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Mar 17, 2008
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More from less
Accessories add functionality to smaller camcorders
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by Chuck Gloman
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Today’s smaller camcorders offer more than their fair share of conveniences, but it’s often at the cost of functionality. After all, it’s hard to make room for XLR connectors on a device that fits in the palm of your hand — and good luck finding a place to attach your wireless receiver or hard disk drive.
Thankfully, BeachTek and Visual Union can help. While I was reviewing the Canon HV20 and HG10 prosumer camcorders (see Government Video February 2008), I had the chance to test the BeachTek DXA-2s XLR adapter and multipurpose Bracket 1 system.
AUDIO UPGRADE
BeachTek’s passive universal stereo XLR adapter has been a favorite on shoots where the camcorder doesn’t have professional XLR inputs. I have been forced to adapt the XLR down to a 1/8-inch mini connector, which puts extra weight on the flimsy camera input. Another solution is to purchase a microphone with a mini-connector, but low impedance XLRs have more benefits (longer cable runs, less interference, etc.).
BeachTek offers one of the smallest XLR adapters on the market, the DXA-2s (not recommended for dynamic microphones). It couldn’t be easier to use (no instruction manual needed), better designed (small and lightweight), or more simple to operate (plug it in and it works — without batteries).
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| The Bracket 1 system is convenient for your wireless receiver and other gear, but it will add significant weight during handheld shots. |
The top of the DXA-2s is no larger than a pack of cigarettes and screws onto the bottom of your camcorder. It’s also designed to be attached to your tripod, so it’s sandwiched out of the way between your tripod and camcorder.
On the back, there are two female XLR connections are clearly labeled right and left, along with a coiled, gold plated stereo mini connector. The business end is only slightly more complicated, with two mic/line switches, a left and right unity trim control, and a auxiliary in mini jack. Just plug it in and start working.
Made out of metal rather than plastic, the DXA- 2s will hold up to lots of abuse. I been using BeachTek gear for years — we have had several adapters in our university’s camera department and the students haven’t broken them (although they have tried).
Basically, the DXA-2s can provide XLR capability to any inexpensive camcorder with a microphone input. Priced at about $150, it’s often a cheaper route than paying for the more expensive prosumer camcorder with the XLR inputs. And you’ll quickly get used to adjusting audio levels with large, easy to see knobs.
HANDHELD HELPS
If you’re going handheld, it makes sense to incorporate the BeachTek DXA-2s with the Bracket 1 mounting system. There are four different models for small camcorders. I tested the Bracket 1 mini ($100), which fits the Canon HV20.
Your camera mounts to the pre-assembled bracket with a tripod screen, so you can use it handheld or attached to a tripod. Made of heavy gauge black steel, the Bracket 1 mini is solid and sports a hot shoe on the side. A rubber foot on the bottom keeps the bracket from scratching any surfaces.
The bracket may be enough if you just need an extra hot shoe, but there are accessories available to add functionality. A wireless receiver, for example, needs a Quick Box ($85). Available in two sizes, I needed the “big” box for my Audio-Technica ATW-R100.
I used the Quick Plate ($35), available in only one size, to hold the BeachTek DXA-2s. The Quick Plate mounts with four screws to the side of the Quick Box, and the BeachTek is held in place with an adjustable Velcro strap.
Rounding out Bracket 1’s system I tested was the Over Cam Cold Shoe ($20). It gives you yet another place to position a device, but it doesn’t provide power. Visual Union offers a number of other plates and clips as well as custom boxes for the system.
It might be a convenient way to house your accessories, but the Bracket 1 system loaded with the DXA- 2s and a wireless receiver made my lightweight Canon camcorder significantly heavier. If you don’t want to strengthen your wrist muscles that much, mount everything on a tripod (and you’ll probably want to mount the BeachTek under the camera).
Weight issues aside, Bracket 1 is a winner for shooters using prosumer camcorders, because now you have a better place for your wireless receiver than your back pocket. Multiple receivers fit nicely, and a shotgun microphone mounts to the cold shoe on top and away from the camera’s lens.
MORE INFO
Beachtek beachtek.com
Visual Union bracket1.com
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