Rode Video Micro II shotgun microphone demo on guitar recording

Here is my demo of Rode Vide Micro II shotgun microphone.  I used this microphone to record my guitar playing.  I also unboxed the microphone to show what are included inside the package.

Here is more information and other reviews about this microphone.

The Rode VideoMicro II is a compact and versatile shotgun microphone designed to elevate the audio quality of your videos without the bulk and complexity of professional gear. As a successor to the highly popular VideoMicro, this new model refines the original's design, making it even more appealing to content creators, vloggers, and filmmakers who need high-quality sound without breaking the bank. The VideoMicro II features a supercardioid polar pattern, which helps isolate your subject’s voice from ambient noise, making it ideal for interviews, vlogging, and outdoor shoots. With a weight of just 89 grams, it’s incredibly lightweight and portable, ensuring that it won’t weigh down your camera rig while still delivering exceptional sound clarity.

One of the standout features of the VideoMicro II is its upgraded acoustic design. The microphone is equipped with a high-quality condenser capsule that provides clear and natural sound capture. Rode has also incorporated an improved shockmount system that reduces handling noise, which is a common issue with lightweight microphones. This makes the VideoMicro II an excellent choice for handheld shooting, as it ensures minimal disturbance from bumps or vibrations. The microphone’s all-metal construction enhances durability, while the included foam windscreen provides further protection against wind noise when shooting outdoors. Rode’s attention to detail in this regard makes the VideoMicro II a reliable option for a variety of environments.

Another key advantage of the VideoMicro II is its simple plug-and-play functionality. It features a 3.5mm TRS output, making it compatible with most cameras, smartphones, and audio recorders. There’s no need for batteries or external power sources, as it draws power directly from the connected device. This ease of use makes it a great choice for both beginners and seasoned content creators who don’t want to spend time configuring complex audio setups. While it’s not the most feature-packed microphone on the market, the Rode VideoMicro II strikes a perfect balance between affordability, portability, and sound quality, making it an excellent option for those looking to improve their audio on a budget. Whether you’re shooting indoors or outdoors, this microphone provides a significant upgrade over built-in camera mics, and its performance in real-world scenarios is consistently impressive for its price point.

Black Mountain Picks (thumb picks) - Variety Pack - demo and comparison

Here is my demo of the Black Mountain Pick variety pack.  This package includes Red/black - heavy,  Gray - medium, Light blue - light, and black - Jazz tip.  I used the picks one by one and compared the tone and playing comfort for each.  Check out the video above to learn more. 

Havendi acoustic guitar strings and picks demo

Havendi acoustic guitar strings have quickly gained popularity among players seeking a reliable and high-quality option for their instruments. Known for their exceptional clarity and resonance, these strings deliver a rich, balanced tone that enhances the natural sound of the guitar. Available in various gauges, Havendi strings cater to different playing styles and preferences, making them a versatile choice for musicians across genres. Whether you're strumming chords or picking intricate melodies, these strings provide the responsiveness and warmth that acoustic players desire.

One of the standout features of Havendi acoustic strings is their durability. Crafted from high-quality materials, including phosphor bronze and coated options, they resist corrosion and wear, ensuring a longer lifespan without sacrificing tone quality. Many users have noted that these strings maintain their brightness and clarity even after extended play, reducing the need for frequent changes. This longevity not only saves time but also makes them a cost-effective choice for regular players.

Beyond their performance, Havendi acoustic guitar strings are praised for their ease of playability. They offer a smooth feel that allows for effortless bending and strumming, making them ideal for both beginners and seasoned players. Additionally, their excellent tuning stability means less time spent adjusting after each session. Overall, Havendi acoustic guitar strings combine quality, durability, and playability, making them a sound investment for anyone looking to elevate their acoustic playing experience. Whether you're jamming at home or performing on stage, these strings are sure to impress.

Hanggang Ngayon (Ogie Alcasid) fingerstyle guitar cover

Here is my fingerstyle guitar cover of the song "Hanggang Ngayon".

About the song:

The duet "Hanggang Ngayon" featuring Ogie Alcasid and Regine Velasquez is a stunning collaboration that brings together two of the Philippines' most celebrated artists. Released as part of Alcasid's repertoire, this rendition adds a new layer of depth and emotion to the already beloved song. The combination of Alcasid’s heartfelt vocals and Velasquez’s powerful, soaring voice creates a beautiful harmony that captures the essence of love, longing, and nostalgia. Their chemistry is palpable, making the performance even more compelling and memorable.

Lyrically, "Hanggang Ngayon" expresses the timeless theme of enduring love, reflecting feelings of heartache and devotion that many listeners can relate to. The duet format allows both artists to showcase their vocal strengths, with each verse shifting seamlessly between them. This dynamic interplay highlights their emotional delivery, bringing the story to life in a way that resonates deeply with audiences. The poignant lyrics and lush arrangement create an atmosphere of intimacy, inviting listeners to share in the vulnerability of the emotions being conveyed.

The enduring popularity of "Hanggang Ngayon" has made it a staple in Filipino music, often performed at significant events and gatherings. Its appeal spans generations, resonating with both longtime fans and new listeners alike. Alcasid and Velasquez’s rendition not only revitalizes the original song but also reinforces its status as a classic. Through their collaboration, they remind us of the power of love and the lasting impact of cherished memories, ensuring that "Hanggang Ngayon" remains a timeless anthem of love in the hearts of many.

Havendi Phosphor Bronze guitar strings sound test

Havendi Medium Tension guitar strings offer a remarkable balance of playability and tone, making them a solid choice for guitarists who seek versatility without compromising on performance. These strings are crafted with precision, delivering a consistent medium tension that caters to a wide range of playing styles. The result is a set of strings that provides a comfortable feel under the fingers, whether you're strumming chords or fingerpicking intricate patterns. The moderate tension also helps in maintaining intonation and stability, which is crucial for both studio recordings and live performances.

In terms of tonal quality, Havendi Medium Tension strings shine with their clear, resonant sound. They produce a well-rounded tone with a pleasing blend of warmth and brightness, ensuring that every note is articulate and full-bodied. The strings are designed to enhance the natural characteristics of the guitar, whether it’s an acoustic or electric model. This makes them suitable for a variety of genres, from classical to contemporary, allowing musicians to express themselves with clarity and precision.

Durability is another strong point of these strings. Havendi has engineered them to withstand the rigors of regular play, offering extended lifespan without sacrificing their initial tonal qualities. They resist corrosion and maintain their tuning stability well over time, which is a testament to their high-quality construction. Overall, Havendi Medium Tension strings are a reliable choice for guitarists looking for a balanced, long-lasting, and versatile option that meets the demands of both practice and performance.

D'Addario Celluloid Guitar Picks unpacking and demo

 

D'Addario Celluloid Guitar Picks are a standout choice for guitarists who value a blend of tradition and performance in their playing accessories. These picks are crafted from high-quality celluloid, a material revered for its rich tonal qualities and durability. The celluloid composition offers a smooth, responsive feel, making them ideal for both strumming and precise picking. This material mimics the feel of vintage picks, which many players find enhances their playing experience by providing a familiar, comfortable grip and sound.

One of the most notable aspects of D'Addario Celluloid Picks is their tonal versatility. The picks produce a warm, balanced tone that complements various musical genres, from jazz to rock. The dynamic range these picks offer allows for nuanced expression, whether you're playing softly or digging in for a more aggressive attack. Additionally, their consistent thickness across different gauges ensures reliable performance and tone consistency, which is crucial for professional players who demand precision in their sound.

Durability is another strong suit of these picks. While celluloid is known for its vintage appeal, it also provides considerable resilience compared to other materials, reducing the frequency of replacements. D'Addario has also designed these picks with a classic aesthetic that many musicians find visually appealing, combining form and function seamlessly. Overall, D'Addario Celluloid Guitar Picks represent a superb blend of quality, sound, and style, making them a valuable addition to any guitarist's toolkit.

Guitar Tip: How to improve playing barre chords (Gripmaster Hand Exerciser)

 

Improving your guitar playing often involves more than just practice on the instrument itself; it also requires developing the strength and dexterity of your fingers. The Grip Master hand exerciser is a valuable tool for guitarists seeking to enhance their finger control and endurance. By incorporating the Grip Master into your routine, you can strengthen the individual muscles of your fingers and improve your overall hand coordination. This increased strength translates into better control over the fretboard, enabling more precise and fluid finger movements during playing.

The Grip Master hand exerciser is designed with adjustable resistance levels, allowing users to tailor their exercise routine according to their skill level and specific needs. Regular use of the exerciser can lead to noticeable improvements in finger independence, which is crucial for executing complex chord shapes and intricate solos. Additionally, the Grip Master helps in building finger stamina, reducing the likelihood of fatigue during long practice sessions or performances. This means you can maintain a high level of performance without experiencing discomfort or strain.

Beyond physical benefits, using the Grip Master also contributes to better overall technique. Stronger fingers and improved dexterity enable guitarists to develop more nuanced and expressive playing styles. As you build strength and precision with the exerciser, you'll find that tasks such as string bending, fast scale runs, and complex fingerpicking patterns become more manageable. Ultimately, incorporating the Grip Master into your practice regimen can significantly enhance your guitar playing, making your practice sessions more productive and your performances more polished.