All posts by Daniel J. Lewis

Professional audio for DSLR video with TASCAM DR-60D at CES2014

Cameras, CES 2014, Video, , , , ,

Tascam-dr-60d

At the recently concluded CES2014, TASCAM, a company that has been developing products for the sound and music industry shows another of their latest product with great audio for your DSLR video—the TASCAM DR-60D.

DSLR videos these days are really blowing up in terms of the continuous number of people shooting with it. However, audio is so important when it comes to video recording via DSLR camera. DSLRs are known to shoot exceptional videos but the audio is a little bit marginal; The new TASCAM DR-60D connects these two. With this dilemma in  mind, TASCAM designed a product that allows you to record superb audio from your DSLR camera on an SD card up to 24bit/96kHz TASCAM DR-60D.

The DR-60D is a 4-channel audio recorder with two XLR/TRS inputs support +4dBu line level input and phantom power (12 or 48VDC), and channels 3 or 4 access through a 3.5mm jack. DR-60D also has 3-4 channel inputs that support plug-in power and high-output mic input, making it great for a 4-channel audio. Another great component of the TASCAM DR-60D is that if you don’t need 4-channels, it will also do dual-recording, which allows two files to be recorded simultaneously at different levels. In addition, this dual-recording allows you to record your primary stereo track at a certain level and at the same time, record a safety track up to 12dB just in case you’re shooting something and all of a sudden there’s an unexpected loud noise that may distort your primary track. With this dual-recording, you can still have a safety track; no need to plug-in an extra microphone.

One thing about the DR-60D is that you can simply mount in on your DSLR camera just like you do on a tripod and carry it with you as you shoot. Even though you’re recording your audio to your DR-60D, there’s an adjustable camera out connector so you can make sure that everything you record on your DR-60D will also be sent to your camera, making it easier to sync it up.

There are times when you’re doing a special shoot where you have a microphone that are 50ft away and close-up microphones. The DR-60D has a feature where you can delay up to 150ms, one mic to another mic so you can take that time difference and correct that.

As for its pricing, the TASCAM DR-60D is being sold at $349 and is sold in different places with their authorized dealers in-store and online. Learn more about the rest of TASCAM DR-60D’s features.

Interview by Daniel J. Lewis from The Audacity to Podcast.

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Canon’s new Vixia HD camcorders for podcasting and home production

Cameras, CES 2014, Gadgets, Video, , , , , , , ,

VIXIA_HF_R52_main_LCD_bkFor many years, Canon has been a household name when it comes to high quality cameras, camcorders, printers, scanners, and copiers, to name a few. Recently, Canon introduces a new line of camcorders that are perfect not just for hobbyist, but also for podcasters that are looking for a new camcorder that has excellent features but affordable at the same time.

Canon introduces a new completely different reimagined line of camera of their Vixi mini camcorder that is perfect for producing a podcast or any kind of media at all. Introducing the VIXIA mini X, not only can this new mini camcorder take images at 12.8 Megapixels, it can also capture full HD video recordings up to 1920 x 1080p (30p/24p) to a removable SD memory card.

Unlike its predecessor, the Vixia mini X has two large stereo microphones that are two and a half times larger than Vixia mini, enabling it to pick up great audio in wide dynamic range. It also has a two-stage system, which can eliminate unwanted noises. Aside from the built-in stereo microphone, it also has a microphone input on the side, which is great for podcasters who want to use their own microphones quite often, especially when podcasting from a noisy environment. In addition, the Vixia mini X also has a headphone terminal, allowing you to adjust the audio whenever necessary using the volume dial.

When it comes to it’s screen, Canon’s Vixia mini X can be flipped in multiple angles. So whether you’re setting it up to interview someone or doing a separate podcast where you have to do the video work and be in the shot as well, you can simply reach, angle it, and make adjustments according to your needs. It also has a close-up mode, where you can crop unnecessary backgrounds and just focus on you and what you want to show. Even if you’re shooting at a low-light setting, the Vixia mini X has the Canon DIGIC DV 4 Image Processor, which provides excellent performance in a low-light situation. It also has an aperture of f/2.8, which also works great on low-light environment. What is great with this latest addition to the Canon camcorders is that it has no limit as to how long you can record; it only lies on the memory space of the SD memory card you are using.

VIXIA_mini_X_02If you want to step up your game when it comes to your podcasting, however, there are three newest lines of the Vixia HF R camcorders you can choose from, one of which is the VIXIA HF R500. Although it has no Wi-Fi and internal memory, it has 57x advanced zoom and an SD memory card slot, as well as the other advanced features the Vixia HF R camcorders have. The VIXIA HF R50 and VIXIA HF R52, however, both have built-in Wi-Fi and an internal memory of 8GB and 32GB. Using the built-in Wi-Fi, you can take control as to what images are coming up on the internet using their Media Controller App, whether it’s on an IOS or an Android smartphone system.

Canon also recently introduces the Pan Table, which is a base accessory that can be attached to the bottom of your Vixia mini X or the Vixia HF R camcorders. With this, you will have the option to oscillate the camcorder from left to right up to 200 degrees. It can also be manually adjusted for a tilt up to 20 degrees. Plus, using the Canon CameraAccess plus app, you can use the Wi-Fi to manage your files, as well as the camcorder’s stop-start and zoom option, making it more convenient when shooting your podcast.

At $399.00, you can already have the Vixia mini X and if you want to get the Pan Table, simply add $100.00 and it can be yours as well, which includes the battery pack and compact power adapter, to name a few. The Vixia HF R500, however, is at $299.99, whereas the Vixia HF R50 is being sold at $399.99 and the Vixia HF R52 is only $449.99.

One of the great things that Canon’s new line of camcorders bring to podcasters is that with its built-in Wi-Fi, you can be creative as you can be and share your video instantly. Learn more about VIXIA mini X, VIXIA HF R500,Vixia HF R50, and VIXIA HF R52 by visiting Canon’s website.

Interview by Daniel J. Lewis from The Audacity to Podcast.

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Gosh! Parallel iPhone case with detachable battery

Accessories, CES 2014, Gadgets, Mobile, ,

PrintGosh!, a company that is known for reinventing and recreating accessories for your smartphones and tablets, presented the Parallel 2500mAh Battery Case, an edgy accessory for iPhone 5, iPhone 5C, and iPhone 5S that takes away all the discomfort that typical power banks provide.

Unlike other power banks that come in separate battery banks, Gosh! Parallel’s are attached in a simple but chic iPhone case. Simply plug in the attached cable, press the power button, and your phone will start charging instantly! What’s more is that compared to some power banks, this super battery bank has a capacity of 2500mAH, 1.7× more lifespan so you can charge your phone all day without worrying about its battery life.

As for its case, however, the Parallel 2500mAh Battery Case are made of poly-carbonate case, which prevents it from scratches even if you put your phone face-down. Plus, this battery bank comes in three colors—Black, Red, and White. In addition, the battery case fits perfectly on your iPhone so you wouldn’t have to carry bulky and heavy power banks and power cords all day. You can even take it off (or not) off your phone whenever you like. Just don’t forget to push the power off once you’re done charging.

At $89.00, you can already have the Gosh! Parallel 2500mAM battery case, which is awesome for a battery that big and the case. Visit WhyGosh.com to learn more about this amazing iPhone case with detachable battery.

Interview by Daniel J. Lewis from The Audacity to Podcast.

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4-channel podcasting on iPad, iPhone, and Mac with Griffin Technology’s StudioConnect HD

Accessories, CES 2014, Gadgets, Mobile, , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Griffin Studio Connect HDProduce your audio podcast from home or remotely from your iPad or computer with StudioConnect HD. Griffin Technology—a leader when in accessories for home, mobile, and technology—recently launched an exciting new product that will bring your podcasting into a new level.

The StudioConnect HD is an all-in-one audio interface with two TRS/XLR combo inputs, where each inputs is its own individual channel, allowing the StudioConnect HD to support multi-track recording. Each inputs also has its own gain knob and phantom power. At the back of the unit are a 5-pin MIDI connection, a USB MIDI connection for USB keyboards, and balanced stereo output for studio monitors. The StudioConnect HD is compatible with iOS (30 pin & Lightning) and OS X (USB), with future support for Windows. Plus, you can use not just your laptop or iPad, you can also use your iPod Touch or iPhone, making it even more convenient when you air your audio podcast.

Using the two stereo inputs, you can record 4-channel audio by selecting which instruments you want to use from the left and right stereo inputs. This also allows you to use multiple instrument or microphones at the same time with this USB 2.0 device. And with only $199.99, you can already own this audio interface starting this Fall. Learn more about StudioConnect HD and see how it can take your podcasting into a new height.

Interview by Daniel J. Lewis from The Audacity to Podcast.

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IDrive offers fast initial online backups with 1 TB drive

CES 2014, Computers, , , ,

IDrive_logo_72Back up your information without spending weeks waiting for that secure feeling using IDrive. Known as a universal online backup service, IDrive takes your files from your laptops, desktops, smart phones and tablets, backing it up securely.

One of the benefits of IDrive is that not only does it back up your files securely, it also allows you to access your files whenever, wherever you need them.

Are you tired of waiting for days or weeks for your backup to be uploaded online? With IDrive Express, which is available with paid users, you can get a one terabyte hard drive that comes along with secure software, where you can load all of your data from all of your device into the drive. Once you have loaded all of your data into the drive, simply mail it back to them (at NO CHARGE) and they will then plug it in their data centers. All these, from receiving the hardware up to loading your data and sending it back takes only up to seven days. Imagine the time and days you can save compare to waiting for weeks just for your data to be completed uploading online? With IDrive, you don’t have to use up all of your bandwidth for weeks!

But before subscribing, login to idrive.com and try their 5gb for free first. Every member gets complimentary 5gb for life, so to those who only have a few important files to protect, you can do that at absolutely no cost. However, for those who need more space, IDrive’s paid plans starts with personal plan at $49.50 a year for 100gb. Regardless of how many devices you wanted to back up – whether it’s Android, Windows, iOS, etc. – you can back them all up in one hard drive; it’s just all about how much storage space you are using. Plus, no matter how big or small the size of the files that you are going to upload are, you can be guaranteed to have them all up at IDrive.

IDrive also offers business plans with 3 shipments a year, as well as sub-accounts, giving business owners to have different username log-ins as well as allowing you to separate datas that will be shown to a particular user. This plan for businesses starts with 100gb for $99.50 a year. Login to idrive.com and get a discount on the first year to get you starting!

Be smart enough to have a backup so that if your computer, tablet, or smart phone crashes, you can restore your files in no time!

Interview by Daniel J. Lewis from The Audacity to Podcast.

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Better motion-focus for DSLR video with Canon’s EOS 70D

Cameras, CES 2014, Photography, Video, , , , , , , , , ,

20130702_hiRes_dafTech_frontShooting DSLR video has often had trouble with auto-focusing on moving subjects. But Canon‘s EOS 70D is a game-changing camera with “dual-pixel CMOS AF” for continuous, smooth, auto focus.

With the EOS 70D’s touchscreen LCD screen, you can tap on any visible subject for the lens to maintain focus on the subject, even when the depth changes.

This brings DSLR video production up in line with standard camcorders, which have often been used for better action focusing.

Without “dual-pixel CMOS AF” and Canon’s new Stepping Motor (STM) lenses, a digital SLR would shift focus back and forth on moving subjects (and sometimes even stationary subjects, too). With this new combination from Canon, amateur and professional videographers and podcasters can now get smooth auto focus.

Also don’t forget that the Canon EOS 70D is an amazing DSLR for still photography, too!

The EOS 70D is a cropped-sensor digital SLR that can record up to 30 minutes of 1080p HD video at up to 30 frames per second. The Canon EOS 70D  camera body is priced competitively for professionals at $1,199 ($1,099 on Amazon.com) and is available today.

Interview by Daniel J. Lewis from The Audacity to Podcast.

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Award-winning podcaster, Daniel J. Lewis, to cover CES2014

CES 2014, CES 2014 Team

I’m Daniel J. Lewis, award-winning podcaster, podcast consulting, and Internet entrepreneur. This will be my second time cover the Consumer Electronics Show (CES). Now that I’ve attended once before, I know a lot more of what to expect and what kind of stuff to share.

I specialize in teaching people how to podcas with The Audacity to Podcast and I also offer a hardcore course to help current podcasters podcast from average to amazing.™ At CES2014, I’ll highlight the items that the hobbyist and professional media producer would love to see—podcast, audio or video production, and more.

We—independent content creators—also love to consume media, so I will look for the technology that will enhance your own entertainment and education through technology.

Since we’re all geeks, I’ll also watch for the cool gadgets that you would love to have.

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Daniel J. Lewis from The Audacity to Podcast welcomes you to CES2013

CES 2013, , , , , ,

Meet Daniel J. Lewis, the host of The Audacity to Podcast, a weekly “how-to” podcast about podcasting and using Audacity (and several other podcasts). Daniel will help cover CES2013 from the perspective of a podcaster and home-media producer. He’ll also assist in reviewing and interviewing the companies behind other gadgets that tech enthusiasts will love!

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