MatthijsLiethof wrote:So, how much need is there for balanced output to the BMCC from a PreAMP like the JuicedLink Riggy micro into the camera or into a recorder, they're gonna be close, no long cable lenghts.
The juicedLink Riggy Micro doesn't actually have balanced outputs - it has an amplified mic level output via a 3.5mm stereo mini-jack. The juicedLink BMC366 Blackmagic Cinema Camera Preamp however has 2 balanced 3.5mm locking minijack outputs at amplified mic level.
Earlier in this thread Robert from juicedLink explained his reasoning behind why he went with mic-level as opposed to line-level for his Riggy devices.
Balanced cabling is really only useful for long cable runs. If you only have a 10cm cable run - then running unbalanced will be fine as the chance of noise being introduced into the cabling is minimal.
MatthijsLiethof wrote:I'm looking to go from an external solution like the h4n (which has pretty lousy preamps) to go straight into the camera with a preamp.
This is definitely an option - HOWEVER, if you're going to be using the external audio anyway and sync in post - then I wouldn't even both with the pre-amp, as you'll just be using this as a guide track.
Adding a pre-amp to the BMC is only really useful if you plan to use the camera for your final audio. With the current firmware, using the audio straight off the camera has major limitations (frequency attenuation issues, it's very hard to monitor the headphone jack, etc.) - but you can't fix majority of the issues in post. Will the final audio sound as good as a professional (or even prosumer) external recorder? No. But depending on what you're filming, you may be able to get away with it.