[Gary Eickmeier]

[ This discussion is getting to be more about particular
bits of technology configuration rather than high-end
audio. People who wish to continue to discuss technology
are invited to move this thread to rec.audio.tech. -- dsr ]


"Gary Eickmeier" wrote in message
...

Yes, the H2n has one external mike input, a stereo mini jack. That
is an EXCELLENT idea Jason. I have some Audio Technika mikes that I
could use for the front channels in XY or MS mode. I guess I could
even use them in my favorite 3 spaced omni configuration, mixed
down to 2 channels. Then the little Zoom's rear mikes could be
balanced with the front in editing with some cut and try on levels.
I must read more in my manual to see which side the external mikes
would sub for, and therefore how to proceed.

I have investigated the matter and found that yes, it will still
record in 4 channel surround mode with an external source plugged in.
My fear was that if you plugged in an external mike, it would force it
into 2 channel mode, but no, it still records all four. The external
subs for the XY input, which is strange, because that is the rear
channels when in surround mode. Pity, but all you do is turn the
recorder around so that the XY side is pointing to the front and the
MS toward the back.

This brings up a curious caution: If you pay attention to the
channelization of the external input, you notice that in surround
sound mode, if you were to orient your external microphone normally,
its channels would be fighting the rear (MS) channels in
directionality. This is because the MS is pointing backwards, which
reverses the channels compared to the front mikes. What you want is
for the Rs and Ls on both sides to match each other so that sounds
coming from the direct sides, Right and Left, will be picked up by the
same sides of the microphones, R and L. Bottom line, all you have to
do is reverse the channelization of the front (external) mikes in
order to make it correct for surround sound. You must then in editing
reverse both front and rear channelization to make everything correct
again.

Simple.

Gary Eickmeier