Tentacle Set Up for Indie Feature

9.83K viewsHardwareaudio-tc FCPX Final Cut sync software xml sync-n-link zoom-h6

Hello, I have a few questions for those more “in the know” than I.

I’m preparing for a indie feature shoot in January and are looking for a cheap timecode solution and I have recommended Tentacle to producers, and seen as I’m editing, I get a big say in what we use!

I just have a few questions. We’ll be using the Zoom H6 for our audio recording and we’ll be connecting more than one mic at one point. Sometimes a condenser, a lapel, boom, or all three at once.

– – – – –

  1. Will I be able to connect the Tentacle Sync to one of the XLR inputs (or to a 3.5mm jack) to record the timecode while using all/some of the microphones mentioned above? Will this work to the best effect? Seen as I know the H6 records each audio source in it’s own file.
  2. We’ll be using FCP X to edit the feature and using Sync N Link to sync the audio with picture. Has anyone tested this application with the Tentacle Syncs? Does it identify the timecode across the separately recorded files?
  3. If none of the above work, would I be able to compile the audio files in a program such as Wave Agent into one multichannel file with the timecode track and then disable it in the edit? Would that option work?

I apologise for the multiple questions, want to check to see if others have done anything above to avoid spending money on something that won’t work that well.

 

Thanks,

Sam

6 Answers

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I expect no issues. But it won’t harm to do some tests before shooting. This is what i use for the Sync-N-Link settings:

Also do a long run test, as long as the GH4 allows you to record a take. DLSR’s can have the habit to drift. Meaning, the start of the take is sync but the end not anymore. For this drift test make sure you record the same audio on >BOTH< GH4 and Zoom. Align the start of the audio from Zoom and Gh4 in ProTools or any other sample accurate audio editor. And then see how far apart they are at the end of the take.
I did this with a number of camera’s and most perform well within the margins. The worst one was a Nikon D810 that i own myself, that was 1/4 frame out of sync at the end, but this camera only allows 20 mins of video recording so in real life it is no problem.

Also test the transition to Audio Post. If you want to make an AAF you need X2Pro. And please make sure you set the rolls correctly, that will save a LOT of time in Audio Post.
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