Dr. Miczak's Best Picks

World Ice Arena at Corona Park

Tue, 24 Mar 2009 11:10:50 -0500

PARKS CUTS RIBBON WORLD ICE ARENA AT FLUSHING MEADOWS CORONA PARK

Today, Parks Commissioner Adrian Benepe, Queens Borough President Helen Marshall, Council Member John Liu, Commissioner Matthew Sapolin from the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities, World Ice Arena Managing Member Erik Ekstein and members of Community Board 7 cut the ribbon on the new World Ice Arena at Flushing Meadows Corona Park with ice athletes of all ages.

“Flushing Meadows Corona Park is now the premier athletic destination in Queens thanks to generous allocations of funding from both Mayor Giuliani and Mayor Bloomberg, and from the current and former Borough Presidents, Helen Marshall and Claire Shulman,” said Commissioner Benepe. “With the World Ice Arena, the newly opened Al Oerter Recreation Center across the street, the brand new Aquatics Center, the expanded Billy Jean King USTA and the new Citi Field, New Yorkers can skate, swim, bike, row, play tennis, watch baseball, play ball and lift weights without ever leaving the park.”

“This skating rink and this entire building, which includes a pool next door, took almost 10 years to complete,” said Queens Borough President Marshall. “It is not only one of the largest recreational facilities ever built in a city park, but a prime example of the foresight involved in the allocation of the Borough President’s Capital discretionary dollars, in this case, more than $13 million of the $66 million needed to build this facility. Both I and my predecessor envisioned this day years ago and take great delight in today’s proceedings.”

Olivia Numeroff of the Ice Theatre of NY Performs

Since opening its doors in February, the NHL regulation-sized World Ice Arena has hosted almost 20,000 ice skaters from hockey players to figure skaters to speed skaters to community members who tried ice skating for the first time.

The event featured an array of ice sports including a sled hockey demonstration and ice dancing performances by Ice Theatre of New York. The Ice Theatre of New York will be providing free performances and skating clinics at the World Ice Arena in April and May. To learn more, visit www.icetheatre.org. Participants also received hockey pucks and towels from the New York Rangers.

The Flushing Meadows Corona Park World Ice Arena is part of a $66.3-million project to build a pool and ice rink and was funded by Mayor Michael Bloomberg, Queens Borough President Helen Marshall and former Queens Borough President Claire Shulman. It is the largest facility ever built in a city park at 110,000-square-feet.

Flushing Meadows Corona Park, one of New York City’s prized flagship parks, comprises 1,255 acres of beautifully landscaped lawns, lakes, fountains, athletic fields, playgrounds and a zoo. The park is also home to numerous cultural and athletic facilities including the Queens Museum of Art, Queens Theatre in the Park, Citi Field and the Billie Jean King USTA National Tennis Center.

Photo Credit: Daniel Avila (Parks & Recreation)

Captions: 1) Elected officials, World Ice Arena managers, the New York Rangers Sled Hockey team, and dancers from Ice Theatre of New York cut the ribbon on the new World Ice Arena in Flushing Meadows Corona Park.

2) Ice Theatre of New York skater Olive Numeroff performed "Opera Farce" at the ribbon-cutting ceremony at World Ice Arena.

2009's Top Gifts for Audiophiles

Tue, 4 Nov 2008 15:08:09 -0500

Dr. M. startin' it up with Audio-Technica's ATH-M50 Professional Studio Monitor Heaphones

The current economic slump needn't put a damper on your gift giving or holiday party plans. We have searched high and low for the best gifts for those audiophiles on your list AND for equipment to create your own private club atomosphere right at home! You can invite lots of friends, pop some popcorn and be your own DJ for the evening. Need a gift idea? Nearly everyone wants an MP3 player. We've got the top gifts for you right here!

SanDisk Sansa 6 GB MP3 / Video Player

Someone say iPOD? You don't have to pay Apple prices for a high quality, MP3 & video player. The SanDisk 6 GB MP3 Player goes the others one better. It also has a built in recorder so that you can capture a live performance on the fly. I recorded some of my Bluegrass friends jamming and the playback was so clear, it sounded fantastic. The SanDisk retails for around $169.00 and does not require MAC software. Uploads were pretty simple. This MP3 charges while docked at your computer and the battery life, depending on use is about 19 hours. The 6 GB easily holds 1,500 songs.

Audio-Technica ATH-ANC3 in ear earphones

Pair this great MP3 player with Audio-Technica's ATH-ANC3 Quiet Point Noise Cancelling Headphones and your favorite audiophile will be totally set. The ATH-ANC3 offers in-ear comfortable tips and a Noise Cancelling feature that truly puts you in your own world. Better still, the case that comes with the ATH-ANC3 is big enough to store the Sandisk 6 GB MP3 player! You'll really enjoy your music, videos and recordings with these high quality earphones. Available in black or white, they make the perfect accessory to any MP3 player.

These high quality earphones surpass other models costing so much more and are certainly better fitting than the earphones that come with the SanDisk. Step up to amazing sound and comfort with the ATH-ANC3 Noise Cancelling Earphones by Audio-Technica. List price: $169.95 http://www.audio-technica.com/

Earphones for Women Audiophiles

If you have women sound afficionados on your list, check out the Audio-Technica line of women-specific earphones! One of the downfalls of most MP3 players is their lack of attention to providing high quality, comfortable fitting earphones with the unit. Available in four high fashion colors, the ATH-CK6W will compliment any color MP3 player in style.

Children with MP3 players will also like these color choices and the assorted sized earpieces that come with the ATH-CK6W. They can change out the size that best suits their comfort level and all the Audio-Technica in ear, earphones we've reviewed come with extra, interchangable ear pieces in small, medium and large. These take into account that not everyone has the same sized ear canal. We're glad someone finally noticed! So with the ATH-CK6W you can have it all. Comfort, color and great sound all in one. List price: $79.00

http://www.audio-technica.com/

Perfect pair...the SanDisk 6 GB MP3 player and Audio-Technica's ATH-ANc3 Noise Cancelling earphones. Wool hat by Turtle Fur, Alpental jacket by ExOfficio.

The ATH-M50 Monitor Headphones can be used for DJ work or just comfortable listening. Available with a coiled or straight cable, it has a gold plated mini-plug with a screw on 1/4 adapter. Collapsible design makes it easy to stow and transport. Use with an MP3 player, amp, CD workstation or DJ turntable. Super soft earpads rotate for side address listening. These will complete any DJ's rig in style with the high performance audio fidelity you've come to expect from Audio-Technica! List price, $199.00

Photo: Audio-Technica's ATH-M50 Monitor Headphones.

Photo: AT-PL120. Now YOU can DJ your own party! Holiday parties are a snap with this Direct Drive Professional Stereo Turntable, AT-PL120 by Audio-Technica. 3 speed fully manual operational turntable is ready for scratching. Turntable base is heavy die cast aluminum complete with strobe dots. There is even a pop up stylus target light for operation under low lights. Pitch adjust slide / button and direction button are also included. Get the total underground club atomosphere going with this professional stereo turntable from Audio-Technica! List Price: $399.00

http://www.audio-technica.com/

Photo: Havaleena Lights - The perfect accent to your holiday entertaining. These are safe, beautiful alternatives to smokey candles and hot bulbs. These battery operated lights will burn for 22 hours and make a wonderful party centerpiece or lighting accents around the room. Comes with interchangable color lenses so you can create your own color light-bouquet. Purchase them at:

http://www.lampcraft.com/

Ice Theatre of New York's 2008-2009 Season

Thu, 30 Oct 2008 20:01:39 -0500

The Ice Theatre of New York celebrated Nancy Kerrigan in style this year at their 2008 Gala event! The troop's October 27, 2008 performance at the Sky Rink, Chelsea Piers was not to be topped. Offering a show stopping solo skating number by Olympic Medalist Surya Bonaly and a grand finale with Nancy Kerrigan doing one of her signature jumps, this was the ITNY at its best! Wonderful, creative performances from the Ice Theatre Troop which encompassed many genres of music and dance styles. Their lively rendition of "Footloose" had the audience going with flashes of colorful 50's style costumes.

Nancy Kerrigan after her performance with the Ice Theatre of New York's October 27th, 2008 show. On the right of Nancy are Olympic Medalist Surya Bonaly and Paul Wiley who brought the bouquet.

Nancy poses with some very excited skaters!

Alyssa Stith & M.C. Paul Wylie

Gucci Bags on display for silent auction. Designer skating dresses by Vera Wang were also shown. Auction proceeds help benefit the work of the ITNY.

Upcoming ITNY Events:

October 27, 2008 - Opening of The Pond at Bryant Park - 11 am

October - April 2009 - Annual Ice Concert Series at The Pond at Bryant Park and at The Rink at Rockefeller Center (more dates will be added as they become available)

October 29, 2008 - Ice Concert at Bryant Park - 1pm
November - April 2009 - New Works and Young Artists Series at Riverbank State Park in Manhattan and at the World Ice Arena in Queens (schools must make reservations to participate)
December 6, 2008 - Tree Lighting at Riverbank State Park - 4pm
January 29-31, 2009 - Performances in Courchevel, Grenoble and Lyon, France
May, 2009 - Home Show, Sky Rink, Chelsea Piers, New York City

During the upcoming 2008-2009 season, ITNY plans to expand its premier outreach program, the New Works and Young Artist Series to Brooklyn and Queens in addition to the original series at Riverbank State Park in Manhattan. This program is dedicated to presenting new works and providing free skating clinics for public school students from Harlem and Washington Heights. If you would like to learn more about the wonderful programs the ITNY is providing or would like to donate to their work, visit them online at: http://www.icetheatre.org

Dr. M. at the Cocktail Reception held at The Lighthouse Resturant, Pier 61. Irresistable Wrap by ExOfficio. Wool Travel Suit by The Limited.

Ice Theatre of New York's 2008 Gala Event

Wed, 8 Oct 2008 14:32:30 -0500

ICE THEATRE OF NEW YORK LAUNCHES ITS NEW SEASON WITH A CELEBRATORY PERFORMANCE AND BENEFIT GALA

Featuring Special Guest Olympian Skaters Nancy Kerrigan and Paul Wylie

The Ice Theatre of New York, the nation’s premier ice dancing ensemble, propels its new season with its inaugural performance and benefit gala. The festivities include a program including: Appalachian Waltz, a first ever collaboration by modern dance choreographer JoAnna Mendl Shaw and ice choreographer, Douglas Webster; Low Duet by innovative, contemporary choreographer Susan Marshall; and a restaging of an excerpt from Footloose on Ice originally starring Nancy Kerrigan and now featuring Ice Theatre ensemble (program subject to change). The performance will take place at Chelsea Pier’s Sky Rink. Followed by cocktails and dinner, the evening honors two-time Olympic medalist Nancy Kerrigan and emceeing the night’s festivities will be her fellow Olympian Paul Wylie. The benefit will also recognize Ice Theatre’s board member, Joan Erdheim, for her contributions as a tireless volunteer for both Ice Theatre and Manhattan’s arts world. Ticket sales support Ice Theatre’s New Works and Young Artists, an outreach program for public school children in Brooklyn, Manhattan and Queens, as well as Ice Theatre’s 2008-2009 performance season.

WHEN: Monday, October 27^th from 7:00pm – 11:00pm. Performance begins at 7:00pm; Gala begins at 8:00pm.

WHERE: Pier 61 at Chelsea Piers, 23^rd Street & the Hudson River. Performance at Sky Rink; Gala at The Lighthouse (both at Pier 61). Train C/E to Eighth Avenue

HOW: Performance Tickets $25/Seniors & Students $15. Gala Tickets $350 - $1000. Open to kids of all ages. To purchase tickets, call Ice Theatre 212.929.5811. To learn more, visit http://www.icetheatre.org.

Editor's Postscript: As an Editor of Suite 101's Figure Skating Guide, I have personally attended many of the Ice Theatre's stellar performances over the past few years. You are in for a treat! This is a do-not-miss event and a tribute to theatrical artistic expression on ice! I have my tickets reserved for this wonderful evening of dream-time skating and celebration of the career of Olympic Medalist, Nancy Kerrigan.

Dr. Marie J. Miczak, Author-Editor

Original Beach Boy Al Jardine in Concert!

Mon, 16 Jun 2008 10:51:50 -0500

These Beach Boys Still Rule the Surf...

We caught this wave for sure! Original member of the Beach Boys, Al Jardine and The Surf City All Stars are on tour now doing all the old Beach Boys hits: California Girl, Do it Again, Surfin' USA, Little Deuce Coupe, 409, I Get Around, Don't Worry Baby, Help Me Rhonda, Kokomo and so many more! In the 60's, The Beach Boys and groups like The Ventures played music that was just as much about a lifestyle as it was a musical form. The guitar riffs, slides and drum solos are actually simulating the sounds of being in a wave's pipeline, a surfer's dream. They also incorporated traditional Hawaiian guitar and drumming patterns into a completely new sound.

The surfboarder lifestyle idealized athleticism, outdoor living and beachside fun. People would get together with a guitar by a beach firepit and make their own music and entertainment. No iPods then remember! This kind of music is made for dancing and having a good time which you will do once you listen to it.

Al Jardine and the Surf City All Stars "surfed up", tight, original Beach Boy harmonies, leaving nothing to the imagination. A truly special treat was to see Matt Jardine performing right up there with "Dad" on Father's Day Weekend. This is the real deal! Catch them on tour this summer and have a rockin' beach party. Their next appearance will be in San Juan Capistrano, CA on July 5, 2008. You can contact Al Jardine about his new CD project, "A Postcard from California" by emailing him at: jardine@jps.net

Cowabunga!

PHOTO: Al Jardin,(2nd from right) & The Surf City All Starsin concert at Manalapan Under the Stars,Father's Day WeekendFor More Concerts & Photos, visit The New Eclectic Sound Experience at:http://www.mariejmiczak.blogspot.com

Entertaining Moments of Spring

Mon, 16 Jun 2008 11:14:26 -0500

PRESS RELEASE: This just in....New Musician's Website Launched! Get into "The New Eclectic Sound Experience" at:

http://www.mariejmiczak.blogspot.com

Entertaining Moments of Spring

Spring is a wonderful time to celebrate with family and friends. You can begin making plans for entertaining by taking an “al fresco” approach to your next soiree. Set the mood with live music and lights to transform your affair to the sunny sidewalks of a French bistro. Serving your guests “café” style means using smaller round or square tables with fewer guests seated at each. This allows for a more intimate dining atmosphere.

Photo This Havaleena Light Bouquet graces your table indoors or out!

LIGHTS

One of the hottest design ideas for home entertaining comes from the makers of the Havaleena Light. These fireless torches cast a soft, elegant glow on your table setting as shown in the above photo. You can even add messages to the light filters or change to colors of the lenses to compliment your décor for the evening. Set on top of a piano, they provide more than enough light for the keyboard. Best yet, unlike candles, they are smokeless, odorless, dripless and safe to touch in addition to being exquisitely beautiful. They will not interfere with the delicious scents of your cuisine and the torches last up to 20 hours on only three AA batteries. The Havaleena Light goes everywhere too. Use them for an impromptu picnic on the beach or at the park. Need a gift idea? They make wonderful hostess gifts, housewarming and Mother's Day presents!

Havaleena Lights are exceptionally well made and will be a welcome addition to any décor. Since there is little or no heat involved, these lights can be arranged with fresh or dried flowers for a stunning, artistic centerpiece.

Havaleena is offering our readers a special discount purchase of these gorgeous lights by clicking on the following link. We highly recommend them for your next party or as a welcome gift! Click here for your special discount price on these decorator lights which offer so many uses:

Special Havaleena Light Offer for our Readers!

http://www.lampcraft.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPRODGROUP&ID=8

(NOTE: Clicking the above link will not allow you to return to this page!)

Photo CF Martin D-16GT Solid Body Guitar

www.martinguitar.com

MUSIC

One of the things you are trying to create is an atmosphere quite removed from the actual local setting. For example, you could set out a guitar on a stand or even hire a musician to play as a wandering minstrel at your next event. If you are so gifted, you could sit and play a few songs for your guests acoustically. Perhaps the best guitar for both looks and playability is a C.F. Martin guitar. These are highly prized and collected by music lovers the world over. In fact, they invented the Dreadnought design that is perhaps the most recognizable style of guitar. Place a D-16GT in the entertaining area in sight of your guests and watch the conversations (and hands), fly. It will add a romantic touch to the event and may even bring out the artistic side of your guests as well as yourself. Many people use guitars to decorate their homes without knowing how to play a single note! However the Martin D-16 backs up its good looks with an amazing sound that will impress anyone who appreciates the guitar. Still, there are some beautiful instruments besides the guitar that are very easy to play and can be quickly learned to entertain yourself and your guests.

They are the Autoharp and the Strumstick…

PHOTO Oscar Schmidt Acoustic Autoharp

www.oscarschmidt.com

The Autoharp was the most popular parlor instrument during Victorian times, however once the phonograph and pre-recorded music became a fixture in most homes, it fell out of favor. It saw another resurgence in the 1950’s as a music education instrument in the public schools. The Autoharp is very easy to play either lap or Applachain style held in the arms. The Centurion model is perhaps the best acoustic Autoharp Oscar Schmidt makes which means you needn’t use amplification to be heard. I’ve played mine outdoors at garden parties, bluegrass jams and folk festivals as it is very portable. Add a strap and you're ready for anything.

You could try playing some lovely spring offerings like Irish Folk music which include lively reels and slow, romantic, airs. Celtic music and Scottish Airs are beautiful on the Autoharp and capture the light, festive theme of outdoor celebrations. We recommend:

* Celtic Autoharp 35 Celtic tunes arranged for all standard Autoharps such as Scotland the Brave, Farewell to Whiskey, Star of the County Down and Eleanor Plunkett by Karen Mueller. Includes CD with examples of playing of these tunes. Mel-Bay www.melbay.com

* Scottish Airs and Ballads for Autoharp has 25 Scottish tunes arranged for Autoharp using standard notation and tablature with accompaniment chords. Flow Gently Sweet Afton, Cradle Song, Bonnie Dundee and Auld Lang Syne by Alex Usher. Comes with audio CD. Mel-Bay www.melbay.com

Photo Strumstick by Bob McNally

www.strumstick.com

This is another easy to play, conversation starter! The Strumstick is an invention of Bob McNally who is an excellent guitarist who can also boast the design rights to the Martin Backpacker, a very portable, quality guitar. The Strumstick only has 3 strings and ours, the Grand, is tuned to the key of D. The first low string is D the middle is A and the last is a high D. It is in fact arranged in a similar fashion to a mountain dulicmer except for the reversal of the D string's position, thus pitches.

The beauty of the Strumstick is that you really can’t hit a bad note. Pick a string for the melody and strum all of the strings and you will sound great. What this does is give you a drone note which is the foundation of most Celtic music, (think of the steady note heard played on the Bagpipes). The Strumstick comes with both an instruction and song book. A song/instruction CD is also available. I was able to pick up playing songs from the book almost immediately and it really helped propel my progress on the guitar because the technique is essentially the same.

There are 70 tried and true songs included with the Strumstick. This will add a new dimension to entertaining your guests as there are scientific proofs of the benefits of playing and listening to live music. Even more than that, its just plain fun! If this is not enough, along with the songs included with the Strumstick, we recommend you also try:

* Celtic Songs and Slow Airs for the Mountain Dulcimer by Neal Hellman http://www.amazon.com/

* Favorite Old Time American Songs for Appalachian Dulcimer Mel Bay http://www.melbay.com/

Action!

Dr. Marie Miczak and her C.F. Martin D-16GT Guitar with an under the saddle Fishman Ellipse Matrix Blend Pickup http://www.martinguitar.com

(Guitar Accessories, Martin Logo Leather Strap, Thumbpick, Strum 'n Comfort Kodiak Pick)

Look for her upcoming CD featuring this Martin D-16 and Electric Autoharp! Get the full scoop by visiting the NEW Eclectic Sound Experience right here:

http://www.mariejmiczak.blogspot.com

New Wave in Podcasting

Tue, 26 Feb 2008 13:35:34 -0500

The New Wave in Podcasting

Podcasting is the latest wave in multimedia production as audio and video programs can be downloaded onto your computer or MP3 player. Now, nearly anyone with the right equipment can do “radio” quality broadcasts of news, music or educational lessons which can be accessed later by others either online or by download.

One pod cast producer, Laurel Moglen of Los Angeles started her new career in 2005 after working for years in public radio. She took that experience and upgraded it to start LA Podsquad, a company that creates highly polished custom pod casts. These include both audio and video programs meant to be downloaded onto your computer or MP3 player. Moglen’s clients include top companies like Travelocity and PBS Kids.

ESSENTIAL GEAR:

Besides a laptop, there are two main pieces of equipment every pod caster must have. Headphones and a microphone. Looking first at which headphones to choose, The ATH-M50 model is perfect for online listening for long periods of time. Circumaural earpieces swivel 180° for easy one-ear monitoring on the fly. These are essential to pod casting as they are extremely comfortable and effectively block distracting background noise. The ATH-M50’s are richly padded and comfortable enough to wear for hours at a time, a major bonus when doing a long pod cast with a lot of content. Not only that, they are collapsible and come with its own leatherette pouch for easy storage and transport.

Audio - Technica’s ATH-M50
Professional Studio Monitor Headphones
List $199.00
ATH-M50 Features:

Exceptional audio quality for professional monitoring and mixing

Collapsible design ideal for easy portability and convenient storage Proprietary 45 mm large-aperture drivers with neodymium magnet systems

Closed-back cushioned earcup design creates an outstanding seal for maximum isolation Adjustable padded headband for comfort during long mixing/recording sessions

Single-sided coiled cable terminates to gold-plated mini plug with screw-on ¼" adapter

THE MIC PLEASE.....

NEW Audio-Technica’s AT2020 USB Side Address Condenser Microphone

List $249.00

The next essential is a good microphone specifcally suited for podcasting.

Most broadcasters favor a side address microphone which carries an USB connector. Introduced at this year's NAMM Show in Anaheim, CA, the new AT2020 USB is the perfect solution. Ready to go, it plugs directly into your computer without the need for any additional adaptors. The tripod stand allows it to be placed on any desk or table for handsfree broadcasting which essentially eliminates handling noise.

AT2020 USB’s Features:
Side-address studio condenser with USB digital output (Windows and Mac compatible)
Crystal-clear, natural sound for podcasting, home studio recording, field recording, and voiceover use
Custom-engineered low-mass diaphragm provides extended frequency response and superior transient response
Cardioid polar pattern reduces pickup of sounds from the sides and rear, improving isolation of desired sound source
Low self-noise – perfectly suited for sophisticated digital recording equipment

Includes tripod desk stand, pivoting stand mount, USB cable & storage pouch

Gifts with a Heart!

Mon, 11 Feb 2008 21:17:34 -0500

Peace Picks

Semiprecious Stone Guitar Picks

Everyone likes a shiny stone! How would you like to play your guitar with one? The Peace Picks are beautiful, made of polished agate and jasper but beveled for optimum guitar picking.

The Peace Pick, made by Strum 'N Comfort, offers a natural alternative to plastic picks that often over-bend and then break. Even more.....

Peace Pick Benefits

Improves your flat picking skills
Bell like tone quality on the high strings
Warm and smooth tone on the bass notes
Three picking edges & six angles to choose from
Play and enjoy signature Gypsy Jazz sounds
The project supports organizations for Peace

The heart shaped stone picks are beveled to a sharp 1.0 mm diameter at the tip.

Six basic series semi-precious stone types available

The two heart lobes are also beveled to a 2.0 mm diameter. What's even better is that you can take your Peace Pick with you and wear it as jewelry! Below is the necklace Peace Pick Holder being worn....

Peace Pick Holder G clef and Translucent Stone Pick

Wearing your Peace Pick is not only decorative but reminds you to practice playing each day. They make wonderful gifts and the sales go to support charity efforts in the futhering of peace.

Closer view of engraved Peace Picks and a Pick inside Holder

Music themed jewelry is very "hot" right now and is worn by musicians and non-musicians alike. Here is another example from Strum 'n Comfort.....

This lovely stylized guitar pin was created by Brother John

Brother John is a long time Big Sur, California jewelry artist. He has resided and worked along the northern California coast for over forty years.

Brother John has originated a unique artisan style, tri-metal design and his original artwork is collected by many people from all over the world. Brother John's customers include the Hollywood famous and many music industry notables. As a matter of fact, Brother John had provided jewelry for Jerry Garcia of the famed "Grateful Dead Band".

As you can see, he combines brass, copper & nickel silver metals in very creative ways as can be seen in this stunning Banjo Pin.

Brother John's tri-colored Banjo Pin

The artisan guitar pin, banjo clip and pendant is the first in a series of manufactured music theme gift jewelry to be offered by Strum-N-Comfort.

Strum-N-Comfort is to be commended for their humanitarian efforts towards world peace but also for their committment to disabled musicians who use their picks. Greg Atkin's company does not blow its own horn but offers help to many guitarists through such fund raising efforts. Visit them online and support fellow musicians by purchasing music themed jewelry and gifts that keep on giving.

STRUM-N-COMFORT

www.strum-n-comfort.com

Vibes for Valentine's Day

Mon, 11 Feb 2008 13:19:55 -0500

Top Gifts for Audiophiles

Like connoisseurs of fine wine and food, there are some among us who savor beautiful music. Such are called “audiophiles” which means literally, “lovers of sound”. There are certain accessories and equipment desired by everyone who appreciates true sound reproduction. Pairing the right accessories with the right equipment makes all the difference. So here is our list of the top accessories the music lover in your life will want.

For those who are married to their MP3 players, we have…….

Audio-Technica’s ATH-CK7 QuietPoint Noise-Reducing Titanium Earphones
List $169.00

Nearly everyone has an iPod or other another type of MP3 player these days. They are perhaps the most visible accessory of young adults and musicians. The problem is that most of the earphones that come with these players are uncomfortable and do not stay put, especially when the wearer is out walking or jogging.

The solution is Audio-Technica’s ATH-CK7 earphones. They are phenomenal for clear, stereo sound with three sizes of ear pieces for a custom fit. These allow for an acoustic seal which helps block out ambient sound and background noise. This means you can enjoy your MP3 player at lower volume levels which saves batteries and your ears. 11 mm drivers deliver deep bass, extended treble and high fidelity. Titanium construction means less weight without sacrificing durability. Super comfortable with fantastic sound reproduction.

TrailAudio Digital Outdoor 512 MB MP3 Player by HighGear

Retail $129.00

Rugged, weatherproof and very simple to load, this MP3 player makes the rest look like crybabies. It’s harbinger clip and custom equalizing controls bring together the best of the in and outdoors. Coupled with Audio-Technica’s QuietPoint earphones and you can take off for another world while staying in this one. Amazing sound to go.

Humans Incase by Mike Mills “Flower Pouch” iPod Classic Case

Retail $60.00

This decorative, floral designed holder for the iPod Classic, (60 or 80GB), is an elegant statement. Designed by Mike Mills who is a graphic designer and filmmaker. His graphic work has been seen on album covers, skateboards, T-shirts and fabric patterns. He has directed music videos, short films and documentaries. Mills now brings his creative talents to gracing the quintessential iPod!

For the recording artists among us, we have…….
Audio-Technica’s ATH-M50 Professional Studio Monitor Headphones
List $199.00

More and more musicians are now getting into home recording since companies like BOSS have made it simple and affordable to produce radio quality CD’s…at home. The ATH-M50 model is perfect for recording, mixing, studio monitoring and overdubbing. Circumaural ear pieces swivel 180° for easy one-ear monitoring on the fly. This is one piece of equipment no budding recording artist can do with out.

Exceptional audio quality for professional monitoring and mixing
Collapsible design ideal for easy portability and convenient storage
Proprietary 45 mm large-aperture drivers with neodymium magnet systems
Closed-back cushioned earcup design creates an outstanding seal for maximum isolation
Adjustable padded headband for comfort during long mixing/recording sessions
Single-sided coiled cable terminates to gold-plated mini plug with screw-on ¼" adapter

Audio-Technica’s AT2010 Cardioid Condenser Vocal Microphone

List $169.00

Audio-Technica’s AT2010 Condenser Vocal microphone is perfect for recording but shines equally in live performance. It comes through the instrumental mix allowing your vocals to stand out with recording studio impact and polish. Features the same 16 mm low-mass diaphragm found in the critically acclaimed AT2020 side-address studio condenser that recording artists use.

Solid, rugged all metal construction with unsurpassed sensitivity. Truly excels where clear, articulate vocals are needed. High SPL-handling and wide dynamic range makes this one of the most versatile condenser mics on the market. Quiet - Flex stand clamp provides ultra quiet handling and easy positioning. Fantastic quality condenser mic.

BOSS BR1200CD Digital Recording Studio

List $1,049.00

Record, edit, master and burn radio quality CD’s onboard on ONE unit! The BR-1200CD allows you to add drum and bass effects, guitar and vocal processing on 12 tracks, (4 tracks for recording and playback in stereo). Has an onboard Vocal Toolbox for polished studio honed vocals. Allows for loop phrases, digital effects and has a Mastering Tool Kit for professional sounding CD’s. You’ll be able to record, edit, master and burn your own studio quality CD’s onboard without downloading onto a laptop. With 40 G bytes, you can do up to 120 hours of recording before you run out!

For the DJ's in our midst....

Audio-Technica’s ATH-PRO700 SV Professional Monitor Headphones

List $279.00

Every DJ needs a set of quality “cans” to keep the music going. These are buttery soft and extremely comfortable on the ears for maximum sound isolation while delivering exceptional tone and clarity. You‘ll be surprised at what you‘ve been missing! These pick up all the subtle nuances other headphones leave behind.

Monitoring headphones that excel in both DJ and recording studio use

Clear, well-defined trebles, rich bass response

Excellent isolation, perfect for loud environments such as clubs and house parties

3,500 mW of power handling, high SPL capability

53 mm diameter drivers, neodymium magnets

OFC (oxygen-free copper) wire cables, convenient one-side entry

Compact, easy to fold and store in provided pouch

1/8" (3.5 mm) stereo connector with 1/4" (6.3 mm) adapter

These really are some of the best headphones for DJ’s as they are comfortable to wear for long periods of time and offer unsurpassed noise isolation and sound monitoring.

Audio-Technica’s PRO 31QTR Dynamic Cardioid Handheld Microphone

List $69.00

Designed for up close vocals, this microphone is rugged and road ready. Perfect for DJ and Karaoke applications. You’ll especially appreciate the Magnalock on/off switch and the tough construction of the PRO 31QTR. One of the best microphones available for use when background noise can not be controlled. Great sound reproduction at an affordable price.

Close-up vocal performance microphone sets price/performance standards for intelligibility, transparent sound quality and noise suppression

Cardioid polar pattern reduces pickup of sounds from the sides and rear, improving isolation of desired sound source

Hi-ENERGY® neodymium magnet for high output and articulate vocal reproduction

Two-stage ball-type headcase for superior "pop" protection

MagnaLock™ on/off switch

Corrosion-resistant contacts from gold-plated XLRM-type connector

The NEW Gemini CDM-3600 Dual CD Mixing Console allows you to be the DJ of your own party!

List $419

NEW from Gemini! Dual CD player and DJ Workstation means non-stop, seamless play and creative mixing. Connect a turntable and you have a complete system. Can be used as a rack mount or tabletop system. Loads of features such as fader and stutter start, EQ, FX, programmable play lists, pitch bend via jog wheel or control, direct track access and more. Comes with RCA cables and is ready to hook up to your mixer or PA. LED VU meter and quick search function make this the hottest Dual CD, mixing console out there. The DJ in your life will freak over this one! Flight case for the CDM-3600 is available for purchase.

Gemini CDM-3600 Dual CD Mixing Console & DJ Workstation

VISIT THE COMPANIES FEATURED IN THIS ARTICLE ONLINE:

WWW.AUDIO-TECHNICA.COM

For Your Favorite Musician....2008's Top Gear for Guitarists

Sun, 10 Feb 2008 15:24:23 -0500

2008’s Top Gear for Guitarists

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Sometimes you wonder just what to get the guitarist or musician in your life. Fortunately, picking out gear that can be used and appreciated is really pretty easy. While purchasing an actual instrument may be cost-prohibitive, there are many accessories which make playing a whole lot more enjoyable. Here are some of the best gear choices we've tested that any guitarist will love you for:

Planet Waves Dare Strap:

While most guitarists will favor an old, well worn softened leather strap, the Dare strap offers ergonomic balance and comfort. This fully adjustable nylon strap balances the weight of your guitar squarely over both shoulders thus avoiding fatigue. I use it with my solid body stratocaster which is idenstical to the one pictured here and its really super comfortable with no stress on my shoulders or back. This strap ROCKS!

Planet Waves CTM Chordmaster, Tuner and Metronome

Three great accessories in one unit the size of an iPod! The Chordmaster allows easy access to nearly endless chord variations. The tuner works with either a direct cable in or via the onboard microphone for acoustic instruments. Easy to read and accurate. The metronome helps you keep time and can be set to a variety of beats per measure. Possibly the most complete accessory because it combines three of the most sought after units for guitarists in one.

Visit them online for more information....

www.planetwaves.com

Audio-Technica's PRO 8HEx Headworn Dynamic Cardioid Microphone

List Price

$138.00

Fantastic vocal reproduction that is both comfortable and ultra-light to wear, the PRO 8HEx is ideal for guitarists, keyboard players, drummers, DJ's and others who need free hands while performing. Its low-visibility headband and cushioned support pads provide a stable, comfortable fit with no shifting. Designed for professional quality vocal pickup with hands-free operation, the PRO 8HEx features a pivot-mounted flexible mic boom that descends from either the left or right side.

Ideal for guitarists, keyboard players, DJ's, drummers and others who need the use of their hands during performance
Low-visibility headband is worn around the back of the head with cushioned support pads that provide a stable, comfortable fit
Pivot-mounted flexible mic boom descends from left or right side
Hypercardioid polar pattern improves isolation of desired sound source
Hi-ENERGY® neodymium element for articulate vocal reproduction
7.2' (2.2 m) cable permanently attached between microphone and XLRM-type connector
Also available as:
PRO 8HEcW – 55" (1.4 m) cable terminated with locking 4-pin connector for A-T UniPak™ wireless systems

Check out the PRO 8HEx and its wireless counterpart mentioned above, online at Audio-Technica's website:

www.audio-technica.com

Giglight Music Light by Lampcraft

Really any musician will love you for this gift! A portable, powerful music light that clips onto your music stand. The Giglight easily illuminates two full pages of music with a steady, bright LED light that can be powered by battery or AC adapter. Folds up easily into its own case and travels with you to your gigs. Indespensible for perfoming, practice and recording.

Giglight Music Light

List Price $49.00

Visit Lampcraft online and get your own Giglight!

www.lampcraft.com

Stum-n-Comfort Guitar Picks

These super comfortable picks are perfect for for finger picking styles and those who use thumb picks. Veteran performer and guitar teacher for over 40 years, Paul Pugliese says these picks are great because they stay on and don't get in the way. They work well on finger picking styles as well as classical guitar and banjo rolls. I've used them on my Autoharp and Strumstick and found I can play much longer in comfort yet be in control of the pick without thinking about it. We tested the Kodiak and Sharktooth crossover picks which work welll for hybrid picking. They really allow you to focus on your technique and the inventor, Greg Atkin, is coming out with a CD on universal picking which highlights how to get the most from this system. Greg's website also offers guitar accessories and Music Themed Jewelry that is beautiful and unique. Some examples that would make wonderful, practical gifts are the Peace Pick which is made of semi-precious stone worn as a necklace and an elegant Guitar Pin.

Stop by Strum 'N Comfort online at:

www.strum-n-comfort.com

http://www.sharktoothpicks.com/

Alaska Pik Guitar Picks

Alaska Pik. These unique finger picks act as stronger extensions of your fingernails. In fact, they go over your finger and under the nail which makes them more of an extension of your fingers. Great for for classical guitar and fingerpicking styles. Sizes small, medium and large come in plastic while the brass picks are sold in medium and large only. Easy to adjust for a custom fit. These offer the freedom of not having to hold on to a flat guitar pick leaving you free to pick 'n pluck!

Visit Alaska Pik online at:

http://www.alaskapick.com/

Finger-Tone Pro Picks

These picks are so very comfortable and a great improvement over the plastic Dunlops most banjo, guitar and harp players use. They allow part of your fingerpad to engage which aids in greater sensitivity on the strings.

These metal tips are more accurate for finger picking styles because they are more precise. You can really isolate the strings for precision picking with these! Comes with a very cool pick case for storage and travel. We will post more as we try them on other types of guitars and with other techniques.

Finger-Tone picks by ProPik are available online at:

http://www.guptillmusic.com/

The Strumstick by Bob McNally

On its own, the Strumstick is such a cool instrument that you could buy it for anyone and make them happy. However, one would miss the full potential of this "stick dulicmer". Having only three strings, one being a drone note, the Grand Strumstick we tested is tuned to the key of D by way of D-A-D. This means nearly whatever you do sounds melodic and picking out songs is actually quite easy. Still the best part about the Strumstick is that it is the perfect guitar trainer. You can practice the same exercises for barring and fretting while making real music. I found that my attenuation and dexterity for the guitar improved greatly when using the Strumstick. This is a great instrument to introduce someone to the guitar or even allow seasoned guitarists to compose on. Fun on a stick!

See all the varieties of Strumstick including the newer electric ones at:

http://www.strumstick.com/