Remote Audio's Boom Cable System with Talkback - now available for the Sound Devices 442 Mixer!
The Remote Audio Boom Cable System with Talkback has become an indispensable tool for many film and video production sound departments using mixing consoles (sometimes referred to as “desk” or “panel” mixers). Now, this famous system can provide private two-way communications for those using the popular Sound Devices 442 mixer as well. Here's how it works:
Sound Mixer talking privately to the Boom Operator
The SD-442 mixer has a user-settable option called “Comm Mic Function” that routes the internal slate mic privately to the right channel TA3 connector. When in this mode, the A/B return monitor toggle switch serves as a Push-To-Talk (PTT) button activating the PL mic, allowing the Sound Mixer at the SD-442 mixer to talk privately to the Boom Operator.
Boom Operator talking privately to the Sound Mixer
The Boom Operator wears the Remote Audio Boom Box, which, when the PTT button is pressed, amplifies the Boom Operator’s headphone talkback mic to line level. This signal is bridged into the SD-442 headphone signal, allowing the Sound Mixer to hear the Boom Operator privately. The Boom Box also feeds the talkback signal to the Boom Operator’s headphones so they can hear their own voice via “side tone” which makes it easier for them to speak softly and clearly.
Monitoring
The Boom Operator’s headphone signal is a sum of the SD-442 channel-1 mix (LEFT) and the PL mic. This signal is independent of the SD-442 headphone settings, and is not affected by the Sound Mixer’s monitoring choices such as PFL, stereo, left-only, right-only, etc.
Note
In this simple configuration, the Boom Operator’s headphone levels are not adjustable, and are instead dependent on the level of the left channel mix bus. Most will find the level to be adequate and comfortable. However, an additional small mixer may be used for more comprehensive monitor options.
Boom Cable System with Talkback for SD 442 mixer elements*
- Boom Box
- Extension (available in 50’, 75’ and 125’ lengths. Two extensions recommended)
- Mixer end fan-out for the SD-442 mixer
- Headset with mic (for Boom Operator)
* All elements of this system also sold separately.
