by Manuel Marino | Audio, Music
We all anticipated this day would come. The decline of the compact disc was inevitable with the rise of technologies like MP3 players and Internet radio, which gained popularity among consumers. It was only a matter of time before the industry recognized the trends of our time and adjusted its distribution methods.
However, the demise of the compact disc, although anticipated for at least a decade, is just now beginning to show visible signs. Sony recently announced the closure of one of its two compact disc production plants in the United States, citing the growing dominance of digitally distributed music via the Internet The World-wide-web Niche - The global economy has been severely impacted. Millions of people have lost their jobs, many are losing their homes, and retirement portfolios are disappearing at an alarming rate. What happens in the World Wide Web? We often discuss the global financial tsunami, an economic crisis on a scale that rivals the Great Depression of the… as the primary reason for the closure.
The era of the compact disc is officially over. We haven’t used them for at least half a decade (my personal collection of CDs is gathering dust in a corner of … ...Read the rest.
“The End of the Compact Disc”
by Manuel Marino | Audio, Technology
The Archos 3 Vision is a distinctive MP3/MP4 player that stands out among Archos’ impressive lineup with its range of standard features. Positioned as a mid-priced competitor to the iPod, it offers functionality that the iPod lacks. Here’s my review of the Archos 3 Vision.
In a few words, the Archos 3 Vision can be described as performance, style, and quality. This MP3/MP4 player is impressive due to its elegant, sophisticated, yet simplistic design. So, let’s start with the music playback.
The audio quality is crystal clear and offers a great range of low and high tones. Music playback is the core feature of this device, and Archos has executed it exceptionally well. The sound equalizer surpasses that of many other MP3/MP4 players, allowing you to personalize the sound to your liking. The music sounds excellent, and navigating through the menu system is easy and intuitive. You can choose special playback modes that shuffle your collection and keep you guessing about the next track. The touch screen is responsive, and the overall visual appeal of the device is quite attractive.
However, the Archos 3 Vision offers much more than just music playback (which, by the way, supports multiple file formats: … ...Read the rest.
“Archos 3 Vision – The Definitive Review”
by Manuel Marino | Audio, Technology
Working with digital recorders has gained significant popularity in recent times. They are used for a variety of reasons, both personal and professional. Whether it’s capturing an important event, recording a speech, or documenting a business meeting, digital recorders come in handy. They can also be used for leisure activities and having a great time with friends.
The primary purpose of voice recording is to enable playback of recorded audio repeatedly so that a person can understand, grasp, or memorize it more effectively. This type of learning, known as audio learning, is prevalent nowadays. Digital voice recorders not only have the capability to record speech but also to play music. With numerous models and types available, it can be challenging to determine which one is suitable for your needs.
Many individuals rely on digital sound recorders to capture their favorite music and conversations. These recorders are a compact version of audio recorders. Digital sound offers higher quality playback and greater storage capacity compared to regular audio recorders. These devices are extremely useful for anyone who wants to record various things, including music, and play them back later.
It is essential to conduct thorough research on digital voice recorders before making … ...Read the rest.
“Digital Recorders and How To Choose Them”
by Manuel Marino | Audio, Music, Technology
Nowadays, it is easy for almost anyone to set up a home-based recording studio Tracking Studio - What do we mean for "tracking studio"? Individuals interested in the music industry may eventually want to create their own recordings, either vocal or instrumental. These recordings can be the starting point for many people's careers. To achieve an exceptional recording, you need a high-quality recording studio or tracking studio that captures all nuances of… with just a few pieces of gear. As long as you have a working computer, some type of instrument, and a MIDI controller, you can rock out. Here are the steps for connecting an M-Audio MIDI to your computer or Mac to create and record music.
First, you’ll need to connect an audio interface to your computer. This device is where you will connect your equipment. You can purchase one online or at a music or electronics store. You may even find one on Craigslist.
Next, connect your M-Audio MIDI keyboard or other MIDI device to the audio interface. Make sure it is connected to the appropriate port, or it won’t work.
After that, connect your instruments to the interface. You will likely see ports labeled “Input” or … ...Read the rest.
“How to Couple a M-Audio MIDI to Your Workstation for Playing Music”
by Manuel Marino | Audio, Music
If you are seeking authentic music composed for your upcoming project or concert, you will first need to select a reputable composer. Here are some tips to help you find one:
- Experience: Composing is a skill that develops with practice. Just like any other talent, experience pays off. An experienced composer should have an extensive body of work for you to listen to and evaluate.
- Background: Depending on the type of composition you are looking for, you may need a specialized composer or one who has been exposed to a wide range of musical styles and genres. Deciding whether to hire a specialized composer or a versatile one may largely depend on your target audience. Also, consider the composer’s instrument of expertise. Composers often excel in writing for their specific instrument. Good composers have a working knowledge of multiple instruments.
- Style: Listen to samples of compositions produced by the composer. Do you resonate with the style you hear? Will your audience be able to connect with music in that particular style?
- Reliability: Many people who require or desire to hire a composer are working on a deadline. Can the composer deliver a quality composition within the timeframe that works for
… ...Read the rest.
“Hiring a Music Composer – Seven Essential Qualities to Consider”
by Manuel Marino | Audio
The four most compelling reasons to have your piano restored are quality, investment, lifespan, and heirloom value. In terms of quality, pianos built during the golden era of American piano production, particularly in the late 19th century, are known for being made of the finest materials and possessing excellent craftsmanship.
Restoring your piano to its near-original state can result in a level of quality that is often unheard of or unattainable in today’s piano manufacturing. When considering investment value, it is a fact that all pianos retain a significant market value, but studies have shown that American vintage pianos have the highest rate of appreciation among musical instruments. Investing in the maintenance and rebuilding of these instruments can prove to be a wise decision.
In terms of lifespan, the quality and craftsmanship of American vintage pianos are unparalleled. They age much better than modern pianos, many of which bear the names of famous American companies but are actually manufactured in China or other third-world countries. Lastly, a newly restored piano made in the USA can become a generational treasure, something to be passed down to your children and grandchildren.
In fact, one of the most compelling reasons why many individuals … ...Read the rest.
“Four Compelling Factors to have Your Piano Restored”
Manuel is a passionate, driven, and techsavvy AV technician, 
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