A page for those wishing to record gigs they go to
My Favorite Things About Angelfire
My Favorite Web sites
Angelfire Home Pages
Free Web Building Help
Angelfire HTML Library
htmlGEAR - free polls, guestbooks, and more!
This page was created on 20th July, 2005.
Firstly, this is only a guide. Any clarification etc. should be sought from me via E-Mail: richtharr@freenet.co.uk
Q. Why record shows?
A. Why not! At a basic level, it's a way of getting your own momento of the occasion. At a more advanced level you are actually helping posterity- did you know that the last ever concert recordings of both Jim Croce and Elvis Presley were audience-done? You are also capturing the artist as genuine performer- sometimes the commercial release (as it's planned) finds the artist in 'knowing' mood, and they aren't as candid/open as they are when they think no one's recording them!
Q. This said, why are there signs about 'no recording equipment' around in theatres/venues?
A. Well, if you were to take in a huge semi-pro video camera and a tripod you'd disturb the other people who have paid to see the show. It's just to cover themselves. A similar sign in hotels might read 'no pets'. They're not that worried about a clean, well-behaved dog, but not having a sign leaves things open for Joe and his pet Python Cyril to pop along!
Q. What's your philosophy?
A. I've been to lots of gigs, and the number of people that talk is amazing! Why go if you're gonna chat?! I even had one lady using a whirring electric fan! Therefore, I figure that no one will object because you won't disturb anyone. It's very likely that fellow audience members (even if they notice the recorder!) won't react, as they will not realise what it is on your lap. (A portable Mini Disc recorder looks not unlike a pager or glamorous mobile phone, especially when you press a button or two during the evening!)
Q. What do I need to record gigs I go to?
A. I use a Mini Disc recorder with LP2 function. You will also need blank Mini Discs, a battery for the machine, and a tie-pin microphone. I'll stick some links up on here to recommended models in time.
Q. What's the procedure?
A. BEFORE the show (and preferably outside the theatre!) you insert both battery and Mini Disc into the recorder. You press RECORD and check the recording level setting. Better too low than too loud! For an excellent seat/loud band you're best off at setting number 11 (on my Sharp machine, anyway) and at number 15 for a seat at the back. If it's a singer-songwriter doing an acoustic show you might need to set at 15 even if you are near the front. However- if they come on with a band.....!!!
I always then turn off the machine until the show's start is 5 mins. away. I then press RECORD and PAUSE which sets the machine going (practice at home before the gig if the Mini Disc recorder is new to you). Then, watch the rec. level is fluctuating and relax- you're recording! The only remaining task is to affix the mic.- as high as possible on your shirt/collar/hat is best...this can be done once the lights go down providing you can use your sense of feel. I hold the mic. as the kick-off time draws close then quickly attach to my shirt the instant the lights dim.
At the interval, stop the machine and press STOP again, so it writes the disc. Don't get flustered- stay calm! The same goes for the end of the gig- don't panic, be logical. Don't run/get jogged as the machine might lose the stuff it's just recorded. Also- DO NOT remove the battery! ALWAYS take the disc out first! (If you remove the battery before it's written the disc you'll lose the recording).
Q. Any more tips?
A. Yes- avoid Maxell Mini Discs. My machine dislikes them, though my home stand-alone unit likes them. I use TDK or another make for the Mini Disc recorder.
When recording, I keep the machine on my lap and cover it with something (even a hankerchief!) just in case.
Finally, a word of warning. Being overly cautious (and constantly looking around you furtively) can attract as much attention as if you set up the recorder in full view of everyone! Be casual, but well prepared. Be alert, but nonchalent. And be relaxed, but organised. Enjoy the show!
Email: richtharr@freenet.co.uk
