Capturing sound some distance away

R. Mitchell Fore wrote:
The simplest solution would be to use an external mic if your camera supports it. Otherwise, you'll probably need to record the audio separately, import that file into FCE and synch it with your video.

R. Mitchell Fore wrote:
I have no experience with any of these microphones, so I can't offer a specific recommendation. What I'm suggesting is using an external microphone which connects to your camera so the audio that's recorded by the camera comes from that external mic. Some cameras have the capability to use an external mic, some don't. What camera will you be using?

Vetgirig wrote:
I think the best way is to record the audio seperately. You can then check out the best position where to put the microphone. I use the Zoom H4 and is very happy with it.

R. Mitchell Fore wrote:

I'll second Vetgirig's opinion that you'll likely get better audio if you record it separately using good equipment to a dedicated audio device, but that adds importing and synchronizing steps to your editing process.

Vetgirig wrote:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fiLy_BBOQEQ

You don't connect to your camera to the Zoom, you use it off-line.
It´s quite easy to sync audio with your video. Just initiate by clapping your hands together having both the Zoom and your camera recording it...

Your transfer the audio by an USB-connection to your Mac.

MartinR wrote:
Hi Ryan,
I do location filming of events like yours. My cameras all have an input for an external mic (stereo input). I considered four possibilities: 1) plugging into the venue's audio system, 2) using a separate audio recorder like the Zoom, 3) buying a couple of wireless mics or 4) buying good quality wired mics & the necessary cables & stands.

I went with #4 and it has worked out great. The main reasons were to record the audio with the video +in camera+ so I would not have to sync the two during post; and to keep the total cost down. I picked up 4 outstanding Audio-Technica mics on eBay for under $100. The stands were about $25 each, 50' cables about $30 each. I also picked up a 4-input mixer for $150. Plus some misc. cables, windscreens, etc. Total about $500.

In your case, you could get away with 2 decent dynamic mics, cables, and a Y-adapter to plug into your camcorder's mic input. This would enable stereo sound and you could place the mics near the chorus and run the cables to your camcorder. And I think you could keep the cost in the neighborhood of $200. ps. - you may even be able to rent this gear from a local audio/production house.

_Option 1_ wasn't viable. The venues generally don't want you plugging into their system and even if you do, you are dependent on them getting it right. Not.
_Option 2_ created too many problems. Separate audio that would have to be sync'd to the video during post. And even then it often drifts out of sync. After doing it this way a couple of times I got so frustrated I swore I'd never do it again.
_Option 3_ was the most expensive. While there are cheap wireless mics out there, I was not satisfied with the quality of the units that were less than about ~$250 - and that was for only 1 mic. And I still would have had to mix them. So this was the high cost option.