[Donpalomaki]

The GL1 uses a reasonably competent automatic level control (ALC) – better than most AGCs found on consumer camcorders. You do have a macro level control built in – i.e., MIC or MIC ATT level, to help cope with loud venues/sources. If you need an external control you need to buy a product such as a Beachtek, Studio One or Sign Video adapter and will have to use an external mic with it. It does not disable the GL1’s ALC, but allows you to reduce the input level to the point where the ALC runs at about full gain all the time.