External Microphone Modification for Sony Camcorder

[ryanemerson]

If anyone else is unhappy with the sound from their camcorder... I would like to share my modification:

Modification Page

I picked up this digital-8 camcorder on clearance for USD$145, regular price is in the USD$300+ range. I was mainly interested in it because the Sony cameras have far superior low-light performance than the cheap Canon mini-DVs. I was able to justify the purchase with Abby (my wife) by reminding her that the Canon that we have sucks indoors and we are going to be shooting a lot of indoor baby video here soon...

Anyway, a problem with these small cameras is that the nature of the compact design makes it virtually impossible to eliminate the hum of the tape drive from the sound during recording. It is annoying, especially if you are cranky about sounds like me.

This model did not come with an external mic jack, so I had to modify. Out comes the dremel tool, wires, soldering iron, scrap material and epoxy!

I have included some audio files also at the bottom of the page. The modification made a big difference in the sound.

Cheers!

Modification Page

 

[Roy Mallard]

nice idea, but you do realise that you are nuts.

 

[ryanemerson]

Simonwim,

Thanks for the "Up Periscope!" tip. Will try it out.

As far as your suggestion with a PCB-mount mic: My objective in removing the mic from the body of the camera is to get it away from the hum of the tape drive. So, I don't think your suggestion would satisfy that objective.

I simply repositioned the actual mic that came with the camera (which was mounted in a small recess in the front of the case) and basically just extended the very short leads up the the boom.

 

[ryanemerson]

ahhh. I see what you are saying now.

well, i had that cord laying around the house, so I used it. I didn't have a simple small jack. And I don't really care about having a jack on top of the camera, it doesnt get in the way of anything, and kinda looks post-apocalyptic as well. it just has style.