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Using a computer during live gigs?

Z

Zander4724

Mar 20, 2008
95
0
UK
www.youtube.com
#1
Hi everyone,

I'm just wondering whether anyone has tried either using Logic or another computer program for live gigs? (I know there are really good computer looping systems...)

I really like the reverb effects and EQ options in Garageband and Logic Express and I was wondering if I can somehow connect my computer to preferably my combo amp, or if I need to, a PA? If so, how do I go about doing this without damaging my equipment?

I'm having difficulty understanding how certain artists are able to use their computer onstage and am really bad with this technical stuff.

If anyone could help me out, I'd greatly appreciate it!
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Also, Steve, if you happen to have a moment to read this thread, I read in an interview of yours that you don't use computer loop programs in case of latency issues; but since you're such a technical genius, I figure you'd know how to go about doing it. Would you be able to possibly give me some advice on how to set it up?
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Thanks for your time, everyone.

Zander
 
#2
We use a mac at church. Usually we have a piano hooked into it via midi connection and go out to the house PA through a DI box. You'd need a cable to go from the headphone plug, male 1/8'', to a male 1/4''. We've never had a problem damaging anything, but sometimes do get wicked buzz when we have the laptop plugged into a power source...on battery it's fine.
 
#3
Zander,

it's pretty easy to set up - you just need a soundcard that has audio and MIDI (MIDI for a foot controller) on it, and whatever the programme is you want to use for your effects. You'll probably get better results with a programme optimised for real time processing, like Ableton Live or Guitar Rig.

However, if you're processing in your computer (mac or PC) it takes a certain amount of time to do the processing, and send the sound out, so you're going to get latency. Whether that bothers you or not is up to you to decide. I can't deal with it. Other people I know can :)

Enjoy

Steve
 
#6
You are going to get some latency. If you have a really good soundcard, you'll minimize, it but there will be some delay from the moment you pluck a string and when you hear it.

Also, computers always flip out at the wrong time - you better have a backup.
 

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