Problems with mixer board

[DocFilmMan]

When I connect my mics through the mixer board to the camera, the sound is distorted and unclear. When I connect them directly to the camera, the sound is crystal clear. Any idea what the problem could be? Could it be that I just have a bad board?

 

[Bob Kessler]

Inputs/Outputs -
Are you using the correct output of the mixer and the correct input on the camera?

Settings -
Is the input level of the camera set to MIC or LINE? It should be on LINE.
Check the output type on the mixer as well, is it too hot?

Levels -
Check the input levels on the camera.
Check the output levels of the mixer.

Are they wide open? Too low? Try to find a balance between the two. Known to we audio guys as gain-staging.

Cable(s) -
Try a different cable.