Looking for an instruction manual?
Questions and Answers
Q: What is the difference between balanced and unbalanced?
A: Most professional audio devices are connected via balanced cables to minimize pickup of stray electrical noise. Consumer audio devices use unbalanced cables and are very prone to picking up noise, especially at low signal levels from devices such as microphones. Balanced circuits have an inherent ability to only pass audio signals and reject unwanted noise. Balanced refers to the fact that there are two symmetrical signal lines and one ground, while unbalanced uses just one signal line in reference to ground. Normally, XLR connectors are used in most balanced devices while unbalanced consumer gear normally use mini-plug connectors.
Q: What is the difference between MIC and LINE level?
A: Level refers to the relative strength of the signal and is measured in decibels. LINE level sources are much-amplified signals over MIC (microphone) level signals. LINE level is normally -10 dBV for consumer gear and +4 dBu for pro gear while MIC levels are normally -60 dBu for dynamic microphones and -35 dBu for condenser microphones.
Q: What is meant by "low impedance"?
A: Impedance is an electrical term that refers to how much a device impedes the flow of current and is measured in ohms. While there is no set standard, low impedance usually refers to a range of between 150 and 600 ohms. Most professional audio microphones are low impedance. Our adapters are designed to work with any low impedance source.
Q: What about the sound quality?
A: Our adapters are passive devices and are completely noise free. The passive circuitry is ideal for most condenser type microphones for optimum sound quality.
Q: How do our passive adapters compare to other manufacturers active adapters?
A: Our passive adapters use noise free, high quality transformers instead of complicated and sensitive electronic circuitry. The transformers provide an exceptionally wide dynamic range and are virtually unclipable for superb audio. Most condenser type microphones do not require any extra amplification which only adds noise and limits headroom which leads to clipping and distortion when recording loud sounds. That is why other manufacturers only compare our products with very low output dynamic microphones while recording low level audio. They set up a selective test with the gain on the camcorder turned up excessively high which of course introduces hiss and then claim that their adapter provides cleaner audio. However, with our adapters and a good condenser type microphone that is recording normal audio levels, the gain on the camera can be set low for very clean, distortion free audio. Even when recording very loud, fast transient sounds like a drum hit, the wide dynamic range of our passive adapters provide unbeatable clarity and openness. In fact, our passive adapters provide a whopping +18 dBu output that none of their active adapters can match.
Q: What devices can I connect to the adapters?
A: We recommend sensitive condenser type microphones or wireless receivers for our adapters for the best results. Any line level source from audio mixers or sound boards can also be connected to our adapters - simply activate the built-in attenuator switch.
Q: Can I attach the adapter to the camcorder and a tripod?
A: Yes, all of the adapters mount securely to the underside of the camcorder and also have a threaded insert on the bottom to mount to any standard tripod.
Q: Can I buy products directly from you?
A: Yes! In addition to our world wide dealer network, we now have an Online Store where you can purchase any of our products. We also occasionally have reconditioned products in our warehouse that you can purchase from us at very attractive prices. These items are fully refurbished and come with the same two year warranty as our new products. Please contact us if you are interested in any of these items.
Q. How do I get my BeachTek product repaired?
A. Should you require service on any BeachTek product, please complete the Return Authorization Request. Shortly thereafter, you will be sent a RA form with a unique RA number to be included with your returned device. Products covered under the two year warranty will be replaced or repaired free of charge. For non warranty items a flat rate will apply depending upon the product.
Click Here for a return authorization request
Note: We recommend that you ship via courier such as UPS since air postal service can take several weeks to arrive. Once we receive your device it will be repaired or replaced promptly and returned to you via UPS.
If your adapter is several years old, you may want to consider purchasing a reconditioned adapter from us instead. This way you will not have to return the old unit and you will receive a much newer model with better features, performance and reliability. Your reconditioned model will also come with a full one year warranty. Contact us for details.
Didn't find the answer you were looking for?
For Product Support, Click Here
For Customer Service, Click Here
|
