How to record DJ/Mixer audio to a DR-series Recorder?

[money167]

Hi guys, I’m a photographer and new to audio. I’m about to film a wedding with my dSLR for my buddy. I have some question about recording audio from the reception DJ/Mixer and hope you can answer my questions.

I currently have a Tascam DR-40 mounted on my dSLR to record close-range audio (tested and working fine). At the reception, I need another recorder to record from the DJ (where all the speeches/toasts/mic go to. However I don’t know what the audio output level from the mixer. Is there any consumer output on a mixer (eg. -10dBV) or they are all Line Level (+4dBu) output?

I’m debating what recorder to purchase in order to rec audio from the mixer with minimal adapter needed. Tascam DR-40 Line In is at +4 dBu (via TRS/XLR), and the Tascam DR-05 Line In is at -20dBV (via 3.5mm). Even if I’m able to find a -10dBV consumer output on a mixer, none of the Tascam model’s Line in come close to -10dBV. Is this a problem or it may work just fine? Which recorder would you recommend buying between the two?

Thank you in advance!

 

[bouldersoundguy]

You can record a -10dBV output to a +4dBU input without breaking anything. The signal will just be a bit low, which can be fixed quite easily after the fact.

I would be more concerned about the balanced/unbalanced issue. If the recorder picks up noise try an appropriate cable wired according to Sound System Interconnection.

 

[money167]

You can record a -10dBV output to a +4dBU input without breaking anything. The signal will just be a bit low, which can be fixed quite easily after the fact.

I would be more concerned about the balanced/unbalanced issue. If the recorder picks up noise try an appropriate cable wired according to Sound System Interconnection.

Hi bouldersoundguy, thanks so much for quick respond!

So in another word, if all I have is the DR-05 that has a -20dBV Line In (via 3.5mm). When I tap it into the -10dBV mixer output, it would overload? I wonder if it can be fixed with Line In gain, instead of getting an attenuator.

I'm planning to get a 1/4" TRS balanced cable for this purpose if I ended up needed a second DR-40. I'm trying to avoid additional expense here. Thank you!