Positioning the iPod on stage
So, let’s say you’ve taken the plunge and bought an CLICK HERE“>iPod, filled it with backing tracks, and now you’re ready to use it on stage for the first time. The question you’ll probably ask is “Where should I put it?” After all, you’ve probably been used to having a midi module, a CD player or a minidisc deck built in to your rack or sitting on a table beside your mixing desk, amplifier etc…so where is the best place to position an iPod?
While the answer to this is always going to be a case of personal choice, the iPod has a unique advantage over other backing track playback machines - it’s small size. I believe that you should capitalize on this, therefore, you should consider positioning your iPod in a place that is near to hand.
Attaching it to your music stand (if you use one) using some velcro strips is a great position for an iPod. In small venues where you are really close to the audience, you may have experienced your music stand being knocked over by an audience member so will be woriied that your iPod may go flying in to mid-air. Don’t worry - simply buy a protective case for the iPod. There are millions of websites and stores selling iPod accessories nowadays, so shop around and pick a protective cover that’s sturdy and made of a resilient material (like rubber).
Another place to position your iPod is on your microphone stand. Although at the time of writing this article there are no microphone stands available to buy off-the-shelf which have an iPod attachment, you can take your iPod and your microphone stand to a drum shop and ask the assistant to recommend a drum accessory that will fit on to the mic stand and hold the iPod (again, some velcro strips may be necessary to attach the iPod to the drum accessory). Drummers are famous for attaching every conceivable piece of equipment to their drum kit(!) so for sure you will find just the right attachment in any good drum store.
If you prefer your iPod at the side of the stage (where your minidisc deck or CD player used to be for example), then the Apple Remote may be just right for you. The Apple Remote is a little remote control unit which starts and stops your iPod (it works in conjunction with the Universal Dock). The Apple Remote allows you to control your iPod from a distance so you are free to walk around the stage or amongst the audience while starting, stopping or pausing songs at the touch of the button.
For more iPod tips and tricks, please see the CLICK HERE“>articles I’ve written at our main website
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