My acoustic gig set up

[@MontyDeane]

I moved from onsong to Stage Traxx 3. It does so much more, and the most important thing is I forget the words all the time, so Stage Traxx 3 follows the line of lyrics and chords, so if I want to look out in the crowd, I can see exactly where I need to pick up based on the color of the lyrics and chords. Much like a karaoke setup. Helps me greatly in my solo act. Im running Bose S1 Pro + in tandum, has its own mixer onboard, makes it super simple. Bose S1 Pro+ also has wireless dongle for Mic, and dongle for guitar. No need for cables or those 2.4 interferences. Simple setup, dramatic results. Thanks for your help with this a few years back.

[@samshaw5550]

@MontyDeane I love Stage Traxx 3 and I also use Bose S1 Pro+. 100% agree with you on those choices! 👍👍👍

[@richardbrodbeckbeginninggu7330]

As a learning guitarist who might one day play in public this is the perfect tutorial. Easy to understand without a mess load of nonsense.

[@tejayrogers5406]

Happy to help Richard. Thanks for watching and have fun performing!

[@deelnoorahmed2670]

thank for you the tips esp on the PA and self powered options

[@toddphipps5496]

Great demo, covering the basic set up. Thanks!

[@tejayrogers5406]

No problem!

[@Alex-eo9of]

I've always wondered what people are looking at on those iPads - onSong huh? Thanks for the tip!

[@tekkau2]

Thank you man ! I didnt know it could be that cheap to start a single gig in the small place . Very helpful video :D

[@JillsMusic3]

Finally a simply explanation of what's needed for a simple gig! Thank you!! I just got my amp and mic with stand and cables. But now trying to figure out if I need speakers or a PA.

[@tejayrogers5406]

Glad it helped! What kind of amp are you using Jill?

[@JillsMusic3]

A small Fender with 3 inputs. I did an hour with it and it sounded pretty good. Thanks for asking.

[@sandorlaszlo4553]

Great video!

[@cliveatkins1030]

Really useful.

[@FishnMilk1]

Thank you so much, I've been looking for a simple set up like this! 😄

[@tejayrogers5406]

Happy to help. Let me know if there are other things you'd like to learn about.

[@slowcherub]

You’re the best! So helpful 👌🏽👌🏽

[@TheFlairGuy]

Simple and efficient thanks!

[@CiaoMoody]

I use a Bose S1 and it's fabulous.

[@smfrthepodcast2159]

Agreed. Bose always.

[@itsamandarenee]

Great & helpful, thank you! :)

[@tejayrogers5406]

Glad to help. Just listened to some of your videos. You have a fantastic voice Amanda! Keep up the good work.

[@srdjanobradovic9382]

How powerfull is that PA in Watts? I also plan playing and singing in coffee shops and small bars so I can not figure out how many watts is enough. Thanks, so simple and realistic and greetengs from Serbia!!!!

[@winstonbroadway3763]

Great help for me..thank you 😊

[@eparock]

the speaker uses pedals and that xlr box which costs money getting you closer to the price of an acoustic amp brother.

[@byroncjohnston1]

I'd like to know more about the app for your music.

[@timrideout]

If I may suggest the BOSS wireless setup instead of the wire hanging out of that beautiful guitar 😅

[@williamreaves3780]

Hi TeJay, Thanks! You kept it simple. I would've liked to hear how that set-up sounds. I have a Fishman Loude X. Can I use that as my amp, and also set-up a couple of speakers (one on each side) for my P.A. System? I also have a few other special effects I can use. I hope you can find a little time to get back to me. Peace, Billy Reaves

[@tejayrogers5406]

Billy, yes you can use your Fishman amp. Your Fishman would be very comparable to the set up I have here. If you wanted to make it louder, you could also add PA speakers. At that point you'll need to either get a mixer to mix your guitar and vocals and send the sound to the PA Speakers or see if there is a way to send your Fishman amp signal to the PA speakers. You'd want self powered speakers for sure.

[@BakerBaker1-9]

very helpful - thanks man

[@portchgate]

Very helpful information to start, may I also get information about the App to use for songs with lyrics and chords. Thanks

[@jonesvox1]

A better way to control your volume (other than your method of running as a monitor wedge) is to elevate a small powered cabinet high on a speaker stand directly behind you, over either shoulder. The height keeps the speaker from directly radiating at patrons, while the location provides you with an exact monitor mix and allows you to be conscious of your volume. Your (TeeJ) method of using a monitor wedge in a small space, while effective as controlling stage volume, diminishes the fidelity of the sound patrons hear, leaving them struggling to understand your diction, since you point the high-frequency horn at you, not them. Speech intelligibility is very important in any amplified vocal setting. Nothing quite as bothersome as a coffee shop or bar singer with sound so murky and unintelligible that you cannot hear the story contained in the songs and only they are laughing at their own jokes between tunes. Also, suggesting a powered speaker is great but at least obtain one with reverb and a built in mixer. A vocal without reverb is like flat beer. Just my 2 cents

[@tejayrogers5406]

Your 2 cents are much appreciated Mr. Jones. Thanks.

[@skatinguitarist123]

won’t you just get a ton of feedback by having a speaker behind you??

[@NathalieHernandez]

@@skatinguitarist123 exactly what I was thinking! My biggest issue is feedback when turning up my volume. I never know where to correct put my speaker in relation to my mic/guitar set up. I play a ton of outside gigs and I actually use the exact same speaker in the video, but I don't use it as a monitor. People would definitely not hear me....curious @TeJay Rogers if you have a video on outside gigs. Thanks!

[@TRONOFTHEDEAD]

@@skatinguitarist123 @NathalieHernandez That is why @jonesvox1 is suggesting you want the height "over your shoulder": the stand is directly behind you and the soundwaves travel over your setup (read: less feedback). Ideally for me I want the minimum height of the bottom of my speakers at the very top of my head. Height (when positioning speakers) is absolutely crucial to high-quality live sound.

[@TRONOFTHEDEAD]

@@NathalieHernandez I do outside gigs all the time too if you have any questions about my setup. If you don't need a monitor than I would suggest that one speaker to be plenty if you have it raised high enough. If you find you need a monitor in the future then a hybrid in-ear system works best (maybe a headphone out on your speaker or another output) otherwise another speaker for monitoring on the ground is ok. If you're inside and the speaker is on the floor or in a corner make sure you use the High Pass filter to reduce your bass frequencies since placing a speaker near walls will boost your bass. Here is a pretty handy visual tool (though not quite realistic for us) to show how height is utilized to promote "consistent coverage". www.sweetwater.com/insync/media/2016/02/01-Consistent-Coverage-650x312.jpg

[@ozcountryliving4751]

Good job mate

[@tonyt.michaels4814]

Hello Te Jay , could you give me detailed info on on song app and how to use it.For example do you need wifi where you are performing. Thank you!

[@shellydianenovascotia3914]

Great video. I own a Fishman Loudbox Mini...and when I use it to sing/play acoustic guitar I have it facing audience...but I can't hear myself....is there a speaker that I can attach to this amplifier so that I can have it facing myself to hear how I sound?

[@stringman509]

Love the DI

[@railbird1000]

TeJay, I have the Harbinger (2 powered speakers). I also use a TC Helicon VoiceLive 3 extreme vocal/guitar processer pedal which I plug my mic & acoustic guitar into. It has great FX for voice & guitar. My issue is Feedback. I use a soundhole dampener and the speakers are facing out in front of me.....sometimes I use one for monitor. Lo End feedback is an issue with my Epiphone jumbo body guitar, even with dampener. I don't know if I should change the eq on the Harbinger channel for my guitar (lower bass down) or go into the VL3X and change the: LoPost, LoPre, LoFpre or LoFpost, LoBWpre or Lo BWpost or what??? I don't even understand these settings and it's not, NOT covered in the manual. Can you help me? Please..........& thank you. BC

[@TRONOFTHEDEAD]

Hey Railbird Depending on what type of amplification you are using for your acoustic guitar you may not be able to utilize a wedge monitor at any reasonable volume. As you know acoustics are notriously prone to feedback. My only suggestions are these: Get your guitar away from as many soundwaves as you can (no amplified sounds pointed at the guitar). If you find there is a particular string that is prone to feedback (e.g. "my A string always feeds back") than find some way to "notch filter" (very precise cut in Hz) that particular frequency a few dB: (e.g. the A or 5th string on guitar is A2 in scientific pitch so you would want to cut @ 110Hz) this could be done by a sound guy or you may have an option on your speaker but not likely unfortunately.

[@tejayrogers5406]

Brian, Tronofthedead is correct. Acoustic guitar feedback is very common. Your two most simple solutions is to eliminate bad frequencies, if that doesn't help, then you gotta move speakers away. Just from experience in doing sound for myself and other guitarists in my area I have noticed that lager bodied acoustic guitars seem to be more prone to feed back. You'll notice that I use a Fishman DI/EQ unit. This has notch features, phase, etc. that all can help you eliminate bad frequencies. With the set up you see in this video and my smaller Taylor GS Mini, I have had zero feedback issues. I have, however, been on larger stages where a sound guy was in charge of my floor monitor and had huge feed back issues. In situations like this I have had to follow the protocol of first trying to eliminate bad frequencies. If that doesn't work, move speakers. In one case I ended up turning the floor monitor to an angle so it wasn't pointing directly at my guitar. You might want to read the manual for the VL3x and see if there are any options to modify the guitar frequencies. I am unfamiliar with that particular devices. Looks pretty rad, though!

[@railbird1000]

@TeJay Rogers ty for that info. I recently purchased the Bose L1 Pro 8 and so far, amazing sound and No feedback. Fingers crossed.

[@tejayrogers5406]

@@railbird1000 No problem man. Just an FYI. The Bose system can be set up behind you in lower volume situations. But will feed back just like any other speaker as you turn things up louder. We found that when you really need to crank it, it is best to sit it off to the side of you slightly more forward than your mics. This will allow you to crank it a little louder and avoid feedback.

[@andreweast2121]

I have used the crate limo Tx50 battery powered amp for years and it served me well....might upgrade to the bose L1 soon

[@tejayrogers5406]

We have used Bose speakers a lot. They are great. It is a great investment.

[@ThatGuyNimit]

Hey, would love to know more on how you use your ipad for chords, etc. while playing live

[@faisalhasnain1289]

Thank You!

[@garytoner5719]

This showed up on my feed and very informative. II looks like the fishman acoustic DI you have. I bought a behringer AD121 acoustic driver DI for about $32. It is a great buy. Takes out the piezo quack. Lol

[@tejayrogers5406]

Gary, yes that is the Fishman. I really like this pedal I loe the EQ and it has a great feature built in to help with feedback issues. I don't actually use the boost or the built in tuner, though. For that reason, I have considered getting something a little smaller for my board. I will take a look at the AD121. Thanks.

[@Hrcak1]

Hi, I'm playing acoustic guitar only for friends and family. I don't want to use pick up, just microphone (probably two of them) for guitar and singing. Should I use acoustic amp (which one) and which one has two channels for mic, or should I use PA. Somehow, I do rather buy acoustic amp but not necessary. Any advice? Kind regards, Ante B

[@steveo_o6707]

I'm working on my 40 song set... the only problem I'm finding is making the time for it. When in a band you are kind of forced to practice due to fear of embarrasment for not knowing songs, but when solo I don't have that pressure so I find myself forgoing practicing as much as I would being in a band.

[@sadworld111]

book a gig. theres your pressure:)

[@lowellirish]

WHY??? The D.I?? You should be able to plug your guitar direct into your Harbinger speaker, same with your mic? I have my mic and guitar running into my Playacoustic, and from there...to my powered speaker. I also have my porchboard running direct to my 250w speaker...If I NEEDED to, I could expand and use my 12 ch Mackie unpowered board, and add 2 (or more) passive speakers....??? Dont see why you need the D.I??

[@tejayrogers5406]

You're right James. In this case I could have bypassed the DI. However, I always use my DI because it actually has a really great EQ on board. I would also always recommend everyone have a DI. You just never know when you might need one. The intent of this video is to do sound yourself in which case you could forego the DI if your speaker accepts a 1/4 unbalanced jack. But if you're playing out a lot, you're gonna run into situations where you aren't in charge of the sound and you may need a DI. Simple solution... always have one on hand. Sounds like you got a nice set up there. Fun stuff. You should do a video so we can all see.

[@jamesthompson2702]

Great info! Which Harbinger Vari model do you use?

[@halfcrazyluv1]

I Only use a cellphone with acoustic karaokes in my gig and a karaoke amplifier and speakers. Live in person.

[@tejayrogers5406]

That's awesome John. Use what you got.

[@kenpeach4810]

just curious you have your speaker facing you like a stage monitor but no other speakers for listeners. are you relying on a system the place you are performing at

[@MariahCounts]

we have twin guitars !! I have not seen anyone with the same beauty marks as my baby T!

[@tejayrogers5406]

Maraiah mine is actually a GS Mini. I love it! I was a little worried when I bought it that I would have buyers remorse for getting something smaller. But I have never looked back. I will likely play this model until I die. Mine is almost ready for re-fretting! Can't beat that Koa sound, right? Enjoy your Baby-T.

[@mansyahsician2470]

Great set up

[@Zach-ls1if]

What’s the con of just using an acoustic amp that has built in effects and a jack for the mic and guitar. I have a Laney LA30D, isn’t that suitable for gigging or do I have to have the di box and a PA system?

[@Zach-ls1if]

Oh I’m an impatient retard and you addressed my question in the video

[@tejayrogers5406]

Your acoustic amp is totally fine. Keep on using it. It's really about reading the room. As long as that speaker is sufficient for the space you're performing in, no worries. If you find your self in a position that you're playing to a larger room you may want to boost your amp's sound with a PA system.

[@TheRealBrentRasmussen]

Any lighting? I am looking for a SIMPLE, BUDGET light rig for a solo/duo act. The StompLight duo bundle is perfect, but very pricey.

[@tejayrogers5406]

No lighting. Just a simple audio set up. Sorry.

[@ConstantinoOfficial]

Hey my friend any chance of doing a video on the onsong app?

[@tejayrogers5406]

This is on my list of videos to make. Stay tuned!

[@mudderman8620]

What are you using to mount your IPad to your mic stand?😮😮

[@trusso11783]

Wouldn’t that Harbinger just be your monitor? If it’s facing you, how do the people hear it?

[@tejayrogers5406]

@trusso11783 You are correct. It is set up like a monitor. I created this video for a guitar student of mine. I knew the room/coffee shop he was going to play in was small and they like to keep the music down (background music). So I set it up this way. You gotta learn to read the room and set your gear up accordingly. I have found this set up nice for gigs where I know they are going to ask me to turn down... Sometimes before I have even started. Lol.

[@awomannamedneil]

Hi! Nice video :) Noob question, but could you tell me why you use a speaker and not just an amp? I've heard there are amps that allow guitar and Vox input. I saw you kind of addressed it, saying the acoustic amps are pretty pricey, but are there other reasons? And is there anything I should look for when choosing a speaker?

[@wokinibiz]

There are several companies that make acoustic amps. I use Fishman amps currently. Fishman has three amps for consideration: Fishman Loudbox Mini, Fishman Loudbox Artist, and Fishman Loudbox Performer. I have the mini and the artist. Each have inputs for your guitar and mic, and each amp has onboard effects: reverb & chorus for example. If purchased new they can be pricey as mentioned. However, you can find used ones for a decent price. The mini, although being small, is perfect for the small coffee shop or restaurant. Certainly as you look at the larger two you have more options for another guitar and/or mic as well as effects. I hope this helps. Have fun gigging.

[@whitemuddixie8461]

What if I was doing just simple recording at home vocals and acoustic recording using my iPhone I’d prefer not to have to go through USB laptop with this may be not a bad option?

[@tejayrogers5406]

You can certainly record audio with your phone. The quality will not be as good, though.

[@brianswingley7099]

I thinking about using headphones on the DI box to practice with. My amp doesn't have a headphone jack.

[@tejayrogers5406]

Yes, that could be a great way to practice.

[@billyculbert8167]

The speaker in front of you is great but not practical for adjusting levels when the controls are at the back out of reach for you, but thanks for the video, very helpful.

[@nolan7871]

you look like mark wahlberg lol but nice explanation of everything

[@tejayrogers5406]

Yes. Mark Wahlberg does all of my stunts for me. Lol.

[@tracycaudell]

Can you add the exact Harbinger and Fishman you use please?

[@tejayrogers5406]

I am using a Harbinger Vari Series speaker (V2212). I am using a Fishman Plantinum Pro EQ Pedal. I couldn't find that speaker on Amazon. Not sure if it is available anymore. But here is an affiliate link for the pedal: amzn.to/3tXjNaZ. I still use this pedal on my board to this day. Great investment.

[@stringman509]

How to tune your accustic guitar in properly to a accustic Amp tutorial please 🙏

[@joeyoleary007]

Looks like you have a redwood body guitar behind you. What is it??

[@TheOnlineBusker]

Hi, I've done many gigs where I just turn up with guitar an dmic and plug in the house PA desk... if there is no house PA, would an acoustic amp work well enough for singer/songwriter type gig? (Small-ish bar with 100 noisy people)

[@tejayrogers5406]

I'd say you're pushing it with that. It really depends on the size of your amp and how you place it. But in all reality, if you're playing for 100 noisy people you're most likely gonna want to have a couple PA speakers that are elevated and a monitor for your self. You could use the acoustic amp as your monitor and run the signal out to the PA speakers. On the flip side... there are times that you don't have the gear to do things properly. Eric Clapton once had to borrow a mic from Mick Jagger and tape it to a chair to play a gig. The lesson? Use what you got and do your best. If all you have is an acoustic amp and there is no PA... Give it a go. I'd try to elevate that thing somehow. Maybe put it on a table? But you'll want it up high so that sound can travel. It's likely the people towards the back of the crowd won't hear the words you're singing. Just muddy noise and that loud guy in the corner that won't quit talking about himself. The set up used in this video was created with my guitar students in mind. It is more suited for small coffee shops/restaurants of maybe 20ish people. Best of luck to you Mr. Busker!

[@TheOnlineBusker]

@@tejayrogers5406 Thanks man! It's a toughie yes, years ago when I started gigs, I once had to hang a mic from the ceiling as I didn't even have a stand, ha! Am recovering from second stroke so haven't gigged for ages. A friend asked me if I could play in his pub, he of course has no PA.... so I was thinking about, idealy, a battery powered amp I could use for a gig and also the street. This kind of things doesn't really exist. They're either too small or too expensive.. so next step is a small mixer and a powered speaker.... ah well, the search goes on! thank you anyway!

[@coldhardtruth333]

You will be fine .

[@HenrikLien]

How are you handling the scrolling on the IPad while playing?

[@billgaudio5436]

IK Multimedia BlueTurn Wireless PageTurner Footswitch

[@tejayrogers5406]

The foot switch mentioned would work. I simple push the scroll button on my screen. Keepin' it simple.

[@azku]

I don’t think my guitar amp has input for mic. It just has inputs for guitar and cd. How do I connect my guitar to the amp?

[@tejayrogers5406]

If you want to connect your guitar to a PA system or powered monitor, you'll likely need a DI box of some kind. I use the Fishman Plantnum Pro Eq. If you're interested you can use this link to purchase: amzn.to/3Zsj0Jp. There are others out there that work just as well. I like this one because of the EQ options. Helps me get a good sound and fight feed back as needed.

[@warrenpeters3001]

Please tell us more about this on song can u increase texts and save it ??

[@tejayrogers5406]

Warren, I have plans to make a video about OnSong. It has been requested many times. I'll do my best to answer your questions. It will likely be a few weeks before I get to it. It is a busy time of year for me. Lots of gigs and students to teach!

[@kennethjohnsonart]

Thanks TeJay, What ipad bracket/holder are you using?

[@tejayrogers5406]

Here is a link to the one I use. It is a decent stand/mount. amzn.to/339m8Cx

[@dwightshumate7614]

How would you go about micing an acoustic guitar for live performance in a small group? I have a Martin Authentic series OM18 that I do not want to drill holes in but I also want it to be heard. Any thoughts would be welcome.

[@paulneedham9885]

Try a soundhole pick like the Seymour Duncan woody. No drilling necessary.

[@tejayrogers5406]

As Paul Mentioned, a sound hole pickup isn't a bad way to go. It is simple and no feed back. They can get in the way a bit, though. If you want to mic it instead I'd get a small diaphragm condenser mic or something like a Sure SM57. The SM57 is a tough mic and good about not causing feed back. But to be honest... If you only perform from time to time these options will work. But if you're performing out a lot, neither of these options will be very convenient. If you perform a lot, I'd recommend biting the bullet and getting a pickup installed professionally in your guitar. It's expensive up front but well worth it in the long run. Once again that is only if you're performing a lot and actually making money doing it. Otherwise, it would be hard to justify.

[@terrytarpening9456]

Mics live can be very tricky. Agree with sound hole pickup or have a system installed. I’d recommend the anthem. Or go fairly cheap but comfortable wise with electric/acoustic guitar and get an IR based tone. That’s what i did. I’m actually playing a Little Martin through a stomp with Martin IR. Sounds huge and pristine! But I also loop some, point taken from one of the best in the field (hat tip to Mr. Sheeran) Cheers

[@TC_Conner]

I like your setup, however, if you’re only using that one powered speaker, on the floor, and as your monitor, is it also loud enough for an audience to hear since it’s not on a stand and not facing them?

[@terrytarpening9456]

Not for larger venues, trust me on that…..

[@TC_Conner]

@@terrytarpening9456 4 months to reply? You must be very busy. 😂😂

[@terrytarpening9456]

No dude just stumbled upon his video…..

[@TC_Conner]

@@terrytarpening9456 😂😂😂😂

[@terrytarpening9456]

Glad you found hilarity in a simple comment. Must not take much to amuse you…..🥱

[@1234588001]

hi brill video I'm using an effects pedal what's the best to use passive or active thanks again

[@tejayrogers5406]

I assume you are talking about pickups on a guitar. Are we talking about an acoustic or an electric guitar here?

[@Theweeze100]

Great job. I subbed!😃

[@pablohu6935]

what is the name of the app you use to have all your songs?

[@johnsugden1073]

Do u get feedback issues with the speaker facing you?

[@tejayrogers5406]

In this particular set up, no. I use this for very small rooms. If more volume is needed, I would turn the speaker around or elevate. Gotta read the room.

[@inisshahill3557]

Hey TeJay, do you send your microphone through the Fishman XLR? If so, what setting do you use on the back of your Harbinger? I recently bought a mic but I cannot get any sound from the mic.

[@tejayrogers5406]

Inissha, no I do not use the Fishman for my vocal mic. It is designed for guitar only. I plug my mic directly into the self powered monitor speaker.

[@MontyDeane]

We use onsong, with the backing track embedded into the song. Are you mixing the guitar, music, and vocal through a mixer, or all straight into the speaker? Im really interested in the best way to scroll my lyrics properly in onsong. Every song is different timing, even though I set the duration correctly (or so I think) yet timing always seems in certain sections. I just set up page breaks (Sections) and looking to time from section marker to section marker. How are you using the scrolling of your songs?

[@tejayrogers5406]

This is a good question Monty. Also a good topic for a video. Thanks. I'll add this to the list. I can tell you that we have dealt with the same issue over the years. One thing that we have done is timed ourselves playing songs and then adjusted the duration to how we play instead of the duration listed on a recording. In this set up here I am using the speaker it self as a simple mixer. I play mostly in a duo and full band which requires more than the two inputs the speaker in this video offers. Accordingly, we use a mixer to control our sound. I may also make a video about that. Thanks once again Monty. Take care.

[@theID2]

your speaker may work as a monitor, but what about your audience?

[@tejayrogers5406]

I've been getting this question a lot and see that I should have explained better in the video. Live and learn. I made this video for a guitar student of mine who was preparing to start performing on his own. I knew the room he planned to perform in. It is small and the owners are constantly asking you to turn down. So in this case, this was a perfect set up. Loud enough for everyone to hear and also allow yourself to hear very well. If the room was larger I would likely turn the speaker around, add another speaker or perhaps elevate it. You gotta read the room.

[@martydonohoe5569]

My Name Marty Donohoe I am from Dublin I want to know when someone is there is a list of sulphur but can you listen to the songs when someone is singing can you sing over that

[@tejayrogers5406]

Marty, I am sorry. I am not sure I understand your question. Could you reword it?

[@tetkinsin]

I didnt understand you! What's the name of that app again please ?

[@tejayrogers5406]

The app is called On Song. It is a set list app created by some Christian organization. I think it was designed for worship teams. We have been using it in my band for quite a few years now. It is a great tool. onsongapp.com/

[@Spanglish84]

So maybe I'm missing something here. You have the amplifier speaker facing you...shouldn't it be facing the audience???

[@tejayrogers5406]

You're not missing a thing. You're correct... The more conventional way to set up that speaker is towards the crowd. There are many comments on this below. There is one thing to learn from this, however. It is important to read the room. When you set up for your gig think about the size of the room, how loud or quiet it is, etc. I did this video with my guitar students in mind. I knew where they would likely be performing. From experience I knew that these particular rooms would be quiet and the business owner was likely to ask them to turn down. I find in these cases turning the speaker towards me allows me to turn it up loud enough for the audience and myself to hear without being too disruptive. I let the sound bounce off the wall behind me. There are, perhaps, better approaches out there. But this is what I have done in the past and it has worked fine. Be creative with what you got. Thanks for the comment Benny!

[@Spanglish84]

@@tejayrogers5406 Good to know. I’m thinking about trying the gig thing in the near future, assuming my music is wanted…you can check my channel see what I’m talking about. I was thinking of using a wireless Shure mic. Do you have any experience with pros and cons to that?

[@tejayrogers5406]

Benny, you gotta go out there and try. I am pretty confident your music will be wanted. Especialmente en un lugar donde hablen Espanol! Espanol es mi segunda idioma. Vivi en Honduras por algunos anos. Escuche a su musica y es buena! Gracias. Regarding the wireless mic... I don't have experience with that. One pro I can see right away would be less wires on the floor. That is always nice. Cons... Extra gear to carry in and out. Wireless mic systems require the mic and a transmitter. And maybe interference from time to time (not sure on that one).

[@Spanglish84]

@@tejayrogers5406 Thanks…didn’t expect your Spanish response…lol

[@JJohnston4Life]

iPod. That's a name I haven't heard in a long time.

[@tejayrogers5406]

Your comment makes me laugh. I still use a lot of outdated names and terms. I guess it dates me a bit. I am constantly asking my students what they listen to on the radio. I know they don't listen to the radio. It's more like Spotify or apple music. I know this but I still say "Radio". I don't even listen to the radio. Lol.

[@gregcameron1773]

Where do you get the iPad stand?

[@tejayrogers5406]

I got it on Amazon. I just checked and it looks like I got it back in 2018. So, I have been using it for a while now. Pretty cheap too! Here's a link: amzn.to/3wLMS6S

[@dylanmason4620]

why the speaker is turned to you instead of the audience? Any benefit in sound quality in using a amp instead of the speaker for the guitar? What do you use as a monitor for your singing?

[@tejayrogers5406]

Dylan, good job on noticing this. We have found that you have to read the room you're playing in. When it is a smaller room like a coffee shop and we know we are meant to be background music (quiet enough that people can still carry on conversations and put in orders for food, etc) we turn the main speaker towards us like a monitor and let it bounce off the wall behind us. When the room is a little louder and we need to project, we'll turn it around the other way. I say we, because I usually play in an acoustic duo. I made this video specifically for my students that are preparing to perform live. Regarding a monitor. I go back to reading the room. If we know we need to be louder then we'll usually bring an additional speaker for a monitor. But for smaller rooms, we try to keep it simple. Usually in smaller venues you'll be able to hear your self regardless of which way you point the speaker. Hope this helps.

[@dylanmason4620]

@@tejayrogers5406 Hey man, it does help. Thanks for the detailed answer, Im preparing myself to do the same so your tips were valuable. Thank you. I still have a question about the amp. With slightly bigger audience though would you favor an acoustic amp for the guitar instead of both voice and instrument coming from the same speaker? Seems to me that the sound of an amp would naturally be more organic than a speaker, since its wired for the instrument.

[@tejayrogers5406]

@@dylanmason4620 Best of luck to you Dylan. Performing live has been one of the most enjoyable things I have ever done. It has also pushed me to new levels of playing.

[@bjarkenielsen8515]

But if you have the speaker face yourself and let the Sound bounce of the wall for the audience,- won’t you just end up in a situation where you hear your singing correct, but the audience hear the words backwards/flipped? I think you will have much better Sound for everybody by placing the speaker behind you, facing the audience. This way both you and the audience will hear the words/singing in the correct order.

[@frankking781]

@@bjarkenielsen8515 l agree, there was couple of times l have set upside down , And my music came out sideways .

[@ryanseanmusicandlove]

Well...I've memorized about a 48 song set But I can't site read (glaucoma/legally blind) so I don't really have a choice Lol

[@tejayrogers5406]

Yes, I believe that would be a requirement if eyesight is an issue. For me, however, memory is the issue. I have memorized set lists in the past. Everyone in my band knew if I took a random guitar solo... I forgot the words! Lol. I do memorize to an extent. It is kind of inevitable after so much repetition. I do like to have the words handy to help me in a pinch, however. I am in a pinch I'd say at least %40 of the time. Lol.

[@bigdogmurphy]

TRS??? Not TS?

[@jimmygrant4183]

You have the speaker facing you as if it's a monitor. Is this what you do playing in a small room such, as you mentioned, a cafe?

[@tejayrogers5406]

Jimmy, yes in smaller cafes/coffee houses I point the speaker towards me. It allows me to hear my self well and helps me avoid being too loud. I have never been asked to turn up. I have been asked to turn down. I have found this approach to help me avoid that. The sound bouncing off the walls behind you is usually good enough for everyone to hear you. You have to read the room. If it's loud, then you might point it out to the crowd. But this is usually how I roll for small rooms.

[@jimmygrant4183]

@@tejayrogers5406 thank you! That's very helpful and will keep that in mind for when the UK has lifted its restrictions and us musicians can start playing again!

[@jonjeffries3265]

@@tejayrogers5406 yes the last thing we want to do is to play so loud to where the patrons cannot hear their own conversations.. if it's a "show" as some people call themselves, then that might be a little different.. but we're basically background music and not a "show"..

[@tejayrogers5406]

@@jonjeffries3265 it is important to understand. For sure. Thanks Jon.

[@ES.Acoustics]

are you still using this app?

[@jefferylewis2162]

For a coffee shop, how much amp power do you need?

[@tejayrogers5406]

It really depends on the size of the room you are trying to fill and how loud the coffee shop is. The speaker you see in this video is a 12' speaker that pushes 1000 Watts. It's actually a bit of overkill. That is why I have it positioned toward me and turned down low so I don't make it too loud for the people, waitresses, etc. that are trying to communicate. That is something important you need to think about. How loud does the shop want you to be? Do they want background music? Or do they want a crowd stopper? In most cases, a coffee shop won't want it too loud and may even ask you to turn down if they can't hear while talking to their customers. I have seen people use acoustic amps that were 250 Watts with great success. The important part is to read the room. How big is it? How loud is it? And so on.

[@thelibertyworkshop2952]

So you don't use a forward facing speaker ??

[@tejayrogers5406]

In this particular set up, no. I use this for very small rooms. If more volume is needed, I would turn the speaker around or elevate. Gotta read the room.

[@kmacdc4]

Could you do the gig without the iPad?

[@kevinwatkins3856]

If you have a ton of song lyrics memorized, and can accompany yourself adequately on guitar, sure.

[@kmacdc4]

@@kevinwatkins3856 That's good, because it takes a special talent to pull off a 4 hour request driven show without a cheat sheet. Not many musicians like that left.

[@tlb2732]

A guitar cable i not TRS.

[@noelitoyambao5941]

Can you tell me more about your ontone app mate...thanks

[@tejayrogers5406]

I'd be happy to tell you more. Are there any specifics that you're wanting to know?

[@noelitoyambao5941]

@@tejayrogers5406 I'm a bedroom performer (hahaha) mate but I want to have an ontone wherein I can view the chords and lyrics?.How about if I want to change the chords of the particular song could it be possible on ontone? How and how much will I spend?.ThAnks mate cheers

[@frontcentermusician]

@@noelitoyambao5941 Setlist Helper. Android app.

[@njv1805]

What size iPad is that 10 or 12?

[@tejayrogers5406]

I believe it is 10.5 or something like that. Not 12.

[@johnmilligan6605]

Learn your songs by heart otherwise you are just rehearsing and expecting to get paid for it! Have some respect for your audience.

[@mikewaynemusic3599]

Jerk

[@alanwann9318]

John I have two bands, I memorised 100 songs last year , I hate to see people using tablets to crib. If it fails (it will) your f***ed. Whereas I can change the set at will .learn the job!

[@benjaminsavage4204]

..With a computer screen in front of you? You might as well work in a call centre buddy, do you think Pete Seeger'd be proud of you? # Remember to check in with the HR department,

[@sissarno]

As a veteran live performer there's nothing wrong with a tablet. Controlling the pa Bluetooth, also having notes for a Playlist especially when you have a huge library for multiple bands or for newer songs. All that dissing on tabs is unnecessary. On tour with huge mainstream artists you will find hidden monitors with lyrics or music on stage. There's no shame . Better than stumbling amd fumbling live.

[@Paul-hk2we]

Q

[@RedPillTruth2023]

Too long to get started. You waste my time.

[@tejayrogers5406]

You are right. I appreciate your comment more than you'll ever know. I want to be good at this and love feedback on ways I can improve. Thanks. I'll try to be more to the point going forward.

[@emzeperiksz8138]

if your music sound the way your video ......well......you need some thinking to do..

[@tejayrogers5406]

Emze, you are correct. The sound in this video isn't that great. Sorry. I was under the gun a bit. I had some students getting ready to do performances and decided to save some time and just use my camera's audio. Is what it is.

[@theunaccompaniedsenior]

If you're still using a music stand or a tablet display---you're NOT prepared.

[@johnsugden1073]

Do u get feedback issues with the speaker facing you?

[@tejayrogers5406]

Not usually. I only orient my speaker like this in really small rooms where the volume is really low. So feedback isn't really a thing. If it was a larger room I would turn the speaker around or even place elevate it if needed. Gotta read the room/situation. I chose to orient the speaker like this in this video because I had some students that were going to perform and place I knew was small and quiet.