Audio for Video Production: Balanced Vs. Unbalanced (page 2)

Real World Connections

OK, balanced audio is great, but maybe your camcorder doesn't have a balanced audio input. Now what do you do? Don't panic! There are several ways to adapt a balanced audio signal to your unbalanced camera input. The best way to do this is with an adapter specifically built to convert balanced signals into something that works with an unbalanced 1/8" input jack. Beachtek and Studio 1 Productions (among others) offer excellent adapters that also serve as basic mixers. You'll find them online and in the back pages of this magazine. These adapters do several things. First, they convert the input from the balanced XLR connector to an unbalanced signal. Second, they offer a simple volume control or mixer for the input(s). Finally, the adapter outputs the signal through a small 1/8" connector that is perfect for plugging into most camcorders. Starting at less than $200, these adapters are the ideal way to provide clean, reliable audio to your camera.

Of course, there are alternatives. You can build an adapter out of parts from a local electronics store (see sidebar) or, if your audio needs are very basic, buy a balancing adapter. Generically known as an XLR-to-1/8" male adapter and available for $10-20, this is audio adapting in its simplest form. No mixer, no phantom power, no options, just a plug-and-go adapter when all you need is one microphone. When searching for this type of adapter, look for manufacturers such as Remote Audio, Comprehensive and Monster Cable. The big online supply houses have several options for you.

In The End...

In a perfect world, all camcorders would have balanced inputs. Sadly, they're only available on the big cameras and, as consumer and prosumer cameras continue to shrink, it's unlikely this will ever change. But, as long as you know the benefits of using balanced audio signals and connections - and how to adapt them to your gear - it really doesn't make any difference. As Balanced Man always says, "Balance And Conquer" or something like that. Like I said at the beginning, it's a work in progress.

Contributing Editor Hal Robertson is a digital media producer and technology consultant.

Side Bar: Build It Yourself

For about $55 you can build a simple adapter that will connect balanced microphones to your 1/8" camcorder input. We'll use Radio Shack part numbers for this project, but you can find similar items elsewhere. In fact, you already have them tucked away somewhere. First, the XLR part consists of two (2) #274-016 adapters. They plug into two (2) #274-141 1/4" couplers. Next, a pair of #274-320 1/4" to RCA adapters. And finally, a #42-495 1/8" stereo-to-RCA cable. Stack them together in this order and you'll have a simple, functional adapter that won't strain your mic jack or budget.