Performance Gear
This year, I experimented with three items to enhance my solo violin performances: an audio interface, a stereo DI, and an iPad. Reflecting on my past events, I can confidently say the experiment was a success.
In the past, I had to rely on either the sound system operator or my wife to play my backing tracks. I also never felt comfortable uploading my music onto someone else’s computer. On top of that, audio channels at events are often limited, leaving me with no option to plug my own laptop into the house mixer. Even if I could, someone would still need to operate it, and the mixing board was always far from the stage. It was a hassle.
That’s no longer the case. The audio interface has solved this problem. Now, I simply plug my laptop and electric violin into it, route the output signal through a stereo DI, and connect that to the PA system. This setup has made everything much easier. I can focus on my performance, while I control my playback tracks directly from the laptop. The sound system team has little to do, aside from monitoring volume levels. The only downside is that I now need more equipment and extra time to set up and pack down. Plus, carrying a laptop adds weight, and now I have to worry about protecting another valuable item.
Recently, I decided to swap the laptop for an iPad. It now acts as my multi-effects pedal, playback machine, and mixer—all-in-one. Aside from a few minor glitches, I’d say it performed far beyond my expectations. It’s far lighter and more practical than a laptop, and interacting with it is much easier. It truly functions as a smart device. For an entry-level iPad, it punches well above its weight. This makes me wonder: why do so many musicians use an iPad solely as a score-reader? With all its capabilities, it’s often treated as nothing more than an expensive score-binder. But I digress.
In conclusion, I’m extremely happy with this new setup. I hope to secure more gigs so I can eventually upgrade to a wireless system and a dedicated multi-effects board. For anyone involved in music-making, I strongly recommend giving these tools a try to elevate your performance. If you already own an iPad, you can now find a good audio interface at a reasonable price. As for the DI, it’s an affordable, one-time purchase that will last.
P/S: Here is the diagram for my electric violin performance setup:
