thing is, in a typical set, there will be power cords all over (some powering 1000 watts lights...etc). So i feel more comfortable running XLR balance input.
what about the upcoming new FR2le ?? would it have XLR line in??
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IMO, Here is the deal on a balanced line in, there is a huge reason why most manufacturers do not bother with it. Line in levels are anywhere from -20 or-10 on non pro gear to +4, at +4 the chances of getting any induction from anything especially if you keep you cable lengths short is nill.
The whole point of balanced audio is mainly because at mic levels of anywhere from -60 to -40, you need it (common mode rejection) because when you preamp that signal, it will or could contain an inducted signal as well. So you would be "boosting" both signals, with a line input you don't have that problem because the inducted signal if there is any, on a short 12 inch lead and I would doubt it will be so much lower then the signal that is being sent, that you would not detect it in most cases.
I have worked in situations where there is not just one light but 400,000 watts of lighting and dimming going on, and unbalanced has never caused me a problem with induction as long as the signals were +4 or -10 and cable lengths were SHORT
Turing a unbalanced -20 db input into a balanced -20 db input still gives you the same noise floor problems except now you have the added loss of frequency response and increased distortion due to the transformer! ( unless your willing to go very high end on the transformer say $150 each) But the problem with that is now you have added $300 to the cost of your recorder! Not to mention the tech fees for building the transformers into your recorder and the XLR connections.
Also most XLR connectors on recorders line inputs are NOT balanced. They are Pin 2 hot pin 3 connected to Pin 1. I am not saying that a balanced line input cant come in handy some times but.... What I am saying is that in most cases if the line input cable is kept short, and is of good quality induction is not a problem. Now if you go and park your gear on top of a lighting dimmer well.... Yes you could have a problem but you would have the same problem with balanced, because inside the gear in question for the most part the signal gets unbalanced as soon as it gets inside the recorder. So all that protects the signal is a thin metal shield and its not enough for any type of dimmer based strong em induction. So its a moot point IMO.
Chris Church
Topic: Help I cant find a Recorder for my need ! (Read 9588 times)