Sound Comparison: Pro vs Enthusiast Audio Recorders

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 28 ต.ค. 2024

ความคิดเห็น • 333

  • @sanketss84
    @sanketss84 9 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Thanks Curtis for sharing this , i personally am happy with the combination of Tascam DR-60D and AT899 and after looking at this video i am feeling more happy that i got the Tascam DR-60D as it produces sound quality very close to the expensive pro recorders.

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  9 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Glad it worked out for you!

  • @CyrilleBoucanogh
    @CyrilleBoucanogh 9 ปีที่แล้ว +26

    The A (Sound Devices) wins. The noise floor of B and C is rather noticable. The frequencies response in the lows and highs is also slightly different.

    • @matthewphillips5483
      @matthewphillips5483 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Are you sure it isnt confirmation bias?

    • @CyrilleBoucanogh
      @CyrilleBoucanogh 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@matthewphillips5483 yeah, absolutely! To prove that I did a comparison using a freeware BlindTest plugin from HOFA. From the first second I recognized them all. I know the sound of these three units pretty well as I've worked with all of them for many years. I know the boominess of Tascam, the nasality of ZOOM and the richness and openness of the Sound Devices. All of these are first of all the preamp qualities. So they can be corrected with post processing. The noise floor can be attenuated as well, but that depends.

    • @markturner8597
      @markturner8597 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@CyrilleBoucanogh Not confirmation bias for me. In the video the recordings were done twice. The first time, the names of the devices were not listed. Using headphones and the volume cranked up you can hear the hiss from the second two devices. The highs were also a bit brighter as well though. However, that was with the volume cranked pretty decently, so in *normal* listening you would not hear the difference. Having said that, if you have to amp the mic signal any bit, that noise floor will get raised accordingly and could start affecting your sound. So if you account for that, I think the lower devices should be fine.

  • @thinkingoutloud3757
    @thinkingoutloud3757 7 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    One of the things about better preamps that isn't immediately apparent if just listening to the recorded dialogue, is how the audio sits in the mix in post, among music, sound effects, etc. But in terms of these mobile setups, a lot of it is about build quality and features, which you did touch on.

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  7 ปีที่แล้ว

      That's a great point and one that is much more difficult to quantify. I'm finding that more and more as I work with a wider array of devices and microphones. Thanks for the insight!

  • @danebono5035
    @danebono5035 8 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Great comparison!
    For me, the biggest factors as to whether a high end unit is necessary are a) what am I recording and b) what is the microphone output.
    If I'm recording a rock concert with a high output condenser, lower end recorders are pretty serviceable (assuming the preamps aren't overly bright); gain will be minimal. If I'm recording an interview with a dynamic mic or ribbon mic, though...
    Ultimately, the SD is going to sound better in every situation; but the lower end gear can do the job just fine when used correctly. And one thing is certain- the cost of quality gear is coming down (see Zoom F8). It's a good time to be a recording enthusiast.

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  8 ปีที่แล้ว

      +Dane Bono Absolutely! Good points, thanks for that.

  • @WolfFeX
    @WolfFeX 9 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    thanks. I am currently debating on which one of the 4 pre-amps to get:
    1) Sound Devices MP-1
    2) Sound Devices USBPre 2
    3) Sound Devices MM-1
    4) Sound Devices MixPre-D
    I will be picking one of them, but I do want a preamp that also offeres 48v phantom power and can also run off a battery and comes with ac adapter. I know being too picky but that's me

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  9 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Rhandy They're all good in terms of audio quality but they each serve a slightly different purpose. The USBPre 2 is mainly an audio interface that can sort of double as a field mixer. The inverse is true of the MixPre-D. So the first question is where will you be using this in most cases? If in the field, I'd go with the MixPre-D.

  • @PeteWoronowski
    @PeteWoronowski 6 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Thank you Curtis, I have been very happy with both my Zoom H5 and the Rode Video mic pro.
    I am still very interested in the either the Zoom F4 or Zoom F8 and appreciate the video's you have made on these units.
    Very best to you, Pete

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  6 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks Pete and best wishes to you!

  • @naalsoegat
    @naalsoegat 9 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I got the Tascam DR70D a few weeks back since I needed the extra inputs. Works fine for me. But I saw Zoom is coming out with a real field recorder with 8 inputs! The F8. Will be nice to se a review of that once it's out!

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  9 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Plan on it! Already have my preorder in at B&H Photo! I think you'll be happy with the DR70. Solid little recorder.

  • @scottmorrison4864
    @scottmorrison4864 7 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Really liked the tascam actually, thought for sure that was the expensive one in the blind readings. Thought the h6 and sound devices were more similar and overall "sharper", but found lead too more defined s sounds which was distracting. The tascam was very smooth and to me much easier to listen too! Great video

    • @CyrilleBoucanogh
      @CyrilleBoucanogh 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      there's something wrong with your listening enviroment if the Sound Devices seemed to be sharp to you. Check the frequency curve of your system.

    • @scottmorrison4864
      @scottmorrison4864 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@CyrilleBoucanogh my frequency is very curvy. Please check yours.

    • @CyrilleBoucanogh
      @CyrilleBoucanogh 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Ha ha 😂🙌
      Mine is too flat , agree

  • @alkevinzmedia
    @alkevinzmedia 9 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Sounddevice USB sounded sharp and clean, it also seemed to have manage the plosives and clean out any differences on the mic. For the Zoom H6 and Tascam DR60MK2 I noticed an increase in noise a bit and some robotic like trims in the very end of your sentence. But its not a huge difference, Awesome test!! Thank you

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  9 ปีที่แล้ว

      ***** Thanks Allan!

  • @aaronmarshall
    @aaronmarshall 7 ปีที่แล้ว +16

    Something as simple as dialogue on such equipment will be virtually indiscernible. When the more sophisticated preamps on the Sound Devices really start to kick in and make a difference is on complex textures. This test is basically like taking 3 straws, 1 made out of paper, 2 plastic, and 3 the Sound Devices being a stainless steel straw. All will suck up water effortlessly without much of a noticeable difference. Try doing that same test on, oh, say... a thick strawberry milkshake. That represents a more complex texture. The paper one will buckle and collapse, the plastic will bend, but the stainless steel one will suck in the milkshake much easier.

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  7 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks for the info Aaron.

    • @aaronmarshall
      @aaronmarshall 7 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      thumbs up on the video, well made and great format. I'd like to see one where you're recording something like an aviary, crowd, or orchestra. It would be interesting to compare. These new recorders are excellent though. The layman might not be able to tell the difference.

    • @JimmyDevere
      @JimmyDevere 7 ปีที่แล้ว

      I agree with this post. Even though you are recording primary for dialogue, I think a far better subject would be acoustic guitar such as this: th-cam.com/video/F7V4yHfe3hM/w-d-xo.html

    • @bakedutah8411
      @bakedutah8411 6 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      Aaron, I wanted to check out what you said so I took my Zoom H6, a friends Tascam DR-10L, and a spare iPhone as a third option. I then first shoved all three into a bucket of water, and then they all went into a bucket of strawberry milk shake; thick like you suggested. In terms of results, I know you reported that only one item - the steel straw - performed, but when I did it all three devices completely sucked. In fact they still do - I can’t get a peep out of them anymore no matter what I do. And they all still smell of strawberries.

    • @sebastianscharnagl3173
      @sebastianscharnagl3173 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      What a nice description. Yes, you're right

  • @RobertBernarius
    @RobertBernarius 9 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Hi Curtis!
    What was Zoom H6 setup? I have same device, with Rode Procaster, and Rode Link Wireless, but when I turn up gain above 5dB getting more noisy...and channel level between -32 and -12dB.
    I use only lo cut filter (98Hz).
    I can remove much of the noise in post production, but I seen your video, and you do nothing in post production (if I'm right...).
    BTW: your channel is amazing, You're so helpful!
    Best wishes (and more Audition tutorial ;) ) from Hungary!

  • @Photographicelements
    @Photographicelements 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Thanks for this great video! I love the H6! I have used the H6 for many projects over the years. However, the design of the unit works best when placed on a table or a cart.
    I often use the expansion module for an additional 2 extra tracks.
    One thing that's unusual, at first, is tracks 1 & 2 seemingly being the same on the screen and for certain menu functions; eg, turning phantom power on for track 1 is only possible when turning phantom power on for both tracks 1 & 2 (tracks 3 & 4 can be turned on and off independently). The levels for tracks 1 & 2 can be controlled separately, but it's all or nothing for phantom power. There's also something weird that has happened to the H6 I own and to several others I have used and rented. The soft rubber turns into something that feels sticky, like someone spilled soda on it. It just feels weird to the touch. It obviously does not affect sound quality and I still enjoy using the H6 for small projects, but every time, "sticky..."

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Great info - thanks for sharing! Good to hear your experience after several years use.

  • @andrewbennet9782
    @andrewbennet9782 9 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Great review Curtis, I was waiting for it :)! My Tascam DR-60mkII and the AT899 are serving me very well and I’m very pleased with the results, thanks to you and your advices! Now I am trying out a new camcorder that I’ve just received and I’ll let you know how it went so that maybe it can help other people if they want to stay under $1,000 and yet have a mid-high quality gear! I’m learning a lot from your videos! Thank you so much!

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  9 ปีที่แล้ว

      Andrew Bennet Great to hear it Andrew! Keep us updated on how things go with the new camera.

  • @Design39media
    @Design39media 9 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    As a musician I was swayed towards the Zoom, however after several of your videos Curtis, I am going with the Tascam.

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  9 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Design39Media The Zoom H6 is quite good as well and could be a better choice if you need 4 XLR inputs and 6 track recording. I'd just steer clear of the Zoom H4n at this point as there are better options at the same price point, including the Tascam DR-60DmkII.

    • @Design39media
      @Design39media 9 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I'm sure for now, 2 XLR's are more than enough for me. Most cases, 1 will do the trick. Thanks again Curtis.

  • @CalebMcLellan
    @CalebMcLellan 8 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I heard a large sound floor difference. The Tascam was the worst, then the Zoom, and the Soundevices was VERY quiet. Thanks for doing this, it's interesting to hear the differences even tho they are quite minimal.

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  8 ปีที่แล้ว

      +Caleb McLellan Thanks Caleb.

  • @alexbormanbou
    @alexbormanbou 9 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Good comparison. I like the sound of the tascams by themselves, but i think they are also noisier without the SD preamp.
    I use a Sound Devices mm1 as a preamp for my tascam dr40 when the sound level is weak, big difference. They provide at least 35 dbs clean gain from my experience.

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  9 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Alejandro Bohorquez Yes! Very good way to get around the noisy preamps of the DR-40 and I'll bet that SD mm1 will last you many years.

  • @KrisztianNagyTodor
    @KrisztianNagyTodor 9 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    thanks for the review! So at 4:48 I can hear there is a larger background hiss with zoom h6 which in this case is not a problem however in a location situation when you can go so close to your talent this might be an issue.

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  9 ปีที่แล้ว

      +Chris Allan Tod Thanks Chris, nice point.

    • @Smood47
      @Smood47 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Ya you can notice the noise especially just before he switches to the h6 clip.

  • @GaryStockton
    @GaryStockton 9 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Great comparison Curtis. I am pleased with my DR60MKII.

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  9 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks Gary, me too!

  • @wastbs
    @wastbs 6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Your reviews are so awesome. I was trying to decide between the tascam and zoom.

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thanks and happy recording!

  • @NYCameraman
    @NYCameraman 7 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I reason I choose SD is because of Analog Limiters, Extremely Low Self Noise Pre-Amps, Separate Control for Faders / Gain and Tone generator.

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  7 ปีที่แล้ว

      All very good reasons. I have since invested in a SD 633 and agree on all points.

  • @TexpatOTG
    @TexpatOTG 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    To me, gear I can make money with is Pro. I bought 2 recorders for different reasons .. a SD MixPre3 and a Tascam DR100m3. Will be adding one of the DR10 series. As long as clients pay me, these are pro and sound fine. Both have performed flawlessly.

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I agree. However, there are cases where people who make the majority of their living as location sound mixers need redundancy, balanced outputs, more flexible routing, larger capacity battery options with locking connectors, digital inputs and outputs for feeding directly to cameras, local repair/support facilities, etc. Those types of devices are decidedly pro because of the additional features and support.
      But yes, if you can make money with your device, it is "pro" at some level. One can even earn money for some jobs with a smartphone which I suppose by this same definition makes it pro level gear as well, sort of.

  • @DanDDirges
    @DanDDirges 9 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Excellent video! Tascam sounded best. Much Brighter then the zoom which sounded a bit muddy. The Pre 2 would be my second choice. Another problem with the H zoom recorders is they record out of sinc with the video. I don't know if they have fixed this problem but it used to be a big issue.

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  9 ปีที่แล้ว

      Dan D. Dirges Thanks Dan. Didn't know that the Zooms had that issue. It may be that the newer models don't have that issue (I haven't seen it with my H1 or the H6).

  • @musiclover4638
    @musiclover4638 8 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Hi Curtis, I would like to ask you if the SoundDevices 633 is completely transparent and without any audible hiss? Are there any other field recorder with better recording fidely or is the SoundDevices 633 a refenrence in terms of audio quality? Do you know any cheaper audio interface or field recorder with exactly the same recording fidelity as the SoundDevices 633?

  • @lapoupadotcom
    @lapoupadotcom 6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    The USBPre 2 has not only much better input noise, as verified in your comparison, but its limiters are very usable as well. In all budget field recorders I've tried, any unexpected peak (not uncommon in docu or improv work) sounded squashed, noisy and just plain awful. The solution I found is to use the USBPre 2 in the field as a mic preamp and A/D converter and output its digital signal through S/PDIF to a recorder with a digital input, such as the Tascam DR-100 mkII.

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thanks for the advice Marcelo!

  • @sonicboyPT
    @sonicboyPT 7 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    SPOILER ALERT - DONT READ THIS BEFORE WATCHING THE VID - I only worried about what sounded better to me. I clearly noticed C being the less good, but in what concerns A and B, I had to listen several times. I'm happy with the test results because my faith in humanity would really colapse if 200$ of gear sounded better to me than 800$ of gear. I'm impressed with the zoom sound. It's nice that you focused on "sound quality". People sometimes don't realize that more professional / high end gear is more expensive also because of features that are meant for pros, namely, being reliable, solid, versatile, number of inputs, levels, faders, fail proof etc., besides pure sound quality which, even being marginally better, is certainly not 4 times better to justify 4 times the price. Great vid, as usual. Cheers.

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  7 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks sonicboyPT! Appreciate the input!

  • @sunnyspeed-studio
    @sunnyspeed-studio 8 ปีที่แล้ว

    Hello Curtis, I have a question. Hope you can help me.
    I have a zoom H6. I will connect 2 xlr microphone A and B to it, and then from the Line Out to camera.
    I want to record two separate tracks in the h6 for mic A and B (I understand this is how it works), but only mic A to the camera.
    Is it possible?
    Thanks a lot.

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  8 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Hi, yes. I don't have an H6 here to confirm for sure whether there's another way but you could pan the A mic hard left, the B mic hard right and then in the camera video after you've shot, drop the right channel. Hopefully that makes sense and best of luck!

    • @sunnyspeed-studio
      @sunnyspeed-studio 8 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thank you, Curtis

  • @Rivenworld
    @Rivenworld 7 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great video Curtis, thank you, even with the accepted error (as you have detailed) this was still a very useful comparison, I have the Tascam DR60D MKII so it was good to see this in use and hear what it sounds like, thanks for sharing this.

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  7 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thanks, I appreciate the feedback!

  • @TekOverclocked
    @TekOverclocked 8 ปีที่แล้ว

    hello Curtis, i have to say you have the best Audio Channel out here for Video recording.. i just subscribed after watching many of your videos.
    Anyways i have a problem well sort of a problem... lol issue lets say, i recently bought The Tascam DR-60DmkII after watching some videos including yours.
    The issue that i am fighting right now, its the hiss sound coming from the device it self, even if i don't have a microphone connected to the device if i hit record it has a base hiss sound that it won't go away, lowering levels -db and what not, seems like the hiss is coming from the pre amp of the tascam dr-60d mkii. i have tried many settings and it seems like i can't get rid of it,
    The mic i have its the Rode NT1-A, i have also tested it with the Audio Technica Audio Pro 70 lav mic. i did notice that in this video you also had the hiss sound while testing it, but it was much lower then mine.... could you share your settings? and is this hiss sound normal? or i bought a defective product

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  8 ปีที่แล้ว

      I set the gain to mid for this particular microphone (AT4053b). I set the record settings to 24-bit, 48 kHz sample rate.
      Are you 100% sure the hiss isn't from your speakers or headphones? I don't notice a lot of hiss with the DR-60DmkII.

    • @TekOverclocked
      @TekOverclocked 8 ปีที่แล้ว

      Wave Format? or BWf? man it would be nice if you made a tutorial of this recorder using your settings.... i know is to much to ask. Thanks for the reply :)

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  8 ปีที่แล้ว

      You can use WAV or BWF. The only difference is that BWF can hold more metadata. As it turns out, we did have a sound for video session discussing this exact topic which I hope you'll find helpful (even though it is on the long side): th-cam.com/video/RDNjQxtJSrU/w-d-xo.html

  • @donaldspaulding6973
    @donaldspaulding6973 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    I agree that many advantages to a pro recorder are not considered in this video. For example, powering/backup of the unit. The SD machines use sony NP batteries and feature a pro Hirose connector for AC or other pro power systems. Also - the headphone amp! The SD amps are powerful and detailed. Consumer stuff may sound OK in your living room, but on a gig during a loud concert it may not cut it. Not just in volume but quality. I can hear a huge difference between the AtoD/headphone amp in my 702 compared to an RME fireface800 (which is also in the pro category). The SD is detailed and allows me to make mic placement decisions easier.
    For this demo, a higher end mic might have shown a bigger difference in detail (i.e. Schoeps MK4 instead an A-T). Since higher track counts are selling machines, a used 744T is a steal these days at about $1500!

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  6 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks Donald, agreed on all points. I did another video covering many of these items over here: th-cam.com/video/hDEp34fkbQ4/w-d-xo.html

  • @christer_isulat
    @christer_isulat 7 ปีที่แล้ว

    I actually preferred recorder B during the blind test and I'm pleasantly surprised it was the H6. I know you really like the DR-60D based on your videos, but in this test (based on audio output alone) it is my least favorite. Great comparison work! :)

  • @davidmultimedia2024
    @davidmultimedia2024 7 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Strangely, the noise floor is higher on the DR-60D than on the H6, but from what i've heard it's supposed to be the opposite. As much as i love your videos, i have to say that i'm often quite confused about the noise levels of the gear. For example, in the Aputure Deity review video, the Deity and the NTG4+ has a higher noise level than the NTG2... which is very strange considering is has way lower sensitivity and equivalent noise level (it should be the worst of all). Could you explain why? This is not a bad critic at all by the way Curtis.. i'm just seriously confused and only want to be sure of what i should buy for a recorder (already ordered the Deity and currently trying to sell my NTG2). I'm hesitating between the H5, the DR-60D MKII and the DR-70D. I don't really care about the extra XLR inputs, but i'm all about noise levels and onboard mics for easy stereo recording (ambiance). I've heard the onboard mics on the H5/H6 have better stereo separation than the ones on the DR-70D because of the XY position. I know the DR-60D has no onboard mics at all, but is cheapest of the 3. I'm confused... :( Thanks Curtis, and i really hope you won't take it the wrong way.

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  7 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      +David L'Abbée hi David, thanks for the feedback. First, trust your ears. If you like the sound of one mic or recorder over another then go with that.
      Second, noise is one factor among many when evaluating mics and recorders. Also, all mics and recorders produce some self noise and they each produce noise at different frequencies. So just messing the amount of noise is one thing. Considering the frequency at which noise occurs can make a subjective difference as well.
      Other parts of the signal chain can also add noise. This includes cables and whether you're using wireless.
      And on top of all that, we each hear different frequencies differently. Age makes a huge difference. So that's a factor in how much a particular frequency is noise becomes a problem.
      So considering all that, trust your ears and make your decisions based on what sounds best. If you prefer the sound of the H6, then go for it! Lots of filmmakers have made great things with the H6!
      Best wishes and I hope this helps a little!

    • @davidmultimedia2024
      @davidmultimedia2024 7 ปีที่แล้ว

      Curtis Judd Thanks for the reply. I understand what you're saying. IMO, the "sound" itself of both units is great. That's the reason why i'm having such a hard time to make my choice.
      Correct me if im wrong, but the more sensitive the microphone is, the less you need to push the input gain of the recorder, so the less noise it will introduce? That's one of the principal reasons i've chose the Deity (even more sensitive than the MKH 416, and only 12db of equivalent noise level). I know that a lot of factors can introduce noise in the chain (cables, mics, preamps, and even interference). What i'm talking about is the recorder itself. Using the same XLR cable and microphone on both units (H5/H6 and DR-70D), and adjusting the input gain to get the exact same levels on both units, which one will introduce "hissing noise" the more? I know everybody can hear frequencies differently, but not at a point of, for example, me saying the H6 has less hissing, and you saying it has more? Maybe liking the sound more of one over the other, of course it's subjective, but i'm only talking about hissing noise level. When listening to the results of both back to back with headphones at high volume, it should be easily noticeable to pretty much anybody, right?
      I own a NTG2, and it sounds very good for voice over when it's very close to the mouth... but when i'm booming it further away, i need to pump up the input gain so much that the hissing noise makes the audio track unusable for me (in a filmmaking context). That's the reason why i'm so picky about noise level. I don't want to hear hissing every time the actor start talking. Unfortunately, Noise gates aren't that magic :(
      Again, i appreciate a lot your help Curtis, and don't hesitate to correct me if i'm wrong. Maybe I'm missing something... i'm still learning. I have a lot of experience with music recording/mixing/mastering, but not so much with dialogues/filmmaking yet. Also, i'm not talking about room noise/polution that the mic can pick up... but only noise floor of the gear itself.
      Thanks!
      PS : Sorry for my sloppy English, this isn't my first langage.

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  7 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      You are correct: In most cases when you're using a less sensitive mic, the preamp will need to apply more gain and usually that will result in more self-noise. When I measured the H6 and the DR-60D using Audition's amplitude statistics module, they were nearly identical in terms of the amount of hiss/self noise they produced. There was not a clear winner.
      It is very possible for two people to legitimately disagree on how much self-noise they hear from a microphone or recorder. Have a look at the JWSoundGroup.net forums if you'd like to see a bunch of professional mixers disagree on whether or not the $4500 USD Schoeps SuperCMIT 2U shotgun microphone is noisy or not. At some point they seem to come to the conclusion that it is NOT noisier than the Schoeps CMIT5U but that it occurs at a different frequency and so some perceive it to be noisier when by clinical measurement it may not be.
      Or you could save up for something like the Zoom F4. Yes it is more expensive at $650 USD, but it produces significantly less self noise than any of the Tascam DR or Zoom H series recorders.
      This is only my experience and I may be wrong. I would definitely encourage you to get input from others as well. Please accept my sincere best wishes on choosing a recorder that meets your goals.

    • @davidmultimedia2024
      @davidmultimedia2024 7 ปีที่แล้ว

      Curtis Judd I understand, thanks a lot for your help! I was hoping they were quite equal, because i like the shape of the H5/H6 better, and the ability to use it as an audio interface. Thanks again Curtis!

  • @monkeyxx
    @monkeyxx 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Just a minor correction to the content. Zoom H6 has six inputs hence the "6" in the name. Although I assume you were talking about XLR specifically. I've been using the little 1/8th inch jack on the XY module to get my Sound Devices 302 into the Zoom. That's a lot of preamps when it's all connected. 1, 2, 3, 4, and LR are all of the six channels on the H6.

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thanks for the clarification monkey dingo, agreed, I incorrectly omitted the 3.5mm input on the H6.

  • @jeffoffej
    @jeffoffej 7 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Really appreciate your approach here. Thanks for the info.

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  7 ปีที่แล้ว

      +Jeffery Oliver thanks!

  • @Nqrgaard
    @Nqrgaard 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Do you have a video to clean up the audio in post (audition) after using the Tascam DR60 II and Loudness normalized in Premiere.
    I have troubles with noise both on my Tascam and GH5 with a lav mic directly.

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I don’t have a Tascam cleanup video. Sounds like you’re using the 3.5mm input on the Tascam? That is a notoriously noisy input. You could just use the noise reduction plugin in Premiere? I think there’s a noise reduction plugin but I don’t use Premiere so not sure.

  • @joesch1955
    @joesch1955 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    A suggestion for a future Podcast I'd like to see - how does the equipment of 2022 - both pro-level and non-pro - compare to the same level of gear of, say, 2008? For example, I have a Tascam HD-P2, a Marantz 661, and a 671. How do they compare?

  • @borjamurel5809
    @borjamurel5809 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    You always make great vids. Now Im using a Sound Devices UsbPre2 in the field as a mic preamp and A/D converter and output its digital sígnal through S/PDIF to my recorder Tascam HD-P2. Do you think this combination has better preamps sound and converters than the new SD Mix Pre 3?

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  5 ปีที่แล้ว

      Hi Borja, That's a tough one. My sense is that the Kashmir preamps on the MixPre are a bit more neutral and the USBPre2 were a bit warmer in my tests a few years back. I would say that if your current setup is working, stick with it. But if there's a particular problem you're looking to solve, like a smaller rig, the MixPre-3 II would be a good option.

    • @borjamurel5809
      @borjamurel5809 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@curtisjudd Thank you very much for your reply. If the preamps are warmer in the UsbPre2 than in the MixPre3, for now I will continue with my current settings, also due to the Tascam HDP2 word clock and all the signal sending possibilities. But I don't rule out buying a smaller platform in the future. Thank you very much again!!!

  • @formattester6
    @formattester6 7 ปีที่แล้ว

    a very good practical comparison. I'm currently debating between the DR680mkII or the H6. at work we use the DR680 and at the time we got it it killed the H4n in fidelity and really in lower noise. i like the smallness of the H6 but am still feeling the Tascam has a bit more fidelity with a slightly warmer and expansive lower end frequency. what are you thoughts? great demo and thank you!!

    • @LearnLightAndSoundSessions
      @LearnLightAndSoundSessions 7 ปีที่แล้ว

      Hmm, the H6 and latest generation Tascams are very very close. The Tascams have more clean gain which is critical for mics which need a little more gain (e.g., the RODE NTG2). My sense is that the Zoom H6 sounds slightly warmer but not by a lot. Ergonomically, I prefer the Tascams. Best wishes!

    • @formattester6
      @formattester6 7 ปีที่แล้ว

      ok thats interesting that you say the H6 is slightly warmer. I only have hands on experience with the H4n vs the original DR680. the 680 has been used on an independent movie I've been working on and I've always been pleased when i get the audio tracks and hear them when editing. a plus is the H6 will attache better to my rigs though. i probably need to actually try out the H6 to know. thanks!

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  7 ปีที่แล้ว

      Agreed! I think some of the sound rental houses (if you're near one) have them on hand for testing. Note: I don't want to overstate the difference between the Tascam DR series and Zoom H series recorders in terms of preamp sound. They are only mildly different and would not be the deciding factor for me. Up until about a year ago, I primarily recorded with a Tascam DR-60DmkII and was almost always happy with the results.

  • @TheKingofSpades444
    @TheKingofSpades444 9 ปีที่แล้ว

    Curtis did you get your Zoom F8. If you did could you give quick comment. Not looking for complete review. May be getting one soon. Trying to decide if sound devices is worth the extra money or if f8 will do the job.

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  9 ปีที่แล้ว

      +Ray Armenta Yes, Here are my first impressions. Loving it so far: learnlightandsound.com/2015/08/18/zoom-f8-first-impressions/

  • @DanDDirges
    @DanDDirges 9 ปีที่แล้ว

    Also plugging in a decent quality USB mic like the CAD U37 along with a webcam into a laptop or tablet and recording video and audio at the same time is easy and gives good quality. Highly recommended for musicians looking to perform field recordings. Much easier and budget friendly.

    • @Danefrak
      @Danefrak 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Lol

  • @sunnyspeed-studio
    @sunnyspeed-studio 9 ปีที่แล้ว

    I plan to get the Tascam DR-70D, could you please recommend a shotgun mic (under $400) for me to work with this device? The usage will be very mixed, including voice-over (clear voice, no background noise), field recording for film. What I am looking right now are NTG2 and MKE-600, or any other alternatives? Thanks a lot in advance!!

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  9 ปีที่แล้ว

      ***** Both the NTG-2 and MKE-600 are good options. I like the RODE NTG4+ because it is self-powered (via inbuilt L-ion battery that lasts 150 hours) and if you ever have to use an XLR to 3.5mm adapter for use on camera, it produces a much stronger signal than the NTG2 so this works nicely. Here's my review of the NTG4+: th-cam.com/video/B8aE0loboMA/w-d-xo.html Good luck!

    • @sunnyspeed-studio
      @sunnyspeed-studio 9 ปีที่แล้ว

      Curtis Judd Thank you!

  • @StandaloneVR
    @StandaloneVR 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Hi, I got a question after watching this video please: I own a zoom h6 and rode ntg3 and I’m not happy about the noise I can hear when doing field recording in very quiet places. Would my rode ntg3 sounds more clean (less noise) on a pro recorder? I mean is the noise I hear a limitation of the mic self noise or is it my zoom h6 self noise?
    I would be really grateful if you could help me please, and certainly go to upgrade my tools. Thx for reading and Happy New Year!

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Hi Daniele, do you have any samples online we could hear?

  • @Nadayana
    @Nadayana 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Hi Curtis, thanks for your useful videos! One question. I'm a musician and I am thinking about buying the mix pre 3 II for recording outdoor so i'm only interested in soundquality, not in other details. I heard music recordings with my type of instrument only with USBPRE 2 and they sounded great. Would it be a huge difference from USBpre 2 to Mixpre 3 II? Till now I was recording with a Focusrite 6i6 + laptop and 220v batteries but looking for a huge change in quality recording. Thanks!

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Hi Nadayana, not a huge difference between the USBPre2 and MixPre II though it is my sense that the MixPre II is more neutral than the USBPre2 which seemed to add a bit more bass. I’m not sure there would be a huge difference going from a Focusrite scarlet to MixPre II just in terms of audio quality.

    • @Nadayana
      @Nadayana 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@curtisjudd Thank you. What about the new Sony PCM D10 internal pre-amp, any experience with it? If Sound devices would be a "10" and zoom H4n would be a "1" where would you place the Sony D10?

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  4 ปีที่แล้ว

      I haven’t used the Sony recorders, unfortunately.

    • @Nadayana
      @Nadayana 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@curtisjudd thanks for answering!

  • @gogiaudios
    @gogiaudios 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Hello. Would you go for Tascam dr-60dmkii or the zoom H6. I am worried about noise floor. Which one has lower noise floor? Thanks in advance

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      They seemed about the same to me here.

    • @gogiaudios
      @gogiaudios 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@curtisjudd thanks for the reply

    • @gogiaudios
      @gogiaudios 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@curtisjudd will be buying the zoom F6 then. Should be better correct?

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@gogiaudios Oh yes, much, much better.

  • @ShahidulIslamPappuOfficial
    @ShahidulIslamPappuOfficial 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Which one would be better for filming? I would like to know more about using a separate XLR microphone. Keeping the capsule out of the whole discussion, which would be better in terms of noise floor and sound quality? And I would also know about tascam dr70d .Is Tascam dr70d better than tascam dr60 mkii in case of sound quality ? I bought sound devices based on your opinion. So Your feedback is very important for me.

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      It depends on which camera you use and which recorder and microphone you use as to which produces a quieter noise floor. There isn’t a big difference between the two Tascam recorders.

    • @ShahidulIslamPappuOfficial
      @ShahidulIslamPappuOfficial 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@curtisjudd If I copare zoom h5 with tascam dr60 mkii or dr70d, What's your opinion in that case? And my camera is sony a6400. A good in-camera preamp is needed on a budget.I bought audio technica at875r depend's on your opinion. I'm also thinking of the Ceramonic SmartRig as a budget preamp. But there is a problem in coming to a decision. Wanted to get the Saramonic SR VRM1 as a wireless. But I knew that it takes too much noise. Not even in the market now. But in our conutry's local Market I find a Saramonic sr vrm 1. But can't take decision. I need a decision that will work for me to get clear reference sound for short film & video clips.

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@ShahidulIslamPappuOfficial There are tradeoffs. The H5 is much more battery efficient. The Tascam DR-60DmkII has slightly cleaner preamps (just barely cleaner) but it runs through batteries much more quickly.

    • @ShahidulIslamPappuOfficial
      @ShahidulIslamPappuOfficial 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@curtisjudd What is the maximum I can get in Tascam? Want to get 3-4 hours of battery life. It's possible?

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      ​@@ShahidulIslamPappuOfficial With rechargeable Ni-Mh batteries in the 60DmkII, I would only get 3.5 hours or so.

  • @photronic
    @photronic 7 ปีที่แล้ว

    I really appreciate these reviews, but I have used all three of these units, and have not encountered the same amount of noise on the Zoom and Tascam that is experienced here. I'm not saying they should be the same as the SD, but I would expect them to be far closer in quietness, with not so obvious rush of hiss. In these examples, if was almost Compact Cassette like. Perhaps it's a matter of "sweet spot" on the pre's, etc?

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  7 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      +Nyk Fry if find the pres and converters in my SD 633 to be far quieter in terms of self noise than the consumer grade Tascam and Zooms. Also note that this was meant as a practical test and the measurements were made after normalizing for web distribution which pulls up the noise floor with the signal. All that said, I still think that one can make great recordings with Zoom and Tascam recorders. Self noise is but one factor among many.

  • @moviesfromjapan6952
    @moviesfromjapan6952 9 ปีที่แล้ว

    Mr. Judd, your videos have been wonderful for me just starting out to make my youtube videos. I've jjust about about convinced myself to use the zoom H4n with an AT803b xlr lavalier. Do you think that will accomplish the same sound as the AT899 lav mic? Also, i have a deeper rich male voice, so I'm concerned that either of these lav mics will pick up the bass sounds ok?
    Also, I've watched your vid on the infinite white background and can't decide on infinite white or black. You seem to mainly use a black background but I'm learning to the white background, but in this one you have a gray-ish background. Was that simply because you didn't bother with the full lighting on your background or were you going for that look?

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  9 ปีที่แล้ว

      Movies From Japan Hi, I'm afraid that I haven't used the AT803b so I cannot speak to how it sounds. Lavalier mics have a tendency to pick up plenty of bass because they are mounted to your chest. I wouldn't worry too much about that. :)
      In this case I wanted a gray background - just a stylistic choice. Technically it is the same white paper roll but I only lit it with one, relatively low power light. You can change the look pretty drastically with small changes to the lighting.

    • @moviesfromjapan6952
      @moviesfromjapan6952 9 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thank you for the quick response! I have seen still photographer vids that showed the amazing impact of just angling the same lighting and of course reducing or adding some light to the same exact background. I'll play around with it.
      Graphics look best against a black background to my taste, but your latest ones with the gray background just seems to be more "friendly" that splits the difference between formality and futuristic.
      In your MicJ video I think it shows how important your clothing colors and layers help distinguish your body against the background. Like Will Smith said in MIB, you may just be making it look good as you're a very handsome fellow.
      I think I will go with the XLR connections, I just feel like I'd want to "graduate" from the Hn1 and MicJ combo quickly enough so that the money difference is worth ponying up now.
      Thanks again for all the great videos, you're my go to guy at this point. Arigatogozaimasu!

  • @pedrozaniaservasdoces8516
    @pedrozaniaservasdoces8516 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Hi, Curtis. Have you ever tried a Sound Device mixer/preamp connected in line to a Tascam recorder? Do you think the sound of SD preamp would be recorded on Tascam without losing quality? Thank you for the videos!

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      You'd still be using the Tascam's analogue to digital converter so that may leave a tiny effect on the audio. Also, some of the lower-end Tascam recorders may use the trick of just applying a pad to their microphone inputs vs. truly bypassing the mic inputs when set to line level. And that's not a good strategy if the goal is the highest audio quality possible.

  • @map8847
    @map8847 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    Hi Curtis, I want to make short films and have chance to pick up a Roland R-44 field recorder at a reasonable price. Would you recommend Roland for filmmaking or am I throwing my money away?

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  5 ปีที่แล้ว

      Hi MAP, I have used the R-88 on one project and it was good overall. I’m not sure what their support and repair is like, but overall the product was decent.

  • @Maveboy1
    @Maveboy1 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Hi Curtis, I’m new to using field audio recorders. I have experience with audio interfacing in home studio settings.
    My question: for CH1 & CH2, what can I adjust my REC settings to in order to receive the same level of sound consistency from each microphone?
    I recently recorded a pilot episode for a new podcast and CH1 had clearer, warmer sound with low environment noise vs. CH2 which sounded like I was across the room or had lower warmth and noticeable environment noise.
    Thanks ahead of time for any info here.

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Hi Mave, I'd work my way through the signal chain for channel 2 starting at the microphone. Is it the same type of mic as on ch1? Position is similar to ch1 mic? Cable is good? So on and so forth. Best wishes!

    • @Maveboy1
      @Maveboy1 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Curtis Judd Thanks for the information. It was the same mic for each channel. I had the options set to dual stereo mode, but have now set the record options to record mono for each channel 1-4.

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Maveboy1 👍 Nice job!

    • @Maveboy1
      @Maveboy1 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@curtisjudd Thanks Curtis and sorry man, late reply due a busier schedule. Take care!

  • @ChilatSergiu
    @ChilatSergiu 7 ปีที่แล้ว

    You can make a review about zoom h6 vs sound devices mixpre 3 ? I really want to know if the MixPre 3 preamps is better! Thank you!

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  7 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      The MixPre-3's preamp is definitely better having used the H6 and the MixPre-6 (MixPre-3 specs are the same in the preamp). Better sound, lower noise floor, more gain.

  • @darkcastle95
    @darkcastle95 7 ปีที่แล้ว

    Hi, I wanna know your take on Zoom R16 and Tascam DP-24 SD. Both have good features and the price is whats attracting me.

  • @Pabula
    @Pabula 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    Curtis, in your opinion, who offer the best preamps for microphones on an USB interface below $1k? i been eyeballing the RME BabyfacePro and Sound Devices USBPre 2, any other you suggest to look for?

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  6 ปีที่แล้ว

      Hi Pabula, I've had a positive experience with Focusrite's higher end interfaces. Their newest line, Clarett, looks like it is worth a look: bhpho.to/2IBVxiD
      I use an Antelope Audio interface which I really like but I believe all of their interfaces are north of $1k. Good luck!

  • @dylanj8676
    @dylanj8676 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    As far as affordable things go, I'd get a Tascam over a Zoom. Assuming the same sampling rate and similar preamps, I'd go with a similarly priced Tascam option, and put the saved money towards an actual interface. If I'm buying a recorder it's to use when I can't use an interface easily, like location sound work when having a multiple input mixer or interface might not be possible or very easy. If I were doing ADR, or instrument recording, I'd use an actual standalone interface.

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  5 ปีที่แล้ว

      Good points, thanks for that.

  • @mariapelzer8005
    @mariapelzer8005 ปีที่แล้ว

    Can you explain the differences between something like a zoom h2n vs a h6 paired with an xlr shotgun mic?

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  ปีที่แล้ว

      Mostly the shotgun mic is far more directional so it does not pick up as much ambient noise as something like the H2n.

  • @paweprzybylski7972
    @paweprzybylski7972 7 ปีที่แล้ว

    I have some moderate level tinnitus, so subtle noise differences is not something I can easily notice, however I can clearly hear the difference between the Tascam (C) and two others - Zoom and S.D. (A and B). On Tascam voice seems to be coloured. It somehow boost low-mids. Or am I wrong? What do you think? I can't hear any difference between A and B on my technics amp and headphones plugged to Sounblaster XFi.

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  7 ปีที่แล้ว

      Trust your ears! :)

  • @lukewaltersco
    @lukewaltersco 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    Hi Curtis can you recommend a set up for good fairly portable sound - use for youtube and instructional videos - was looking at the sennheiser mkh-416 and either zoom h5 or tascam d60. Watching this video the tascam d-60 makes your voice sound considerably more high pitched... Advice apreciated.. Thank you!

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Hi Luke, The H5 and MKH 416 are a good combination but only because the 416 has a very strong output signal. The H5 is not great with dynamic mics or shotguns or other condenser mics which require a lot of gain. Good luck!

    • @lukewaltersco
      @lukewaltersco 6 ปีที่แล้ว

      Curtis Judd Curtis Judd thanks for the feedback 🙏🏻 looking now at the mix pre 3 but seems some people have had issues with some of the features?

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  6 ปีที่แล้ว

      Hi Luke, I'm not familiar with the issues some have with some of the features. Any details you can point me to?

    • @lukewaltersco
      @lukewaltersco 6 ปีที่แล้ว

      Hi again - I read a couple of reviews that mentioned there is no automix capabilities one person was specifically quite upset about this mentioning all cheaper basic devices had this feature...?

  • @tikibongo99
    @tikibongo99 9 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks for the video. How does the audio quality compare recording live music ?

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  9 ปีที่แล้ว

      Dave F I don't do a lot of recording of live music but in my limited experience, the latest generation of Tascam devices seem to do well if you can get a stereo or even mono feed from the sound board. I have heard, though not experienced myself, that the Zoom H4n had issues taking a line level signal. You'd want to look at the H6 or H5 if you're interested in using the Zoom recorders.

  • @888marin888
    @888marin888 8 ปีที่แล้ว

    Curtis those videos are so great, i just discovered your audio channel and i love how you go more specific, we definitely wish more audition tutorials

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  8 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Hi, thanks! I have found the DR-60DmkII to do well with mics which need a lot of gain like the RODE NTG2. I have not used the ME80 so I cannot say for certain but I would bet that the DR-60D can do it. And the F4 looks like it is going to be great and should easily be able to amplify a gain hungry microphone but I don't know anyone who has a copy just yet. I've got a few requests in to get a copy as soon as it is available. More to come on that.

    • @888marin888
      @888marin888 8 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Ok thank you^^ That's very good news, so manufacturers finally get to give some true good preamp to the enthusiasts at good price! I wish us all that you get your F4 copy soon ;)

  • @ChaoticMatters
    @ChaoticMatters 9 ปีที่แล้ว

    Wow the DR 60 is around the same price of the Dr 40 recorder, what's the difference between those two?

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  9 ปีที่แล้ว

      ChaoticMatters the DR-60DmkII is a newer design with much cleaner sounding pre-amps and a different form factor that is optimized for film and video vs. music or handheld. The DR-60DmkII does not have built-in microphones but is made for recording from XLR based mics which you connect to it. As of July 2015, it runs $180 and in my experience is the best recorder for film and video makers in its price range. I just checked amazon who has it for $176: amzn.to/1LEOkLt

  • @mnflute
    @mnflute 7 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you. I think the H6 has the most natural sound. I will probably order one now to use when I don't want to carry my computer and sound card o record on location. It would have been even bore helpful if you had recorded music, the difference would be even more clear. But I think I heard enough. could be the gain on the USBPRE2 recording was a bit high though. I liked the Tascam the least.

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  7 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks. Good luck with the H6!

  • @joesch1955
    @joesch1955 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Probably the best takeaway for us non-pros is that the less expensive units lack in build quality and pro-level features, but not (much) in sound quality. So bottom line, My Tascam 70D or H8 will give me all the sound quality I need, but don't drop them, expect them to survive a hurricane. etc.

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Since about 2017, we’ve seen more and more consumer/prosumer recorders of higher quality with the ZOOM F series and Sound Devices MixPre series.

  • @MichaelZ3
    @MichaelZ3 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    I just bought a Zoom H6 and I'm confused about the low cut filter. What Hz setting would be best for outdoors? Should I just leave it set at 80Hz and forget it, or should I set it at 115Hz like another pro suggested. Zoom has no informational help, and I can't seem to find anything about it anywhere. Also, their explanation of how to use the limiter is very poor. Anywhere I can find information about how to effectively use these two functions?

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  6 ปีที่แล้ว

      Hi Michael, adjust the low-cut filter to get the sound you want. The higher you set it, the more low frequency rumble and wind blowing across the mic capsule it will eliminate, but if you go too high, it will start to thin out the sound you're trying to capture (especially men's voices). The limiter is to prevent the occasional digital clipping when the sound get's too loud. Unfortunately, on the H6 and most other recorders in this price range it isn't terribly effective because it is a digital limiter. Here's an episode where we talked about that: th-cam.com/video/xSRXba4CoQs/w-d-xo.html
      In short, I don't use the limiter on the H6 (or the Tascam recorders in this price range).

  • @VictorAlejandrobr
    @VictorAlejandrobr 9 ปีที่แล้ว

    Hi Curtis, I know you level up in post to -16 LUFS, but I was wondering how much was the level in each device when you capture? Thanks

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  9 ปีที่แล้ว

      ***** Peaks were at right around -12dB.

  • @ca1688
    @ca1688 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    Have you done a review of USBPre2? I'm wondering how it can be used as a field recorder as well as an audio interface. I'm a musician myself and would like to know if I can use this device for both puroses.

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  5 ปีที่แล้ว

      Hi Chanho, the USBPre2 does not itself have recording capabilities. You'd need to feed the stream out of the USBPre-2 to a computer for recording. Or, you could feed the L+R mix out to a recorder via XLR cables. There are probably better options if you don't already have the USBPre 2 for field recording. The MixPre line would work better, especially if you also want to do multi-track and overdub recording.

  • @BasicFilmmaker
    @BasicFilmmaker 9 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Great review Curtis! This will really give the more budget minded out there peace of mind when that dreaded disease called gear-envy kicks in. :)

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  9 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      ***** Yes, get out there and make something cool, people! :)

  • @justlooking813
    @justlooking813 8 ปีที่แล้ว

    Did you employ a noise gate or a noise reduction tool in the non-example segments? The noise floor dropped in several segments between words.

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  8 ปีที่แล้ว

      No, just a rather poor job at compression and general post processing between separate clips. No noise gate and no noise reduction.

  • @donrad
    @donrad 9 ปีที่แล้ว

    Would you please do a video or series on how a person who wants to make good how-to project videos around the typical home, kitchen, garden, workshop, garage band, yoga workout, facial dialogue, etc.; and invest under $1,000 for equipment? Camera, lighting, backdrops, mike etc.
    Or suggest a good set of videos for the "common man" that would explain this stuff?
    And is Windows Movie Maker the the only basic editing option?
    I love your videos and style. Even though most of it is over my head they are fun to watch. Thanks.

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  9 ปีที่แล้ว

      That's a great idea, I'll put some thought into that!

  • @vinnowater
    @vinnowater 8 ปีที่แล้ว +13

    I think a "pro" recorder will prove more efficient in more extreme situations than an enthusiast recorder.

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  8 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      +vinnowater I completely agree. I think consumer/prosumer recorders have come a long way in terms of audio quality, but there are still a host of reasons that pros use the pro-level recorders and mixers.

  • @Seanonyoutube
    @Seanonyoutube 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I know the SoundDevices excels at feeding the audio to a camera without losing much quality (as you explained to me in another comment), but truthfully I’m not sure if I’m ready to invest in something so expensive as that. So at this point the H6 is looking pretty attractive for where I’m at in my audio journey. So my question is: can I pass along a mix from the H6 to my camera without much loss of quality? And if so, is there a strategy for doing this in a way that minimizes quality loss?

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Yes, can do. Set your camera's input to its lowest setting. Use the H6 to get the input levels such that the meters max out at around -12dB, adjust the output level so that you're hitting the same levels on your camera.

    • @Seanonyoutube
      @Seanonyoutube 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@curtisjudd perfect, thanks Curtis!

  • @hamitcampos4989
    @hamitcampos4989 7 ปีที่แล้ว

    Here's another question. I've heard you can use a Zoom as an audio interface for an IPad. Could you trick an Iphone to use it though? Or is it strictly tied some how to IPad os. Can you do me a favor and try it if you can please?

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  7 ปีที่แล้ว

      Yes, first I need to buy a USB to lightning adapter and I'm a little angry at Apple right now because I just spent over $100 on dongles for my new MacBook Pro. I'll eventually get over it and buy that adapter. ;-)

    • @MrHamit64
      @MrHamit64 7 ปีที่แล้ว

      Ah okay. Yeah that whole 8th intch jack being gone thing is very tricky for people. I didn't realize it would be as much as a problem as it's become.

  • @randomgeocacher
    @randomgeocacher 9 ปีที่แล้ว

    The talking head section which sounds cleaner than the examples, are you using a lav mic there? Or are you using expander/noise gate?
    The remaining noise floor, is that the preamps we are hearing? Can a mic introduce noise, i.e two condenser mics with the same output signal strength, can one of them have more electronic noise due to circuits quality differences?
    It would be really cool to do these kind of tests in a soundproof room at a university, where room sound have been completely taken out of the equation :)

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  9 ปีที่แล้ว

      The talking head section is the at4053b as well, but with noise reduction applied in post. The samples didn't get that treatment.
      The noise is from three things: the mic, the preamps, and the analog to digital converters. Mics certainly can introduce noise which is why they often have signal to noise specs.
      Let's find a University with an anechoic chamber and do some tests!

    • @randomgeocacher
      @randomgeocacher 9 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks Judd! You are very skilled at providing tests and knowledge in a very clear informative manner. My university had one of those, never went into though.

    • @randomgeocacher
      @randomgeocacher 9 ปีที่แล้ว

      Would this facility be close to you?
      www.ece.utah.edu/anechoic_chamber
      (It says Utah and so does your web page says Northern Utah... My understanding of American geography is quite limited)

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  9 ปีที่แล้ว

      Yes. I'll have to check it out!

    • @alantuttphotography
      @alantuttphotography 9 ปีที่แล้ว

      I suspect that a -60dB noise floor is probably more due to the room and TH-cam compression than the equipment.

  • @jmmesaaudio
    @jmmesaaudio 9 ปีที่แล้ว

    Hi, thx for your videos!
    The book tha you have front of you could change the sound of the recording. In the Usb pre you have de book in a diferent position. this can explain some diference with the other 2 recording. bye

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  9 ปีที่แล้ว

      +Juan Manuel Mesa Thank you Juan, you are right, my mistake.

  • @alisonjones4695
    @alisonjones4695 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Hello- Help. I'm using an audio technica microphone with a zoom H5, connected to a Canon rebel camera via an attenuated cable. I'm recording directly to the SD card on the camera. When I play back, I hear a great deal of static and I can hardly hear any voice dialogue. Suggestions? Thanks in advance, and I'm a novice at this, trying to create educational courses.

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Hi Alison, do you have a regular (non-attenuator) cable you can try in lieu of the attenuator cable? That'd be my first test.

    • @alisonjones4695
      @alisonjones4695 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@curtisjudd Thanks for your quick response. I discovered that using a dummy battery is the cause. Once I removed it, the static went away. Is this common with dummy batteries? I'm using a GyroVu LP-E17 from B&H. Do I need to purchase a different brand or purchase a back-up battery instead? Your videos are very helpful!

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@alisonjones4695 Not sure - it'll take some experimentation. Does the dummy battery make the buzzing noise if you don't run a cable to the camera? Often buzzing occurs when you connect multiple pieces of gear.

  • @MrHamit64
    @MrHamit64 8 ปีที่แล้ว

    Dude I couldn't hear as much of a difference as with an NT1-A. But I will tell ya from what I've heard in Neal's podcasts man if only I could I totally would get a 7 recorder. Heck that's why I'd really love the Pre 2. Cause it's the same innerds. Thus the same quality. What's more with the Pre2 I could at least say where there's a will there's a way. No way I could do the 67 things. Especially the 788-T. Man that's the dreem recorder right there. I mean the 44-T was epic, but 1 that you can later down mix to 7.1 dude that's super epic.

  • @lamenamethefirst
    @lamenamethefirst 7 ปีที่แล้ว

    I don't think anyone really believes that prosumer equipment sounds the same as pro gear. But I think it is worthwhile to note that they do sound good enough these days for pros to pack one along with their pro gear. All productions aren't mega high budget. An H6's portability and sound quality really makes it a worthwhile piece of hardware to keep for additional recordings or to use in places where you can't afford to lose $4000

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  7 ปีที่แล้ว

      I agree. Thanks!

  • @hamitcampos4989
    @hamitcampos4989 7 ปีที่แล้ว

    Yeah the prosumer recorders are getting more and more epic. My friend Neal Ewers in Madison Wesconson notised this when he got the Olympus LS-100. Which is the only 1 of this kinda recorder that is truely accessible to the blind. Too bad you can't pay stuff off at B&H like at Sweet Water. I'd so love 1. But as I was saying before Neal used his awesome NT1-A first on the gold standard of the 744-T. Then he used it on the Olympus. He was amaised. He couldn't believe his ears. Now back then people use to do Zoom H4N VS LS-100 vids. Axeptable for the time, but not fare. The 100 to my ears is more like a H6 with less highs. So it's like a fully almost accessible H6. The 100 is accessible cause the menus talk. I wish Zoom and these other guys made note of what Olympus has done. Same goes for my LS-14. It too has talking menus. It's not hard. All it seems Olympus did is have a british lady go into a studio read off lots of the menu options and then some how and this maybe the harder and more expensive part, baked these recordings into the firmware. If the zooms talked things would be easyer. I mean it'll be tricky unless you count the menus and options for instance to set it up each time you wana use it as an interface for instance.

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  7 ปีที่แล้ว

      Yes, good point. Unfortunately, most recorders don't have these accessibility features yet. Seems like it would not be too hard to add.

  • @kipling1957
    @kipling1957 9 ปีที่แล้ว

    I did prefer the Sound Devices sound. I'd call it openness, clarity, plus weight. The others didn't have that authoritative weight for dialogue. Sorry for all the vague descriptives, but I'm not sure how else to do this. Whether it is worth the price hike is another matter. But if price didn't matter, I'd go with the Sound Devices unit for the sound alone. The robustness and great level metering is a huge bonus of course.

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  9 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      kipling1957 I agree. Subjective, but there is something to the Sound Devices sound. And, for those that cannot afford it, they can still make great sounding pieces even without an expensive recorder (expensive from a non-pro point of view) with the Tascam and Zooms.

    • @BP2U
      @BP2U 9 ปีที่แล้ว

      +kipling1957 I agree... maybe it's because I'm listening intently now and have a year of noob-experience, but the Tascam and Zoom did let in some hiss/noise that the other track did not. They also sounded more like they were in a box (maybe a plastic box) whereas the USBpre had a more open/clear sound.
      Great comparison though! Always good to hear. You def. have to decide for yourself and your projects whether the price difference is worth it.
      Personally, I just upgraded from a JuicedLink (into camera) to a MixPreD + Marantz661 -- and also upgraded my mic to the next level shotgun, added PluralEyes, etc. I think better audio will be worth it over the next year or so :) Then if I really need more tracks, I'm staring at the SD 633.
      Cheers,

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  9 ปีที่แล้ว

      +Brian Powell I completely agree. Investing in quality audio gear seems like a wise way to invest in better production value. Congrats on the MixPreD and Marantz. I'm betting those will serve you well for years to come.

    • @kipling1957
      @kipling1957 9 ปีที่แล้ว

      +Brian Powell That's quite a coincidence - I have exactly the same set-up - the MixPreD + Marantz 661. I use the Marantz as a digital bit bucket via AES to SPDIF and it works great. I recently invested in a blimp and have being doing some foley mid-side stereo recordings. Really happy with the results. Very low noise floor for quiet environments.

    • @kipling1957
      @kipling1957 9 ปีที่แล้ว

      +Brian Powell That's quite a coincidence - I have exactly the same set-up - the MixPreD + Marantz 661. I use the Marantz as a digital bit bucket via AES to SPDIF and it works great. I recently invested in a blimp and have being doing some foley mid-side stereo recordings. Really happy with the results. Very low noise floor for quiet environments.

  • @mymusicmoodsmmm8821
    @mymusicmoodsmmm8821 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    Hi! If I want to use it for nature sounds, is there one you suggest more than others? Thanks

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I'd recommend the Sound Devices MixPre series: th-cam.com/video/piomdez4iSM/w-d-xo.html

    • @mymusicmoodsmmm8821
      @mymusicmoodsmmm8821 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thank you, I think ill go with it. Another question, have you tried ambisonic Rode or Sennheiser? I would go with the real Soundfield but really pricey...

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@mymusicmoodsmmm8821 Not yet, both are on my list. :)

  • @candyartstv
    @candyartstv 8 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    What audio setup do you use for these videos?

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  8 ปีที่แล้ว

      Hi! I assume you mean gear? I'm sort of an audio enthusiast/junkie so I use a bunch of different mics and recorders. Here's an overview of the mics and recorders I use:
      Recorders: th-cam.com/video/PRd-nZGGSv4/w-d-xo.html
      Microphones: th-cam.com/video/7Ou9ZVsDLEY/w-d-xo.html

  • @TheDWRESTLING
    @TheDWRESTLING 9 ปีที่แล้ว

    Hello Curtis, I want to ask for your advice - what is the best stereo mic (to film on the streets for public pranks,mostly dialogs)?

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  9 ปีที่แล้ว

      Tell me more about why you want a stereo mic? Most of the pranksters are using lavalier mics hidden under their shirts. I'd consider this one which records into your phone and then you sync it up to your video on your computer: th-cam.com/video/3ylyArmnar0/w-d-xo.html

    • @TheDWRESTLING
      @TheDWRESTLING 9 ปีที่แล้ว

      Curtis Judd I thought of stereo just to hear both of pearsons talking. I already bough Zoom H1 and now I'm searching for the best lavalier (up to 150-200$)

    • @scottvanderbilt1279
      @scottvanderbilt1279 9 ปีที่แล้ว

      Dima Kovalenko You definitely don't need a stereo mic under these circumstances. Most lavaliers are omnidirectional, and if placed correctly and used in an environment with relatively a little ambient noise, will definitely pick up the dialog of any other person in close proximity. No promises about the quality, however.

    • @TheDWRESTLING
      @TheDWRESTLING 9 ปีที่แล้ว

      Curtis Judd I already have Zoom H1 will Rode smartLav+ (if it's a good choice for filming on the streets) connect to it?

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  9 ปีที่แล้ว

      Dima Kovalenko Have a listen to this and see if the sound appeals to you. I've used it to mic a groom and you could still hear the bride. Shot at an outdoor wedding.
      th-cam.com/video/RBxOLnVxg3A/w-d-xo.html

  • @vaan97531
    @vaan97531 ปีที่แล้ว

    You should do a full read through of this book!!!

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Yes!

    • @vaan97531
      @vaan97531 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@curtisjudd I’m new to the industry so that will definitely help me out! Do you have a discord?

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@vaan97531 Unfortunately, no. Thought about it, but I know that I'm far too busy to do it justice.

  • @pandoraefretum
    @pandoraefretum 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    The $1k Sound-Devices recorder was cleaner and better.... BUT this video proves you don't need to spend much to come close

  • @skakdosmer
    @skakdosmer 8 ปีที่แล้ว

    The first sounds marginally better than the second, the main difference being that the s'es are not quite as loud and hissy.
    The second is again a little bit better than the third, mostly because the third sounds very slightly muffled in comparison.
    But they are so alike, that as long as we are only comparing the sound quality, I think it would make absolutely no sense at all to go for anything but the cheapest solution, unless you're a big time pro, or someone else is paying.

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  8 ปีที่แล้ว

      +Lau Bjerno I'm with you! I hope somebody else is buying! ;-)

    • @skakdosmer
      @skakdosmer 8 ปีที่แล้ว

      Well, I recently bought the Zoom H4N. I have no idea how that compares to these three, but I think I'll just stick with that now that I have it.

  • @scottvanderbilt1279
    @scottvanderbilt1279 9 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Well done, as usual, Curtis. However, I'd like to comment on a couple of things.
    I think the topic was more than a little mischaracterized. This was definitely not a comparison of a high end field recorders, a fact which is not learned until half way through. Also, your statement that the preamps in the USBPre2 and the 744t are "exactly the same" is false. Sound Devices claims they "share the same topology" but this is very different from being "exactly the same". I can guarantee you each device's actual circuitry is not even close to being the same. You only need to compare the specifications of the two devices to see that (e.g., THD and EIN).
    There are also several more ways in which the difference between the professional gear and the consumer-grade gear justifies the higher price tag, but an essential one that you omitted is build quality and durability. Pro gear like Sound Devices is solidly built and can withstand years of abuse, being dropped, knocked around, subjected to absurdly low and high temperatures and ridiculous weather conditions, etc., and will still keep on ticking.
    Having said that, as long as you don't need an actual "field" recorder and confine your use to recording one or two channels in a protected studio environment, or if you have no intention of ever hiring yourself out as a professional production sound mixer, then the consumer level gear will do just fine, as you've amply demonstrated,

    • @fieldhouse1312
      @fieldhouse1312 9 ปีที่แล้ว

      Scott Vanderbilt i agree that compare SD recorders using usbpre mixer sudnt be the same. However i am happy with my H6.

    • @matrodfpv
      @matrodfpv 9 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Scott Vanderbilt He actually did mention build quality and durability. Did you write this half way through the video as well?

    • @scottvanderbilt1279
      @scottvanderbilt1279 9 ปีที่แล้ว

      Cinevape Duly noted. You are correct. My apologies to Curtis. Have anything constructive to add, or just snarky comments?

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  9 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      Scott Vanderbilt Thank you Scott. I clearly misread Sound Devices' marketing materials. You are right that it only claims to have the same "topology" as the 700 series recorders so my logic may be flawed on that front. I also agree that build quality is hugely different on "pro" level devices like the USBPre 2 (that was mentioned later in the video). Next I need to get my hands on an SD 633 and redo the test. Thanks for your input! I really appreciate that it was presented constructively.

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  9 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Scott Vanderbilt Just had another look at the spec pages at the Sound Devices page. As you noted, the analog stage preamps clearly have different specs. The A/D and D/A appear to have the same spec, which also does not prove that they are identical. Thanks again!

  • @TheKingofSpades444
    @TheKingofSpades444 9 ปีที่แล้ว

    Curtis have you heard anything about the Zoom F8 recorder yet?

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  9 ปีที่แล้ว

      Yes! Mine should arrive Monday, can't wait to test it and get a review posted!

    • @TheKingofSpades444
      @TheKingofSpades444 9 ปีที่แล้ว

      Please do. Looking forward to hearing about this!

  • @soundfilmediting3773
    @soundfilmediting3773 8 ปีที่แล้ว

    You can tell the big difference between good and bad preamps in situations when you have to force the gain to the max (like in film dialogue when the mic is not so close from the subject), even more if you add compression and eq later in postpro.
    I liked the video, but to be fair, this was not one of those situations.

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  8 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks for the feedback.

  • @elblopex
    @elblopex 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    to be honest, I liked the sound devices the least. Zoom sounded very natural. Instead, sound devices boosts a little bit the lower frequencies. It might be a matter of matching the best recorder with the best mic for every situation to get the best out of the equipment.

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Always trust your own ears. 👂

  • @stevenrix7277
    @stevenrix7277 9 ปีที่แล้ว

    I liked C, then B, then A. On the tascam the sound sounded rich but there was some noise to signal ratio I believe. I was planning to buy a Tascam DR-70D but i am not sure anymore now :/ For sure i'll never buy a 633 it does not fit in my budget.

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  9 ปีที่แล้ว

      Steven Rix Keep in mind that I normalized this to -16LUFS so that noise floor is worst case scenario and you can still apply noise reduction in post very quickly and easily.

    • @stevenrix7277
      @stevenrix7277 9 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thank you for the reminder ^_^ You are absolutely right, it's not that bad for a consumer device. A friend of mine owns the Tascam 60D MK II,and he's very happy with his device (he's an indie filmmaker based in Vegas).

  • @CameronFurnivalWatling
    @CameronFurnivalWatling 8 ปีที่แล้ว

    What Camera, do you record you video with?

  • @JimvsBob
    @JimvsBob 6 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I think the frequency of your voice kind of affects the test.

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  6 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I absolutely agree. I would view this as a single data point rather than a definitive test.

  • @SewTubular
    @SewTubular 9 ปีที่แล้ว

    There is one big difference between the pro grade audio recorders and the consumer grade audio recorders, and that is the actual noise-floor of the recorder itself. The better consumer recorders will have a "self" noise floor that sits at about -70 dB RMS, where the pro grade recorders have a "self" noise floor that is -100 dB RMS or better.
    With careful recording you won't hear much difference between the two, but on projects where you accidentally record your audio 30 dB too low you can fix this by boosting the level of your recording by 30 dB.
    With the pro grade recorder the 30 dB boosted recording will sound the same as a recording made at proper audio levels. ( the -100 dB RMS noise floor boosted by 30 dB is now -70 dB RMS, which is equal to what the consumer recorder produces when the audio levels are set correctly )
    With the consumer grade recorder the 30 dB boosted recording will sound quite noisy, because your -70 dB RMS noise-floor has now been boosted to -40 dB RMS which sounds absolutely horrible.
    As with anything, you get what you pay for.

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  9 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks. My assumption that the SD USBPre 2 could be a proxy for the pro level field recorders is probably not valid. The USBPre 2's noise floor sat at -60dB after normalizing to -16 LUFS. Same with the Tascam and Zoom recorders.

    • @SewTubular
      @SewTubular 9 ปีที่แล้ว

      Curtis Judd You need to measure the noise-floor BEFORE normalizing, as this is the true "self" noise-floor of the device.
      With professional audio recording you would normally send a 1 kHz test-tone from your mixer ( or your recorder if it has it ) to calibrate the proper recording level. With consumer grade recorders I use -12 dB as my 1 kHz test-tone recording level because of the higher "self" noise-floor of the device. With professional grade recorders I use -20 dB as my test-tone recording level, as I know that I've got at least another 80 dB of dynamic range beyond the -20 dB recording level. ( under more extreme audio conditions I will also turn on the audio limiters of the mixer or the recorder to make sure my recording never clips )

    • @joshuashade764
      @joshuashade764 8 ปีที่แล้ว

      So would you have evidence to say that even the USB Mix-Pre or USBPre 2 would have that -100 dB RMS noise floor you mentioned, or would one or the other be closer to that -70dB RMS floor?

    • @SewTubular
      @SewTubular 8 ปีที่แล้ว

      I haven't used or tested the Sound Devices USB Mix-Pre interface or the Sound Devices USBPre 2 interface, but for the USBPre 2 Sound Devices lists the dynamic range of the analog-to-digital converter to be 114 dB and the digital-to-analog converter to be 112 dB, and given my experience with other Sound Devices equipment I would expect this is accurate. This means that the potential dynamic range of a recording made with the SD USBPre 2 should be more than 100 dB.
      In reality you will probably never experience this dynamic range in your recordings because the microphones you record with will likely have less than 80 dB of dynamic range. ( i.e. the "self-noise" of your microphones will be noisier than -80 dB )
      Where this extra dynamic range becomes useful is when you make a recording with the recording levels accidentally set too low ( it happens sometimes ) and need to boost your recording by 20+ dB. With a recording system with more than 100 dB of dynamic range, you could accidentally record your audio with levels that are 20 dB too low, and then boost this recording by 20 dB in post and still have 80 dB of dynamic range in your recording. ( assuming your microphones can produce 80 dB of dynamic range )
      With low cost consumer recorders, you are going to have a dynamic range of 60 to 80 dB, so if you boost their signal by 20 dB you end up with a recording that has a dynamic range of 40 to 60 dB. ( I consider anything with less than 60 dB of dynamic range to be a "noisy" recording )

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  8 ปีที่แล้ว

      Please explain why one should not measure after loudness normalizing to the target loudness, I am genuinely curious to understand.
      I understand that using a test tone allows you to do a standardized test, but even when you use a test tone, you will still generally does some amount of normalization in post where the noise floor will increase.
      My thinking was that I want to know where my RMS noisefloor sits for pieces I plan to publish to the web where I'm going to loudness normalize to -16 LUFs for stereo or -19 LUFS for mono. Why would I not want to do that as a practical noise floor test? My sense is that if the noise floor is still at -60 dB RMS once I've done that, I can skip any post noise reduction which most people will perceive as generally noise free and not distracting.

  • @yvesbajulaz
    @yvesbajulaz 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    You can totally hear it... The hiss pumping between phrases... B and C are nasty

  • @scrowin
    @scrowin 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    This is much like comparing audiophile speakers and amps, most professionals can barley tell a difference when side by side. Almost everyone will think they hear a difference but blind tested they fail. Almost nobody can listen to a audio track and tell you which recorder was used solo. The Non technical public who consumes the content cannot tell the difference. I'd agree that the benefits are in build and functionality. Tascam has been making professional audio recording devices for 40 plus years when reel to reel tape was used in studios so their in house expertise translates into this pro-sumer devices. I think the bottom line is that DSP technology makes exceptional audio quality available at all price levels. It just doesn't cost a lot to record great sound anymore. If you think you have great ears take an online hearing test using good headphones. most people over 35 have lost the top end. So hopefully you are not making it sound correct to your ears in post if you've lost frequency ranges. In my experience the functionality, menu system, reliability and how tough the box is usually improve with price. Thanks for the video, informative.

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thanks S Craigs.

  • @paweprzybylski2857
    @paweprzybylski2857 6 ปีที่แล้ว

    I can hear very substantial difference in the noise floor between Sound Devices (like day and dusk so to speak at least) and even slight difference in noise floor between two others in favor of Zoom. And I am no professional...

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  6 ปีที่แล้ว

      Hi Pawel, thanks for the input.

    • @przybylskipawel
      @przybylskipawel 6 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@curtisjudd BTW. Is it probable that you review one of the Zoom Livetraks someday? I know that these are not devices aimed at filmmakers needs but It's hard to find a review covering the topic of sonic quality of its preamps comparing to say Zoom F8. And no one do this as good as you do.

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  6 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@przybylskipawel I hope so, but not on the short-term horizon. I attempted to borrow one but the plans did not work out, unfortunately. Will try again.

  • @NajatJellab
    @NajatJellab 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    An amazing expert!

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks for watching, Najat.

  • @tavusion
    @tavusion 9 ปีที่แล้ว

    Please Review Zoom F8

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  9 ปีที่แล้ว

      +T.A.V I am. Initial thoughts on the Zoom F8 here: learnlightandsound.com/2015/08/18/zoom-f8-first-impressions/
      And additional thoughts here: learnlightandsound.com/2015/09/10/zoom-f8-for-pros-or-really-for-enthusiasts/
      And of course a video review (probably a series of episodes) coming.

    • @tavusion
      @tavusion 9 ปีที่แล้ว

      Curtis Judd Great article, its been almost a month so can you comment on the noise floor & audio quality?

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  9 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      +T.A.V The noise floor and audio quality are top notch, on par with Sound Devices recorders I've used in the past including the 744T. You can hear it in my most recent videos on my channel:
      th-cam.com/video/b1fS4eIf2dg/w-d-xo.html
      th-cam.com/video/8FfftoGqCTM/w-d-xo.html
      th-cam.com/video/0WuHVobIQUs/w-d-xo.html

  • @toonheaded1
    @toonheaded1 8 ปีที่แล้ว

    I heard the difference right away and I got the three recorders right AND I watched it on my phone no headphones

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  8 ปีที่แล้ว

      +jessie flores nicely done, you've got golden ears!

  • @drayvelharris8348
    @drayvelharris8348 8 ปีที่แล้ว

    I think you're starting from a redundant premise. The more expensive devices focus on build quality and survive ability. I'm sure they all record fine and nearly the same, but the featureset , robustness and staying power is why you want a more expensive device. This is not like the old days / nagra or stellavox vs tascam and sony

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  8 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      +Drayvel Harris Absolutely agree. There are a LOT of reasons to still go with Sound Devices, Zaxcom and other higher end recorders and mixers. Build quality is certainly one, reliability (multi-power and more robust power option), and even features (proper analogue limiters in SD products). My goal is to help those that cannot afford those to understand that they can start and learn with decent consumer recorders and grow into pro level devices.

    • @drayvelharris8348
      @drayvelharris8348 8 ปีที่แล้ว

      +Curtis Judd I've been interested in a consumer device for recording sound for fx libraries and capturing sound for gaming. I don't need a zaxcom for that, an F8 would let me buy more and nicer mics. This new high end consumer stuff will find it's place for sure

  • @DynamicLearning4u
    @DynamicLearning4u 8 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I am curious if a Sanken cs3e will make a big difference? th-cam.com/video/4HP33-phd_0/w-d-xo.html

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  8 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Hi, the Sanken CS3e is a great shotgun microphone and it cuts very nicely with the Sanken COS-11D which is a very common lavalier used by many, many pros. It will sound different than many less expensive shotgun microphones. I don't know whether you'd hear a huge difference recorded to these different recorders aside from the noise floor.

    • @DynamicLearning4u
      @DynamicLearning4u 8 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks Curtis. Appreciate it.

  • @ADHomesteading
    @ADHomesteading 9 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you for the video. I couldn't hear much of a difference.

    • @curtisjudd
      @curtisjudd  9 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Aaron Davis Homesteading Thanks!