sony pd 150/170 video camera accessories

Some video cameras, especially higher end ones, will have built in XLR plugs for the XLR audio cables.

You then can simply connect an XLR cable from a microphone directly to the camera.

(for cameras without a built-in XLR connector, we recommend you buy an audio adapter that has XLR connectors built into it.

For cameras with built-in XLR connectors, you need to check some audio settings, such as making sure no power source has been selected for handheld or lavalier microphones that don't require power from the camera.

You also need to set the audio input level to "microphone," rather than to what is referred to as "line" level, which is an audio feed you would get from an external audio mixer, such as what might be provided at a press conference or a public event.

On the Sony PD150, the plugs for XLR cables are on the top right of the camera.

The audio settings you need to check are on the opposite side of the camera - the top left toward the front.

If you're using a handheld or lavalier microphone that doesn't require power from the camera, (such as a Sennheiser handheld or a Sony lavalier), make sure the Record Channel Select button is set to CH1, the Input Level button is set to Mic and the +48V button (which is the power source for the microphone) is set to Off.

Then see the instructions on manually setting the audio levels for the microphones on the PD150.