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.

Kyser Quick Change Guitar Capo Demo Review

The Kyser Quick Change Guitar Capo has become a staple for guitarists who value both functionality and efficiency. Renowned for its intuitive design, this capo allows musicians to effortlessly switch between different keys with just one hand. The patented Quick Change mechanism is both reliable and easy to use, enabling guitarists to make swift adjustments without fumbling or interrupting their performance. This ease of use is particularly beneficial during live performances or recording sessions, where seamless transitions are crucial.

One of the standout features of the Kyser Quick Change is its sturdy build and precision. Crafted from high-quality, durable materials, this capo is designed to withstand the rigors of frequent use while maintaining consistent tension across the guitar neck. It offers a snug fit on various neck sizes and guitar types, ensuring that it stays securely in place without causing any intonation issues. This durability, combined with its ability to hold tuning stability, makes the Kyser Quick Change a reliable choice for both amateur and professional guitarists.

Additionally, the Kyser Quick Change Guitar Capo is praised for its sleek, ergonomic design. Its lightweight and compact form factor make it easy to handle and store, fitting comfortably in a guitar case or pocket. Available in a variety of colors, it also adds a touch of personal style to any guitar setup. Overall, the Kyser Quick Change Guitar Capo excels in practicality, durability, and design, making it an indispensable tool for musicians looking to enhance their playing experience and streamline their performances.

Black Mountain Asteroid Guitar Pick Test, Demo and Review

 

In this video, I showed the Black Mountain Asteroid guitar pick.  This guitar pick has three different tips with different colors and thicknesses, thus, this can also be called 3 in 1 pick design.  Check out the video and hear my demo of this guitar pick.

Planet Waves Dual Action Capo Review and Demo

 

The Planet Waves Dual Action Guitar Capo is a versatile tool designed to enhance the performance and playability of guitars. This capo stands out due to its innovative dual-action design, which allows for precise and even pressure across the guitar strings. Unlike traditional capos that often cause tuning issues by applying uneven tension, the dual-action mechanism ensures that each string is held firmly in place, maintaining the instrument's tuning integrity. Made from high-quality materials, this capo is both durable and lightweight, making it an ideal choice for both professional musicians and hobbyists. 

Ease of use is a significant feature of the Planet Waves Dual Action Capo. Its ergonomic design ensures quick and easy application and removal, allowing guitarists to switch between different fret positions seamlessly during performances. The capo's design also minimizes the risk of damage to the guitar's neck, thanks to its soft, protective padding. This thoughtful construction not only protects the instrument but also enhances the overall playing experience by providing a secure grip without any buzzing or muting of the strings. 

Additionally, the aesthetic appeal of the Planet Waves Dual Action Capo is notable. It is available in various finishes, catering to different personal styles and preferences. This blend of functionality and style makes it a popular accessory among guitarists who seek both performance efficiency and visual appeal. Overall, the Planet Waves Dual Action Guitar Capo is a reliable and stylish tool that addresses the common issues faced by guitarists, providing a solution that enhances both the sound quality and the playability of the instrument.

Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow (Carole King) Fingerstyle Guitar Cover

 

Here is my simple fingerstyle guitar cover of the song "Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow" by Carole King.

"Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow" is a poignant and timeless song written by Carole King, with lyrics by Gerry Goffin. First recorded by The Shirelles in 1960, it became a groundbreaking hit as the first song by an all-female group to reach number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song's success marked a significant moment in music history, showcasing the powerful synergy of King's songwriting and Goffin's lyrical prowess. Its catchy yet deeply emotional melody captivated listeners, and The Shirelles' tender vocal delivery brought a palpable sense of vulnerability to the song. 

The lyrics of "Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow" explore themes of vulnerability, uncertainty, and longing, as the protagonist wonders if her romantic partner's love will endure beyond the fleeting moments of the night. This exploration of romantic insecurity was relatively new in pop music at the time, adding a layer of emotional complexity that resonated deeply with audiences. The song's reflective questioning—"Is this a lasting treasure, or just a moment's pleasure?"—captures the universal experience of seeking reassurance and stability in love. 

Carole King's own rendition of the song, featured on her 1971 album "Tapestry," adds an introspective depth, highlighting her distinctive talent as both a songwriter and performer. Her version strips the song down to its emotional core, with King's soulful and earnest voice bringing a new dimension to the lyrics. This introspective take on "Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow" solidified its status as a classic, underscoring King's enduring influence on the music industry. Over the decades, the song has been covered by numerous artists, each bringing their own interpretation, yet its essence remains a powerful testament to the timeless nature of its themes and the brilliance of its creators.

Bato Sa Buhangin (Cinderella) Fingerstyle Guitar Cover

 

Here is my simple fingerstyle guitar cover of the song Bato Sa Buhangin by Cinderella.

"Bato Sa Buhangin," a song performed by the Filipino band Cinderella, stands out as an enduring classic in the Philippine music scene. Released during the 1970s, this song quickly became a significant part of the OPM (Original Pilipino Music) movement. Its poignant lyrics and melodious composition beautifully encapsulate themes of love, longing, and the ephemeral nature of relationships. The title, which translates to "Stone on the Sand," metaphorically addresses the delicate and often fragile foundation upon which romantic relationships can be built, reflecting the uncertainty and vulnerability that accompany love. 

The song's evocative delivery is a testament to Cinderella's musical prowess, combining heartfelt emotion with melodic harmony that resonates deeply with listeners. The arrangement and instrumentation of "Bato Sa Buhangin" complement its lyrical content perfectly, enhancing the emotional impact of the song. Cinderella's performance captures the essence of bittersweet love, making it relatable to anyone who has experienced the joys and pains of romantic relationships. This connection is a key factor in the song's lasting appeal, as it evokes a sense of nostalgia and emotional depth. 

Over the decades, "Bato Sa Buhangin" has maintained its popularity, continuing to captivate new audiences while remaining a cherished memory for those who grew up with it. The song's timeless appeal is evident in its frequent appearances in media, cover versions by various artists, and its continued airplay on the radio. Its heartfelt message and classic musicality ensure that it remains an integral part of Filipino cultural heritage, highlighting the enduring power of music to connect people across different generations.

Short vs Long Scale Length of a Guitar : Which one do you prefer?

 

In this video, I discussed about the scale length of an acoustic guitar.  I described and showed the proper way for measuring the scale length, that is, measuring between the nut and the middle of the 12th fret.  Then the measurement is multiplied by 2 to get the scale length value.  Check out the video to learn more.  I also compared two guitars with short and long scale lengths.

Always Remember Us This Way (Lady Gaga) Fingerstyle Guitar Cover and more info

 

Here is my fingerstyle guitar cover of the song "Always Remember Us This Way" by Lady Gaga.  

More info about this song:

Lady Gaga's "Always Remember Us This Way," a song from the 2018 blockbuster film "A Star is Born," is a poignant ballad that captures the essence of love, memory, and the inevitable passage of time. With its heartfelt lyrics, soulful melody, and Gaga's powerful vocal performance, the song has resonated deeply with audiences around the world, becoming one of the standout tracks from the film's critically acclaimed soundtrack. 

The Emotional Core of "A Star is Born"

In "A Star is Born," Lady Gaga plays Ally, an aspiring singer-songwriter who falls in love with Jackson Maine, a seasoned musician played by Bradley Cooper. Their love story, marked by both triumph and tragedy, is at the heart of the film, and "Always Remember Us This Way" serves as a musical encapsulation of their relationship. The song is performed by Ally during a pivotal moment in the movie, highlighting her burgeoning talent and the deep emotional connection she shares with Jackson. 

Lyrical Elegance

Penned by a team of accomplished songwriters—Lady Gaga, Natalie Hemby, Hillary Lindsey, and Lori McKenna—the lyrics of "Always Remember Us This Way" are both intimate and universal. The song opens with a vivid scene-setting line, "That Arizona sky burning in your eyes," immediately drawing listeners into a moment of shared intimacy. The chorus, with its simple yet profound declaration, "When the sun goes down and the band won't play, I'll always remember us this way," encapsulates the bittersweet nature of cherished memories that endure despite the passage of time.

Musical Composition and Performance 

Musically, "Always Remember Us This Way" is a classic piano-driven ballad, elevated by Gaga's emotive delivery and the song's soaring melodies. The arrangement is understated, allowing Gaga's voice to take center stage and convey the raw emotion of the lyrics. Her performance is both powerful and vulnerable, showcasing her exceptional vocal range and ability to convey deep emotion through her music. 

Reception and Legacy

The song was met with widespread acclaim upon its release. Critics praised its lyrical depth and Gaga's vocal performance, noting its ability to stand alone as a significant piece of music outside the context of the film. "Always Remember Us This Way" was nominated for several awards, including a Grammy for Best Song Written for Visual Media. It also enjoyed commercial success, charting in multiple countries and earning Platinum certifications. Beyond its critical and commercial achievements, "Always Remember Us This Way" has found a lasting place in the hearts of listeners. The song's themes of love and remembrance resonate universally, making it a popular choice for weddings, memorials, and personal moments of reflection.

Conclusion 

"Always Remember Us This Way" is more than just a song from a film soundtrack; it is a testament to the enduring power of music to capture the complexities of human emotion. Lady Gaga's performance, combined with the song's heartfelt lyrics and elegant composition, ensures that it will be remembered as a timeless ballad of love and memory. Whether experienced within the narrative of "A Star is Born" or as a standalone piece, the song continues to touch listeners and evoke profound feelings of nostalgia and connection.

Which is the Best Nut Width For Acoustic Guitars?

 

In this video, I discussed the nut width of an acoustic guitar.  I showed three acoustic guitars. The first guitar I played was Taylor Academy 12 with around 43mm nut width.  Then, I played Maton EBG808CL which has around 44.3mm nut width.  And the last one I played was Seagull S6 Original with around 46mm which has the widest nut width among the three.

Stringjoy Foxwoods Strings Unboxing and Sound Test on Taylor A12 Guitar

Here is my unboxing of Stringjoy Foxwoods acoustic guitar strings.  I showed how the strings are packed inside the box and they are individually packed inside a sealed plastic bag.  I tested these on my Taylor Academy 12 acoustic guitar and played some tunes to hear the tone and sound of these strings with Taylor A12 acoustic guitar.

Taylor Academy 12 vs Maton EBG808CL Acoustic Guitar Sound Comparison Blind Test

Here is my blind test sound comparison of my two acoustic guitars.  The one on my right is Maton EBG808CL The Performer acoustic-electric guitar.  The one on my left is a Taylor Academy 12 acoustic guitar.  I  played the guitars without showing what actual guitar I was playing in order just to focus on the sound and tone of each.  Check out the video and decide for yourself which acoustic guitar is better sounding.

I used two microphones in guitar recording.  The AKG Perception P170 small diaphragm condenser microphone and Audio Technica AT2020 large diaphragm condenser microphone.  Both microphones are directly connected to Zoom Q8 video camera and no audio post editing was done.

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Stringjoy Foxwoods on Maton EBG808CL Acoustic Guitar

In this video, I installed the Stringjoy Foxwoods coated Phosphor Bronze strings in Maton EBG808CL acoustic electric guitar.  The strings are individually packed to protect the stings from corrosion.  I played the guitar with these strings to hear the tone of this guitar and strings combination.  I hope that you like this video.

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Taylor Academy 12 Acoustic Guitar strung with Stringjoy Foxwoods Strings

In this video, I demoed the Taylor Academy 12 acoustic guitar which I restrung with Stringjoy Foxwoods coated phosphor bronze strings.  I also showed the packaging of the strings wherein each string is individually packed.  I played the guitar with various styles to hear the tone of the guitar with new strings.  I hope you like this video. 

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Truss Rod Adjustment on Maton Acoustic Guitar

In this video, I showed to adjust the truss rod of Maton acoustic guitar.  I did not use the standard truss rod adjustment tool from Maton and I just used an L-shape nut driver and an allen key as I do not have the stardard tool from Maton.  It is a little bit hard to adjust but I got there in the end.  I hope you learn something from this video.

Maton Acoustic Electric Guitar AP5 Pickup Info

In this video, I explained some important precaution about the Maton AP5 pickup.  I also discussed the construction and parts involved in installing this guitar pickup model.  I hope that you learn something from this video.

Even If (Jam Morales) Fingerstyle Guitar Cover

Here is my simple fingerstyle guitar cover of the song by Jam Morales entitled "Even If".   I arranged this cover with G-key progression but  I used a capo on the 1st fret for this cover.  The guitar I used in this video is Maton EBG808CL The Performer Series.   The audio was recorded using the built-in guitar pickup AP5 connected directly to the audio input Zoom Q8 video camera.  I hope you enjoy listening.

Tell Me (Joey Albert / Side A) Slow Demo Fingerstyle Guitar Cover

Here is a slow demo fingerstyle guitar cover and arrangement of the song by Joey Albert entitled "Tell Me".  I made a slow demo version of my fingerstyle guitar cover for beginners to see how I played this song to follow and learn from this video.  Tell Me was originally sung by Joey Albert and also popularized by Side A band.

Tell Me (Joey Albert / Side A) Fingerstyle Guitar Cover

Here is my fingerstyle guitar cover of the song "Tell Me" which was originally sung by Joey Albert and later on also popularized by Side A band.  The guitar I used in the video is Maton EBG808CL Performer Series.  I hope you enjoy listening to this short arrangement.  Thanks.

Tao (Sampaguita) Slow Demo Fingerstyle Guitar Cover

Just a simple fingerstyle guitar slow demo of the song by Sampaguita entitled "Tao".

I hope that beginners can follow and learn how to play this song.