Freehand Systems MusicPad Pro Plus Review

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(More customer reviews)This is a love/hate review. I love the concept, but hate the execution.
I play a wide variety of music, with several different bands. Over the years, I have formatted over 1000 song (in Word) for printing lyrics and chords in BIG print so that the whole band (or at least the vocalists) can read from the chart. Hauling all 20 of my music binders to each gig is just not practical, so I usually ended up printing custom gig binders for each gig. But then there was always someone who requests that one song in binder at home....
So when I saw the Freehand Systems MusicPad Pro, I figured it would pay for itself in about two months in terms of saving me time, printer cartridges, etc. So I bought one and started the LONG task of converting all of my music so that it would be readable on the unit.
Let me interject that I have a Ph.D. in electrical engineering and I'm somwhat of a computer geek and gadget freak, so my tolerance is pretty high for things that are not idiot proof. I'm writing this review for those of you who might have the misconception that this thing is easy to get working to your liking.
In converting all of my Word files to the proprietary .fh files, I had to open and print each of my document via the freehand printer driver, then re-name each file and add my tags. Figuring-out what print setting to use was quite a nightmare. (Hint: use scaling and select Freehand in your Windows print driver first). It literally took me 16 hours to go through the process of converting all my files. Freehand should be ashamed to put this on the market without some way to batch convert from any format to their .fh files.
Then there is the file management. Why in the world they decided to make this thing with a measly 35 Megs of usable internal memory is a mystery to me. Less than 1/2 of my songs fit on the internal memory. There is a USB expansion slot that I had to use. But guess what, most of the memory sticks that they include with these units DONT WORK on the MPP because of some filtering issue in the cheap USB memory sticks that they get from China (and apparently, they don't have someone checking these things before shipping them out). In fact, only a few select memory sticks will work with this device - so beware. Freehand should have included a 1GB internal memory.
The final complaint I have is the price. For what it is, and for all the headaches I've had to go through to get it working, it should sell for $300. If I would have know how difficult it was to convert all of my files, I definitely would have just purchased a tablet PC.
Having said all of the above, I am happy that I have all the conversion behind me, and that I know how to operate the thing. I will use it on a regular basis, and it will simplify my gig preparation. If you are thinking of buying one of these things, be prepared for some pain before you get to the pleasure.

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The Music Pad Pro's 12.1" TFT LCD backlit, color display is about the size of a sheet of music, but this digital music notebook does a heck of a lot more. All your sheet music, drill charts, lyrics, guitar tablature, bowing and fingering marks, class schedules, set lists, and other study and performance aids can all be kept in one convenient place.

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Maxon 9-Series Auto Filter Review

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(More customer reviews)Hey NOw! I love this pedal. Along with some MXR distortion+ you can get a great Jerry sound. I haven't played the MuTron though. The only thing I would change is adding an ability to change the length of the swell of the effect. To make it shorter or longer. My guess is I can open it up and do this but Im not sure. I got mine Used for $100. and it is the best value pedal I have bought.

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The AF9 Auto Filter takes the most desirable auto-wah and swept filter effects and offers them up in a compact, user-friendly package. Opto-coupler circuitry produces the shimmering, watery filtering of legendary vintage units. Threshold and Peak sliders control the degree of effect; while Range and Drive switches determine range and direction of the filter sweep. Three selectable filter types (Low Pass, Band Pass, and Hi Pass) and a frequency range of 100 Hz – 4 kHz allow the AF9 to function with virtually any instrument or input signal.

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Ibanez Jemini Distortion Review

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(More customer reviews)I've been on a Vai kick for the last 2 months. It happens once every 3 or 4 years. Trudging through the various Vai YouTube videos, I happened upon a 10 minute video of Vai showing off his new Jemini distortion pedal. Do a YouTube search for "Vai Jemini" and you'll find it. I bought it for US $199 @ Uncle Ike's Music (through Amazon.com). After the product arrived, I was eager to hear myself sound like Vai. Of course, the statement is as amusing in real life as it looks on this page. I did not and will never sound like Vai, HOWEVER- this pedal (or, duo of pedals) does exactly what Vai states in the sales video. There is even a complimentary pamphlet in the packaging that shows you Vai's personal settings on these pedals, as well as where they fit into his complete effects solution (which is both elaborate and amazing).
It offers 2 distinctly separate levels of 2 distinctly different types of modulation. The left pedal is more of an overdrive, while the right one is much grainier and fatter. I use the Jemini in conjunction with (of all things) a Digitech Vx400, which is designed for all things non-distortion. While this is a mediocre setup at best (my fault), the power of expressionism afforded by the Jemini is immediately apparent. The effects, themselves are very high quality and the ability to instantly switch from a pristine kind of mellow overdriven rhythm to a monster overtone-laden rhythm or lead without changing any other running effects is extremely desirable to me. The output level, tone and amount of drive is separately programmable within each pedal and there's a compartment for a spare battery under the left footswitch. There is one more thing to note: as I find, there is a third option to this pedal: If you click on the pedal you last chose one more time, you will get the end result of all pedals you have before the Jemini in the chain (sans Jemini). This gives you the option to take the Jemini out of the equation entirely, if you wish. Note to potential buyer: The unit does NOT ship with an AC power adapter but there is an input for one.
I find this unit to be a fantastic addition to my very limited arsenal and have zero complaints. The sounds I get from it are exactly what I was looking for without breaking the bank. This unit IS a huge part of Vai's sound and you'll see it in all his stage videos from 3 years ago (in it's prototypical stage) to present. If you like Vai's sound and want to get a piece of it- this is the real deal. The rest (aural expanders, delay/reverb, noise gates/line drivers, wah-wahs and chorus) are completely up to you. If You've come this far looking for Vai's sound... I'd say "Do it"...

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The Ibanez Jemini unleashes Steve Vai's first

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Line 6 DM4 Distortion Modeler Review

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(More customer reviews)I've been looking for that hard Metallica/metal/classic hard rock sound I tried several distortion pedals (boss, mxr, hardwire series from digitech, and random boutique pedals) and have absolutely loved this pedal far and above the others. It's true bypass (for those who are looking for that) and models several famous pedals. The pro con rat, fuzz face, and the tube screamer models are excellent and I often use the 2 line6 models that work great also. You have 4 presets on the pedal to save from their 15-20 models they have on board and it comes with a compressor option that I don't use but is a cool feature. For the price you end up getting basically every distortion sound worth having without having to buy tons of others pedals. Down side is that you pretty much have to have the adapter as it eats C batteries and the adapter wont work with a standard 9 or 18 volt power brick (like Gator). Look past the ugly color and the often maligned line6 brand and do yourself a favor. Most versatile pedal I have ever bought.

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The DM4 is the first pedal to deliver a wide range of legendary distortion/overdrive-style effects in a programmable, road-ready stompbox. Line 6's state-of-the-art digital modeling gives you incredible sounds based on of 16 vintage distortion) along with 4 programmable presets, bass/mid/treble controls for perfect grind or growl, true bypass switching, Expression Pedal input, mono in and out.

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Samson AirLine 77 UHF TD Wind Instrument Wireless Microphone System, Channel N3 Review

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(More customer reviews)This mic is great for the price it is very sensitive and has a long range. I have had no problems with it since buying. It helps me to senerade with my sax because i can walk directly to audience and play 5 stars

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The Samson Airline 77 UHF Wind Instrument Wireless systems are an unbeatable combination.Samson Concert 77 UHF True Diversity Half-Rack Receivers matched up with Samson\'s incredible Airline Series mini transmitters give you belt pack free mobility at new low prices. Ultra-light, ultra-compact, and incredibly efficient, Airline Series transmitters provide flawless wireless performance for 12 hours on a single AAA battery. No more duct taping the mic to your favorite sax.The AirLine wind instrument system features an AH1 transmitter mounted to a Samson HM40 condenser element. This system allows the performer to mount the element and transmitter to the bell of the instrument with no packs or wires to hinder their performance.The CR77 true-diversity half-rack UHF receiver works flawlessly with all AirLine UHF transmitters. The CR77 receiver features a front panel display with large multi-segment audio level and RF level LED meters, and a large rotary volume knob allows easy adjustment of audio output. The new synthesized PLL frequency control circuitry keeps the signal locked and true while dual tuned molded antennas with LEDs monitor the true-diversity operation. The rear panel features balanced XLR and unbalanced 1/4-inch outputs allowing flexible connection options.

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Samson AirLine 77 UHF TD Wind Instrument Wireless Microphone System, Channel N2 Review

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(More customer reviews)This mic is great for the price it is very sensitive and has a long range. I have had no problems with it since buying. It helps me to senerade with my sax because i can walk directly to audience and play 5 stars

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The Samson Airline 77 UHF Wind Instrument Wireless systems are an unbeatable combination.Samson Concert 77 UHF True Diversity Half-Rack Receivers matched up with Samson\'s incredible Airline Series mini transmitters give you belt pack free mobility at new low prices. Ultra-light, ultra-compact, and incredibly efficient, Airline Series transmitters provide flawless wireless performance for 12 hours on a single AAA battery. No more duct taping the mic to your favorite sax.The AirLine wind instrument system features an AH1 transmitter mounted to a Samson HM40 condenser element. This system allows the performer to mount the element and transmitter to the bell of the instrument with no packs or wires to hinder their performance.The CR77 true-diversity half-rack UHF receiver works flawlessly with all AirLine UHF transmitters. The CR77 receiver features a front panel display with large multi-segment audio level and RF level LED meters, and a large rotary volume knob allows easy adjustment of audio output. The new synthesized PLL frequency control circuitry keeps the signal locked and true while dual tuned molded antennas with LEDs monitor the true-diversity operation. The rear panel features balanced XLR and unbalanced 1/4-inch outputs allowing flexible connection options.

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Samson AirLine 77 UHF TD Wind Instrument Wireless Microphone System, Channel N4 Review

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(More customer reviews)This mic is great for the price it is very sensitive and has a long range. I have had no problems with it since buying. It helps me to senerade with my sax because i can walk directly to audience and play 5 stars

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The Samson Airline 77 UHF Wind Instrument Wireless systems are an unbeatable combination.Samson Concert 77 UHF True Diversity Half-Rack Receivers matched up with Samson\'s incredible Airline Series mini transmitters give you belt pack free mobility at new low prices. Ultra-light, ultra-compact, and incredibly efficient, Airline Series transmitters provide flawless wireless performance for 12 hours on a single AAA battery. No more duct taping the mic to your favorite sax.The AirLine wind instrument system features an AH1 transmitter mounted to a Samson HM40 condenser element. This system allows the performer to mount the element and transmitter to the bell of the instrument with no packs or wires to hinder their performance.The CR77 true-diversity half-rack UHF receiver works flawlessly with all AirLine UHF transmitters. The CR77 receiver features a front panel display with large multi-segment audio level and RF level LED meters, and a large rotary volume knob allows easy adjustment of audio output. The new synthesized PLL frequency control circuitry keeps the signal locked and true while dual tuned molded antennas with LEDs monitor the true-diversity operation. The rear panel features balanced XLR and unbalanced 1/4-inch outputs allowing flexible connection options.

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Samson AirLine 77 UHF TD Wind Instrument Wireless Microphone System, Channel N1 Review

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(More customer reviews)This mic is great for the price it is very sensitive and has a long range. I have had no problems with it since buying. It helps me to senerade with my sax because i can walk directly to audience and play 5 stars

Click Here to see more reviews about: Samson AirLine 77 UHF TD Wind Instrument Wireless Microphone System, Channel N1

The Samson Airline 77 UHF Wind Instrument Wireless systems are an unbeatable combination.Samson Concert 77 UHF True Diversity Half-Rack Receivers matched up with Samson\'s incredible Airline Series mini transmitters give you belt pack free mobility at new low prices. Ultra-light, ultra-compact, and incredibly efficient, Airline Series transmitters provide flawless wireless performance for 12 hours on a single AAA battery. No more duct taping the mic to your favorite sax.The AirLine wind instrument system features an AH1 transmitter mounted to a Samson HM40 condenser element. This system allows the performer to mount the element and transmitter to the bell of the instrument with no packs or wires to hinder their performance.The CR77 true-diversity half-rack UHF receiver works flawlessly with all AirLine UHF transmitters. The CR77 receiver features a front panel display with large multi-segment audio level and RF level LED meters, and a large rotary volume knob allows easy adjustment of audio output. The new synthesized PLL frequency control circuitry keeps the signal locked and true while dual tuned molded antennas with LEDs monitor the true-diversity operation. The rear panel features balanced XLR and unbalanced 1/4-inch outputs allowing flexible connection options.

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JamHub BedRoom Silent Rehearsal Studio Review

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(More customer reviews)I purchased this product to enable my band to have a "silent practice" in one of our band mate's apartments. Practice / Rehearsal spaces are expensive and not always ideal. The cost of renting one cannot really be justified if you are just getting together to jam, work on new material, or audition a new band member. We all live in the city in apartments so the idea of a "silent practice" was very attractive (no more angry neighbors).
With a price point of $299.00 this thing almost pays for itself after one practice and is certainly in-line with other similar set-ups. I purchased this to own but a band could easily split this 3 or 4 ways and get out for almost nothing.
There is a lot of information on their website but there are a few of things to note before you buy.
First, if you truly want a silent practice space you will need an electronic drum kit (i.e., V-Drums). It is possible to use an acoustic drum kit and the technique involved there is described on their website.
Second, guitar players and bass players will either need an amplifier with a stereo line out or an amp modeling floor pedal (my choice as it fits in a backpack and requires no heavy lifting).
Third, you will need to procure some stereo patch cords. As a guitar player I only had mono patch cables. The JamHub takes a stereo 1/4 inch input from your respective floor pedal / modeling amp / amplifier. My floor pedal in particular has a left-mono-out and a right-stereo-out so I purchased a stereo patch cable that was stereo 1/4 inch on one end and split mono 1/4 inch on the other. Guitar center has these and should be able to direct you. Of course check your user manuals for info on your particular device.
Finally, headphones. So far our crappy $15 - $60 (low - mid end) level of headphones have been working great! You will most likely need to pick up some 1/8 inch to 1/4 inch adapters here though as all the inputs and outputs on the JamHub are 1/4 inch. These are cheap and widely available. If your headphone cables are less than 9' you may also want to consider some extensions.
The JamHub performs great. I love it for a couple of reasons.
First it consolidates both mixer and headphone amp into one device. In doing so its nice and compact and extremely portable. This allows you to practice anywhere with minimal setup and fuss. You have one power adapter to worry about and no additional cables (beyond ones used to connect your instruments) either.
Another advantage over a more typical headphone amp + mixer combination (and possibly the coolest feature) is unlike a typical headphone amp, which only has one level for the incoming mixed signal, each person connected to the JamHub gets and their very own INDIVIDUAL MIX! To clarify, this means that everyone in the band can adjust the level for everyone else in the mix to their preference.
For example, as a guitar player I prefer to hear the myself, then vocals, then drums, then others. With the JamHub I can turn myself up, then dial in the vocals next, then drums, then others without affecting anyone else's mix! Each additional band member can do exactly the same thing. Think of it as having your very own sound guy to mix in just what you want to hear as he would for you in your monitors on stage. This is truly amazing and solves ALL volume issues usually associated with a typical practice.
Everything about this product is well thought out and and really creates an "ideal" environment to write / play & rehearse music without any infighting about volume or disturbing your neighbors (finally we can practice past 10pm!).
I hope this review helps you in your decision.

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Play anywhere, anytime with a JamHub\' system.JamHubs\' allow each musician to have a clear, unique mix with each SoleMix\' control section, so rehearsals are better quality and the band improves faster. 4 main SoleMix\' + 1 Rear SoleMix\' sections accommodate 4 - 5 musicians for silent rehearsal. Each SoleMix\' section allows a stereo TRS + XLR mic input, FX return level, and related headphone volume.Global effects.

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Monster Acoustic Instrument Cable 21 ft. - straight 1/4 plugs M ACST-21 Review

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(More customer reviews)VERY WELL CONSTRUCTED ACOUSTIC INSTRUMENT CABLE WITH SOME ADDED LENGTH FOR GEAR CONNECTING IN ANOTHER ROOM; MEETS MY NEED FOR TRUE INSTRUMENT SOUND DYNAMICS FROM LOW, TO MID, TO HIGH FREQUENCY; A VERY LOW NOISE FLOOR - NOT PERCEIVABLE TO MY DISCERNING EARS, EVEN AT HIGHER VOLUME.
DOES A VERY FINE ACOUSTIC/ELECTRIC GUITAR JUSTICE!!! (NICE FAUX WOOD GRAIN!)MY ONLY REGRET IS THAT I MAY HAVE OVERPAID BY ABOUT $20 BUYING IT HERE, BUT DELIVERED SPEEDILY AND NO EVIDENCE OF IT SITTING ON A SHELF COLLECTING DUST.

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Deliver the Warmth, HarmonicsSustainof Your Guitar with Precision and Clarity The tonality of your acoustic guitar is unique, so whyentrust it to a run of the mill cable? Magnetic fieldsin ordinary cables cause frequency and phasedistortions, but Monster Acoustic's patented three-wayTime Correct windings reject interference, protectingall of your guitar's transient attack, natural warmth,and critical overtones. This advanced technologyensures the high-end clarity, rich, mid-rangeharmonics, and low-end response that defines yoursoundwhether you're plugged in on stage or in astudio, grab a Monster Acoustic guitar cable and takeyour sound to the next level.

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New 15' Shielded Electric Guitar Cable 1/4" Jack to 1/4" Jack J15 Review

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(More customer reviews)i dont know what picture is being shown ,the cable i bought is i/4 inch straight 15 ft long 1/4 inch 90 w/springs on the ends for long life i use it for my bass its greatthanks

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SpecificationsOne Shielded 15' Electric Guitar CableFlexible Black PVC JacketCable has a Male 1/4" Jack on Both EndsThis Listing and Price is for 1 Cable

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Zoom G1N Guitar Multi Effects Pedal Review

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(More customer reviews)The Zoom G1n is an absolutely amazing pedal for $50!! You won't regret this purchase. The pre-programmed sounds are good, and there's alot of variety, plus it is very easy to make-up and store your own sounds, too. I don't know how the G1n pre-programmed sounds compare to the original G1, but there are plenty of useable sounds for just about any style you want to play. Some are a bit over the top for me, so most of my own sounds are a little mellower. The tuner is great, and the drum machine is good, too (though I don't use it much). My only complaints are that the ZNR noise reduction seems a bit agressive to me, and I wish the housing was metal not plastic. I kinda wish I'd spent the extra money on the G2-- may have to upgrade later! But it still gets 5 stars. I bought the Zoom over the comparable digitec pedal because it has a nicer interface and it comes with a power plug included. This thing works great and makes any cheapo solid state practice amp sound way better than it is!! You would have to buy tons of stomp-boxes to get close to what you can do with this cool pedal. Recommended.

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Zoom G1N Guitar Multi Effects Pedal; Acclaimed Multi-Effects brought to you by Zoom!Held in the highest acclaim by guitarists all over the world since the 505 pedal was released in 1996, Zoom has maintained their position in the forefront of compact multi-effects. The G1N comes loaded and ready with incredible new drive sounds developed with Zoom's own ZFX modeling technology. 15 amp and stomp-box models faithfully reproduce the subtle details of the classic amplifiers they replicate. From the slightest gain settings to the overall harmonic character, the G1N provides the player with natural expression powered by their own playing dynamics to face-melting dirty tones that would drive your mom out of the house.The controls are simple enough for any user, select the effect you want to edit with the selector knob then twist the value knob to change the settings. Never before has it been this easy to edit your effects. Set up your G1N to guitar sounds that you want to hear. Save patches, switch banks and integrated rhythm patterns, essentially the G1N makes fine-tuning your sounds is as easy as it gets. And don't forget, much like the Zoom effects pedals of the past,step on the two pedal buttons simultaneously and you get access to the built in chromatic tuner with bright LEDs for even the darkest jam space.

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