advice for recording 5.1 in event shows

[sirbobls]

So, in a small complex saying and description of what i am trying to do: I do event video productions like stage plays, dance recitals, and others. For these shows, when i put them on dvd, they are “stereo sound boring” to what i want to do. i would like to record in multiple channel audio and in production be able to produce to DVD a widescreen production with true 5.1 surround sound for all my customers with the ability to also select stereo sound if on a regular television. Equipment I do have is 2 older pro-sumer cameras with single channel XLR x 2 per camera. A total of 4 channels. Is there a better way of recording without using both cameras?

Can I get advice on tips or tricks on how to record and produce true 5.1 audio tracks and what equipment do i need to use?

[CraftersOfLight]

I use a Zoom H2 for some of my audio recordings. It has an option to select 4 channel recording that gives you two 2 channel stereo files. A trick I do at times is, using a gorillapod, attach the recorder to my camera so that the stereo pans with the camera. Using a cheap dog training clacker, I use the “click-clack” like a clapboard to sync my audio in post. It has a crisp sound that shows well when you view the waveform.

http://www.amazon.com/Joby-GP1-A1EN-Gorillapod-Flexible-Tripod/dp/B000EVSLRO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1240366907&sr=8-1

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000VBH2IG?ie=UTF8&redirect=true&tag=coffeeresearch109612-20

Then you can use something like Vortex Zoom Encoder that will translate the 2 separate stereo files into a 5.1 Surround wave file. All for under $225.

http://www.im-research.com/

If you do choose to use the Zoom H2, I strongly suggest you work many sample test runs before you get to a real shoot, and yes follow the user’s manual. Though it has a simple push button menu it is not intuative in function for a first time user, especially so if you are under pressure to get a shot.

[sirbobls]

is there a way to record using multiple mic setups externaly like setting up 1 dedicated music line, 1 voice, and 2 stage mics. what is the best codec to use in vegas pro 8 for creating 5 channel surround?

[sirbobls]

nevermind on the last post, i just researched the zoom h4 and found more information on the new Zoom H4N, is this a lot better then the previous one?

[CraftersOfLight]

If you run a google search on the H4n, you can find several websites that have some use and application videos. The Samson site for example has a couple of good ones explaining its use.

http://www.samsontech.com/products/productpage.cfm?prodID=1994

[david5566]

since your camera does not support 5.1 stereo sound, why not try another camera. I use SonyHC1000E. Its mic use stereo erection condenser and the output sound just has the 5.1 surrounding sound effect. With this one, you do not need to use your two cameras and SonyHC1000E can do this job.

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