Mutiny TC-A Timecode Box: BNC vs Lemo 5-Pin Buying Guide
By TRM | Published: 2026-10-31
Category: Buying Guides
Compare the Mutiny TC-A BNC and Lemo 5-pin timecode audio boxes, learn which connector fits your camera rig, and follow clear decision rules for sync timecode on multi-camera shoots.
Quick answer
Choose the Mutiny TC-A BNC if your camera or audio chain already uses BNC timecode connections; choose the Lemo 5-pin version if your rig standardizes on Lemo 5-pin. Both embed LTC timecode into the audio signal for mirrorless and DSLR cameras with a 3.5 mm mic input.
Why the connector decides the purchase
The two Mutiny TC-A versions share the same core job: they put LTC timecode into the audio track of a camera that lacks a dedicated timecode port, while keeping a usable audio channel. The practical difference is the connector on the box, which determines what cable you need and how the box fits into your existing rig.
If your other timecode gear, cables, or camera cage accessories already use BNC, the BNC version avoids adapter chains. If your workflow is built around Lemo 5-pin, the Lemo version keeps your cable set consistent. Neither choice is inherently better; the right one is the one that matches the connectors you already own and trust on set.
What the TC-A does and does not solve
The Mutiny TC-A is designed for mirrorless and DSLR cameras with a 3.5 mm microphone input. It integrates LTC timecode directly into the audio signal while preserving an exploitable audio track. That makes it a useful bridge for cameras that have no built-in timecode, but it does not turn a camera into a native timecode device.
Because the catalog does not list supported frame rates, camera-specific compatibility, or power details, confirm those points against your camera and workflow before buying. The absence of those specifications is a real decision limitation, not a detail to assume.
Where the price difference matters
The Lemo 5-pin version is listed at USD 103.60 and the BNC version at USD 88.20, both against a USD 140.00 comparison price. If your rig already uses BNC, the BNC version leaves more budget for cables or a second box. If your rig is Lemo-based, paying the small difference for the Lemo version can be cheaper than rebuilding your cable kit around adapters.
Decision rules for choosing between BNC and Lemo 5-pin
- Match your existing cable standard: If your timecode cables, monitor, or recorder use BNC, buy the Mutiny TC-A BNC. If your kit is built around Lemo 5-pin, buy the Lemo 5-pin version. Count your current timecode cables before deciding; adapters add failure points on set.
- Check the camera input first: Both versions require a 3.5 mm microphone input on the camera. Confirm your mirrorless or DSLR model has one before choosing either box. A camera without a 3.5 mm mic input is not a fit for either TC-A version.
- Budget for the whole kit, not just the box: The BNC version is listed at USD 88.20 and the Lemo 5-pin at USD 103.60. Add the cost of the correct cable for your rig to compare real totals. Choose the version that avoids buying a new cable set.
- Plan for multi-camera sync: For sync timecode across multiple cameras, standardize every TC-A box in the kit on the same connector type so cables stay interchangeable between units. Mixing BNC and Lemo boxes in one kit creates avoidable cable confusion.
Product facts
- Mutiny TC-A Boîtier Timecode + Audio (Lemo 5-pin): Lemo 5-pin version of the Mutiny TC-A Timecode + Audio box, designed for mirrorless and DSLR cameras with a 3.5 mm mic input. It keeps a Lemo-based rig consistent without adapter chains, provided your camera has the required 3.5 mm mic input.
Mutiny TC-A Boîtier Timecode + Audio (Lemo 5-pin) - Mutiny TC-A Boîtier Timecode + Audio (BNC): BNC version of the Mutiny TC-A Timecode + Audio box, also aimed at mirrorless and DSLR cameras with a 3.5 mm mic input. It is the lower-cost choice when your existing timecode cables and accessories are BNC.
Mutiny TC-A Boîtier Timecode + Audio (BNC)
Who should choose which
Best for
- Mirrorless or DSLR shooters with a 3.5 mm mic input who need timecode in the audio track
- Multi-camera crews standardizing on one connector type
- Rigs that already own BNC or Lemo 5-pin timecode cables
Not for
- Cameras without a 3.5 mm microphone input
- Shooters who need native timecode ports rather than an audio-track workaround
- Buyers who cannot confirm frame-rate or camera compatibility before purchase
