For the music geeks, here’s a list of the gear I currently use. Being a bit of a music geek myself, the list is subject to change…often. In fact, some things have already changed since my YouTube videos were posted just a couple months ago. Regardless:
- PA System: For the past 5 years, I had used a Yamaha StagePass 300 portable PA. It’s a great little system, but unfortunately it has finally crapped out on me. I had been looking for an upgrade anyway, so the timing wasn’t bad; my PA system now consists of an Alto Professional 8-channel mixer, model ZMX122FX. So far so good, and the onboard effects, especially the reverbs, are very useable and sound great. Though I only use two channels (guitar and vocal), the additional channel ability is great for sit-ins and guest players/singers, as well as using an iPod for fill music when I take a break. Sound comes from a pair of Behringer Eurolive B2112D active loudspeakers. With a 550 watt onboard amp, a 12″ woofer, and 1.5″ tweeter in each speaker, these are far more capable than the StagePass speakers. Nearly 3 times the total power, too. Ahhh….headroom.
- Guitars: My main gigging guitar is the Takamine G-series 12-string I’m using in most of my videos. I recently ditched the onboard pickup for a soundhole-mounted L.R. Baggs active unit, and it’s fantastic. In fact, I used to use an old little Zoom multi-effects pedal to add some EQ and chorus to the guitar sound, but I simply don’t need it anymore. For some songs, and as a backup guitar, I also use a Yamaha Compass Series 6-string. One day, Taylor/Martin/Breedlove…..one day
.
- Strings: I pretty much stick to D’Addario Phosphor Bronze acoustic strings. 10′s on the Takamine, 12′s on the Yamaha. Occasionally I try something else. And I’m almost always unhappy and go quickly back to D’Addario!
- Picks: Custom “Cobalt Fall” delrin picks, of course. From Steve Clayton – medium gauge.
- Effects: The mixer has onboard effects, but basically all I use is a little reverb. Since installing that L.R. Baggs pickup, I don’t really need any additional effects to color the sound.
- Microphone: It’s an AKG D5. Really sparkling sound – recommended by Skully from my band (as a better choice than the industry-standard Shure SM58) and I must agree. It’s a great mic.
- Stands: Why someone would care about the mic and/or speaker stands is beyond me. I will speak no more of this .
CONNECT