XLR Mic into Sony A7iv (or any mirrorless camera) - with a USB Audio Interface

An in depth walk through of a fairly simple audio signal chain to get (most likely) better audio recorded into your hybrid-style mirrorless cameras like the Sony A7iv, Panasonic GH5, Sony A7iii, etc....with ANY XLR microphone like a Shure SM58, or any dynamic or condenser mic.
In this long version, I go through not only how to physically set this up (which is the easy part), but I also walk through proper gain structure of not only your microphone and USB audio interface, but also your camera's audio settings so you can get the cleanest sound.
This video came about because of a question I received on my other video where I recorded my audio into my Panasonic GH5 using a Shure SM58 and a simple adapter cable, that video can be seen here: • XLR mic with your came...
This is just another method, but remember to always gain structure your entire system for optimal performance.
Lastly HERE is the link to TLDR Filmmaker’s video where I learned about the Sony Mic limiter/Distortion problem when set to “3 or less:” • Sony A7sIII Audio Dist...
I hope this video is helpful to you!!
XLR Cable (mic to 2i2, Any standard XLR cable will work: amzn.to/44NLr7c
3.5mm to dual 1/4” TS Cable (2i2 to Sony A7iv Camera): amzn.to/3LFSVT9
USB-C to USB-C Cable (Anker - 2i2 to computer): amzn.to/460gcXi
Below are some affiliate links to most of the gear I use to make my videos, happy recording!
Audio Gear I use:
Awesome shotgun mic that's also a USB Mic: amzn.to/3j1nW5b
Industry Standard Headphones, Sony MDR-7506: amzn.to/3FOfoIG
Rode Wireless Go II: amzn.to/3dr9gwO
Current Studio Monitors: amzn.to/3OkO21U
Subwoofer: amzn.to/3V2IbQQ
Secondary Monitors: amzn.to/3GnwQXz
Scarlett USB Audio Interface: amzn.to/3QVRkKf
Trustworthy, rugged, best damn microphone: amzn.to/3ZVqpSD
Cameras used to film this video:
Panasonic GH5 (with 12-35 lens): amzn.to/31iwKOO
Secondary Lens: amzn.to/3QhJc4D
Panasonic 12mm f1.4 for Micro Four Thirds: amzn.to/3KNtkWy
Low-Angle camera shot:
Sony A7iv: amzn.to/3XRzHgC
Lens: amzn.to/3jKpPDr
Side Camera: amzn.to/3Mv3lEd
Sigma 16-28: amzn.to/3iX6vGo
Secondary Lens: amzn.to/3vGizOP
External Recorder: amzn.to/3Alvid5
Other cool camera gear I use:
Manfrotto Pixie Tripod: amzn.to/3F8aepK
Smallrig Mini Tripod: amzn.to/3JQd0Ud
Articulating arm for my microphone: amzn.to/3f8Km2p
Backup and Cheap Microphone - Movo VXR10: amzn.to/3G9EUbi
K&F Concept Camera Tripod (Goes up to almost 7 feet!!): amzn.to/3f7x3zi
External Monitor, Atomos Shinobi: amzn.to/3tfxTSH
For Recording Externally with my Sony A7iii: amzn.to/3JUwZB2
ep:90
#focusrite #scarlett2i2 #sonya7iv

[@etho55]

My god, you are an incredible teacher. I am a know-nothing just trying to figure out how to get XLR from my mic into my ZV-1 and this video is just amazing. I can't thank you enough.

[@Shalin.S.Shah.]

I can only imagine how long it would have taken you to make this video and do it without cuts! Preproduction thoughts on this must be incredible. I bow to you!

[@MarcusHutsell]

Hi there.........oh, there are TONS of cuts!! And I probably took a break here-and-there and stopped recording, and definitely had to stop to double check that everything WAS still recording because I think I recorded the closeup view of the Scarlett 2i2 with my old Sony RX100 mii, which only records for up-to 30 minutes at a time, so yeah......constantly checking that camera to make sure I hadn't gone over 30 minutes and the camera stopped! These are all reasons I film with multiple cameras, especially because I can cut to a different angle and that can make it SEEM like I didn't make any mistakes. But also, I scripted this one out as I usually do so MOST of it was pre-written so I could read from a teleprompter. But I'm pretty sure I went off-script here-and-there, but you can see my teleprompter just under my computer monitor when I cut to the side-shot.

[@dylanmacintosh]

THANK YOU MARCUS!! You just saved me about $600, and hours of my time. This was exactly the video I was looking for about a year ago- I've been syncing my audio in post this whole time, which like you say is no big deal, except that I run long takes and use a separate software to clip those takes into smaller video files without the silence in between (Recut). To do this with the XLR audio rather than the onboard camera's audio, I have to actually open a new Davinci Resolve project, sync the audio, then export the long take with the XLR audio preliminarily so that I can THEN use Recut to remove the silence of the good XLR audio, so that I can then reimport those takes into a separate new project- which is a major pain. So, after watching your video, I was able to find a regular aux cable and plug it into the second headphone monitor of my USB audio interface (my Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 has two headphone outputs with independent gain knobs, super convenient for this specific use case I might add) adjust my gain staging properly, and I am now able to record my hypercardioid condenser XLR mic straight into my camera, way easier than I thought. Like you say, it's just not obvious to most people because of the way we think about audio, and most likely because most people would not be in a scenario where they would need to utilize this method where their camera and XLR microphone are both relatively stationary AND next to a computer- it gets VERY specific very fast, but I am very grateful!!

[@jaxondesantis2267]

Mate, I am from Australia and I have really gone head first into acquiring as much info as I can and this is one of the most helpful videos I ever watched and just want you to know that. I can't wait to get started, not too far off now! :) Cheers the Land Down Under.

[@MarcusHutsell]

Thank you so much! I’m so glad my video helped :) Happy recording!

[@Wu_the_Invincible]

great video with full explaination. As an actor doing self tapes may try a second mike for my reader as well. Self tapes need quick turn around and the leveling of sound between the two participants would make an audition video more pleasant on the casting directors who have to listen to hundreds of audition tapes.

[@MarcusHutsell]

Thank you so much, I’m glad the video helped. And yes, you could absolutely use an interface in the way you describe with 2 mics for 2 participants. I would suggest running the direct monitor feature in Mono mode so both mics are on both left & right audio channels….otherwise mic 1 would be fully left and mic 2 would be fully right, and handing that type of hard-panned stereo file off wouldn’t be ideal or professional. So as long as you get the same level of both mics, it will sound and be that much cleaner and pro. Good luck!

[@guybellinghamphotography1290]

Great video, thoroughly explained. Thank you for posting this. Very useful to know the Sony's quirk too. Some may find it helpful to know that you can get field mixers with great preamps and xlr inputs like the Sound Devices Mix Pre D at a reasonable price second hand. Works great for location work as it's battery powered and small (and has phantom power too). Keep up the great content!

[@MarcusHutsell]

Thank you so much, and you're welcome! And, I actually have recently purchased a Zoom F3 for my field recording, and for recording here at home. I use the F3 for my Rode NTG-5, and feed the output into my camera for backup. The Internal recording on the F3 sounds a lot better than the audio-fed-into-the-camera because the camera's preamp is still coloring the sound. But when I FORGET to hit record on the F3, I at least still have my NTG-5 audio "on-camera." The Mix Pre Series is GREAT, I've used them before, but, for my personal needs, was a bit above my desired budget, but I have used them for live-event recording with my work and yes, awesome recorder! Cheers, happy recording :)

[@JazzyJessDJ]

Thank you so much! You really helped me with this video, especially the stuff about gain structure and keeping the camera's preamp low. So helpful!!

[@MarcusHutsell]

You’re welcome! I’m so glad the video helped :)

[@terryfan7403]

Within the first 30 sec, this man posts the answer I’m looking for right on the screen! Take my subscription!

[@MarcusHutsell]

Awesome! So glad my video helped, cheers and happy recording :)

[@KN-mi7mh]

That's very interesting, I have the a7IV and I kept it on 1 all the time, I will try it on 3 now. Thanks for the info!

[@MarcusHutsell]

You’re welcome!

[@NatKhatShady]

Best video on this topic..👌

[@MarcusHutsell]

Thank you so much! I'm glad the video helped.

[@JustAverageLarry]

Wow… taught me how to do something I’ve needed for months with equipment I’ve already had for years!! Thank you!!

[@MarcusHutsell]

Happy to help!

[@ianhadden2080]

Hi Marcus, thank you, that was incredibly helpful. I already have a Scarlett Solo that I use with my laptop but wasn’t considering using it to connect my Sennheiser e945 mic to my Sony A7Rii until I saw your video. This has saved me buying yet more new kit AND helped me understand how to set the audio levels on my Sony, so huge thanks from me.

[@MarcusHutsell]

Hi Ian. Awesome! So glad to hear it!

[@eddieneen]

Was looking for a quick way to connect my XLR mic to my camera and this has been very helpful, thank you.

[@MarcusHutsell]

Great! Glad it helped!

[@Palmyre-DerriereLeMicro]

Fantastic video, and great tip with that Y cable - cheap simple and easy option to get XLR to camera 📷 Thanks 👌🏽

[@MarcusHutsell]

Thank you! And you’re welcome, I’m glad the video helped. :)

[@alhussainbessam2465]

Man. This is so helpful! I have the exact same setup and I also heard the hiss sound. But the way I did it was connect the headphone monitor jack on the audio interface to the camera using a 1/4” to 1/8” wire based on another guy’s KZbin video. I think this is primarily why I had this issue. Maybe the guy you were helping as well

[@MarcusHutsell]

Hi there. Great, I"m very glad my video was helpful. And YES, you can absolutely use the headphone output of the device and send that over to the camera's 3.5mm input, sometimes that's easier/better because a headphone output is already in stereo and that's what the camera's input is expecting most of the time......so, that can work for sure, and it's always best to verify by doing proper testing and listening to make sure everything sounds good and isn't distorting, etc. Happy Recording, cheers!

[@BrandonKBoswell]

Marcus, you are so very knowledgeable. Thank you for sharing your expertise and experimentation with the internet.

[@MarcusHutsell]

Hi Brandon. Thank you so much!! You are welcome, and I'm glad you found my video and I hope you found it helpful. Happy Recording! Cheers

[@craftyplayss]

Hi Marcus, greetings from India! I'm just starting up my home studio with the goal to create an educational course for my Students. Your videos are proving to be a great resource and are improving my fundamentals. Just wanted to say Kudos, and keep up the great work!

[@MarcusHutsell]

Hi there. Greetings from the U.S.! Thank you so much and I'm so glad some of my content has helped you I think that's what I'm trying to do....teach the fundamentals and dispel the myths and rumors and bad audio habits out there. Good luck on your educational courses, and happy recording!

[@glennwidelko]

Hi Marcus … wow amazing … thank you for sharing … you’re clearly at master level in your craft in all things audio … and you’ve communicated that expertise so clearly … much appreciated … 🙏

[@MarcusHutsell]

Thank you so much! You're welcome, I hope the video helped!

[@JohnPretto]

Great video...thanks for the refresher on gain staging. I'm getting ready to install this same setup at a client's studio. :)

[@MarcusHutsell]

Glad it was helpful! Have fun!

[@le_jackpop]

Awesome video! Exactly what I needed in my setup. Thanks a lot! 🙏🏼

[@MarcusHutsell]

Glad it helped!

[@FlickyFrames]

If i use a sony zv-e10 as a streaming cam which is plugged into my desktop and an audio technica AT2040 mic plugged into a focusrite scarlett solo.... couldn't i turn off audio recording on the cam and let the scarlett solo pick up the audio from the AT2040 mic while the cam just picks up the video? I figured if i use the zv-e10 or any camera for streaming and have the scarlett solo with the AT2040mic plugged in, I wouldn't want the camera mic picking up sound at the same time the AT2040 mic is picking it up from the focusrite scarlett solo. Is this the correct setup?

[@HeyItsMike985]

Great video, super detailed but not easily digestible to beginners haha

[@MarcusHutsell]

Hi there. Thank you so much. I appreciate the feeback, I had to debate whether to "teach people how to use an audio interface" or "assume they know those basics, then talk about how to use a USB Audio interface in a different way." I obviously went towards people knowing how to use a USB Audio interface before they got to this video, as well as knowing some audio basics like gain structure. That being said, I really tried to walk through every step and show how gain structuring backwards can lead to more noise (hiss,) etc. . But yes, there is a fair amount of assumption,, but otherwise the video would have been an hour!!! :) But I really hope the video was helpful to you, and let me know if you have any questions. Cheers!

[@dubMojoMusic]

Thank you

[@MarcusHutsell]

You’re welcome :)

[@Moustafa11]

Great video Marcus. I enjoy your approach to explaining and demonstrating the options and various scenarios. Some feedback..it was a bit hard to listen closely with headphones though as the combination of tapping the mic and plosives made it uncomfortable. Otherwise, the information is extremely useful. Thank you!

[@MarcusHutsell]

Hi there Moustafa. Thank you so much! Sorry it took me a bit to get to your comment, I was busy last month! And thank You for the feedback on plosives. I tend to listen to my videos on multiple speakers and headphones and I didn't think that there would be any plosive issues, as I listened on probably 3 pairs of headphones, but.....will certainly listen more closely next time. I also usually put a limiter or compressor on the top end of the audio signal to try to reduce those things. Anyway, thank you again. I am curious, what were you listening with? Headphones? Earbuds, Airpods?

[@fredflintstone1419]

Hi Marcus. Very interesting video. I'm getting a Scarlett 212 in a couple of days. My goal is very simple. To connect to my windows 10 laptop. Use the built in camera to make videos of me playing guitar and singing with the audio coming from the Scarlett and not the built in laptop mic. Is this possible ? It sounds like it should but I've learnt not to assume. I know the video recording from the laptop camera will not be great but I'm more interested in the sound being decent (with various effects). Your advice will be much appreciated. I should add that I will be running a microphone and a guitar through effects processors and into a audio mixer and then to the Scarlett 212. This is the sound I want to end up in my video. I want it all done live and not post

[@fredday091]

great video mate. thanks for the help!

[@MarcusHutsell]

Glad it helped!

[@Thebloxfruitsledgend]

Great video

[@MarcusHutsell]

Glad you enjoyed it, cheers!

[@m.sabir21]

Thanks for this video, i am using Rodelink Tx-XLR to input xlr microphone via Rodelink RX wirelessly and directly to camera. This is also a portable solution and can be used indoor and outdoor environment. I hope you will made a video to compare your this setup with the Rodelink setup. Thanks

[@MarcusHutsell]

Hi there. Thank you, and you're welcome. Unfortunately I do not have the Rodelink system so I can't test that directly. The thing I like about all this stuff is that, as long as we all understand audio basics, we can always use the tools available to us to "make" a system that works for that recording.......whether it be in our home studios or out in the field. Just MacGuyver-ing it when needed!

[@danewhitsett2436]

Will this work with a dslr or camcorder? Both have a 3.5mm imput. Will I also be able to use two microphones for guests?

[@spencerbentley_creates]

This was incredibly helpful, thank you so much. Could you please let me know where you got the Y shaped TRS cable? Im searching for one and want to ensure im investing in quality.

[@MarcusHutsell]

Hi there Spencer. Great! I'm very glad the video was helpful. Here is the cable I used in this video: amzn.to/3EntJ03 I bought a few others prior to making this video but many of them were kind of stiff. The problem with any cables of this nature is that they'll be unbalanced, which means you want to try to keep your cable-runs short. Probably no more than 6' or so.

[@BillyCray]

I have a Sony ZE-10 and a GOXLR with a Shure SM7B. I’d there a way to record Video and my Microphone at the same time, I haven’t figured out how to use them together.

[@MarcusHutsell]

Hi there. So, I assume you're talking about the TC Helicon GOXLR. If so, I would also assume you're talking about this model: amzn.to/3POBZvy Secondly, Sony does not make a "ZE-10" to my knowledge, but let's assume you're talking about the ZV-E10. The GOXLR has both a stereo 3.5mm headphone output as well as a stereo 3.5mm "Line-Out" audio output. And the Sony ZV-E10 has a 3.5mm mic-input. Long story short, you'd use the 3.5mm "Line Out" audio output and send that into the 3.5mm input using a 3.5mm TRS cable like this: amzn.to/43Qy8DT Then I'd start by setting your Sony ZV-E10 camera audio at about level "3", then gain up your microphone using the GoXLR, and push the fader up on the GOXLR to get audio to go out of the line-level output and watch your meters on the ZV-E10 to make sure you don't clip out the camera's audio input. Let me know if that makes sense, but it should be a simple connection.

[@madamerosario]

Listening on Focal Clear headphones with a proper DAC/AMP, the USB Adobe Audition audio sounds too boomy compared to the Sony audio. It's interesting to me that the USB audio has lower noise etc, but still sounds too boomy. This isn't the first video where I had that experience when comparing camera audio to usb.

[@MarcusHutsell]

The USB audio from the Scarlet into Audition is going to be the most true sounding audio, directly from the microphone. The thinner sound from the camera is simply because the camera is still utilizing its 3.5 mm mic preamp, reducing the frequency response and coloring the sound (and in my opinion removing much needed frequencies and adding noise), and that’s because the 3.5mm preamp is a much smaller and much, much cheaper preamp on the camera, so in my opinion, it’s never going to sound as good even when sending a “good” and strong audio signal into it this way. Granted, Focusrite preamps on the Scarletts are going to have some sound signature versus a preamp on any other mixer or audio interface, but I find Scarlet preamps do not color of the sound too much, or at least I wouldn’t think so.

[@SozoServices]

This is the best video I've seen on this topic. Question: how would the sound differ if instead of taking the analog output from you 2i2, you fed the headphone output on the 2i2 into your camera?

[@MarcusHutsell]

Hi there. Thank you so much, my apologies for the late reply, I've been busy! So, regarding the main output vs the headphone output. The main difference is the output impedance of both outputs. the line-output (1/4" balanced jacks on the back) state they have 430 Ohms impedance. Whereas the headphone output states it has

[@MegaLag]

@@MarcusHutsell Hey did you end up testing this? I'm curious to try the headphone output approach too. Great video by the way!

[@JoshKaufmanstuff]

You mentioned that you were going to include a link to the other KZbinr video about the Sony camera preamps? I don’t see it in the description?

[@MarcusHutsell]

Hi there. Aawww, I must have forgotten to put the link in there. I’ll edit the description, but here’s the link directly to the other video. kzbin.info/www/bejne/eJnCmJl7qKt6qqMsi=PGxVf9CAyrknogU2 Thank you for pointing this out :)

[@nikovelikov]

great video, have you tried using the shure sm58 with the Sony XLR-K3M directly to camera?

[@MarcusHutsell]

Hi there, no, I have not, the K3M is just something I have not decided to invest in. Unfortunately, I’ve never even tested or used one so I haven’t heard the difference. The idea for this video just came up from another viewer who was asking some questions and I had all this equipment already, so just decided to hook it up and do this video.

[@Queensbros]

Hey does Sony a74 have a audio input jack for the a dynamic microphone? I just see a headphone mic

[@MarcusHutsell]

Hi there. The mic jack is there, just above the headphone jack. The mic jack is a 3.5mm jack, it's RED, (the headphone jack is black). The headphone input jack, however, has its own little door that opens and closes to cover it.......I guess if you weren't looking for it, you may have missed it, but, if you have an A7iv....it's there. Take a look ;)

[@KN-mi7mh]

Have you personally experienced clipping on the Sony A7IV on level 1 ?

[@MarcusHutsell]

I have not tested or noticed this on my Sony Camera, but I have also just NOT had time or chosen to test that issue (but I certainly should!!), I'm taking TLDR filmmaker at his word on his tests in his video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eJnCmJl7qKt6qqM If I am ingesting audio from a wireless receiver (Rode Wireless Go, etc) or feeding audio from an analog, external audio mixer, I just default to "3" on the A7iv's audio settings to start. Otherwise, if using a mic directly (Deity D4, etc), then the audio level obviously should be set to where it needs to be for good levels....but I do keep an eye on it......so if a particular mic has a "hot" output to where the Sony's audio input has to be down at 1 or 2, I might insert a 3.5mm attenuator cable between the mic and the camera, allowing me to keep the audio setting at 3 or above.

[@InvestorsHeaven]

Super helpful video, I had the exact same issue, getting some white noise from camera recordings but not from mac recordings. I have the behringer c2 pencil mic and the arturia minifuse for my console it was driving me nuts that i couldnt get as clean sound directly from the cam. I also have the sony zv e10 and was using 1 instead of 3 for gain level ! It's good to know the reasons and how to get the best outcome possible. It looks like I would be getting the best sound via syncing in post, but I would definitely like to avoid the fuss. So is it normal to keep the gain level + microphone volume level of the console to a point where the noise is as less noticeable as possible without sounding too low in volume ? Is this the best way to set this up when going for the direct to camera option (+ a low level on the camera of course) ? Will keep playing with it to see if i can get acceptable sound without noticeable background noise when connected to the cam and if not i will go with syncing in post, but this vid REALLY helped a lot, thanks !

[@MarcusHutsell]

Hi there. Awesome, so glad it was helpful. The most important item in your signal chain to keep the noise to a minimum is your microphone gain (that is, AFTER your mic selection/choice). Long story short, do NOT reduce your mic gain on your interface if it's "too loud" for your camera. Mic gain is just that, gain (increase in voltage level) to get the mic's low level voltage up to proper "line" level for the interface, computer, etc. Basically, set your mic gain with your meters and your EYES to get a good level, with the Arturia, since there are no "db" markings that I can see on the meters ON the Arturia, then you want to keep gaining up until you have roughly 75% to 85% at your maximum volume level......but NEVER hit clip on your input meters...... (2) then send level over to your camera with the outputs of the Arturia. If it's still too loud for your camera, DON'T reach for the mic gain knob, you'd want to use the OUTPUT knobs on your interface to send less signal to the camera. The tough thing about this type of set up is that 3.5mm inputs on cameras like this are usually expecting a low-level mic signal, which, is still achievable to "send" from your interface/mixer.....you just have to turn down the outputs of the mixer/interface or, I actually carry a 3.5mm attenuator cable. This cable will take an incoming signal and reduce it -20db. The only thing about most of these cables is that they are male-to-male, so I often have to add a 3.5mm coupler, but, it still works, used it last month when I had my camera on site for a live event, receiving an XLR signal from the audio mixer for the event. Worked like a charm. "PUSH" your signal through your equipment, start strong, push that strong level through, and your downstream equipment should really only have to receive your strong signal you're sending from upstream without having to add much gain at each successive/next device. Cheers!

[@MarcusHutsell]

Also, I have a few more videos in my library talking about gain structure and noise. Gain Structure and Noise Part 1: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bHzFg2Cel5l7iZo Gain Structure and Noise Part 2: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mmTLh4x-Zd2JhMk More Gain structure and noise: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iWnYp5xrbZKhbas

[@tony62]

Thank you for this vid! Very helpful! Do you have any tips or explanation on syncing the audio taken in via Adobe Audition?

[@MarcusHutsell]

Hi there. Thank you, and you are welcom. I also often record audio for my videos with Adobe Audition, and I always make sure I'm recording at 48Khz/24 bit (because 48Khz will line up better with video for longer recordings). I use Davinci Resolve for my main video editor, and usually if I'm syncing audio, I do the following: 1. Make sure my camera is recording audio, even if it's with the on-camera/built-in microphone 2. Record my audio also in Adobe Audition 3. Try to remember to do a "clap" check......literally look at the camera, while recording, and while both my main mic and the mic on the camera are recording, clap my hands (about 3 times......but slowly with about 3 seconds in between each clap). 4. Record my video/audio 5. Bring my video from my camera into Davinci Resolve (or Adobe Premiere), but make sure you drag the entire clip WITH the onboard camera audio with it (hopefully you remembered to make sure the camera was recording audio somehow) 6. Bring my audio file from Adobe Audition into Davinci/Premiere. 7. Drop them both on to a new timeline 8. Make sure the audio-only from Adobe Audition is in a second audio track (above or below the audio from the camera/video file) 9. In Davinci, with both video/audio selected, I right click one of the files in my timeline and select "Auto Align Clips" (then it gives you an option of) "Based on Timecode," or "Based on Waveform." So I usually select "Based on Waveform," and let Davinci do the rest. It works really well most of the time, but I always double check and then scoot/nudge the audio file if needed to line up perfectly with the "on-camera" audio. 10. Then, if I don't need the "on-camera" audio track, I'll "Unlink the clips" so that the on-camera audio is now no longer "attached" to the video file 11. I usually delete the "on-camera" audio file/track 12. Then I select the video file and the audio file I recorded from audition (ensuring that it is synced properly from the steps above, and that it visually/audibly lines up when I play back my video) 13. Then, with both the video clip selected, and the audio clip selected, I'll choose "Link Clips," and now the video file is linked (in the timeline) with my Adobe Audition audio and I can edit as needed. I hope that helps, let me know! Cheers

[@tony62]

​@MarcusHutsell Thank you so much! Really appreciate it 🙏 Will be sure to use your links next time I buy from Amazon. Take care.

[@samswallet]

I have a sony a7iv, shure sm7b mic with a focusrite scarlett 2i2 connected to a macbook pro and cloud lifter. I normally record audio and video separately and sync it afterwards in finalcut. (Big pain). So all I would need for simultaneous video and audio recording is to connect the 3.5mm 1/8” to dual splitter cable from the back of my focusrite to my sony a7iv mic port? Is that correct?

[@MarcusHutsell]

Hi there. That’s right. Just make sure you turn on the “direct monitor” feature,” single-circle/mono mode, otherwise no sound will come out of the rear 1/4” ports. Set your A7iv to a low audio setting, I stick to 3 because of Sony’s weird internal limiter, then gain your mic first, then, once gained up properly, turn the “Main output” knob up on the 2i2 until you see-and-hear signal on the A7iv. Basically, just replace my SM58 in this video with your SM7B.

[@samswallet]

@@MarcusHutsell thanks! I’ll give it a shot

[@JuliJurka]

What cable did you use to connect your Sony camera to the mixer?

[@MarcusHutsell]

Hi there. If I use both the left-and-right XLR outputs of the mixer, then I'll use a dual XLR to single 3.5mm TRS Cable like this: amzn.to/3uqP86G if you want to use ONLY the Left-output or the Right output of the mixer via XLR, then you would want a single XLR cable to 3.5mm TRS, but wired specifically so it takes the balanced signal out of one XLR output jack and ensures it converts that balanced signal to a stereo signal on the 3.5mm TRS side: amzn.to/3ujPUlZ

[@nickgoogle4525]

Good information, but could be demonstrated in 5 minutes or so. :-)

[@MarcusHutsell]

Hi there… For sure. I actually recorded this video twice because this one was so long, I was trying to make it shorter… But even my second version was about 20 minutes! I am working on trying to get better at condensing the information, it’s definitely one of my drawbacks for some people, but others find the lengthy videos and deeper explanations helpful. For many of my videos, I find that a lot of beginners are watching them and may not understand things like gain structure and signal flow… So sometimes just demonstrating something doesn’t give the complete picture… So I dive deeper and back up into the reasons “why” and then come back to how it affects things in our set ups.

[@tct-usa]

I would push it out to 3 hours on my channel to make a decent income on KZbin. Give all the title information in the first few minutes like you say but then give away a couple hours of entertainment advice. I also turn off all my comments sections to avoid all comments like mine and yours. I have regular memberships joining my channel, not just because of the information but they just love to hear me chat. I can see this channel going that way too because he is such a nice guy. His language is perfect for the algorithm. I add my own ad structure into the auto auctioned ads, mid roll ads etc. Videos under 8 mins do not play mid roll ads.

[@brandyarzillo]

Helpful video!! Do you have any advice for equipment for recording an acoustic guitar to a Sony A7IV for recording live guitar videos out in nature?

[@MarcusHutsell]

Hi Brandy. Thank you, I'm glad the video was helpful. There are tons of options for recording a guitar out in "the wild," sound fun. The big question is if you need or want to be wireless? If you can stay close to the camera, then you can always use any "on -camera" mic, like a Rode VideoMic NTG, or the Rode VideoMic Go 2, or even the Rode VideoMicro or Movo VXR10......but instead of putting the mic ON top of the camera, get a slightly longer 3.5mm extension cable and put the mic on a small stand closer to you/your guitar. Just don't go too far with 3.5mm cables, you may start to get hum or interference. I'm imagining you sitting down, maybe cross-legged style playing guitar, maybe the camera is on a small/short tripod on the ground, and you could easily place the mic close enough to your guitar/voice to pick up fairly well. If you want the mic OUT of the shot, that is, not seen in-camera, that's achievable as well even with most of the mics I listed above. Just remember to get the mic as close to you as possible. And ANY of those mics will either get power from your camera, or have a built-in battery (Rode VideoMic NTG). If you wanted to be completely wireless.....that's totally doable, and there are plenty of options. You could simply add a Rode Wireless Go system and STILL use any of the mics listed above..(although you'd have to either have the mic on a mic stand and then you would need to stand near that mic)...but instead of a long cable you'd use the Rode wireless system. That does add quite a bit of cost, but would mean you could move around a bit more freely. If you're NOT singing and just playing guitar.....in the professional-line of products you could get a Sennheiser wireless pack/receiver system because those types of kits have a 1/4" Instrument cable adapter for your guitar..........IF you guitar has a pickup. But, this may be way more than what you need. Lastly, here's a video I found on KZbin of a gentleman using a Rode Wireless go system with a couple of lav mics to do (I think) what you are wanting to do. Maybe give this a watch: kzbin.info/www/bejne/ommwpWhqncqWpNk

[@brandyarzillo]

@@MarcusHutsell Wow, Thank You Marcus for such a detailed and informative response to my question. You've given me a LOT to look into! I'll definitely start checking out all your suggestions now. Thanks again for taking the time to give me some advice on this!!

[@ColGales]

I got the scarlet solo interface will that work

[@MarcusHutsell]

HI there, yes, the Scarlett solo will work just the same as I demonstrate in this video. The scarlett solo Gen 1 and Gen 2 have RCA outputs, so you would need this cable: amzn.to/3SrK2yV But the Scarlett Solo Gen 3 and Gen 4 have 1/4" outputs so the cable I use in this video will work for the Gen 3 & Gen 4. Otherwise, use the same process I walk through in this video. Cheers!

[@G2RMN]

Question: Is XLR-3KM better than a USB interface straight to a camera? Thanks!

[@MarcusHutsell]

Hi there. The K3m is going to give you much better quality overall. Granted, I don’t own the K3m so I can’t test, but using a USB interface like this STILL relies on the small, 3.5mm preamp on the camera, and THAT preamp is going to be lower quality than an XLR preamp in most cases. With the K3m, the audio/mic used the preamp on the K3m and sends the digitized signal through the hot shoe and bypasses the 3.5mm preamp completely. If you listen to my video, carefully with good headphones, you can hear the difference between the sm58 > Scarlett > USB direct recording and the Sm58 > Scarlett > cable > 3.5mm camera preamp. In this configuration the ON-Camera audio isn’t as full range, it sounds like it lost some low end by using rhe 3.5mm input on the camera, and there’s more noise. So, this is definitely a “hack,” but it works if you need it to and if those are the only tools one has.

[@G2RMN]

​ @MarcusHutsell Thank you for the awesome reply. I wrote my comment/question after I watched your video once. But, after that, I watched it 2 more times... That's 1:30 hours spent on your video. It was worth every minute of it. This is how I got the answer to my earlier question (I just forgot I had raised it), but when I saw your response, explaining the same information you had already provided in your video....has just made me subscribe to your channel. (I know from experience that in similar situations other KZbinrs will either advise me to watch their video again or would direct me toward other videos of theirs. But you didn't). That's respect. Thank you.

[@MarcusHutsell]

You are most welcome. I’m glad I could help :)

[@erugerio]

Marcus thanksss. A question… can this be done with Focusrite Vocaster two?

[@MarcusHutsell]

Yes! The vocaster one is actually more custom built specifically for doing this. It has a “camera” audio output on the back via a stereo 3.5mm port. Easy-peasy.

[@erugerio]

Thanks for your reply!! So with just a vocaster and a simple trs 3.5mm cable i’m ready to send audio to my camera? Amazingggg

[@MarcusHutsell]

Yep! Just keep that 3.5mm cable short-ish (3’, *maybe 6’) keep it away from running next to other equipment like video monitors, etc. and listen for any interference or hum, as it’s an unbalanced audio connection from Vocaster to camera. If your camera has a headphone jack, definitely listen there. And I would highly recommend recording a back up audio track on your computer with the Vocaster as your USB audio input… Use reaper or audacity, something free. Always good to have a back up

[@erugerio]

@@MarcusHutsellsuper super super thanks a lot Marcus!!!

[@Goal-with-the-flow]

Nice Video. Please what software you use to share screen and record yourself as well. thank you

[@MarcusHutsell]

Hi there. Thank you. I use OBS (free) to record my screen, but I also make sure when I do that, I have the laptop microphone recording, because I need the audio of my voice to sync up the screen recording with my camera recordings. I use individual cameras to record myself (at the same time of course), then I use the audio that was recorded at all camera locations to sync everything up, (and usually a visual "clap" that I only use for syncing and isn't in the final video), and then I create a multi-camera timeline in Premiere or Davinci, then I edit from there, cutting between cameras during my edit. I hope that helps! Good luck!

[@barkas1136]

Can we record 24 bit deph audio through recorder to camera through Jack 3.5 or only through sony native digital interface on hot shoe?

[@MarcusHutsell]

Hi there. No, the 3.5mm input jack on the A7iii/A7iv will only record at 16-bit, because that 3.5mm input is digitizing the analogue audio that you plug into that jack.......it's analogue. The only way to record 24-bit is to use the digital hot-shoe adapter or mic.

[@lukajovic8385]

Why can't we just get xlr to 3.5mm cable?

[@MarcusHutsell]

You can, depending on the mic. I talk about and demonstrate that method here: XLR mic with your camera without an XLR input? kzbin.info/www/bejne/h5jXhJiLgshpbpI Works fine for dynamic mikes, and works for any condenser mic that has the option to put a battery inside the condenser mic. So phantom-only condenser mics won’t work by using just a cable.

[@lukajovic8385]

@@MarcusHutsell Thank you!

[@windyhillbomber]

This was very helpful indeed. However, I am having problems getting any sort of signal from my PreSonus Airbox USB96 interface to my Sony ZV E10 camera? Do you have any idea what I am doing wrong . 2 x Rode XLR mics in and two analogue out into the 3.5mm camera input.

[@MarcusHutsell]

HI there. Thank you. So, looking at the PreSonus Airbox USB96, it looks like it has a "mixer" knob. Make sure that knob is turned all the way towards the "Inputs" direction (left)....as that is basically acting the same way as the "direct monitor" feature of the Scarlett 2i2. But the Presonus has the ability to adjust the comparitive level of the Inputs and the playback signal from the computer. My assumption is that you have that "mixer" knob turned all the way towards the "playback" direction......meaning that ONLY the sound coming back from your computer will come out of the headphones and the main-outputs.

[@windyhillbomber]

@@MarcusHutsell why thank you so much Marcus. I will give it a try.

[@BenBulljive]

Can I just buy an XLR adapter and connect it to my DSLR?

[@MarcusHutsell]

Hi there. Yes, if you're using a dynamic mic like an SM58, and you have to have the properly-wired cable. I did an entire video on this, I'll put the link below. So, no, you don't need to do it this way with a USB audio interface, it's just another option and an option that will give you a backup recording. here's the link to my other video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/h5jXhJiLgshpbpI

[@BenBulljive]

thanks! I ended up just buying an interface for about $80.00. Love your setup! Thanks for your help! @@MarcusHutsell

[@xandertempelaar5239]

Nice vid. In this setting what do you use as output (your headphones )?

[@MarcusHutsell]

Hi there Xander. In this video I'm using the Shure SRH440A headphones. I've been using them about 9 months now, and I've usually been grabbing them over my Sony 7506's more often.

[@xandertempelaar5239]

@@MarcusHutsell tnx, I actually mean where ure headphones are connected to :-) cheers!

[@MarcusHutsell]

Hi Xander. aaaaahhh!! I misunderstood. So, I talk about that exact topic starting about 22:34. Long story short, I START by listening on the Scarlett, but then I always move my headphones over to the camera's headphone output because I/you should always always listen at the END destination to verify that your audio sounds good and is not distorted when it reaches your destination. This is important for any recording-signal-chain, but especially on these small 3.5mm inputs. I hope that helps.

[@josejgarciag]

How can i conect two mics usb c to my camera? is that possible. Easy way for a video podcast.

[@MarcusHutsell]

Hi Jose. I"m not sure exactly what you mean here. Do you mean: 1. You have (2) USB microphones 2. Both of those USB mics are plugged in to your computer 3. You want to send the audio from each mic over to you camera? if that's the case, it's certainly doable......but would require either: 1. using the 3.mm output of the mic itself (if the USB mic even HAS a 3.5mm output........does it? What mic are you using?) 2. If BOTH mics have a stereo 3.5mm output on the mic directly, you COULD take both of those 3.5mm outputs, use a "Y" cable like this one: www.amazon.com/Hosa-YMM-261-Stereo-Breakout-Cable/dp/B000068O5H/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=rode%2Bsc11%2Btrs%2Bsplitter%2Bcable&qid=1680823222&sprefix=rode%2Bsplitter%2Caps%2C101&sr=8-3&th=1 That cable will take 2 stereo signals into the inputs, and on the 3.5mm plug part, it will put one mic on the LEFT of your camera's 3.5mm stereo input, and one mic on the RIGHT channel of your camera's 3.5mm input. Granted......that means each person/mic would be ONLY on the left for mic 1, and then ONLY on the right for mic 2, but for RECORDING it's great, because you can (and have to) edit that in post , but you have 2 independent channels to work with.

[@MarcusHutsell]

Sorry, I hit enter too soon........ Second option to get those USB mics to your camera would be through some other analog hardware to route the USB audio OUT of your computer, then use external hardware, splitter/combiner cables to get the signal into you computer. Totally doable, but it just depends on your level of audio routing knowledge and comfort level. However, let me know a bit more about exactly what you mean, I'm not sure I understand your setup completely and your ultimate goal

[@TimoRoseNDFilms]

Hey Marcus nice tutorial there. So you did not provide the link for the type of cables 1. The xlr cable that goes into the mic and the scarlet 2i2( I have the Shure mv7x) 2. The cable that goes into the scarlet 2i2 to the Sony A74 audio jack( This is the same camera I have) 3. The cable that goes into the computer to scarlet(I have the MacBook) I will really appreciate it if you could provide the exact cable brand I will get to give me the best results thanks.

[@MarcusHutsell]

HI there Tim. Thank you for letting me know! I didn't realize I never posted those links. I did just now go put them in the description, but here are the same links to the cables you asked for. (Colors may vary on the cables): XLR Cable (mic to 2i2, Any standard XLR cable will work: amzn.to/44NLr7c 3.5mm to dual 1/4” TS Cable (2i2 to Sony A7iv Camera): amzn.to/3LFSVT9 USB-C to USB-C Cable (Anker - 2i2 to computer): amzn.to/460gcXi

[@TimoRoseNDFilms]

@@MarcusHutsell Thank you! One more question please, will the scarlet solo work just as fine like the one you used in this video?

[@MarcusHutsell]

@@TimoRoseNDFilms Hi Tim. yes, the Scarlett Solo will work just fine as well. Just keep in mind the Gen 2 Scarlett Solo has RCA output, so you'd need a different cable, this one: amzn.to/44PsLnv But the Gen 3 and up have 1/4" outputs and the same cable I use for the 2i2 will work

[@TimoRoseNDFilms]

@@MarcusHutsell Thanks I am getting the 3rd gen scarlet, is it similar cable like the gen 2 you just recommended?

[@S-LAB]

it could be so nice to be able to plug a USB-interface (or USB-mic) directly into a sony Cam ... via USB-C, which I just tried with no success 😒

[@MarcusHutsell]

yeah, it would be cool for camera companies to try to implement this, but that's just not what the USB Ports on cameras are for, and yeah, tried it myself, doesn't work ;)

[@S-LAB]

@@MarcusHutsell Yeah, of course, but why isn't that what the USB-connector of these cameras is for, since it's very name: UNIVERSAL serial bus .... ;-)

[@MarcusHutsell]

Ha! Great point!

[@syafiqzailan]

Now the challenge, how you get the audio from the scarlet into 3 cameras instead of just one.

[@MarcusHutsell]

Hi there. So, there are many ways to do this of course. I'd try the Art Head Amp4. It's a headphone amplifier which is good because that means it outputs STEREO signals via 3.5mm or 1/4" jacks.....and remember, 3.5mm inputs on cameras need/expect STEREO inputs, not balanced. So, you could go: Scarlett > Art HeadAmp4 via this cable: amzn.to/3YsyfTL Then use each output with a 3.5mm cable to each camera, like these: amzn.to/3OVq27u But keep your cable-runs short with unbalanced, stereo cables your you might introduce buzz/humm at the camera. The only issue is that the ART HeadAmp4 requires AC power, so, if your cameras are all on battery and you don't have access to AC/mains power, you'd be out of luck. You could try cheap 3.5mm headphone splitters.....which, would probably do the job, but if you use multiples of them you *might also introduce noise or hum, but you'd probably be ok. Something like this: amzn.to/45nR2l9 or this: amzn.to/445h5MY It depends on how far away your cameras are from the 2i2. If they're more than about 8, MAYBE 10 feet, then 10' 3.5mm cables might start to pick up buzz/hum/interference.......just listen on headphones and you'll know. There are, of course, countless other ways to do this, but since these style cameras need stereo inputs on 3.5mm jacks.....I'd start with something like the HeadAmp 4. I hope that helps, cheers!

[@sammyvandenburg]

Is it me or is there a lot of static noise in this video?

[@MarcusHutsell]

hmmmm......not sure what you mean, there might be something wrong with your computer/playback device. Remember, that I DO demonstrate some noisy examples at 2:32 and 25:32. I do this intenionally, using the equipment in a way that WILL produce noise (hiss). But otherwise, there shouldn't be any other major noise.

[@sammyvandenburg]

@@MarcusHutsellno I can confirm it’s actually your video. From the first second there’s a slight white noise in the background. Maybe it’s your audio interface? Which one do you use?

[@MarcusHutsell]

​@@sammyvandenburg Hi there. As someone (me) who's been doing audio for over 20 years, I wouldn't call any noise in this video "a lot" nor would I call it static. Being kind of picky about that type of thing, I'm always listening for it, and you'll hear it any a lot of videos because that's the nature of recording audio with electronic equipment.....some equipment has more noise than other equipment, and gain structure definitely affects how much noise can get into our audio. But to me, the way I gain structured minimizes the noise inherent in the components I've chosen. Also, I have done NO audio processing in this video, AKA, I have NOT done any noise reduction which a LOT of other people (including myself) do on our audio/video recordings, depending on what we are talking about, etc. But I have not done any of that in this video. But, still, listening back to this video myself, yes, there is a tiny amount of white noise in the background, but it's still what I would call minimal or barely noticeable, and I'm listening back on many different devices. I do appreciate your feedback, because I'm always wanting to get the right information so I can hopefully help answer/assist, and understand what you mean. Keep in mind a couple of things: 1. The audio from 00:00 to 2:10 (as shown on the screen) is going through the USB Audio interface THEN over to the Camera.....so, the audio you're hearing from 00:00 to 2:10 is being taken-in and CONVERTED at the camera's 3.5mm preamp.......and almost ALL 3.5mm preamps on cameras are going to automatically have a higher noise floor (more noise) than almost anything else in this signal chain I"m using.........so, yes, MOST of the audio in this video that was recorded at the camera DEFINITELY has more noise, and it just will BECAUSE of the camera's preamp. 2. At 2:10, I switch the audio (again, as per the note ON screen), to the direct Scarelett > USB > Adobe Audition audio file, and if you listen, the small amount of background noise goes away (for the most part). Just keep in mind and watch (per my notes on screen) which audio you're listening to: Audio recorded ON/at the camera, or the audio recorded via USB in Audition.......there are big differences in how these sound in terms of noise/white-noise, and frequency response.

[@MarcusHutsell]

Also, at 1:03 I state that I'm using the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2, and I feature that interface entirely in this video, not sure if that was/was not clear? I also have "Scarlett 2i2" as a text-overlay on almost the entirety of the video.......so.......answer: I'm using the Foscrite Scarlett 2i2

[@kenzukin8801]

lots of good information here; but lot's of redundancy too.

[@MarcusHutsell]

Thank you. And yes, I am working on my redundancy, I do see/hear it. But often I find newbies may need to hear the information a few times to reinforce the point. But I do appreciate the feedback.

[@beautifulstep]

I found a $10 solution - I have a sennheiser mke600 (mono) going into the stereo jack of a Sony A7R4. Only the left side gets audio. I cold not find a cable that worked so I made one. Super easy, saves a little time in post. Here's how I did it if you're interested kzbin.info/www/bejne/hoqzkn-uodZoZ5o

[@MarcusHutsell]

Hi there. Great job on making your cable!! But, they actually DO make the able you're talking about, you just have make sure the cable you buy is wired that way....and of course the store-bought cables do exactly what you are doing to solder your cable in your video. I talk about this in some of my other videos like this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/h5jXhJiLgshpbpI But I have lots of versions of the proper cable that delivers/converts the XLR balanced signal into dual-mono on the TRS end, I have to use them a lot in Live-event productions, specifically with ATEM Mini switchers! Great job!