Michael Taylor

I'll second that, the c300 does have a hissy return much like alot of these little cameras.

Not come accross anyone in the UK who doesn't use headphones. Although I dont think thats always been the case. We tend to use wireless receivers rather than any kind of duplex system, and so before the days of wireless I think it was common for the Boom Op not have a headphone feed

Malcolm, try http://www.chemical-records.co.uk/sc/servlet/Info?Track=S25VELOURPAD for Velour pads in the UK. Diego, For HD-25's Garfield make 'Headphone softies' http://www.professionalsound.com/specs/garfield.htm "In winter they help eliminate the problem of cold earpieces and in summer the fabric wicks away perspiration for all day comfort." I haven't personally used them but I've heard good things about them! Mike

I've been buying my own gear slowly over the last 2-3 years, and so I've taken less of a financial risk. It does seem that once you've got your own gear people are more likely to call you or send work your way. Also its especially great for those short notice jobs!

Sound blanket and an open window?

My way of dealing with these offers of 'come work for free for 3 weeks' if im available and interested is to offer to help out for a couple of days, but I cannot commit. Espcially if its weeks or months away. In a case like this I'd ask them to contact me nearer the time to check my availablility. The productions that appericitate how much of a favor your doing for them by offering a couple of days are happy with your offer. The low budget productions to stay away from are the ones that say 'we really need someone to commit to the whole job, and commit early'.

Hey Mark and others interested in AMPs. The Association has many different membership levels, and so no matter your experience I'm sure you can be involved. Take a look at the Associate, Supplementary, Affiliate and Student memberships on their website. Mike