After writing a couple stories about the advantages of using an MP3 player in my shows, I’ve somewhat come around full circle. Like Dorothy in Oz, who always had the power to return home, with my Palm PDA, I already had the best MP3 player that I could use to provide music in my shows.
I wrote an article about six months ago that talked about my experience of using a Palm PDA (personal digital assistant) to organize my schedule and track my shows. The device that I own and use, PalmOne’s Tungsten E2, also works as a first rate MP3 player, but you do have to purchase a separate SD memory card to use this feature.
Easier to Control
Compared against conventional MP3 players that have limited controls and layer upon layer of menus, the Tungsten E2 offers a simple, easy-to-use MP3 menu that lets you quickly assemble playlists. There are no confusing options for repeating songs within playlists, and it’s easy to scroll through playlists and select the one that you wish to play. And if the unit shuts off, it quickly turns back on and brings you back to its MP3 menus. On the other hand, when my MP3 player turns off, or when I want to select a new playlist, I’m always forced to start at the main menu and work down.
When I’m performing a big show, I’ll rely on my Palm PDA. But my MP3 player still does a decent job for most of my shows. Both require that I temporarily look away from my audience to select and start my next song, so neither is going to replace a good wireless system that works with a predefined sound track. In particular, if you like to play lots of musical bits in your shows, when spectators walk down from the audience and so on, an MP3 player holds and plays more songs, but won’t allow you to play music spontaneously.
Sounds Good
Several readers have asked me what sound system I own and use. My system is a Fender Passport 150, which has been adequate for my shows. I’ve used the system in gymnasiums and theaters in shows for up to 600 people.
I like the Passport because it’s fairly compact and lightweight (some 30 pounds). The system’s speakers latch onto the main unit to make something of a suitcase. I use the Passport as both my PA and music system-it offers several audio channels. Fender now sells an improved P150, as well as a more powerful P250 version. I purchased my 150 before the P150 was available.
The Passport requires AC power, but you can purchase an external battery for the device. While I like my Passport, if I could go back in time, I would definitely consider one of those all-in-one, integrated, single-speaker/PA systems. The Passport does take time to open, set its speakers, and route cables.
Making Connections
Whenever possible, I try to use a sound system that is already in place at a particular venue. To support my music, I always carry two audio cables: 1/8" male to a 1/8" male, and a “Y” adapter with a 1/8" female on one end, and dual 1/8" male adapters on the other. In addition, I always carry two 1/8" female to 1/4" male audio adapters. This setup has allowed me to connect to most of the systems that have encountered. But I almost always have my own sound system with me to use as a backup.
To contribute comments, ask questions or discuss MP3 players, please check out the thread on our forum.
-Wayne N. Kawamoto
