So, I just bought an M10 and love most of the things about it. But having a problem when I record with an external mic. I'm using a Shure SM57. And I've tried both an XVS and XVM cable. In both instances there seems to be some electrical crackling in the background. It seems to be worse when I have the M10 flat on a counter top. I've tested the same mic on a Tascam DR100mk2 and don't hear the crackle. I've searched the forums and haven't run across anyone with the same problem. What do you think: Is it a lemon? Is it the mic input jack? I want to love this machine, but I'm going to be doing interviews and the electrical crackle is a dealbreaker. Also, for indoor interviews, anyone have any mics they recommend for the M10?
does the sm57 need phantom power?
No. It is a dynamic mic. Along with the SM-58, probably the most widely used all purpose mic around.
That same mic works fine on a Tascam DR100, doesn't it? Then try another mic on the M10 and you'll know if the external mic input is faulty or not.
Did you try disabling (via the M10's menu) the plug-in power at the microphone input?
Also if you had a choice the sm57 is not a good mic for interviews unless you are in a really noisy environment. The pattern is way to tight and you will have to do this in order to get voice into the thing. I would use a 58 or better yet an EV re50 or EV 635 BOTH with windscreens.
Kind of wondering how you adapt the xlr down to mini plug stereo. Maybe your adapters are putting torque on the mini connection when you lay it on the table? Then all you need to do is put some cloth between the m10 and the table to cushion the connection. The mini plug is not the most forgiving connector and in addition to giving you static it won't last very long with force of any kind applied to it.
Is it plugged in fully?
.
In the meanwhile, the topic opener...
(http://29.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lxjm4n4umw1rn1xxfo1_400.gif)
niiiiiiiice :P