Using more then 1 mic source with camerafi live

Using Multiple Microphone Sources with CameraFi Live: Enhancing Your Acoustic Recordings

When it comes to capturing high-quality audio for your acoustic performances or songwriting sessions, relying solely on a built-in smartphone camera's microphones may not be enough. Fortunately, there are several ways to improve upon this limitation using external microphone solutions that can seamlessly integrate with popular live streaming and recording apps like CameraFi Live.

In this article, we'll explore the benefits of utilizing multiple mic sources when working with an acoustic setup, discuss some essential equipment options you should consider investing in, and provide step-by-step instructions on how to set up your multi-microphone rig for optimal results.

Why Use Multiple Microphones?

Using more than one microphone can greatly enhance the overall sound quality of your recordings. Here are just a few compelling reasons why:

1. Improved spatiality: By capturing audio from multiple sources, you'll be able to create a more immersive listening experience that feels as if you're right in front of the performer.

2. Reduced bleed and hum: When recording with only one microphone placed close to your subject, ambient noise can easily seep into the signal, resulting in unwanted hiss or rumble. By placing additional microphones at strategic distances from each other (known as 'spaced mic' technique), you'll be able to isolate specific sounds more effectively.

3. Increased flexibility: With multiple microphone inputs available through CameraFi Live, you have greater creative freedom when mixing and editing your recordings later down the line.

Choosing The Right Equipment

Before diving into how to set up a multi-microphone rig with CameraFi Live, let's first discuss some essential equipment options that'll help take your acoustic recordings to the next level:

1. External Microphones: For capturing high-quality audio from multiple sources simultaneously without compromising on sound quality or convenience, consider investing in either XLR dynamic microphones like the Rode NT-USB (available at Amazon) or USB condenser mics such as the Blue Yeti Pro.

2. Mic Stand and Boom Arm: A sturdy mic stand with a boom arm will give you precise control over microphone placement while also helping to keep cables organized out of sight during recording sessions.

3. Cable Management Solutions: To reduce tangled cords and prevent damage from excessive wear-and-tear, consider investing in cable management solutions such as inline XLR/TRS splitters or patching systems like the Mogami Gold TRS-XLBSM6A (available at Sweetwater).

Setting Up Your Multi-Microphone Rig with CameraFi Live

Once you've got all your necessary equipment on hand and have chosen a suitable recording space, let's move onto setting up your multi-mic rig for optimal results using CameraFi Live:

1. Connect External Microphones to Smartphone: Plug in each external microphone into the corresponding jack on your smartphone (usually either 3.5mm TRS or XLR) depending on what type of connector they have.

2. Open CameraFi Live App and Enable Multi-Mic Input:

- Launch CameraFi Live from your home screen.

- Tap 'Settings' icon (gear wheel).

- Scroll down to the 'Audio' section.

- Toggle 'Multi-Microphone Support' switch ON if it's not already enabled.

3. Configure Mic Settings within CameraFi Live App:

- Go back to the main camera view in CameraFi Live.

- Tap '+' button at top-right corner of screen (three dots).

- Select 'Edit Audio Sources'.

- Here, you'll see a list of available audio inputs including your external microphones connected via TRS or XLR cables. Make sure that only these are checked and all other options remain unchecked.

4. Start Recording with Multiple Microphone Sources:

Now that everything is set up correctly within the CameraFi Live app, simply tap the record button to begin capturing high-quality audio from multiple sources simultaneously!

Tips for Optimal Results

To get the most out of your multi-microphone setup and achieve professional-grade recordings every time:

1. Use High-Quality Microphones: Invest in good quality microphones specifically designed for recording acoustic instruments or vocals, such as condenser mics like the Neumann TLM 102 (available at Sweetwater).

2. Position Mic Correctly: Place microphones at suitable distances from each other and your subject to capture a balanced frequency response without excessive bleed or echo.

3. Use Acoustic Treatment in Recording Space: Treat your recording space with acoustic panels, blankets, etc., to absorb unwanted reflections and reverberations that can muddy up the sound.

In conclusion, using multiple microphone sources with CameraFi Live offers many benefits for those looking to improve upon the built-in audio quality of their smartphone camera. By following these simple steps outlined above and investing in suitable equipment like external microphones and cable management solutions, you'll be well on your way to capturing high-quality recordings that rival professional-grade setups at a fraction of the cost!

Using more then 1 mic source with camerafi live