John D Matthews

Thanks everyone for the great input. I really misstated my original post when asking if it's possible to damage a mic by recording explosions when I was really looking for do's and don'ts to prevent it. Time to send mine back for testing. grrrr......

Can recording explosions damage a shotgun mic? Specifically, I have a Senn MKH60 that seems to be all distorted since my last shoot, which consisted of several explosions and gunfire.

Can recording explosions damage a shotgun mic? Specifically, I have a Senn MKH60 that seems to be all distorted since my last shoot, which consisted of several explosions and gunfire.

hahaha, No! Just a counterweight giving the effect of no weight at all.

Excellent bit of info! I have the recorder/mixer/talent wireless/ etc.. but I have been skirting around the hop. I figure, at this point, if prod wants a hop, I can rent one. When it starts becoming a must, I'll wave that magic money wand and procure one. Thanks again.

We need a Garrett-Brown-type to construct a 'steadibag' with counterweights.

Yes, I certainly like the price on that but also need it to be bagged (I forgot to mention that.) I like the review on Lectro SRA/UM400 but the price tag is nagging. I'm trying to be practical but reasonably affordable. I've read many posts where many of you don't hop and/or don't always get compensated. http://www.trewaudio.com/audioflow/2009/08/17/lets-go-to-the-hop-oh-baby/ I'd hate to lose a gig for not having it but also don't want to eat crackers forever, lol. Then again, sometimes I remind myself that it's an investment. Right? Right? [twist arm now]

Has anyone used/liked/not liked using the Audio Technica ATW1821 for wireless hop?

The more I research this (and get everyone's input) the more the 788/CL8 looks like a good way to go. Jon, no, I don't have a Zaxcom, or even a 744 (but I frequently use/borrow one) but still, the 788 could certainly be useful should I ever encounter the need for the additional tracks. I too am a fan of the Lectro Rx. Coin tossing between saving $ with the 200 Series or spending a little more on the 400/411. Thank you all for the great insight and experienced knowledge.

Then again... Zaxcom Nomad v. your favorite Sound Designs setup? Joel, yes, that laundry list hasn't been overlooked, I just haven't reached that bridge yet.. I only mention the Denecke because it is the one I am familiar with (just like the SD 744/442) I'm used to using (not mine.) I guess I find myself leaning toward the brands that I was "raised" on. I suppose I find myself approaching gear with a new outlook being that I am going to be the purchaser instead of just the user of. I'd even consider buying my own 744/442 setup except I am skeptical buying used equipment. Personally, I never see needing more than 4 iso's, but ya never know.. I found a thread from 2010 that deals with the 788 & 552 respectively. I would imagine (more like hope) that some of the bugs with them have been addressed.

I'm glad I stumbled onto this thread.. So, what is the final vote?? 788T w/ CL-8? or.. 744T w/ 552? It's been a year-and-a-half since the last post on this thread.. have any opinions changed? Is the 788/CL-8 combo a good buy?

Justin, admittedly, I'm shopping with an overkill frame of mind, not so much that I need to have the capabilities/functions out of the gate, but rather when I do encounter a job that requires it, I'll have it. Good call on the CL-8. I actually feel a bit newbish in that the CL-8 completely slipped my mind. I'll also check out the Sanken wireless as you suggested. Mounting and concealing are huuuge factors in the types of jobs I do so that was a key factor. Thank you, and everyone for all of your terrific insight on jwsound.

I too am building my own arsenal of equipment. I have been booming and even mixing, but not with my own equipment. While I highly value the opinion of the mixer (person) that I work with, I also like to get others input on equipment as well as experiences. I am getting more offers for solo, low budget work, but fall short on equipment. So far I own: K-Tek Boom Pole MKH60 Shotgun mic Rycote windscreen. Versa-flex/porta brace bag's 8506's RA XLR's Here is what is in my Trew shopping cart waiting for me to click "Buy Now": SD 788t-SSD (I'm nervous about the SSD though, call me old-fashioned.) SD 552 mixer Lectro UCR411A/UCM400 (x4) wireless (haven't decided on the lav's yet) I realize these are some expensive items, but I'd rather have equipment capable of quality recording. I'm torn about which Denecke slate to get. I'm thinking the compact, but again, not sure. Obviously I'm betting on "making" it and am in an area loaded with work if I have all the required equipment. Comments/thoughts/advice...

Apple Crate does NOT equal Apple Box

Be cautious of careless/scared crew. Scared as in many people don't like boats or being on water. I had a nervous 1st AC knock me in the water because he felt like he was falling. Proof that backup gear and insurance are critical. Going wireless will be your best option.