Hi Wayne, you mentioned that a stereo file cannot be recorded as a back up track. I have the Zoom H8 and a -12db stereo safety track can be recorded using the capsule xy or any source connected to the mini jack on the capsule.
Based on your advices, i bought a Zoom M3 Mictrack a month ago. Made First tests recently in a race car with my DJI Osmo Action 1, the result is freaking awesome. I found no information about how my Canon R6 Mk II woul react if i plug the zoom in the USB C connector, will test this soon... Thanks a lot Wayne !! Take Care !!
Awesome! Glad it worked out for you! I used my M3 for this video and remembered why I like it so much! With regards to it's USB-C output, to my knowledge, the only cameras that currently accept USB mics are the DJI Action 2/3/4 & Pocket 3. AFAIK, no other camera manufacturer has this function despite having USB-C ports (which are typically only for charging/data transfer).
Aloha, Wayne! Zoom has, at least, different videocamcorders in their equipment line-up. Ironically, I have ALL 3....Q2n-4k, Q8 & Q8n-4k. ALL cameras have XLNT audio but they fall short in the video department coz they're limited to 5-step Digital-only camera. Eye use Q2n-4k & Q8n-4k mainly for static Panorama-only footage. Looking for ways/possibilities of integrating their H6 Field Recorder. Any thoughts, suggestions & recommendations would be Greatly appreciated!...A-L-O-H-A From Hawaii
If I want stereo sounds and also voice over / talk behind the camera, is that mean better I have three channels because 2 for stereo and one for mono voice? I haven't able to figure out the best way to achieve this because a lot recorder and camera are 2 channels and if I talk it will be in one of the channels and can't be a non directional mono voice over on top of it or on its own track, or should I get a 4 channels setup with 2 stereo mics that one facing Front and one facing back?
It sounds like you'd best be served with a multitrack recorder. Something with a built in XY stereo mic plus (2) additional inputs would be ideal allowing you to record your stereo track with the XY and run a lav or other mic separately and record all the tracks individually. While you would be relying on the built in XY, you'd have the flexibility to position it independently of your mono mic. A camera like the Q8n-4K accomplishes what you're looking for audio wise but might be limited in its video capabilities for your needs. It would be ideal as it's all contained in one unit. DJI also could be a viable option with their Pocket 3 as it now records a separate stereo wav file of it's internal mics while also recording an external mic via USB-C. The downside is that there is limited functionality with regards to configuring these recording options (as opposed to an audio recorder which would allow more fine adjustments). My hope is that DJI continues to refine this feature and enables it across their other handheld cameras as well. If you already have a camera that you use, a separate audio recorder like the Tascam Portacapture X6 or something similar might be a good option if you're looking for a 32-bit float capable device. Otherwise, if you already own a stereo recorder, you could also consider adding a stand alone small recorder for just your voice (like a ZOOM F2 or Tascam DR-10L) and then mix them all in post.
The Pocket 3 can record its excellent internal stereo mics to a wave file, while recording an external USB C source (eg a wireless mic with USB C receiver) to the video file AAC track.
I see that you can adjust a lot with 32 bits but if I want to do it without post processing and want the default audio to be the right volume, is Zoom M3 still for me because if I just want to improve the camcorder mic by connect an audio cable from the M3 to it since the M3 doesn't have gain adjustment natively, but a lot on camera external mic doesn't have gain adjustment too right?
That's right, the ZOOM M3 can output audio via USB-C and it's 3.5mm TRS output (simultaneously) but there is no way to set any output levels being sent. As a result, you would need to rely on your camera's audio rec level/ gain level to optimize the audio recorded in camera (though I would also record internally on the M3 to have those wav files as well).
I would love to see 32bit internal recording on cameras. Another work around would be something like the Tascam 10x in a pro version similar to the Dr10L Pro. Which is 32bit and Timecode able recorder. I feel the big hang up is eco systems. I current use Timecode and record mostly external 32bit although it’s a pain as most is run and gun. Let’s go 10x Pro!!! Where are you!?!?
100% thanks Wayne! From a cost/benefit perspective a backup 32 bit float track would be a game changer for those seeking to offset risk/return in production. To me this feels similar to auto-focus discussions when Canon was a leader in that area. Now that we've all moved on to "which autofocus system is best" it's funny that the discussion "should we ask for or consider the need for autofocus" basically stopped happening. I'll go one step further than your thoughts and guess that in 2024 Sony picks up on this relatively easy comparative advantage in something like the FX6 Mark II and then by the end of 2025 a 32 bit float option is standard... hope so! Great video, thanks again.
Realistically, Sony has been dabbling in audio innovation with their MI digital interface. I wouldn't be surprised if they come out with something new this year. The biggest issue IMO is that it's a closed 1st party system. If it wasn't proprietary, there would be a lot more audio companies developing compatible products. I think this really comes down to camera manufacturers investing more in their audio divisions or vice versa. DJI is doing this with their wireless mics (but understand they'll be used with other camera brands). Ultimately, I think we'll see companies start to develop products on both the audio & video sides. Alternatively, it could be an exclusive partnership between a camera brand & a mic brand that produces the "perfect" camera.
Clipped audio isn't such a problem these days in my experience (can happen, but rarely) - my feeling is that compressed dynamic range audio is much more frequently encountered. You know, compression circuits, ALC, limiters, etc. Avoiding that is what I see as the main benefit of 32 bit float. Also, 32 bit float done properly needs better mics with less inherent noise, and dual preamps to handle the dynamic range of the format. So the whole audio chain is superior. 32 bit float can also be "faked" by simply writing lower bitrates to that format, but let us hope no manufacturer will pull that trick. I know you have the Zoom M3, but have you tried the less videocentric M2?. I have been trying one in the last few days (see my uploads...) and it really is a cool device. Far more features than the M3, such as the ability to create normalised copy files in the device, and export to lower bitrates as well. And it has normalised output from the headphone socket as an option too, which is a really neat trick. With the Pocket 3 new ability to record onboard mics to a backup file, you can use these MicTrak devices to record 32 Bit float, while outputting 24 bits to the camera's video file (AAC), while recording the the camera's own mics to a separate wave file. Talk about choices!. There is an option to output 32 bit float from the M2 over USB C but... the Pocket 3 won't recognise it. Shame.
I think the best way is just like you said, let the audio guy do the audio thing and video guy do the video thing, is better if Zoom and other audio brand collaboration with video brands to make accessories with mic input or build in to able to directly input the audio source from it to the video file without need of cables like how Black Magic collaborate with Panasonic Lumix stuffs!
This camera is the opposite of cameras like Sony mirror less models. Where the Sonys record scratch audio with its inbuilt mic, this records scratch video.
Yes, apparently the GH7 (released after I made this video) is the first camera to be able to record 33-bit float audio in camera.... however, it requires the $500 DMW-XLR2 accessory to actually do so. Props to Panasonic for being the first. What I'm really envisioning is a prosumer camera that records an MP4 video file along w a 32-bit float wav audio file (most likely using the built-in camera mics). My bet is on Zoom or DJI implementing that in a future camera. Plus a YT scrub like me can't afford a whole GH7 set up lol! But in theory, now that Panasonic has done it, that should pave the way for other manufacturers to jump on board.... We'll see lol
I hav had an audio man who have don my audio files… He is complaining “the files is too big “ He doesn’t want to handle it” My recording is with 32 bites float…. Seems that the audio folks don’t like too handle it. They don’t like the size of the files…..
Yes, it's true that 32-bit float files are larger than 24-bit, but in 2023 with the size of 4K video files, this shouldn't be an issue for most. If you're recording long audiobooks or podcasts, then the files could be large but nothing that couldn't be zipped and sent electronically. A lot of audio folks will argue about 32-bit float and how it's not necessary. Many are just aren't open to adapting or evolving a legacy workflow. But the way things are changing, they'll have to accept it at some point.
An audio with scratch video camera to go with your video camera with scratch audio??? With Lumix cameras and XLR1 you can record 2 xlr inputs individually powered, non-powered, or line-in at 24bit 96khz. The newer cameras can do 4 channels. 2 with the XLR1 and another 2 with the standard mic jack. Very good preamps ~ and bit pricey, but I use one more often than an external recorder due to convenience. Do you need 32 bit? NO...Learn how to set up and shoot correctly rather than cleaning up shit in post. 32bit clip not fixed in post is still crap. It does not fix its self.
is audio on camera not some sort of a backup option? why would anyone all willfully record audio on camera and not on a dedicated audio recorder?
You have a point! Agree 👍🏻 This 32-bit float back up file is a great idea 👍🏻
That’s Incredibly Awesome! Cheers!🥂❤️✨
Hi Wayne, you mentioned that a stereo file cannot be recorded as a back up track. I have the Zoom H8 and a -12db stereo safety track can be recorded using the capsule xy or any source connected to the mini jack on the capsule.
Based on your advices, i bought a Zoom M3 Mictrack a month ago. Made First tests recently in a race car with my DJI Osmo Action 1, the result is freaking awesome. I found no information about how my Canon R6 Mk II woul react if i plug the zoom in the USB C connector, will test this soon... Thanks a lot Wayne !! Take Care !!
Awesome! Glad it worked out for you! I used my M3 for this video and remembered why I like it so much! With regards to it's USB-C output, to my knowledge, the only cameras that currently accept USB mics are the DJI Action 2/3/4 & Pocket 3. AFAIK, no other camera manufacturer has this function despite having USB-C ports (which are typically only for charging/data transfer).
Aloha, Wayne! Zoom has, at least, different videocamcorders in their equipment line-up. Ironically, I have ALL 3....Q2n-4k, Q8 & Q8n-4k. ALL cameras have XLNT audio but they fall short in the video department coz they're limited to 5-step Digital-only camera. Eye use Q2n-4k & Q8n-4k mainly for static Panorama-only footage. Looking for ways/possibilities of integrating their H6 Field Recorder. Any thoughts, suggestions & recommendations would be Greatly appreciated!...A-L-O-H-A From Hawaii
You have been churning out content like a mad man Wayne. Where do you get all these ideas?
If I want stereo sounds and also voice over / talk behind the camera, is that mean better I have three channels because 2 for stereo and one for mono voice? I haven't able to figure out the best way to achieve this because a lot recorder and camera are 2 channels and if I talk it will be in one of the channels and can't be a non directional mono voice over on top of it or on its own track, or should I get a 4 channels setup with 2 stereo mics that one facing Front and one facing back?
It sounds like you'd best be served with a multitrack recorder. Something with a built in XY stereo mic plus (2) additional inputs would be ideal allowing you to record your stereo track with the XY and run a lav or other mic separately and record all the tracks individually. While you would be relying on the built in XY, you'd have the flexibility to position it independently of your mono mic.
A camera like the Q8n-4K accomplishes what you're looking for audio wise but might be limited in its video capabilities for your needs. It would be ideal as it's all contained in one unit. DJI also could be a viable option with their Pocket 3 as it now records a separate stereo wav file of it's internal mics while also recording an external mic via USB-C. The downside is that there is limited functionality with regards to configuring these recording options (as opposed to an audio recorder which would allow more fine adjustments). My hope is that DJI continues to refine this feature and enables it across their other handheld cameras as well.
If you already have a camera that you use, a separate audio recorder like the Tascam Portacapture X6 or something similar might be a good option if you're looking for a 32-bit float capable device. Otherwise, if you already own a stereo recorder, you could also consider adding a stand alone small recorder for just your voice (like a ZOOM F2 or Tascam DR-10L) and then mix them all in post.
The Pocket 3 can record its excellent internal stereo mics to a wave file, while recording an external USB C source (eg a wireless mic with USB C receiver) to the video file AAC track.
I see that you can adjust a lot with 32 bits but if I want to do it without post processing and want the default audio to be the right volume, is Zoom M3 still for me because if I just want to improve the camcorder mic by connect an audio cable from the M3 to it since the M3 doesn't have gain adjustment natively, but a lot on camera external mic doesn't have gain adjustment too right?
That's right, the ZOOM M3 can output audio via USB-C and it's 3.5mm TRS output (simultaneously) but there is no way to set any output levels being sent. As a result, you would need to rely on your camera's audio rec level/ gain level to optimize the audio recorded in camera (though I would also record internally on the M3 to have those wav files as well).
The M2 will do what you want but it is not so camera- friendly.
I would love to see 32bit internal recording on cameras.
Another work around would be something like the Tascam 10x in a pro version similar to the Dr10L Pro. Which is 32bit and Timecode able recorder. I feel the big hang up is eco systems. I current use Timecode and record mostly external 32bit although it’s a pain as most is run and gun. Let’s go 10x Pro!!! Where are you!?!?
DJI Video Action camera + Zoom H6/F2 audio=Dr. Fankenstein's Grandchild!-lol
100% thanks Wayne! From a cost/benefit perspective a backup 32 bit float track would be a game changer for those seeking to offset risk/return in production. To me this feels similar to auto-focus discussions when Canon was a leader in that area. Now that we've all moved on to "which autofocus system is best" it's funny that the discussion "should we ask for or consider the need for autofocus" basically stopped happening. I'll go one step further than your thoughts and guess that in 2024 Sony picks up on this relatively easy comparative advantage in something like the FX6 Mark II and then by the end of 2025 a 32 bit float option is standard... hope so! Great video, thanks again.
Realistically, Sony has been dabbling in audio innovation with their MI digital interface. I wouldn't be surprised if they come out with something new this year. The biggest issue IMO is that it's a closed 1st party system. If it wasn't proprietary, there would be a lot more audio companies developing compatible products.
I think this really comes down to camera manufacturers investing more in their audio divisions or vice versa. DJI is doing this with their wireless mics (but understand they'll be used with other camera brands). Ultimately, I think we'll see companies start to develop products on both the audio & video sides. Alternatively, it could be an exclusive partnership between a camera brand & a mic brand that produces the "perfect" camera.
Clipped audio isn't such a problem these days in my experience (can happen, but rarely) - my feeling is that compressed dynamic range audio is much more frequently encountered. You know, compression circuits, ALC, limiters, etc. Avoiding that is what I see as the main benefit of 32 bit float. Also, 32 bit float done properly needs better mics with less inherent noise, and dual preamps to handle the dynamic range of the format. So the whole audio chain is superior. 32 bit float can also be "faked" by simply writing lower bitrates to that format, but let us hope no manufacturer will pull that trick.
I know you have the Zoom M3, but have you tried the less videocentric M2?. I have been trying one in the last few days (see my uploads...) and it really is a cool device. Far more features than the M3, such as the ability to create normalised copy files in the device, and export to lower bitrates as well. And it has normalised output from the headphone socket as an option too, which is a really neat trick. With the Pocket 3 new ability to record onboard mics to a backup file, you can use these MicTrak devices to record 32 Bit float, while outputting 24 bits to the camera's video file (AAC), while recording the the camera's own mics to a separate wave file. Talk about choices!. There is an option to output 32 bit float from the M2 over USB C but... the Pocket 3 won't recognise it. Shame.
I think the best way is just like you said, let the audio guy do the audio thing and video guy do the video thing, is better if Zoom and other audio brand collaboration with video brands to make accessories with mic input or build in to able to directly input the audio source from it to the video file without need of cables like how Black Magic collaborate with Panasonic Lumix stuffs!
i wanted to buy their q2 way back when but that AA battery sounded like a bit of a hassle
This camera is the opposite of cameras like Sony mirror less models. Where the Sonys record scratch audio with its inbuilt mic, this records scratch video.
That's probably not too far off... but in it's defense, if audio is more important than video, would scratch video be better than scratch audio...lol
@@WayneRECs yeah maybe so. You should make your next video with it so we can tell you for sure.
THE REALLY AWESOME PART IS with the f3 you can make any mic 32 bit float..even freaking wireless!
With a wireless mic it can still clip before it’s even transmitted if your mic gain level is too high
@@ButterViZion can you explain that a bit more?
@@A1Bokeh i dont know a wireless mic system that transmits a 32 bit signal so it can definitely clip before it even hits the recorder
@@ButterViZion oooooh. I just thought since it's the f3 it records in 32 bit. I guess I'm wrong though
Isn't this the camera you seek? LUMIX GH7 | ProRes RAW Internal, 32-Bit Float Rec and REAL TIME LUT. What do you think of this GH7 camera?
Yes, apparently the GH7 (released after I made this video) is the first camera to be able to record 33-bit float audio in camera.... however, it requires the $500 DMW-XLR2 accessory to actually do so. Props to Panasonic for being the first. What I'm really envisioning is a prosumer camera that records an MP4 video file along w a 32-bit float wav audio file (most likely using the built-in camera mics). My bet is on Zoom or DJI implementing that in a future camera. Plus a YT scrub like me can't afford a whole GH7 set up lol! But in theory, now that Panasonic has done it, that should pave the way for other manufacturers to jump on board.... We'll see lol
I hav had an audio man who have don my audio files…
He is complaining “the files is too big “
He doesn’t want to handle it”
My recording is with 32 bites float….
Seems that the audio folks don’t like too handle it. They don’t like the size of the files…..
Yes, it's true that 32-bit float files are larger than 24-bit, but in 2023 with the size of 4K video files, this shouldn't be an issue for most. If you're recording long audiobooks or podcasts, then the files could be large but nothing that couldn't be zipped and sent electronically.
A lot of audio folks will argue about 32-bit float and how it's not necessary. Many are just aren't open to adapting or evolving a legacy workflow. But the way things are changing, they'll have to accept it at some point.
An audio with scratch video camera to go with your video camera with scratch audio??? With Lumix cameras and XLR1 you can record 2 xlr inputs individually powered, non-powered, or line-in at 24bit 96khz. The newer cameras can do 4 channels. 2 with the XLR1 and another 2 with the standard mic jack. Very good preamps ~ and bit pricey, but I use one more often than an external recorder due to convenience. Do you need 32 bit? NO...Learn how to set up and shoot correctly rather than cleaning up shit in post. 32bit clip not fixed in post is still crap. It does not fix its self.
Normalise in seconds. End of "problem". Why spend time getting audio levels right when shooting if there is no need to?
10 bit 4.2.2 video@@Ozpeter