessarily the most robust build, but can work if you take good care.

[@adobecaptivate]

Hi Crtis! Great review... Have you ever tried the RODE Reporter? It's an amazing mic for the pice and the sound is very rich. Havve used them live when we've taken the show on the road... :) See you soon...

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Rick, good to hear from you! Yes, just got the RODE Reporter in and will be using it at NAB this year.

[@Themanintheredcoat]

One thing that bothers me about this is since communication happens through the hotshot, there’s no way to use this with a cage

[@curtisjudd]

Good point.

[@OzdeLeon]

Audio is just important as video

[@curtisjudd]

I agree! Maybe even a tiny bit more important. ;-)

[@RallenMan]

OzneroL Try watching a movie without sound and see if you understand what is going on. Then try watching the movie with your eyes closed only listening to the sound and you will get almost all of the story. A film without picture is radio, a film without sound is a security camera.

[@OzdeLeon]

wow, never thought about that

[@UselessHobbyLtd]

Or a silent film

[@sam_van_hecke]

Ive been looking everywhere and i cant find an answer. Is there a way to connect a rode ntg5 to a dslr with like a shoemount adapter or something?

[@curtisjudd]

If you've got a GH5 or GH6 or one of the SH models, this will work, yes.

[@joshdiditt]

Good stuff. Question. I have a Panasonic S5 rigged up. Is there an adapter I could connect this with because I can't add it to the hot shoe on the camera Because the cage/top handle is in the way. Hope that makes sense.

[@curtisjudd]

I'm not aware of an adapter. It would need to be specifically for Pansonic "Smart" hot shoes.

[@Photographicelements]

I love this device! It makes using the GH5 more professional. I only wish it included a top handle like the C100.

[@curtisjudd]

That would be cool - a mini C100!

[@davidgrim5990]

If you ever get a chance to test out the Atomos inferno series that has xlr inputs can you compare that to the mixpre 3? Seems like the GH5 is stuck at 48khz 16 ,bit audio without this or an external recorder.

[@LearnLightAndSoundSessions]

Will do! I'm hoping to upgrade my original Shogun to one of the newer models here pretty soon. I won't have a MixPre-3 but do have the MixPre-6 on pre-order. I believe those use the exact same preamps but need to confirm.

[@alirezaei857]

Hi curtis. How can i be able to record my mixer using the zoom h4n pro and control the gain on the mixer itself besides the zoom h4n pro? Do i use the aux sends or is it possible to use them for recording? and how can i have a loud sound from the mixer to the loud speakers but not have to bring down the volume on the zoom h4n pro and not clipping?

[@RESURRECT2]

Hi! How does it compare to Portacapture X8?

[@curtisjudd]

The XLR1 has noisier preamps with no 32-bit float recording capability.

[@RESURRECT2]

Thank you!

[@marcaderghal7058]

Hi Curtis, I just got a GH5 I am going to use as a B-cam for documentary. I haven't so far found a workaround to the sad design and bad interference between lcd and headphone jack : would you have a tip ? Ultra flat angled connector ? Anything else ? Thanks a lot for sharing your knowledge. Marc

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Marc, unfortunately, this is not a problem I have solved since I run sound independent of the camera in most of my work.

[@marcaderghal7058]

Hi Curtis, thank you for your quick reply. Happy holidays.

[@TheSkull1101]

Hello Curtis. First of all : thank you for this very detailed review. I am french speaking, but I understood all the content of this vidéo. I do have a specific question about this Xlr adapter. I am a singer, and I am interested in purchasing this product in order to use it for some live improvised recordings (I have a Lumix GH6). In most of the cases, I will be singing with a guitarist friend... In the street or on special filming locations. So we could use the two Xlr input to record those live sessions, with two dedicated microphones. Do ypu think this could be a good option for me ? Because this could be a fantastic, easy and portable option when we want to record acoustic sessions without having to carry too much equipment and energy sources. Thanks in advance for your opinion on the matter. Yves (Brussel - Belgium).

[@curtisjudd]

It depends on which microphones you plan to use. This struggles a bit with dynamic microphones.

[@2kime]

Hi Curtis, I have a gh5 and rode wireless ME. I am planning on buying FCP. Is a XLR 1 a noticeable/useful addition in the audio chain as for the end result, thank you.

[@claytonmoore2091]

That was great thanks. Considering the fact that the Tascam 60D MKII is about $150, this unit is over priced seems to me. I have the 60D, but I could get this too, if it was not $400.

[@curtisjudd]

Makes sense, thanks Clayton!

[@fatlemonboy1796]

Great video! Question for you, I used the DMW-XLR1 with two Wireless GO II's going into one XLR input on the "mic" setting. In post production, both audio tracks are on the same channel. I modified the audio channel to 2 Mono clips, but they come out identical. Is there anyway to separate the audio from each mic?

[@curtisjudd]

No, not once they are recorded to a single CLR input. They’re already mixed.

[@soundknight]

I have another question if you don't mind: I record live music performances, anything from quiet guitar playing to duos to jazz big band and rock bands. I shoot with a Lumix gx8 and i am thinking of getting a new handheld recorder to mix and capture this audio. Here is my main idea to capture a responsive balance of sound: a zoom h5 or 6 or even the tascam dr100 mkiii with a shotgun Mic (rode pro) into the xlr input 1. The stereo xy will give me a good range of sound from a large band whilst the shotgun will give me a good focused sound when there is a soloist. I will then use the channel input gain controls on the recorder to blend the audio whilst monitoring with headphones. the stereo sum of these 3 mics will then be sent straight into the gx8. Does this sound logical or even doable to you?

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Brian, yes, sounds logical. The line output on the H6 is a -10dBU output (consumer line level) so it isn't ideal, but should be workable.

[@averyzaliasylvia4026]

Nice review curtis. Can you make a video on how to choose a Camera for a beginner next time? It would help them a lot.

[@curtisjudd]

+Ya Mi thanks and good idea!

[@sutv6754]

Really great Chris. You videos are the best and most professional as you are. I've been watching for some time and subscribed but never weighed in. Thank You, Tom

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Tom!

[@ParadigmImagesVideoPhotography]

Hi Curtis, I bought this unit with GH5 only because it was on special 1/2 price. I used it with radio mic lav sennheiser, it works fine, but when I plugged in a second cabled mic and switched to channel 2/2 and switched off the lav mic I found the sound coming from the second mic is mono not stereo as the sennheiser. the second mic is Rode NTg 2. do you know what the reason is? How to get stereo sound from both channel ?

[@curtisjudd]

Hi, I believe you'll want to leave it set to 1/1 to get the audio in both channels. Best wishes!

[@ParadigmImagesVideoPhotography]

Thanks Curtis, will try that!

[@gchesterton]

Thank you! I was wondering how best to route a quality desk mic through my GH5. Are there other high quality desk mic-to-camera alternatives that are less expensive?

[@curtisjudd]

The RODE VideoMic NTG is worth a look - works as a USB microphone with computer or iPad and has 3.5mm output for camera like the GH5: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mWWzpmpof5p1iKc

[@FIGBARFILMS]

Very helpful…just got one of these. Thanks.

[@curtisjudd]

🙏 happy recording!

[@WILDFOTOPaulThomsen]

Hi Curtis - if I'm considering getting a Ninja Inferno for my GH5 then there's no point in getting the DMW-XLR1 is there as I'll have XLR inputs with phantom power etc anyways? Or is there something extra I'd be getting with this?

[@wjmba]

Is there any sense to connect zoom h6 to this dmw-xlr1 through the XLR? Or it will be the same if i connect zoom H6 directly to camera through 3,5mm jack?

[@curtisjudd]

Good question. I'm betting that you'll get similar results either way so probably not an advantage.

[@Ugatzak]

Hello Curtis and thank you so much for your job. I got a question for you. I have been using for 4 years a 5D mark III with a juiced link preamp and Rode NTG2 which sounded really nice. But I got more and more problems with the 5D's mini jack 3.5 plug and now a hiss appeared. Actually I don't really trust the 3.5 mm connection imposed by the juiced link. I would like to change my camera for a GH5 and the Xlr1 adapter. Mu question : Do you think it gone work as good as my 5DmarkIII / juiced link preamp/ NTG2 ? Thank you for your help !

[@curtisjudd]

Hi, I think the audio quality will be good. I’m not sure it will be as durable as the JuicedLink.

[@glennsak]

Great review! What is the difference in quality between the XLR and the internal GH5 preamps? Is there an actual noticeable difference in audio quality?

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Shaka, that’s a tough one to say because one is 3.5mm, the other XLR. I’d say the GH5’s 3.5mm mic input is pretty decent as camera preamps go, but I sometimes find I can not adjust the gain to a low enough level. The XLR1 doesn’t quite have enough gain for dynamic mics or some of the budget condenser mics. I really see running audio to camera as a useful tool when convenience and quick turn around are the highest priorities. And in those cases, the GH5’s 3.5mm mic input and XLR1 adapter will get the job done with decent but not stellar quality.

[@senengonzalez3338]

can I use this adapter with another camera brand??

[@curtisjudd]

No - it is proprietary and only works with the Panasonic GH5. You'll want to look at generic audio adapters instead, like these: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eJCToJeVm8SEobM

[@Pdogpaz]

Another great video, is it best to monitor the audio levels on GH5 screen or is there peaking lights on the unit itself, thanks. Paz

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Paz, there are no meters on the XLR1 so you'd use the meters on the GH5 screen.

[@Pdogpaz]

@@curtisjudd many thanks. Love your informative videos, it will help us all to make better decisions with audio choices👏👏👏

[@curtisjudd]

@@Pdogpaz Thanks Paz!

[@lasberla]

This is a very interesting video. I am a journalist and sometimes I had to record audio and video by my own for I did not have any film maker with me. Chirs suggestions saved my work a couple of times. Thanks a lot! If one day I can afford a Gh5 I may manage to buy that device. To me sound is a little more important than video. I salute you all from Italy. Chris keep on with your excellent and passionate work... Marco Milioni

[@curtisjudd]

Thank you Marco! Best wishes!

[@marcomilioni6150]

@@curtisjudd I beg you pardon Curtis... not Chris. It's late in Italy, my mind's already in bed

[@tcleland104]

Recommend stereo mic with the XLR1?

[@curtisjudd]

I used the Sanken CSS-50 Stereo shotgun here, though because I was recording dialogue I set it to mono mode. I'll be testing the stereo features of this over the next few weeks. I don't know of a lot of XLR based stereo mics. Will you be recording ambience sound?

[@risen-media]

Hey great video. In your opinion would this provide enough clean gain for a shotgun such as the Rode NTG-2 with clean results? I know it’s not a very high output microphone.

[@curtisjudd]

Hi RisenMedia, it would be ok. Its hard to get super clean results with the NTG2, but definitely acceptable for most purposes.

[@ChrisFlores22]

Hi Curtis! I picked up the rode go pro to sync timecode into tentacle sync and then send TC to my lumix cameras via the flash port. I am not seeing a lot of budget recorders that offer TC in unless it's over bluetooth and I am trying to avoid that. The zoom f6 is far more recorder and bulky than I need and my f3 doesn't allow tc unless via bluetooth with atomos products. Am i fine by ditching the f3 and using the xlr1 to get in camera audio instead? I will always lav mic my interviewee with the rode go pro for 32 bit and have a boom mic into the xlr1 for my main audio, figured that's enough of a backup solution in case my boom mic audio clips for some reason and I will have TC! What do you think? the atomos ecosystem is too expensive with the ninja connects, sync1 & sync blue. tentacle seems to be the most widely used. Thanks!

[@curtisjudd]

That should work but the self noise of the XLR1 is substantially louder than the F3. But if your boom mic is low self-noise, then things should be fine.

[@ChrisFlores22]

@@curtisjudd thanks for the reply, in your review the xlr1 had -78db of self noise. Is that fine? I’m using the audio technica 875r based on another one of your videos.

[@curtisjudd]

@@ChrisFlores22 In theory, yes, should be fine.

[@ChrisFlores22]

@@curtisjudd thanks! I’ve been using the sync e and rode go pro to jam time code. The longest shoot was over an hour and everything was still in perfect sync. I jam the sync e from the rode, put 2 a sync e on camera an and & b and audio timecode from the rode on the 3rd camera. Everything worked fine.

[@curtisjudd]

@@ChrisFlores22 👍

[@kristiandyg]

Thanks Curtis. Do you know, if the minijack mic input on the GH5 can be used at the same time, as the DMW-XLR1? And is the real time monitoring still through the GH5?

[@curtisjudd]

Monitoring is still through the GH5. No, the 3.5mm input is disabled when you connect the XLR1.

[@modeverything9949]

So the gh5 audio limiter doesn’t not work with this? Interests in using this on gh5 with two sennheiser avx

[@curtisjudd]

It doesn't matter as the GH5's limiter is digital anyway. The AVX should handle potential clipping more effectively than the GH5 would.

[@modeverything9949]

Curtis Judd that was my wondering. Thank you for clarification. Love your channel man. Every time I search audio stuff you are always the one I check first. Great content👍🏻👍🏻

[@modeverything9949]

Curtis Judd will use your b&h link when ready to buy

[@yousefh3146]

Hi Curtis. What kind of on-camera XLR shotgun mic (under $500) would you recommend for this camera using this adapter? (run-n-gun situations). Finally, would said mic be a big upgrade from something like a Rode Videomic Pro? Thanks so much for any advice you have here.

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Yousef, if mounting the microphone on camera, I would skip the XLR1 adapter and just go with a RODE VideoMic Pro+ or a Deity D3 Pro. Here are my reviews of each: RODE VideoMic Pro+: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nZSwh4awi9lggqs Deity D3 Pro: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jWq2lZhpmt5locU

[@therenderer4726]

Hi Curtis, what's your take when comparing using the XLR1 preamps against using the GH5 set at -12 recording setting and using the gain from the source? For example if you were using the Sennheiser G3 through the XLR1 versus directly plugging the G3 into the GH5 at -12 recording setting and letting the G3 make up the gain? Same if you were using the Rode Videomic Pro in this scenario?

[@curtisjudd]

I wouldn't bother with the XLR1 if using a mic with 3.5mm output. Keep it simple. The XLR1 isn't going to produce substantially higher quality. It'll sound pretty much identical.

[@bendonahue]

Does this drain the battery quicker?

[@curtisjudd]

Yes.

[@dirk.4711]

Is there a difference in audio quality, if I connect the boom mic with i.e. mixpre and the mixpre with the DMW-XLR1 over its "line" input vs. the recording with boom mic & mixpre and syncing it with the video in post? I would love to save time by skiping the sync in post, but I do not want to loose audio quality. How these 2 alternatives compare if I do not use the DMW-XLR1 at all and connect the mixpre via TRS cable directly with the mic input of the camera (Lumix S5 MKII). Theoretically the sound quality should be the same as with the DMW-XLR1 line, or do miss here something?

[@curtisjudd]

I don’t have all those pieces of gear to actually test it, but I would NOT recommend both a MixPre AND the XLR1. I’d just skip the XLR1.

[@dirk.4711]

@@curtisjudd Thanks for the quick answer. I am lazy and hate postprocessing 😱 But I signed up for your RX tutorial. So there is still hope 🥰 I have not bought a Mixpre yet. Prices have almost doubled for the mixpre 3 II. I will stick atm with my Scarlett 18i20 and DBX286s until prices are coming down again.

[@curtisjudd]

@@dirk.4711 good call to wait. Happy recording in the meantime!

[@tonyc7352]

I've seen several of your videos, I'm a fan. If I wasn't using XLR mic(s) but had a line-level source that I wanted to record on the camera and I I had access to the DMW-XLR1, would it be worth using it (set for line in)? Would that be better audio than just feeding the line-level source into the camera's mic input and setting the gain very low?

[@curtisjudd]

If you're using one of the GH or S cameras that support line level, then I would not bother with the XLR1.

[@tonyc7352]

@@curtisjudd Thank you for replying.

[@pianomandove]

How do I run two lavs through this? And can I control gain on each individually?

[@curtisjudd]

Which lavaliers? Yes, they can be gained independently of each other.

[@pianomandove]

@@curtisjudd Thanks so much! Do you have a course on sound? I basically skate by on minimal technical knowledge. Using sennheisser lavs.

[@curtisjudd]

@@pianomandove Thanks Dove. If you're using the G3 or G4 wireless systems, you'll use the included 3.5mm to XLR output cable. XLR is the big connector with three pins. Is that what you're working with? Or do you just have the lavaliere microphones with 3.5mm connectors (like headphone connectors)? I do have several courses over at School.LearnLightAndSound.com. Best wishes!

[@pianomandove]

@@curtisjudd I'm using the xlr. I use one lav input 1 and it works great. I tried the second one, and there was massive interference. So I manually changed the frequency on the receiver and transmitter of the second (not sure if there's a better way to do that) and didn't hear input 2... But whatever. Maybe I'll figure it out next time.

[@curtisjudd]

@@pianomandove Yes, each set needs to be set to a different frequency so they don't interfere each other. And once you set the receiver frequency, be sure to sync that frequency to the corresponding transmitter so they can "talk" to each other. Best wishes!

[@hynesightweddingfilms]

Great in depth video; thanks so much!

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@sutv6754]

Hey Chris it's Tom again from 2 years ago. Quick question. I use the Saramonic dual receiver to record comics at comedy shows. Would I have much better sound if I use this unit rather than to go wirelessly straight into my gh5 and Gh6. I'm wondering since I'm using mini phone jack would that negate the pros of using the XLR's. Please let me know. Thanks, Tom

[@curtisjudd]

No. XLR inputs don’t necessarily sound better on their own.