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View Full Version : Canon HD camcorder horrible audio. Normal or defective?



Mjmar
Oct 25, 2009, 04:38 PM
I recently purchased a refurbished Canon HG10 and was very happy until I put the first video clips onto my MacBook and the audio had a horrible hissing noise in the background. Also, I could hear the HDD and the auto focus noises in the audio. I understand that consumer camcorders don't exactly have the best audio quality, but this is beyond that. I'm wondering if I should return it or swap it for another one. If anyone has an HG10 and can comment on the audio that'd be great.


puckhead193
Oct 25, 2009, 05:02 PM
can you post a clip on youtube or the like?
matteusclement
Oct 25, 2009, 09:30 PM
hissing/humming or just a hiss?
have you tried an external mic with it?
Mjmar
Oct 26, 2009, 10:22 PM
hissing/humming or just a hiss?
have you tried an external mic with it?

It's more of a strong static sound now that I listen more closely... It could be normal because it's not anything "weird" exactly.... it just sounds like the gain on the mic is way too strong. I was expecting better of a camera in this price range. My standard definition JVC has much better audio.
eawmp1
Oct 26, 2009, 10:24 PM
Common complaint with the Canon's. External/directional mic set up from the body resolves issue.
akdj
Oct 27, 2009, 05:47 PM
Most, if not all of the consumer level camcorders have AGC circuitry enabled (Auto Gain) with NO way to disable it. Pretty pitiful S/N as well.

Not sure what your input options are, I'm not familiar with the camera....but as others have mentioned, an external mic will help, albeit still a bit crippled by AGC. Not being familiar with the camera, there may be a way to shut it down. You'd have to check....

To have total control of your sound, capture it on an external recorder, IE Zoom H4n, Tascam DR-1/100, Marantz, Sony, etc all make SD handheld audio recorders....some with very high quality sound. Also, XLR jacks and 4 channel recording makes them extremely flexible and discreet.

Unfortunately, audio can make or break your film...as I'm sure is obvious to you. As well...one must spend over $3-4k* at this time to bypass AGC and have manual, in-camera control of his/her audio. Secondary system recording is definitely essential for decent audio control with your current rig....this is definitely not a BAD thing...in fact, it's common place in real world filmmaking. Gives you a chance to learn alot as well!

J

*Price for a camera with XLR and in camera audio control, EG...EX-1, HVX/HPX, XH-A, etc.