Recording Equipments for Starters

Recording equipment is something which becomes essential as one climbs to the higher levels of one's music career. However, given the wide range of gadgets used in different performance venues, you need to have a clear understanding of the gadgets and your own needs.

You need to know which equipments you can not do without while recording. You record the sound using microphones and speakers. You need an amplifier to ensure proper recording and smooth functioning other equipments. Therefore your first investment should consist of these basic instruments that you may keep updating according to your requirements. You may need to start with basic recording equipment like headphones, microphones, guitar tuners, pre-amps, and the recording and mixing device. Later you may acquire effects units, soundproofing systems, multi-track recorders, studio monitors, studio signal processors, and computer audio tools like audio compression, EQ and reverb software.

You may need to know a bit more about some of these products.

• Audio mixers: This is one of the most important gadgets that you need to have. Compact and remote audio mixers are available. Some musicians prefer PA mixers, telephone mixers, production mixers, or DJ mixers.
• Headphones: Since people usually do not have proper listening rooms, a good pair of headphones becomes useful while monitoring recordings and mixings.
• Microphone: A basic dynamic microphone is sufficient. You will get a variety of choices like podium microphones, USB microphones, and headwork microphones. It is advisable not to opt for cheaper products.
• Effects unit: You will need a good reverb/delay/pitch unit which will help you to work smoothly.
• Multi-track recorder: You should opt for digital hard discs as they are more convenient and reliable than analogue tapes.
• Instruments: You may opt for a keyboard. Many types of keyboards, synthesizers and sound modules are widely available.
  

You may also buy portable field recorders, computer recording interfaces, recording software, podcasting equipment, USB interfaces, and duplicators. You may choose to buy your products from the online stores at affordable prices. You should compare the prices offered by the different stores before choosing a product. You can know about the pros and cons of the product from the reviews posted online. The important issues that you need to keep in mind while making a purchase apart from the price and quality of the equipment are the compatibility of the products with your existing equipment and your future plans.

Get the Feel with a Behringer Guitar Amp

Once you've got your dream Behringer Guitar, you will need a good amplifier that will do justice to the guitar. Before we talk about the specific brands of amplifiers, there are some basic facts you should know.

An amplifier acts in two stages. The preamplifier stage amplifies the voltage of the guitar's signal. The second stage, or the power amplifier stage, transfers a higher current to the speaker thereby helping it produce sound. Amps use either tubes or transistors. Amps with transistors cost less and are more durable. On the other hand, amps with tubes produce better sound but they need to be replaced frequently.

Guitar amplifiers are available in two configurations. You can choose between combination amplifiers and standalone amplifiers. Combination amplifiers have an amplifier together with one, two, or four speakers, while standalone amplifiers do not include any speaker.

There are several models of Behringer Guitar Amps. There are acoustic guitar amplifiers, electric guitar amplifiers, and bass guitar amplifiers.

• Acoustic Guitar amplifier: There are about four models of acoustic guitar amplifiers. You can opt for a 180-Watt 2-channel Stereo acoustic instrument amplifier or a 45-Watt 2-Channel Acoustic Instrument Amplifier. Both of them have FX and FBQ Feedback Detection. There are also two models of 60 Watt acoustic guitar amplifiers that have lost their popularity in recent times.
• Electric Guitar amplifiers: There are 10 different models of 10, 15, 30, 50, 60, 100 watt amplifiers. Most of the models have two independent channels and VTC Tube Modeling. You can also choose amplifiers that come with original BUGERA Speakers of various dimensions. There are also some discontinued models that can be a good option if you want something to just practice with.
• Bass Guitar amplifiers: About 18 different models of bass guitar amplifiers are currently offered by the brands. These amps are of different capacities. Most of them have original BUGERA Speakers with FBQ Spectrum Analyzer. You can go with amplifiers that have Ultrabass processors. These models meet the requirements of highly skilled bass guitarists. If you are a beginner, you might also want to consider purchasing one of the discontinued models of bass amplifiers. There are around 7 of these models available
  

Behringer Guitar amplifiers can be purchased online. These are many online stores offering fabulous deals. A guitar amplifier can be a priceless acquisition, and you need to be aware of your requirements before investing in it. So, while choosing an amplifier, make sure it is perfectly compatible with your guitar and gives your music the kind of effect you desire.

The Magic of Yamaha Powered Mixers

Yamaha has always been a leader in the field of sound reproduction. The quality of sound output of Yamaha devices is so good that professionals always look for this brand without making any exceptions. They are used to mask minor glitches in voice pitch or even a missing tune. The EMX powered mixer series also has the superb performance and reliability that makes Yamaha the preferred choice for program managers around the world.

The three primary powered mixers manufactured by Yamaha are EMX5014C, EMX5016CF and EMX 212/312/512.

The EMX5014C is a new addition to the Yamaha family. It is a mixer with lightweight amplifier circuits and a powerful 500 watt per channel stereo power section. The mixer boast of 14 input channels for microphones and playback gear. A power mode switch allows the amplifier channels to be used with the stereo outputs and also run the main speakers while separating the monitor mixes.

The Yamaha EMX5016CF is a product which redefines the word ‘powered mixer’. This is an integrated mixer with the flexibility and superior sound quality required in live performances. There are 16 inputs with 12 for microphones, eight mono channels with mid-frequency sweep controls in this model. It also contains a range of inputs and outputs that enables it to be expanded with external systems or even integrate it with larger systems.

Yamaha EMX 512SC is the best choice for larger venues or outdoor performances as it brings out the full impact of the music being played.

Why are Yamaha mixers the best?
An exclusive Yamaha feature is the Feedback Control Locator (FCL) which helps in locating the input channel creating problems, thus enabling control of vocals or tightening of a bass guitar. Yamaha mixers are also known to produce louder output than mixers of other brands. The controls are also color-coded and designed in a manner that is easy to understand and follow even for novices. Most importantly Yamaha powered mixers are energy efficient since it draws less amount of electricity. This energy efficiency not only cuts down costs but also enables the units to have a longer lifetime. The other advantage of Yamaha powered mixers is that they are extremely light and easily portable.

While many sound mixers are available in the market, since 1887 Yamaha has been the undisputed leader in the sound equipment market because of a unique combination of quality sound output, tough exteriors, and affordable price tags.

A Snapshot of Takamine Guitars

The origins of Takamine Guitars can be traced back to the early 1960s. Takamine Guitars are produced by the Japanese organization, Takamine Co. Ltd. Considered to be among the best guitar manufacturers in the world, this company was one of the first to introduce acoustic-electric models. It also designed the preamp-equalizer component. Takamine guitars are known for their pickup or preamplifier combinations, as well as their artful inlays. These guitars are also inscribed with various motifs that have been inspired by nature and astronomical phenomena.

The distinctive features of Takamine Guitars are:

• Takamine Guitars offer the best pickup. This is an integral part of the design, unlike in other factory-made guitars. The bridge plate has six individual piezo transducers embedded into it. These piezo transducers can sense both string and soundboard vibration.
• Takamine Guitars can be pared with the exclusive Takamine innovation, the SoundChoice preamp system. These systems are interchangeable and you can swap them in less than two minutes' time. There are several SoundChoice preamp system models currently available.
• Takamine Classics can be equipped with any of the four SoundChoice preamp systems, thus offering maximum control over the performance application. The braces are also patterned to be in sync with contemporary music. These guitars are made of spruce or solid cedar tops with rosewood sides and backs. The crafting of the Hirade concert classics are inspired by Mass Hirade's original drawings.
• You can also go for the signature models. These guitars are made of solid spruce top and solid mahogany back. They have finishes of deep red stain accented with ivoroid and hand-inlaid abalone. Some of the famous models are John Jorgenson, Garth Brooks GB-7C, Steve Wariner, and Kenny Chesney KC70.

Takamine Guitars also come in various other models. These guitars are beautifully crafted and are usually limited edition ones. Takamine guitars have certain unique features that no other guitars can offer. A large number of online stores sell Takamine guitars, and you can look up some of these to compare prices and features before actually buying a guitar.

Takamine Guitars offer the best when it comes to both sound and craftsmanship. These impressive instruments have been the favorite of musicians, and a lot of famous music artists can be seen flaunting a Takamine guitar. So go ahead and take your pick from the various models available, and hear the guitar give your music a completely new dimension.

The Story Behind Mapex Drum Sets

A Mapex drum set may just be the ultimate addition to your collection of musical instruments. These drum sets, which are created by some of the most talented craftsmen, boast of very detailed and handcrafted work. Mapex drum sets are crafted with a high degree of engineering and designing, and the quality of sound produced by them is unparalleled.

Here are some interesting facts about these drum sets:

The quality of drums depends on the quality of wood used to create them. The most suitable wood is premium grade hard wood like maple, birch, basswood, and walnut. These are gathered from different parts of the world and then crafted by skilled experts to guarantee that every drum has its signature tonal and resonance features.

Importance is also laid on the looks of the drums. Each shell of the Mapex drum is hand painted with eight coats of hand-rubbed high gloss lacquer. These finishes are durable and also make the job of maintenance easy.

All Mapex drums are built on exact specifications. There are computer-controlled microwave process rooms where this is carried out.

There are several models of Mapex drums. Some of the well known models are Meridian Birch, QR, Q, Meridian Maple, Saturn, Orion, and VX. These drums have several features like isolated tom mount system, double braced hardware, and a padded throne. You will also get other accessories like instructional DVDs, padded drum bag sets, tom and cymbal arms, rolling hardware bag, drum display stand, and multi-clamps.

Mapex drum shells are available in several colors. You can choose from shades like transparent honey amber, black sparkle, satin green, red, dark coffee, silver sparkle, transparent sapphire, satin cherry, grey steel, and many others.

Mapex drum sets not only offer a host of interesting features, but also come in different price ranges. However, before investing in a drum set you should keep in mind that although cheaper options are more suitable for beginners, they will not produce the same kind of sound quality as the expensive ones. In addition, the price is often a major determinant of the drum set's longevity. Various online stores offer good bargains, and you should check out these sites in order to buy the Mapex drum set that meets all your requirements.

For musicians, a Mapex drum set is usually one of their most prized possessions. So get started with your Mapex drum set and create the music you've always wanted to.

Alvarez Acoustic Guitars

Alvarez has been making acoustic guitars for over forty years. It makes instruments suited to the needs of professionals as well as aspiring artists. The Masterworks, Professional and Artist series are meant for advanced players while beginners prefer the Regent series. This discussion about the qualities of the instruments will help you to decide which model is suitable for you.

Masterworks series

The cutaway models of this series are designed for those who wish to have better access to the top fret positions. They have thin necks and polished frets to enable the guitarist to play faster. Players who want to deeper bass sounds may opt for dreadnought models that are larger and wider than standard guitars. The classical models are designed to produce warmer tones. They have flat fingerboards and nylon or gut strings. The tops of the guitars of this series are made of solid cedar or spruce while the bodies are made of mahogany, maple or spruce. The tuners of this series are made from die-cast nickel.

Professional series

Dreadnought, folk, and jumbo models are available in this series. The guitars of this series are known for their enhanced features and unmatched looks. The superior projection and tone come from the special tops of the instruments. These are made of solid Canadian or Englemann spruce and have scalloped bracings. The structural integrity of the instruments is increased by the dovetail neck joint. This ensures that string energy is optimally distributed to the neck and the body of the guitar. The maple binding, the gold hardware and the abalone shell inlays create the elegant visual impact.

Artist series

The series has six-string, twelve-string, jumbo, classical, and cutaways models. The bodies of these guitars made from a wide range of woods like mahogany, rosewood, dao, maple and bubinga. Figured dao, burled mahogany, Indian rosewood, spalted maple variants are also available. The tops that are made of solid englemann spruce, solid spruce, dao or solid cedar. Instruments of this series usually have die-cast nickel tuners. Die-cast gold tuners are available for some models.

Regent series

Dreadnought, classical, and folk models are available in this series. The tops of these guitars are made of either solid sitka or ordinary spruce. Mahogany, and solid cedar options are also available for some models. The instruments of this series have die-cast chrome or gold tuners.

Alvarez acoustic guitar is a good choice because most of the instruments are sold only after comprehensive inspection and adjustment.

Wireless Microphone: Freedom With Style

A good pair of wireless microphones is a good investment for a composer. The wireless microphones allow the composer to freely move around, as he/she composes music. No more distractions from microphone wires getting tangled with the wires of the electric guitar or the soundboard. With a wireless microphone on, the composer can concentrate on creating music or belting out vocals, with complete peace of mind. It also makes him/her look more professional, thus improving his/her image in front of the audience.

There are some points to consider before buying a pair of wireless microphones. First, the composer should decide where he/she is going to use the microphones. It may be for use at a hall, room or a theatre. In these cases, the quality of microphone required will vary, and consequently the price. For instance, if it is going to be used in a hall, top quality models with auto-reverb facility are excellent choices. The sound produced will be have rich tones, which will sound good in the ambience. If it is going to be used in a room, however, too much reverb effect may cause the sound to break up at higher pitches. In these cases, it would be advisable to lower the reverb effect, or turn it off altogether. Auto reverb microphones are bad choices in this case. Lastly, for a stadium, it’s just like a hall; the higher the reverb effect, the better.

Wired microphones from average companies can help a composer to get by for some time, if the other equipments are high in quality. In case of wireless microphones, however, getting a branded one is probably a good idea. Branded wireless microphones are great when it comes to longevity and performance. The true sound reproduction that most wireless microphones offer is certainly a blessing. This automatically reduces outside noise while capturing the user’s vocals or music. The result is crystal clear sound on the records.

Wireless microphones are simple to operate. All come bundled with cables and can be attached to the audio mixer via those cables. Most of the expensive ones have Bluetooth connectivity option. This provides excellent sound quality as well as noise reduction facility. These can be hot plugged to the mixer as well, so installation is a breeze.

Wireless microphones are great for vocalists who need to record their voices in the highest possible sound quality. These are certainly worthwhile investments that can provide sufficient bang for buck for a long time.

ESP Guitar: Uniqueness at its Best

ESP (Electric Sound Products) company, located in North Hollywood, California, is a reputed manufacturer of electric guitars and basses. It is originally a Japanese company that started off with the establishment of a small shop named Electric Sound Products in 1975 by Hisatake Shibuya. Initially, ESP gained reputation as a custom replacement parts manufacturer. But, as it gained popularity as a parts manufacturer, it switched to crafting guitars of its own. ESP guitars have since received patronage from many legends of the music world. Page Hamilton of Helmet, Vernon Reid of Living Colour, Bruce Kulick of KISS, Ronnie Wood of Rolling Stones, Richie Sambora of Bon Jovi, and Kirk Hammett of Metallica, all have wielded custom-made ESP guitars during their performances. Owning a custom made ESP guitar is a dream of many budding musicians, because of its customized look and superior craftsmanship.

ESP discontinued its replacement part production service at the beginning of the 1990s; in order to focus completely on the production of custom made guitars and basses. Musician George Lynch’s famous Kamikaze guitar model was reproduced and released as the first signature product. It received overwhelming response from guitarists. Soon afterwards, ESP released more than 10 other signature collections, expanding their universe and reaching out to the masses of guitarists.

ESP guitars are characterized by the pointed headstock of the guitars. The first ranges of electric guitars produced by ESP had solid wood bodies. But later, ESP brought out semi-hollow Paramount series, beginning with the Xtone line. These guitars use a hollowed out core in order to produce louder, richer sound. Many other models of ESP guitars also have unique features. For instance, “Baritone” models have a longer scale and heavier strings, resulting in a lower sound. “Rosewood” and “Maple” types have rosewood and maple wood fingerboards respectively. “NT” guitars do not come fitted with tremolo systems. This, however, only applies to guitars that traditionally have tremolos.

ESP bass guitars are also hugely popular among bassists. ESP has several ranges of bass guitars on offer, along with some vintage models. ESP vintage models have gained reputation worldwide because of the rich, deep sound and the customizability according to a player’s preferences.

ESP guitars are some of the best guitars available today. The sheer excellence in craftsmanship, and the unique customizability make these some of the most sought after guitars in the world.

Fender Guitar: The Style Statement for Guitarists

Fender guitars are the dream of every dedicated guitarist. Fender guitars are like the BMWs of the guitar universe; a guitarist whipping out a custom-made Fender Stratocaster for a performance will invite the awe and envy of many of his/her peers. Fender guitars are custom-made on request, keeping in mind the player’s preferences; hence providing a completely unique experience to every user.

The Fender guitars can be divided into two broad sections, the Telecaster, and the Stratocaster. Both names are legends in their own rights. Fender Telecaster has been used by legendary artists like Syd Barret (the original guitarist and lead vocalist of Pink Floyd), Bob Dylan, George Harrison (of the Beatles), among others. Telecasters are almost always custom made for every guitarist, and painted or decorated according to his/her choice. Telecasters were initially developed for artists performing on television, hence the name. There was also a Fender series with the moniker “Broadcaster”, but it did not gain much popularity.

The Fender Stratocaster is even more popular than the Telecaster. The sound produced by Stratocasters is especially loud in volume, making it ideal for open air or stadium performances. Many legends have sworn by the Stratocaster over the years, making it a lot more popular than the Telecaster in the process. Legends like David Gilmour (of Pink Floyd), The Edge (U2), John Lennon (The Beatles), Ritchie Blackmore (founding member of both Deep Purple and Rainbow), Eric Clapton, and Jimi Hendrix, all have wielded custom made Stratocasters to mesmerize audiences. Jeff Beck, a Grammy award winning rock guitarist, once commented in a talk show, “With a Les Paul you just wind up sounding like someone else. With the Strat I finally sound like me." This statement is considered to be one of the greatest compliments that a Stratocaster has ever received, and proves just how much loyal the legends have been to the brand over the years.

Structurally, a Stratocaster is a double-cutaway electric guitar that sports an extended top horn for balance while standing. The single ply, 8-screw hole white pickguard is a unique construction that allows almost all of the guitar’s electronic components to be mounted on an easy to remove surface. The Stratocaster is known for its clean, “twang” sounds. The neck pickup has a much mellower, full-bodied and louder sound compared to the sharper tones produced by the bridge pickup.

The Telecasters and Stratocasters are style symbols for guitarists everywhere. Although the lower-priced ranges are quite affordable, these guitars are valued for their history by musicians worldwide.