Hi. Depends on whether or not you're shooting narrative. If you're shooting documentary, use the XLR adapter and a hot-shoe mountable shotgun. It's just too much to deal with a DAT and the camera if you're on your own. In terms of narrative, I avoid camera audio at all costs. Even if your camera has manual audio gain control, you still have to go through the mini mic jack. Using a DAT with XLR inputs, your audio will be much better. (Not to mention the fact that it's easier to adjust and check levels on a DAT.) Some people advocate using MiniDisc, but all of the consumer MiniDisc systems have AGC (Auto Gain Control). The least expensive portable MD recorder with adjustable gain is around $800, I believe, which is more than an entry level DAT walkman...(posted 8917 days ago)Hope