Digital Media Lab

The AOK Library Digital Media Lab (DML) provides all UMBC students, faculty and staff with tools to create and edit new and re-use existing audio, video and graphic design objects. Equipment and software in the DML is chosen to serve a diverse community with a wide-range of media creation and utilization needs. Equipment and software is available on a self-serve basis, with access to staff assistance, manuals and online help. Visit us in room 216 H.

Questions? Contact us at: 410-455-1587 or 410-455-6818
Email: circlib-group@umbc.edu

More hours info

The Audio/Video Recording Room in the Digital Media Lab

Equipment

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Equipment that can be checked out

Canon Rebel T3i DSLR Camera

Canon EOS Rebel T8i Camera is a versatile DSLR that features a 24.1 MP APS-C format CMOS sensor and DIGIC 8 image processor that supports high-resolution stills and UHD 4K video recording up to 24fps, as well as Full HD and HD recording. Its wide ISO 100-25600 sensitivity range suits a variety of lighting conditions. The camera circulates in a durable bag that includes an EF-S 18-55mm f/4-5.6 IS STM lens, attached UV filter and lens cap holder, 32GB SD card, rechargeable battery, wireless remote, and instruction manual.

2 DSLR Cameras are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Read the Instruction Manual (PDF)



Nikon d7500 DSLR Camera

Nikon D7500 DSLR Camera with 18-140mm Lens is a DX-format camera with a 20.9 MP CMOS sensor and EXPEED 5 image processor that supports 8 fps continuous shooting, a 100-51,200 ISO that can be expanded to 1,640,000, as well as 4K UHD video (3840 x 2160 at 30/25/23p) and time-lapse recording. The 51-point Multi-CAM 3500FX II autofocus system provides fast performance in a variety of lighting conditions and the tilting LCD monitor allows for creative use. The camera circulates in a durable bag with a n AF-S 18-140mm ED VR lens, a 32GB SD card, attached UV filter and lens cap cover, rechargeable battery, USB cable, and an instruction manual.

2 DSLR Cameras are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Read the Instruction Manual (PDF)



Canon Rebel T7i DSLR Camera

Canon EOS Rebel T7i Camera uses a 24.2 MP APS-C CMOS sensor and DIGIC 7 image processor to capture high-resolution stills and video with an expanded sensitivity range of ISO 100-51200 to suit working in a wide variety of lighting conditions. The T7i also supports Full HD 1080p video recording at up to 60 fps in the MP4 format with IPB compression or 30 fps in the MOV format with ALL-I compression. The camera circulates in a durable bag with an EF-S 18-55mm f/4-5.6 IS STM lens, a 16GB SD card, attached UV filter and lens cap holder, rechargeable battery, selfie trigger, and an instruction manual.

3 DSLR Cameras are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Read the Instruction Manual (PDF)



Canon EOS RT7 Camera

Canon EOS RT7 Camera is an entry-level DSLR with a 24.1 MP APS-C CMOS sensor and DIGIC 4+ image processor to capture high-resolution stills with a range of ISO 100-6400 for working in a variety of lighting conditions. The RT7 also supports Full HD 1080/30p video recording. The camera circulates in a durable bag with an EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II lens, a 16GB SD card, attached UV filter and lens cap holder, rechargeable battery, wired remote, and a basic instruction manual. Note: this camera does not support external microphones.

3 DSLR Cameras are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Read the Instruction Manual (PDF)



Canon RT7 Webcam kit

Canon RT7 Webcam Kit has an EOS RT7 camera with a 24.1 MP APS-C sensor and DIGIC 4+ image processor, ISO 100-6400, and Full HD 1080/30p video recording. The included accessories turn the DSLR into a high-quality webcam that allows continuous recording for live-streaming or video meetings. The kit circulates in a durable bag with an EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II lens, a 32GB SD card, attached UV filter and lens cap cover, rechargeable battery, interface cable, plug & power adapter, and instruction manual. Note: you will need to install the EOS Webcam Utility software to use as a webcam.

2 Webcam Kits are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Read the Instruction Manual (PDF)



Canon Rebel T3i DSLR Camera

Canon Rebel T3i DSLR Camera includes an 18 megapixel sensor allowing it to capture beautiful, high resolution JPEG, RAW, and RAW+JPEG images and also records full-HD video at 1920x1080/30p/24p, among other frame-rate options. The T3i kit also features a top-loading camera bag designed for DSLRs, a 16GB SD card, attached UV filter and lens cap holder, rechargeable battery, the necessary cords/cables and our Quick-Start Guide and instruction manual.

8 DSLR Cameras are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Read the Quick-Start Guide

Read the Instruction Manual (PDF)



Nikon D3000 Digital Camera

Nikon D3000 Digital Camera includes a 10.2 megapixel DX sensor that captures photos in RAW and JPEG formats. It comes with the versatile 3x 18-55mm Zoom-Nikkor lens with VR image stabilization and speedy 11-point autofocusing. The D3000 kit features a durable camera bag, a 16GB SD card, attached UV filter and lens cap holder, rechargeable battery, USB cable, and an instruction manual.

5 DSLR Cameras are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Read the Instruction Manual (PDF)



Canon VIXIA HD Camcorder

Canon VIXIA HD Camcorder features a 3.28 megapixel censor and records full-HD 1920x1080p video directly to an SD card. The HF R400 also employs a genuine Canon HD video lens with 53x Advanced Zoom and SuperRange Optical Image Stabilization with improved Dynamic Image Stabilization. For easy recording and instant playback, there's a 3" touch panel LCD as well. Included in the kit is a 32GB SD card, the necessary cables/cords and our Quick-Start Guide and instruction manual.

4 HD Camcorders are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Read the Quick-Start Guide

Read the Instruction Manual (PDF)



Magnus PV-3330G Tripod

Magnus PV-3330G Photo/Video Tripod is an all-purpose three-section support with flip leg locks that open to extend the legs along with the geared center column to a maximum height of 66.7". The tripod collapses to a minimum height of 23.4" and folds to a length of 24.4". The center-locking brace provides stability and has a counterweight hook for added weight to the support. The pan and tilt head, which includes a quick release plate, has a load capacity of 11 lb. The head has a forward and a side tilt of 90° and can rotate a full 360°.

7 Tripods are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Read the Instruction Manual (PDF)



Manfrotto MKC3-H01 Tripod

Manfrotto MKC3-H01 Tripod is designed for those times when space and weight are of primary concern. People on-the-go will appreciate this featherweight 2.54 lb five section tripod which supports up 3.31 lb and rises to a height of 5.05' with the column extended, while breaking down to only 18” to fit easily in your bag. Leg angles can be lengthened or shortened quickly via the flip lever leg locks. The integrated quick release grip head has a large ergonomic, locking, fast-action handle a front tilt of 0° / +90°, a lateral tilt of -90° / +90° and a panning range of 360°.

11 Tripods are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Read the Instruction Manual (PDF)



Vello ActionPan Stabilizing Grip

Vello ActionPan Stabilizing Grip allows you to hold your camera down low when filming and features a shock-proof rubber handle that offers a comfortable, secure grip. yThe non-slip rubber rails secure your camera in a variety of positions.

2 Tripods are available on a first-come, first-served basis.



Joby GorillaPod

Joby GorillaPod has legs made up of several joints that allow you to wrap it around objects and adapt it for use in uneven ground. With a load capacity of 6.6 lb, it can reliably hold most camcorders, DSLRs, and portable lights.

2 Tripods are available on a first-come, first-served basis.



Revo SR-1000 Shoulder Mount

The Revo SR-1000 Shoulder Mount is designed for the run-and-gun style of video shooting and enables smoother camera movements than are otherwise possible with a handheld setup. Weighing just 2.25 lb, the SR-1000's lightweight, ergonomic design helps reduce fatigue for prolonged use. The rig supports a maximum capacity of up to 5.5 lb, which is suitable for DSLRs, mirrorless cameras, and small to mid-sized camcorders.

2 Shoulder Mounts are available on a first-come, first-served basis.



ZOOM H4n Recorder

ZOOM H4n Recorder features true X/Y stereo mics with selectable recording patterns. It can record up to 4 channels of audio, with rates up to 24-bit/96kHz. XLR/TRS combo inputs let you connect a variety of gear. The recorder also features a built-in speaker and a 3.5mm output for connecting external speakers. A USB 2.0 port makes it easy to transfer files to a Mac or PC, or use the H4n as a live audio interface. It has a backlit LCD for easy control, and can operate on AA batteries, USB power, or wall power for versatility. The kit includes a 16GB SD card, batteries, the necessary cables/cords, stand adapter, windshield and our Quick-Start Guide and instruction manual.

9 ZOOM Recorders are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Read the Quick-Start Guide

Read the Instruction Manual (PDF)



Sony ECM-44B Lavalier Microphone

Sony ECM-44B Lavalier Microphone makes the exceptional quality of Sony's electric condenser microphones available for budget conscious productions, and a variety of sound reinforcement requirements, such as lectures and demonstrations. Measuring only 8.5 x 14.5mm, the ECM-44B reduces the visual distraction to the audience. The ECM-44B can be depended upon for clean, bright, yet natural reproduction. To maintain its low cost, this microphone operates on a single AA (does not accept phantom power) battery for over 5000 hours of service.

5 Lavalier Mics are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Read the Quick-Start Guide

Read the Instruction Manual (PDF)



BOYA BY-M1 Omnidirectional Lavalier Microphone

BOYA BY-M1 Omnidirectional Lavalier Microphone is compatible with smartphones, DSLR cameras, camcorders, audio recorders, and personal computers. The omnidirectional pickup pattern is equipped with full, 360-degree coverage and its internal battery can be switched off when used with a smartphone. The cable is 20’ and the microphone comes with a clip and foam windscreen.

3 Microphones available on a first-come, first-served basis.



Movo PM10 Lavalier Clip-on Microphone

Movo PM10 Lavalier Clip-on Microphone is an extremely lightweight and portable lavalier microphone that provides clear and accurate voice reproduction. Its newscaster-style design includes an effective omnidirectional pickup pattern that performs much better than most built-in microphones. It is compatible with the Apple iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch, Android, and Windows smartphones. Included with the microphone is a windscreen and tie clip.

2 Movo Mics are available on a first-come, first-served basis.



Rode NT1-A Condenser Microphone

Rode VideoMic GO On-Camera Shotgun Microphone is a lightweight microphone that adds high-quality audio recording to your small camcorder and DSLR camera. It features an integrated shock mount and offers battery-free operation, using instead the plug-in power from your camera’s 3.5mm microphone input. The microphone circulates with a DeadCat windshield and connection cord.

Read the Quick-Start Guide

2 Shotgun Mics are available on a first-come, first-served basis.



Tascam DR-10L Audio Recorder with Lavalier Mic

Tascam DR-10L Audio Recorder with Lavalier Mic is an ultra-compact digital recorder and lavalier microphone combo with a screw-down locking connector. It can be used for both the creative filmmaker and the busy videographer, and is also suitable for location recordings such as live events, and more. Featuring 24-bit mono and 48 kHz BWAV (Broadcast Wav) file format, it records up to 32GB on microSD or microSDHC media. There is a 1/8" headphone-output jack for easy monitoring of recordings and the recorder runs on a single AAA battery, which records up to 10 hours.

2 Tascam Recorders are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Read the Instruction Manual [PDF]



GoPro HERO4 Silver

GoPro HERO4 Silver has a built-in touchscreen LCD for composing shots and accessing the menu and is able to capture Full HD 1080p at up to 60 fps and - for even more detailed shots - capture 2.7K (2704 x 1520) at 30 fps and 4K (3840 x 2160) at 15 fps. It can also take 12-megapixel stills, as individual shots, in intervals for stitching together time-lapse movies, or in momentary bursts of up to 30 photos per second. Included with the camera is a chest mount, clip mount, and 3-way mount that can be used as a tripod or a selfie stick.

2 GoPro Silvers are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Read the Quick-Start Guide



JOBY GripTight Phone Mount

The JOBY GripTight Phone Mount allows you to mount your smartphone to standard 1/4"-20 thread tripods, letting you capture photos and video using its camera. With your smartphone securely mounted, you can also watch videos or other media hands-free. The GripTight PRO fits smartphones 2.2 to 3.9" wide, with or without a case attached. The mount has overmolded stainless steel plates that slide and lock for a precise fit. It holds your device in portrait or landscape mode and its angle of tilt can be adjusted. TPE grip pads secure it in place.

3 Phone Mounts are available on a first-come, first-served basis.



Aaxa P300 Pico Projectors

Aaxa P300 Pico Projectors are palm-sized projectors that come in at 1.4lbs and can project media up to 80 inches in size. Plug it into a PC or use a USB drive and present slide presentations, photos and videos. For video playback, we suggest plugging the projector into a PC. The included remote allows you to control the projector from across the room (especially helpful for presentations and photo slideshows). Note: with the included cables, this projector does not connect to Apple products.

3 Portable Projectors are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Read the Instruction Manual [PDF]



Genaray Powerbank 6A Pocket LED Light

Genaray Powerbank 6A Pocket LED Light is a small yet powerful variable-color temperature light with output from 3200 to 5600K adjustable in 100K steps that's suitable for use in interior, exterior, and mixed lighting conditions. The light also features dimming from 100 to 10% brightness and a boost mode that increases the output to 130% for one minute. It comes with a mini-tripod, cell phone mount, ball joint adapter, attached diffusion filter, and charging cable.

3 LED Lights available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Read the Instruction Manual. [PDF]



Portable USB Conference Microphone

Portable USB Conference Microphone is a compact microphone designed to improve the audio quality of voice over internet applications like iChat and Skype. It comes with a USB cable for easy plug-and-play connectivity with Mac and Windows computers. Please note: the USB cable only works for 1.0 or 2.0 ports.

2 Conference Mics are available on a first-come, first-served basis.



Transcription Foot Pedal

Transcription Foot Pedal is designed for common digital transcription applications and uses a USB interface to connect to your Windows or Macintosh computer. See the product description for a list of compatible programs.

Read the product description.

2 Foot Pedals available on first-come, first-served basis



SanDisk Extreme Pro UHS-I SD Card

SanDisk Extreme Pro UHS-I SD Card is designed for Full HD, 3D, and 4k video devices and features a speed class rating of V30, which guarantees minimum write speeds of 30 MB/s; it also supports minimum write speeds of 10 MB/s. Read speeds are supported up to 100 MB/s and write speeds max out at 90 MB/s. The SD card circulates in a protective case and bag.

4 Extra SD Cards are available on a first-come, first-served basis.



LG Portable USB DVD Drive

LG Portable USB DVD Drive allows you to read and write on DVDs and CDs with your computer. This drive connects to your Windows or Mac computer via USB 2.0 ports. It features 8x DVD and 24x CD read and write speeds. It uses Silent Play technology that automatically adjusts the read speed to reduce background noise during playback.

3 DVD Player/Writers are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Read the Instruction Manual [PDF]



Sony Digital Voice Recorder

Sony Digital Voice Recorder has an onboard microphone and 4GB of internal memory that allows you to record 39-159 hours of audio in mono MP3 with a variety of settings. The USB adapter attaches to a computer for easy file transfer. It comes with two rechargeable AAA batteries and an abbreviated instruction manual.

2 Recorders available on a first-come, first-served basis.



Equipment that stays in the DML

ZOOM H4n Recorder

ZOOM H4n Recorder features true X/Y stereo mics with selectable recording patterns. It can record up to 4 channels of audio, with rates up to 24-bit/96kHz. XLR/TRS combo inputs let you connect a variety of gear. The recorder also features a built-in speaker and a 3.5mm output for connecting external speakers. A USB 2.0 port makes it easy to transfer files to a Mac or PC, or use the H4n as a live audio interface. It has a backlit LCD for easy control, and can operate on AA batteries, USB power, or wall power for versatility.

The included wired remote allows you to control all major functions of the recorder, including recording start, play, stop, fast forward/reverse, volume level adjustment, recording level adjustment, and input source switching. It can also prevent handling noise from entering your recording, since it eliminates the need to touch the recorder itself.

Read the Quick-Start Guide

Read the Instruction Manual (PDF)



Sony ECM-44B Lavalier Microphone

Sony ECM-44B Lavalier Microphone makes the exceptional quality of Sony's electric condenser microphones available for budget conscious productions, and a variety of sound reinforcement requirements, such as lectures and demonstrations. Measuring only 8.5 x 14.5mm, the ECM-44B reduces the visual distraction to the audience. The ECM-44B can be depended upon for clean, bright, yet natural reproduction. To maintain its low cost, this microphone operates on a single AA (does not accept phantom power) battery for over 5000 hours of service.

Read the Quick-Start Guide

Read the Instruction Manual (PDF)



Rode NT1-A Condenser Microphone

Rode NT1-A Condenser Microphone & Stand is a large-diaphragm side-address condenser microphone intended for general instrument and vocal recording. The mic features a 1" diaphragm with a gold-plated membrane, which provides a wide frequency response and exceptional signal-to-noise ratio. The cardioid polar pattern provides excellent off-axis rejection, minimizing noise caused by room ambiance, instruments, monitors, headphones, etc. The balanced, transformerless output circuitry results in quiet, low-noise signal reproduction at high output levels. The NT1-A is powered via 48V phantom power and has a standard XLR connector.

Read the Quick-Start Guide

Read the Instruction Manual (PDF)



Rode NT1-A Condenser Microphone

Canon EOS Rebel T7i Camera uses a 24.2 MP APS-C CMOS sensor and DIGIC 7 image processor to capture high-resolution stills and video with an expanded sensitivity range of ISO 100-51200; it also supports Full HD 1080p video recording at up to 60 fps in the MP4 format with IPB compression or 30 fps in the MOV format with ALL-I compression. The camera has an EF-S 18-55mm f/4-5.6 IS STM lens, a 16GB SD card, and attached UV filter and lens cap holder.

Read the Instruction Manual (PDF)



Panasonic AG-HMC40 AVCCAM HD Camcorder & AG-MYA30G XLR Mic Adapter / Holder

Panasonic AG-HMC40 AVCCAM HD Camcorder & AG-MYA30G XLR Mic Adapter / Holder: This kit includes an AG-HMC40 Camcorder and a dual input XLR Microphone Adapter and Holder that mounts right under the tip of the camcorder's detachable handle. The HMC40 is designed to record in high definition on standard SD and SDHC memory cards. The camera is extremely portable and lightweight, weighing in at just over 2 lbs. While SD-based camcorders have been gaining ground in the consumer market, the HMC40 has the ability to record AVCHD images at significantly higher bitrates. This enhancement makes the camera's codec more efficient than comparable HD interframe codecs, such as HDV and XDCAM EX. Using H.264 as its compression algorithm, the camera can record incredibly detailed images at a fraction of the file size.

Read the Quick-Start Guide

Read the Instruction Manual (PDF)



Magnus VT-4000 Tripod System with Fluid Head

The Magnus VT-4000 Tripod System with Fluid Head is a stable, sturdy video tripod made from anodized aluminum that can support loads up to 8.8 lb. Overall, this tripod offers many features usually only found on more expensive models. The two-way fluid head provides smooth operation, and features a half-ball mount with a diameter of 65mm, with left and right pan bar mounts. In addition, unlike most other heads in its class, all the head controls are positioned on the left side of the head, which leaves your right hand free for the panning handle. The VT-4000 tripod system weighs 7.9 lb.

Read the Instruction Manual (PDF)



Impact Collapsible Background Kit

The Impact Collapsible Background Kit is a quick and reliable way to set up a studio background for either a headshot or video interview. The system includes two 5' x 7' reversible backdrops (chroma blue/green and black/white) as well as a convertible boom arm stand.



Genaray Softbox Interview Kit

Genaray Softbox Interview Kit is a comprehensive 3-LED light kit that features everything you'll need for studio-quality lighting. The kit includes two 13.6 x 9.25 x 2.2" Spectro 500 LED Bi-Color Panels and the monolight-like MonoBright LED Bi-Color 750 fixture, each with an 8' air-cushioned light stand and diffusion covers.

Read the Spectro 500 Manual

Read the MonoBright 750 Manual


Expression 11000XL Graphic Arts Scanner

Expression 11000XL Graphic Arts Scanner: Features a 2400 x 4800 dpi optical resolution and a 48-bit color depth. The scanner can handle standard originals as large as 12.0 x 17.0". The transparency adapter allows scans of 35 mm negatives and mounted slides, 120 and 220 medium format, and 4.0 x 5.0" film.

Read the Quick-Start Guide

Read the Instruction Manual




Spaces

The Whisper Room

Sound isolation booth

This sound isolation booth significantly reduces ambient and acoustic noise and can be used for a variety of audio recording purposes. The Whisper Room features a ventilation system and interior lighting, making it suitable for single person recording sessions.

You can reserve the Whisper Room for use during regular Digital Media Lab hours. It is also available on a first-come-first-served basis during lab hours.

Reserve this Space



Audio/Video Recording Room

Audio/Video Recording Room containing backdrop stand, sound baffling, and a computer workstation

The A/V recording space is 10' x 12' and is designed to be versatile enough for audio or video projects that involve small groups. The rear wall features a large green screen. Collapsible backgrounds of chroma green/blue and black/white are available. Acoustical foam helps insulate the space from exterior noise while preventing unwanted echo. There is also an iMac workstation to facilitate easy transfer of data.

You can reserve the Audio/Video Recording Room for use during regular Digital Media Lab hours. Otherwise it is available on a first-come-first serve basis. An exception will be made for persons using the computer when the space is needed for recording projects, provided a computer is available in the main workspace.

Reserve this Space



Computer Workspace

Two iMac workstations

The DML's main workspace has three iMacs available for audio/visual project creation and editing. These systems feature Adobe products and Final Cut Pro X. These systems are available on a first come first serve basis.

One of these workstations features an Epson Expression large format scanner with a scanning bed of 12" x 17". The scanner has an optional transparency setting that can be used for scanning negatives and other transparent media.



Software Tutorials



General Policies

Lab Assistance

DML Assistants can provide basic instructions for equipment and software. Manuals for all the equipment will be available either online or in the DML.

Circulating Equipment Policies

A/V Equipment

Example Replacement Costs

Each item has a unique replacement cost that accounts for included accessories, ranging from $20 to $700. Examples are included for reference only.