The Canon XH A1 HD camcorder
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Quick Guide
Switches above the XLR inputs allow switching between Line and Mic - switch to
Mic if using a mic
Ch1, if you are only recording on one channel only
or
Ch1 Ch2, if you are using 1 mic and you want to record in stereo - it will put same
audio on both channels
Mic attenuator – switch this on if you are in a really loud situation and levels are
peaking, it will reduce audio levels by 20 db
To use XLR connected mic, you have to turn on the XLR input on the camcorder:
menu > audio setup > XLR input > on
Display indicates XLR is on
You must turn it off again when you switch back to onboard mic
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Mics and Phantom Power:
2 types of mics:
Condenser - require power such as a battery or from the camcorder
If they don't have a battery, they need to draw power from the connection called
phantom power), e.g. from the camcorder
Dynamic mics - don't require power, don't need batteries
Turn on the Phantom Power if needed:
in front of XLR jacks, 1 switch for each jack
plug mic in first, then turn on phantom power
when finished, turn off phantom power first, and then unplug the mic
Lavalier mics
Wireless mic, picks up good sound from your subject
Mostly for interviews
Operates on radio frequencies. Attach the transmitter and the mic to the subject
Shoe mountable - mount receiver on shoe on top of camera, or attach to camera
operator's belt
XLR or mini cable out from the receiver into the camcorder, Ch1 if you're only
using one mic
Set up the transmitter, which is the mic itself
The person speaking should run the mic and cable under their shirt and clip the
mic to the front of their shirt
Hide the transmitter behind the subject
Turn on XLR input if you are using and XLR cable
Set your levels and start shooting
