Unboxing and Review of Casio Privia PX-S1000

And here's the demo and tutorial of how to use this fantastic Digital Piano. It's the slimmest and lightest digital piano that was released in 2019. It's got battery option and bluetooth capability.

Here's the link if you want to buy this product: Colour black: https://www.thomann.de/gb/casio_px_s1000_bk_privia.htm?partner_id=95373 Colour white: https://www.thomann.de/gb/casio_px_s1000_we_privia.htm?partner_id=95373 Colour red: https://www.thomann.de/gb/casio_px_s1000_rd.htm?partner_id=95373

Specifications

Keyboard

• Number of Keys: 88 Keys
• Key Action: New Smart Scaled Hammer Action
• Touch sensitivity: 5 sensitivity levels, off
• Let-off feel: Yes

Polyphony Tones

• Polyphony (maximum): 192
• Number of Built-in Tones 18
• Sound Source: New AiR Sound Source ii
• Layer: Yes
• Split: Yes

Acoustic Simulator

• Hammer Response: Yes (4 types, off)
• String Resonance: Yes (4 types, off)
• Damper Resonance: Yes
• Key Off Response: Yes (4 types, off)
• Key Action Noise: Yes (4 types, off)

Digital Effects

• Hall Simulator / Reverb: Hall Simulator 4, off
• Chorus: 4, off
• Brilliance: Yes
• DSP: Yes (Preset for some tones)

Songs Library

• Music Library: 60
• Demo Songs: 1
• User Songs: 10

Additional Features

• Sound Mode: Yes(2 types, off)
• Connection to App: Chordana Play for Piano ver.2.0
• Connection to App: Remote Controller
• Bluetooth Audio: Yes
• Lesson Function: Part ON/OFF
• Lesson Function: Right hand, Left hand
• MIDI Recorder: 2 tracks, 1 song
• Data Capacity: Approximately 10,000 notes
• Duet Mode: Yes
• Octave Shift: ±2
• Metronome: 0 to 9 beats; tempo range: 20 to 255 tap tempo
• Pedals: Included:SP-3 Optional:SP-34 (Damper, Soft, Sostenuto)
• Half-Damper Pedal: Yes(with SP-34)
• Turning Score (on/off by App): Yes
• Key Transpose: 2 octaves (-12 semitones 0 +12 semitones)
• Tuning Control: A4 = 415.5 Hz 440.0 Hz 465.9 Hz
• Scale Function: Equal temperament + 16 variations
• Operation Lock: Yes
• Power Options: Battery or AC Adapter
• Others: Touch sensor button:7(Tone select button:2), Auto Power Off

Connectivity and Storage

• MIDI: Yes
• Pedals: 2(Damper, Pedal Unit)
• 3-pedal Unit: Yes(SP-34)
• LINE OUT: 2 L/MONO/R(Stereo Standard)
• AUDIO IN: Yes (stereo mini)
• USB TO HOST: Yes

Speakers and Amplifiers

• Speakers Size: 16cm x 7.5cm(Oval)x 2
• Speaker System: 1-Way, 2-Speaker
• Amplifiers: 8W + 8W

Keyboard Dimensions

• Size: 52 x 9 x 4 inch
• Size: 1,322 x 232 x 102 mm
• Weight: 11.2 kg

Accessories: Pedal(SP-3), Music Stand, AC Adaptor(ADA12150LW)

Lekato TM-25 Clip On Meto-Tuner Review

Lekato TM-25 Clip-on Metro-Tuner is 3 in 1 Multifunction Guitar Tuner

On Tuner Mode

By default it is on Chromatic tuner A4 frequency but can be adjusted between 430~450Hz
It is suitable for a variety of tuning mode: C (Chromatic), G (Guitar), B (Bass), U ( Ukulele C) and V (Violin).
It shuts down automatically and save the current parameters if there is no signal present or operation within 5 mins therefore your battery is safe. You don't risk of draining it if you forgot to turn your tuner off or was accidentally turned on inside your gigbag. 
The LCD backlit by default is amber or orange but it turns to green when your instrument is in tune. This is handy because sometimes on stage when you're performing it can be a bit dark and you can't see the metre of your tuner if it's really on the middle. This way, when it turns green, you know that you are in tune.

The Tone Generator

Press power key briefly to start the TONE GENERATOR, playing the selected note.

On Metronome
You can adjust or set the TEMPO between 30-250bpm
You can change the beat from 0-9
There 8 rhythm types
Press and hold Rhythm key to adjust the volume
Press power key to play / stop the metronome

Here's the link if you're interested to buy this product: Lekato TM-25 clip-on metro-tuner

And here's a video on how to use the unit and the metronome.

How to overlay videos using your iPhone or iPad

I never knew about this before. I thought there's a special program to use when you overlay a video or you can only do it using a macbook, but I found on the internet recently that you can overlay or put picture on picture or split video into two using your iPhone or ipad.

Just watch the video above on how to do it. Saves me from writing it down as well as saves you from reading long paragraphs.

Hope this helps on your upcoming videos. Cheers!

How to assemble Hozelock Compact 25 M Reel

1.  You need to remove the label first and turn it up to open the bottom side by removing or tearing the cardboard that holds the contents in.

2. Remove everything starting from the parts that are in the individual plastic bags, as well as the loose parts and the hose itself.

3. You need to decide on which side you want the handle to put. Then open the plastic bags and locate for the handle and start assembling.

4. There's an instruction on a piece of paper if you wanted a guide on how to assemble the handle but it's actually straight forward.

5. Next step is to slip the hose in between the rollers and pull it out underneath. Then, locate for the spring and other contents that are needed for that hose end to hook or assemble to the reel.

6. Once you managed to connect it, try and roll the hose in using the handle that you've just assembled that way you can test to make sure it's all working good.

7. Now, you need to cut 1.5m of hose which you will use later to connect this Hozelock 2-in-1 to your tap. You need to assemble the remaining connectors and secure it tightly.

8. If in doubt, just double check it from the video.

How to fix the delay or latency of Audacity

So we managed to download and install Audacity. But we had problems with the monitor. There's a very distinct delay and it's really annoying. You can't record properly. It's okay if you're converting your old cassette tapes or CDs to mp3 but not if you're recording your band or making tracks. Because there's no way you can edit it or overlay tracks. They not going to sync.

So I found the solution. It's the Behringer UCA222. And you need to unclick the Play through option plus turn off the monitor.  It's all in the video. Please take time to watch it. Thanks!

How to get a free recording software

You can download a free Audacity recording software from Behringer. It's best if you buy their product like the Behringer U-Control UCA222 because it's nicely paired together. You'll not regret it. The works perfectly if you are into recording or if you want to convert your old cassette tapes or CDs into digital format.

Here's the link on where you can download Audacity: Behringer UCA222 Downloads

How to record your band for YouTube videos

If you're planning to record your band's song or performance, here are some of the tips and inexpensive gear to buy and start recording.

There are two approach to this. You can either use your laptop or computer, or you can use your iPhone or iPad.

Here are some of the stuff you will be needing in order for you to record the entire band.

• Behringer 1002FX 10 Input 2 Bus Mixer
• Apple Lightning to USB3 Camera Adapter, white
• Behringer UCA222 U-Control Ultra-Low Latency 2 In/2 Out USB Audio Interface
• Behringer HA400 Microamp 4 Channel Stereo Headphone Amplifier
• Microphones especially a condenser microphone for vocals and instrumental microphones for drums and guitars.
• Cables that are reliable.
• Mic Stands
• iPhone or iPad
• Laptop or computer
• RCA cable to connect the mixer to UCA222
• Download Audacity audio recording software (just search on Google)

You can also use this set up for podcasting or for solo artist trying to create a decent sounding video for YouTube. Or, if you want to create a mini recording studio. If you want to help friends out who are in a band or a solo artist but doesn't have the means or idea on how to record or not so technical about computers and gadgets. You can provide the solution for them and help them out. There are lots of useful ideas around this DIY cheap recording studio for bands. All you need is time and patience plus gather some equipment and a place to jam.

Quick guide on how to convert your kitchen to a mini recording studio

I converted my kitchen into a mini recording studio using my simple and easy portable recording studio setup. Gear Used: Condenser mic (No brand) XLR cable Lenovo Laptop EnergyXT recording software Native Instruments Guitar Rig IO USB Audio Interface Roland Cube Monitor CM30 Behringer Xenyx 1002FX Behringer HA400

How to setup Mosky 4 in 1 DTC to a dotted 8th note delay

Dotted 8th note delay settings using this Mosky 4-in-1 DTC. It was mostly played by ear but finally I got to understand what is this dotted 8th note delay is all about. Hope this helps guys.

Back to basics: Let's start with the quarter note and 4/4 time signature.

It means that you're counting 1, 2, 3, 4, for four times.

Now 8th note is half of it. So our counting now will be 1 & 2 & 3 & 4 & for four times.

When you put a dot in front of a note let's say 8 plus a dot or typically called dotted 8th note is 8th note plus half of that 8th note. So it's like 8th + 16th.

To put it in simple explanation, lets go back to whole note, half note and quarter note. So, Whole Note, is 4 counts isn't it. You have to hold the note for 4 counts. Try and hum then count in your head up to four. Or if you got your guitar or keyboards in front of you hold a certain note whilst counting up to four. That's whole note.

Now, let's try Half Note, so half note is two counts isn't it. So hum or hold a note for two counts. So in order to get a three counts or hold a note for three seconds if I can use this term, you will need a dotted note or dotted half note. The illustration will be like this: Whole note is 4 counts or 4 seconds for simpler illustration, then half note is 2 counts or 2 seconds. But if you put a dotted half note you will get, half of 2 is 1 so it means that dotted half note is to hold a note for 3 counts or 3 seconds because half note is 2 plus half of 2 is 1 which is your dotted note = 3 counts.

It applies the same with quarter note. Quarter note is 1 count and half of it which is 8 is 1/2 count. So you will be holding the note for 1 and 1/2 or quarter note plus 8th note.

Sames goes with 8 note which is 1/2 and half of it is quarter which is 16th so it means that you will hold the note as 8th plus 16th. Hope that this make sense guys.

Cheers! Don't forget to subscribe.

Is the Yamaha Stagepas 400BT the perfect electroacoustic amp?

I was looking for the perfect amp for my Fender DG60CE electroacoustic guitar and I think I found the answer. It's the Yamaha Stagepas 400BT. Also I will share here the perfect settings for your electroacoustic guitar.

It's the right size, right sound and volume as an amp. It's beautiful and as in a perfect match for your electroacoustic guitar. The Hall reverb is really sounding great plus the Hi-Z settings. But even without the reverb and Hi-Z because I tried on a different channel which was not Hi-Z and there's no reverb option, the electroacoustic guitar still sounds great.

Please watch the video and don't forget to like and subscribe. Thank you!!!!

                                                                

Alternative Carry Bag For Yamaha Stagepas 400BT

Universal mini SoundSak - a simple alternative solution for your Yamaha Stagepas 400BT as a carry bag or cover. Found this online and thought this might bit a cheap inexpensive carry bag for my Yamaha Stagepas 400BT. Bought it and tried it on. It's not perfect fit but, as a cover and something to protect the speakers, I think it's quite a good choice.

Please watch the video and subscribe. Thank you!

How to create a violin sound effects using Zoom G1xOn or G1On

I did this patch by accident. I was actually aiming to copy an infinite sustain sound effects but ended up doing this violin sound effects. I edited the patch called SloSustain which I also created before, but there's also a preset patch called PartyViola (H4) and you can edit that one into this Violin effects for electric guitar.

Patch Settings
ZNR (Zoom Noise Reduction)
SlowAttack
Tangerine amp sim
Multi-tap delay

Please watch the video for the values of the effects and the settings.

Zoom G1xOn or G1On Buwan Patches

Intro: STRATTY

Z Clean: Gain 95, Tone 66, Level 150
I60 Comp: THRSH -35, Ratio 4.0, Gain 12, Knee Soft, Level 100
HD Hall: PreD 45, Decay 26, Mix 20, LoDMP 36, HiDMP 63, Tail On
Detune: Cent -10, PreD 17, Mix 47, Tone 7, Level 100


Verse/Chorus: MERSEYBEAT

VX Combo:  Gain 20, Tube 40, Level 110, T 35, M 55, B 50, Prese 37, CAB VX Combo 2x12, Out Line
SuperCho: E. Lvl 50, Rate 50, Depth 50, EQ 50, Mode Mono
Spring63: Dwell 7, Mixer 14, Tone 41, Level 100


Guitar Solo: SRV Blues patch

How to build a pedalboard for Zoom G1xOn

The Ikea Knagglig wooden box is a perfect fit for this project. It is exactly the right size for Zoom G1xOn. Screws included. All you need to do is cut a piece of wood that would fit and elevate one side of the platform. Then a non-slip rubber for chairs and tables. But if you want your Zoom G1xOn to be permanent on the pedalboard, you can use a Velcro and stick it to the unit. That way it is much secured. The purpose of this pedalboard is to make the Zoom G1Xon in a certain angle that is going to be easy for your foot as well as your eyes when you're looking down. Apart from that, you don't really need a pedalboard for your Zoom G1xOn, because you can use it as it is.

The challenge or downside is that the screw holes are almost at the edge, so when you screw it on a piece of wood, it might crack it because of the location plus the size of the screw. The remedy would be extend your piece of wood or get a bigger flat wood like 2 x 2, so that it wont crack. But, it will be over the platboard. Another way may be is to drill on that piece of wood, so that it won't crack.

Hope this helps and gives you some ideas on how to DIY a pedalboard for your Zoom G1xOn. 

How to build a budget guitar rig and pedalboard using mini pedals

First is to plan out what effects you want to buy and what sort of music you're going to use it. In my case I wanted to a blues rig where I will be needing a reverb and an overdrive plus I love delay effects so, I'd like to add a digital delay with it. So, for now in my head I needed three mini pedals which are Reverb, Delay and Overdrive.

Now, with that in mind, the next step is to build your pedalboard. And if you don't have the pedal, buy it one by one. In my case, I already got the reverb pedal. So I had to buy the delay and overdrive. Then, with my pedalboard, I received a birthday coupon from Ikea so I decided to buy the Knagglig wooden box and build a pedalboard out of it.

Next is to buy accessories to the pedalboard like Velcro and the patch cables. I opted for the angle patch cable. Then, its time to put it together and arrange your mini effects pedals according to preference. When I researched about the arrangement of the pedals, they often suggest to start with Wah if you got then Overdrive, then Distortion, then Modulation i.e. Chorus, Flange or Phase, then Delay or Reverb.

And here it is:

Knagglig Box
Angle Patch Cable
Velcro Hook and Loop
EX gear ENO reverb pedal
Cuvave Dig Delay
Cuvave Overdrive

Mosky DTC 4-in-1 Missing Link pedal

I found the missing link, the missing pedal for this Mosky DTC 4-in-1 and it's the ENO EX gear Reverb pedal. Please see my other blog post and review of this ENO EX gear Reverb Pedal for more info about the pedal. Here's the link: ENO Reverb Pedal Demo

Mosky DTC 4-in-1 got delay, loop, overdrive and distortion and it's really a good buy, total bargain to have all these three effects in one. As a beginner guitarist, these are your essential pedal and you can start jamming with friends and do school gigs, birthday parties of family members or classmates. The only thing with setup up is that on a clean mode or bypass mode, when there's no effects turned on, your guitar will sound dry unless your guitar amp got a built-in reverb. That's why the missing pedal for this one is the reverb pedal. Your setup will sound a lot more better with the reverb on. Yes, your delay pedal can be tweaked into a spring reverb or echo. Like on my old post I converted the delay effects of this Mosky DTC 4-in-1 to a spring reverb. Here's the link: Delay Converted To A Spring Reverb. But, then you will miss a proper delay effects when you need it because you used it as your replacement reverb. Hence, you ought to have a separate reverb pedal and a separate delay pedal.

On the video above, you will hear the difference when it's on and when it's off. Also you will hear as well that it blends nicely with the overdrive and distortion and even with the delay effects. This reverb pedal is not only the missing link to this Mosky DTC 4-in-1 but also if you're building a pedalboard for yourself, always consider to buy and put a reverb pedal. It adds colour to your sound.

Hope this helps and see you again soon. 

ENO EX gear Reverb Pedal review

I bought this pedal because I wanted a reverb pedal to go along with my Mosky DTC 4-in-1. I think the Mosky DTC is missing a reverb pedal. This pedal is very affordable and very versatile. It has a lot to offer. Only downside is that it is digital so sometimes when you tweak it while playing, there's a bit of delay before it actually works. What I mean is that when you turn the selector from ROOM to SPRING for example, it doesn't change automatically. Same goes when you turn the TIME knob, there's a bit of delay before it actually set. But my plan with this reverb pedal is to set it to my preferred sound and leave it that way. Technically, this will stay on each time.

About the pedal, it's tiny and lightweight. My impression is that it's cheap material. But as I said it's going to stay on most of the time so I wont be stepping on this pedal often. The knobs are LEVEL, DRY/WET, TIME and the selector between ROOM, SPRING and WELL. It is very versatile and has got a lot to offer. You just have to find the sweet spot of this pedal. So far, I am happy with my purchase.

Cuvave Digital Delay demo

I needed a reverse delay effects pedal and I ended up buying this cheap digital delay which has got 9 options to choose from and one of which is the Reverse delay. This is the Cuvave digital delay. It is well-built, very nice sound quality and again it's a mini pedal so it's small, lightweight and portable which is what Im aiming for.

The downside of this pedal is that it has no Level or Mix control. Meaning the sound of the delay pedal is already set and I find it very prominent. So if I want a delay pedal that is subtle or adjust it to mix to my sound, then this is the wrong pedal. But, if I want to use this on a particular part of a song or during recording, then it is totally fine. It will do the job nicely.

Here are the 9 Delay options to choose from:

l. Clean - The original sound with delay effect
2. Bubble - You can imagine a wah-wah delay under water
3. Mod - A clean delay but with slight tremolo modulation effect
4. Reverse - Recorded guitar part on a tape and flip the tape over for playback. It is designed for kind of "old school rock"
5. Sweep - An echo delay sound with sweep effect
6. Tape - You will hear a smooth sound of an old tape echo machine
7. Mic - The delay sound like in a microphone
8. Analog - It consist in a delay unit followed by a lowpass filter with saturation. This is as close as you can get to the charming nature of an old analog delay
9. Lofi - From the term "low-fidelity." It is a recorded music that is of lower quality than usual standard but it is also a style.

Cuvave Overdrive Blues review and comparison

I bought this very cheap Blues Overdrive by Cuvave on eBay and Im impressed by how its built and the versatility and sound. Apart from the 9V DC power, this unit has got a USB option. Im not quite sure if it's mini or micro USB because it doesn't say on the manual. Three knobs which are level, gain and tone. There are tons of settings to play around. What I like the most is that it feels that it is durable and it's tiny. You can easily start to build a mini pedalboard that is lightweight and very portable.

To put it to the test, I did a comparison video between this Cuvave Overdrive Blues and the Boss Blues Driver BD2. To be honest, it didn't come close to the Boss but, it has its own character and tone which I really like. In terms of price as well, it's really far. Because I only bought it for £15 free delivery versus Boss which is being sold at £75.

You'll be the judge guys if you want to buy this pedal. 

Boss Distortion DS1 Demo Tutorial

If you're only allowed to have one pedal, what pedal would that be? My answer would be Boss Distortion DS1 pedal. It's the most versatile pedal but also the most difficult to tame or set.

During the 90s, this is the only pedal I got and it wasn't even mine. I only borrowed it from my friend "Daboy." There was one time, during a battle of the band, where I was just pulled to join the band that I mentored and I don't have any gear that night. So I borrowed a guitar and borrowed an effects pedal. Guess who I borrowed the Boss DS1? My good friend Badong is a cousin of Barbie Almalbis and he borrowed the pedal for me. Barbie Almalbis lend me her Boss Distortion DS1. They were also joining the event that night. Barbie played Cranberries songs and Love will keep us alive by Eagles. We played Pearl Jam's Yellow Led Better and one composition and I can't remember what was the other one. I think it was Black by Pearl Jam because we were dubbed as The Pearl Jam of Capiz that night. We came second. Barbie Almalbis won first during that Battle of the bands.

To cut the story short, I fell in love with this Boss Distortion pedal. I used it when we play Smashing Pumpkins, Green Day, Guns n Roses, Pearl Jam, STP and other Filipino bands like Eraserheads, Rivermaya, Siakol, The Youth, Yano, Color It Red, Introvoys, After Image, Teeth, etc.

There are tons of good settings with this pedal. It's just finding that sweet spot between your guitar, amp and the pedal. Here's my demo, review and tutorial of this pedal. Hope you will pick up something from it.

Boss Blues Driver BD2 demo and review

My mate Dave, lend me his Boss Blues Driver BD2. I was really pleased with this guitar effects pedal. Very versatile from pop, jazz, blues to classic rock. Also is it my first time to try pedal. My first impression is that this is my best Boss stomp box effects pedal that I've tried and didn't struggle to find its sweet spot and tone. I just simply set the level and tone to my liking and balanced with my clean sound and then fiddle with the gain. Even if I put the gain to zero the pedal still sounds great and also if I put it on max, still it delivers a great sound. You really can't go wrong with this pedal. As always with Boss pedals, it is build to last. I can't help to point out all the good stuff from this pedal. Don't have much to say really because it does the job on its own. I think this pedal is a must-have on your pedalboard. No matter what genre of music you're playing. I really recommend this pedal.


If you like Stevie Ray Vaughn, John Mayer, Jimi Hendrix, BB King, Eric Clapton..... almost any blues player that you can think of.... this pedal is surely the answer.

Behringer GDI 21 vs Boss Blues Driver Comparison

Behringer Guitar GDI 21 is a stompbox and an amp simulator in one. It can work as an effects pedal on your pedalboard or can be used as DI box if you don't have your amp with your during gig or recording session. Also it has lots of features from Ground Lift to minimize or get rid of unwanted interference or hum to how a mic is placed on the amp and types of amp to gain or drive settings. There's lots of combinations to get the tone that you wanted from this pedal. 

On the other hand, the Boss Blues Driver is quite simple settings, just three knobs; volume, gain and tone. Even with just these three knobs, you can still get a good tone out of it. It's really a beautiful pedal for blues and crunch sound. To be honest, I prefer this pedal than the Boss Distortion. I can't explain it more, but this pedal is a must have. 

Cheap vs Branded Keyboard Comparison

My top 3 affordable branded keyboards:

1. Yamaha PSRF51

A starter keyboard for anyone who wants to enjoy playing music.61 keys, 100 Voices, 120 Styles
Not touch response
Built-in reverb, fixed in voice, non-controllable
No sustain pedal input only on panel.
Can be used with batteries

2. Casio CTK1500AD

120 tones, 70 rhythms, 100 built in songs, 61 Keys
easy to use 'Step-Up' lesson system and 'Voice Prompt'
Dance Music Mode, you can combine and play multiple type of pattern phrases
No sustain pedal input.
Not touch response


3. Alesis Melody 61 MKII

61 Keys, 300 builtin tones, 300 rhythm
40 play-along demos or record your own
Dual or split mode.
No sustain pedal input
Not touch response





My top 3 cheap but does the job keyboards:

1. MK1000 Gear4Music 54-Key

54 keys, not touch sensitive
20 voices
10 rhythm
record and playback
Battery option


2. RockJam 54-Keys


54 keys, 100 sound effects, 100 rhythm
8 demo songs and record/playback option
Sustain on panel but no sustain pedal
Can be powered with batteries


3. Shayson Kids Piano Keyboards


61 keys
It's a kids toy piano
16 Timbre or Tone,  8 percussion, 10 rhythm
6 demos with a mini microphone
Powered by 4 AA batteries or USB




Now the question of which one to buy is entirely up to you on how you're going to use it. If it's for you child and you don't have the budget for the branded keyboards, then go for the cheap one that does the job. There are three choices, just select the one that your budget suits or the one that appeals to you. Anyway, your child will learn how to play using it or if it's you who is going to use it, you will still learn how to play the keyboards whether it's a cheap or a branded keyboards.

On the other hand, if you got the budget and you can afford a branded keyboards, then it's a lot better because it durable, it always sounds better than the cheap one and it feels a lot better as well as looks better.  Hope this helps guys.

Learn to play keyboards in just 11 Lessons

Lesson 1

Lesson 2

Lesson 3

Lesson 4

Lesson 5

Lesson 6

Lesson 7

Lesson 8

Lesson 9

Lesson 10

Lesson 11

All you need to know from parts of the keyboards and how to operate it to learning how to read notes, play and know the important chords.

Do you want to learn how to play piano keyboard?

If your answer is yes or if you know someone interested in learning the keyboard or piano, then you are on the right page.

First thing's first, you or the person that you know, wanting to learn how to play the keyboard should first own a keyboard or there's available keyboard to use.

This is cheap but very useful and got good reviews on Amazon.

Another thing that you need to have is a book that you can use as a guide or reference for you to start learning and soon play piano or keyboards properly.

And lastly, please subscribe to my YouTube channel (Vincent Ryan Borres) because I will be posting the keyboard lessons there for free. Here's my first video as an introduction to keyboard lesson using the book Progressive Electronic Keyboard Book (Method for young beginners) by Andrew Scott and Gary Turner. 

Don't forget to hit the notification bell so you get the updates and latest lessons that I will be posting. Cheers!

Unboxing a generic QTX Derby Par Bar carry bag

I bought this on eBay and hoping it will fit the QTX Derby Par Bar stage light. Its perfect fit. It has one carry bag for the tripod stand and one for the par bar itself. Also it has a top pocket for the remote and cable. It is well padded. Can easily be stored and tidied. It was delivered quickly, the packaging was just a bag but was packed nicely.

Unboxing pair of Gorilla speaker stand for Yamaha Stagepas 400BT

I bought this set of speaker stands for Yamaha Stagepas 400BT on eBay and the brand is Gorilla. Pretty solid and sturdy. Came with a carry bag for easy transport. Well packed and delivered on time.

So far it's perfect fit for the Yamaha Stagepas 400BT and it carries the weight nicely. I will keep you posted if I notice something. Will be using these stands soon.

Paano gamitin ang Yamaha Stagepas 400BT

1. Tanggalin o i-hiwalay ang mixer at speaker. Slide to the left ang lock para matanggal ang mixer sa speaker.

2. Buksan ang compartment sa kabilang speaker at kunin ang mga cables. Pull down naman ang lock para mabuksan ang compartment.

3. Ikabit ang power lead sa power input. Tapos ang dulo neto papuntang power outlet.

4. Ikabit ang speaker cable. Ang isang dulo sa mixer na color coded na pula. Tapos yung kabilang dulo sa speaker, color coded din na pula. Eto din ang gawin nyo sa kabilang speaker, paki kabit ng wire sa mixer at yung kabilang dulo sa speaker.

5. Palaging tandaan na ilagay muna ang master volume sa zero bago pindutin ang power on.

6. Bawat channel ay may icon o drawing para alam mo kng ano ang pwedeng ikabit dito gaya ng microphone, gitara o keyboards. Bago magkabit ng microphone, gitara o keyboards pati na rin ang Bluetooth, palaging ilagay sa zero ang volume level. Tapos pagnakakabit na ang cable o wire saka lng taasan ng dahan dahan ang volume. Siguradohin na ang master volume ay na-angat din para lumabas ang tunog sa speakers.

7. Para gumana ang Bluetooth, press and hold for 6 or more seconds at antayin na mabilis ang flashing ng ilaw para makaconnect ang iyong device. Buksan ang yung phone, tablet o iPad at hanapin sa bluetooth devices ang STAGEPAS 400BT. Tapos click connect. Pag connected na, dahan dahan i-angat ang volume sa Channel 7/8. Tapos merong switch to na stereo at mono. Mas malakas ang Bluetooth pag mono.

8. Paano ikabit ang wireless microphone, gamitin ang channel 3 or 4 kasi XLR combo ito. Ikabit ang cable ng wireless at siguradohin na zero ang volume level. Ikabit ang adaptor ng receiver, at iconnect sa power socket. Ayusin ang antenna at volume level ng receiver. Siguradohin na may battery ang wireless mic at ang switch nito ay may standby mode. Pag nasagitna ang switch standby sya, di pa yan on kaya walang sound nalalabas, pihitin pa pataas para naka-on ang mic.

9. Ready na ang unit natin.

                                                                    

Unboxing Yamaha Stagepas 400BT

Here are some facts about this Yamaha Stagepas 400BT.

It is well packed, pretty robust unit. Everything is protected and secured in the box.

Decent weight but can be carried by one person in short distances like from door to lounge. If you carry the speakers one by one, using the carry handle, I would say it's quite comfortable.

Not lightweight but lighter than most active/powered PA speakers. Total weight is 18.3 kg (individual speaker is 7.7 kg and mixer is 2.9 kg).

There are tons of features. Like it comes with this Ferrite Core that you clip/attach to the speaker cable. (Excellent absorption of high-frequency noise. Minimises noise without affecting signal quality).

Also a one knob master EQ where you can dial it to suit your venue i.e. for speeches, live performances or boosting the bass for dance music.

And as the name itself, Stagepas 400BT. It means 400 watt with bluetooth connectivity for wireless streaming of music.

This is it for now. I will learn more about the unit whilst using it and then I will update you for more reviews and demos. Cheers!

Here's the link if you're interested to buy one: https://www.thomann.de/gb/yamaha_stagepas_400bt.htm?partner_id=30701

                                                                

QTX LED DERBY FX BAR STAGE LIGHT SYSTEM Unboxing and Review

I recently bought this stage Par Bar lights from Dawsons Music and it was delivered by DPD. It was processed and delivered quickly. It was only two days and it arrived already. However, there were some minor problems. There were loose parts and one was thought it was broken. Although I managed to hammer and superglue it back. Just watch this video:

It is very easy to assemble and operate. First is to open the stand by spreading the tripod legs and tightening the screws/bolts. Then the Par Bar can be fixed on top and tighten the screws/bolts again. Connect the power lead and it will automatically switch on. You can use the remote or the controls behind the Par Bar. And that's it, you just need to find the right mix or combination of lighting. Also, it has builtin mic, so if you opt to use it to follow the music/beat, then it's entirely up to you which one you would want to choose.

How to setup a Karaoke Business using a laptop

You will need to buy these gear or equipment:

Laptop
Laptop stand or Projector Stand
HDMI cable
Powered or Active speaker
Microphones
Mixing desk if your power speakers doesnt have one
Karaoke Software on your computer and CDG files (Optional)
Mic stand (optional)

Watch this video for details on how to setup your Karaoke system.

Would you like to start a Karaoke Business using your iPad or Tablet?

Here's how to start a karaoke business using your iPad or tablet for birthdays, weddings, hen nights, etc. This setup is very portable, lightweight, easy to setup and pack.

Here are the list of the gear or equipment that you needed:

1. iPad or Tablet
2. Powered or Active Speaker (Roland Cube Monitor CM30)
3. Music Stand or Tripod with iPad/tablet holder (Ulanzi iPad/tablet holder mount adapter)
4. Microphones (Shure C606 or TS3310 Dual Wireless VHF microphone by Gear4Music)
5. Mixing desk (Behringer Xenyx 1002FX)
6. Cables or connectors

How to sound like Tom Morello

Even though you don't have Tom Morello's gear like his guitar or his pedals or his amp, you can still sound like him by setting your multi-effects pedal plus your guitar and amp to sound just like him. Also big factor is his style of playing.

Here's my patch settings on Bulls on Parade by RATM

And here's my patch setting on Killing in the name by RATM

And bonus patch of Tom Morello with his band Audioslave

Tom Morello's gear:

Guitars:

Kay K-20T SG
Gibson Explorer II – E2
Arm the homeless (Customised strat with Performance Corsair Neck)
Fender Telecaster
Ibanez Artstar Custom
Fender Guitar Center F.S.R. “Soul Power”

Effects Pedals:

Digitech WH1 Whammy

Jim Dunlop Cry Baby Wah

Boss DD2 Digital Delay

Boss TR2 Tremolo

Ibanez TFL Flanger

MXR Phase 90

Amplifiers;

Marshall JCM 800

Marshall Lead 20

Vox AC30 Reissue

Line 6 Flextone 

Quest for Santana's Tone

Trying to re-create Santana's signature tone without buying a signature PRS and not using expensive pedals and/or amps. All you need is a humbucker pickups and Zoom G1xon. I discovered how to create a patch that will sound almost the same as Santana.

Here are the videos:

Hope this helps. Please visit my YouTube channel for more patches. And follow me on this blog. Thank you so much!

Quest for Brian May's sound

Trying to copy Brian May's sound even if you don't have his signature Red Special AC guitar and Vox amp. So even if you got an ordinary guitar and ordinary practise amp, you will still be able to copy the famous Queen sound. The only thing you need to have is a multi-effects pedal especially the Zoom G1on or G1xOn. It's affordable and got loads to offer.

Here are the videos I made using this Zoom G1xOn and the patch settings I created to emulate Brian May's sound.

In this video, I share here how I managed to re-create Brian May's sound by only using available resources like my guitar (Lyon by Washburn) and effects pedal (Zoom G1xOn). I fiddle with the effects and amp sim available. Also did a bit of experiment on using a coin versus a plectrum if it will affect the quality of the sound. And, it did.

This video that I did was more of a followup from the previous video. Because after I uploaded Bohemian Rhapsody, a lot of people was amazed of the tone of my guitar and effects pedal so I got requests from my subscribers to do a We will rock you tone patch. I struggle learning both leads on these songs but managed to get close to Brian May's tone.

Ulanzi Tablet Holder Mount Adapter Review

I bought this on eBay because I needed it for my video blogging to get a more stable video and safer for my iPad or Tablet as well as my phone to hold and get into a good position when recording.

This is available also on Amazon and other online retailers. It is cheap but very useful. Now I enjoy using it because it is very versatile and multi-purpose. Also quite small and sturdy that it can fit inside my tripod carry bag.

There's loads of features and can be positioned differently. Most of all it holds the iPad nicely. I haven't explored the maximum potential of this gadget because I mainly use this to focus my Zoom G1xOn when Im explaining on how I make patches and sharing the values and parameters of my effects pedal. It is really big help for me with my YouTube channel.

Hope this helps your questions and enquiry about the Ulanzi Tablet Holder Mount Adapter.

Unboxing, demo and review of Excelvan or Tonor or Donner MW-1 guitar wireless system

Specifications:

Brand: Excelvan or Tonor

Model Number: K380C

5 Guitar Effects Mode: Clean, Bluesy, Flanger, Tremolo and Metal

Charge Time: 1.5-2.5 hours

Standby Time: Transmitter(About 4 hours), Receiver(About 5 hours)

Battery Capacity: 800mA

Wireless Distance: About 15m

Bluetooth Range: 8-10m

Output: Headphones, speakers

Suitable For Musical Instruments: Electric guitar, Bass Guitar, etc

Output Voltage: 3.7V

Output Power: 2.69W

Material: ABS

Product Size: 12.7 * 3.5 * 2cm / 5 * 1.4 * 0.79in(unfold), 7.8 * 3.5 * 2cm / 3 * 1.4 * 0.79in(folded)

Product Weight: 80g / 2.82oz

Package List:

1 * Transmitter

1 * Receiver

1 * D3.5 Audio Line Cable

1 * USB Charging Cable

1 * Pouch Bag

1 * User Manual

How to use:

First is to charge the unit properly. No need to pair the transmitter and receiver. It will pair automatically.

Transmitter: 

-Power/Channel button short press to turn on. Long press to turn it off. Once it's on, short press to change channels. There are 10 channels to choose from. 

-Mode button changes the built-in effects from Clean, Bluesy, Flanger, Tremolo to Metal and then back again to Clean.

-The volume slider is the one that controls the guitar signal or volume. It can get loud so don't put it to maximum.

-The battery indicator turns on when you charge the unit and it will shut off automatically when it is full bar.

-Line out is for your headset for silent practise and for your portable rechargeable speakers auxillary in if you want to busk or jam with friends in your garden or in your school.

Receiver:

-Power button long press to turn it on.

-Pair button short press to activate bluetooth ready for a device to pair. Or if there's an existing device already paired, it will disconnect when you press the Pair Button. To pair bluetooth, look from your phone or device for K380C and then connect.

-Battery indicator turns on during charging and turns off automatically when its full.