LibAnswers: Innovation Lab

The Shure VP83 LensHopper is a shotgun microphone designed for use with DSLR cameras, camcorders, and portable audio recorders to capture high-quality audio for video recording. Here's a general guide on how to use it:

1. Attaching the VP83 to Your Camera:

• The Shure VP83 typically comes with a standard cold shoe mount (also known as a hot shoe mount) that can be attached to the accessory shoe of your camera. Insert the microphone into the mount and secure it in place.

2. Connecting the Microphone:

• Use a short XLR cable (usually included) to connect the VP83 to your camera. Plug the XLR cable into the microphone's XLR output and the other end into your camera's XLR input or a compatible audio adapter.

3. Powering the VP83:

• The Shure VP83 can be powered by AA batteries or through phantom power from your camera or audio recorder.
• If using batteries, insert two AA batteries into the battery compartment at the rear of the microphone. Make sure the battery door is securely closed.
• If your camera or recorder provides phantom power (usually +48V), you can activate it, and the VP83 will be powered through the XLR cable without using batteries.

4. Adjusting Microphone Settings:

• The VP83 features an integrated shock mount and adjustable sensitivity settings. You can select between three sensitivity settings: -10 dB, 0 dB, and +20 dB. Adjust the sensitivity based on your recording environment and the sound source you're capturing.

5. Microphone Direction:

• The Shure VP83 is a shotgun microphone with a highly directional pickup pattern. Aim the microphone toward your sound source for the best audio capture. It's particularly effective at isolating sound coming from the front and rejecting off-axis noise.

6. Monitoring:

• Most DSLR cameras do not provide real-time audio monitoring for the audio input. You can use headphones connected to your camera (if supported) or an external audio recorder to monitor the audio quality. This is important to ensure that your audio levels are appropriate and that you're capturing clear sound.

7. Recording:

• Start recording video on your camera, ensuring that the audio input is set to the external microphone (the VP83). The microphone will capture audio that matches the video you're recording.

8. Post-Processing (if necessary):

• After recording, you can edit and enhance the audio using video editing software. This includes reducing background noise, equalizing the sound, and making any necessary adjustments.

Using the Shure VP83 LensHopper microphone enhances your audio quality for video recording. Please consult the user manual that came with your specific VP83 model for detailed instructions, troubleshooting, and any unique features that may be specific to your microphone.