[Anthony Park]

I like this device.

Is this an active preamp versus passive? I am trying to figure out how I can make it riggy so I can mount it to my rig. It’s quite big, understandably but it needs to be near my camera. I guess that is why people go for smaller devices for portability.

[Anthony Park]

Does this have balanced inputs/output?

[Anthony Park]

Thanks Richard

I just got the original manual online. It says the output although 3.5mm is unbalanced. Here is a excerpt:

Features

Inputs
• Two transformer balanced XLR
• One unbalanced mini-jack

Output
• Transformer isolated, unbalanced with attached shielded
cable and stereo gold plated mini-plug connector
• Selectable MONO or STEREO

Preamplifier
• Dual low noise preamps to boost volume of low output microphones
• Adjustable gain from -10 dB to + 15 dB
• 20 Hz to 20 KHz audio bandwidth

Limiter
• Independently switchable fast acting limiters make the output virtually “unclipable”.
• Indicating LED’s ensure proper limiter operation

Phantom power
• Dual switchable 48 volt phantom power for condenser microphones

Power
• Easily replaceable 9 volt battery
• LED battery indicator

I also got a message from the Product support at Beachtek and he made a comment on the old DXA-8:

The preamps in the BMCC are better than the old DXA-8 so you are simply adding noise. A passive adapter would give you better results. However, an active adapter like the DXA-SLR ULTRA with 30dB of gain and truly low noise preamps would give you by far the best results. The limiters in the old DXA-8 worked very well, but the preamps pale in comparison to our newer adapters.

I may be looking at the new Beachtek now.There doesn’t seem to be many options out there in this 4-5 hundred dollar price range.

[Anthony Park]

Thanks Brian

Is the 3.5 really unbalanced? Yes I would have to make leads up. I guess I would monitor from the Cinema camera headphone out. Am I thinking correctly. I do appreciate your advice and am thinking of pulling the plug on this purchase.It’s only $90.