Lumix GH5 Audio Setting Guide: Clear & Professional Sound

Inside the menu Motion Picture (movie camera icon) on the GH5, you'll find some audio options that are often overlooked. Here are the best configurations:

1. Audio Rec Level Adj (Manual Set!)

Never leave audio in position Auto. The camera will try to turn up the volume when it is quiet, which gives rise to a hissing sound (hiss).

• Setting: Enter the menu, select Audio Rec Level Adj.
• Target: Have the subject speak, and then set the level so that the audio bar moves in the range of -12dB to -6dB. Do not let it touch 0 (red) as the sound will be damaged/distorted.

2. Mic Level Limiter

This is a safety feature. If there is a sudden explosion or loud shout, this feature will prevent the audio from breaking to the extreme.

• Setting: ON.
• Function: Keeping the signal from clipping at 0dB, but still use the manual volume as the main benchmark.

3. Wind Cut (Be Careful Using This)

This feature cuts out low frequencies to eliminate wind noise.

• Setting: OFF (if using an external mic with deadcat/fur cat).
• Setting: Low/Standard (only if you have to use the built-in mic outside in the wind).
• Reason: This feature often makes human voices sound “thin” because the bass frequency is cut. It's better to cut it during editing.

4. Special Mic Setting (For External Mic)

If Mas Agus uses a mic shotgun or wireless (such as Rode or DJI Mic):

• Mic Level Disp: Always ON. Mas should be able to see the audio bar on the screen while recording without having to enter the menu.
• Headphone Volume: Set it at 8-10. Use earphones to monitor for signal interference or leaking motor noise.

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Pro Tips: Gain Staging (The Secret to a Clean Sound)

If you are using a wireless or shotgun mic that has its own volume setting (Gain):

1. Take it down Audio Rec Level inside the GH5 to almost the lowest (around -10dB or -12dB).
2. Increase volume/gain in External Mic Mas until the sound in the camera hits -6dB.
3. The result: The sound will be much cleaner (minimal hiss) because Mas uses pre-amp from a mic that is usually of higher quality than pre-amp Camera.

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Also Read: Technical Review: Panasonic Lumix GH5 for Cinematic vs Traveling

Conclusion

Good audio is audio that the audience doesn't notice because of its clarity. With the GH5, you have complete control. These manual settings will make your videos look (and sound) much more expensive.

Read also The Complete Guide to Videography for Beginners to Advanced: Mastering the Art of Motion Pictures