Whether it’s May, June, or November, there’s always a fiesta in full swing somewhere in the Philippines! Fiestas can revolve around a variety of objects, ranging from images of the child Jesus to local delicacies like mangoes and calamay . However, they all feature a common set of activities that never fail to get the locals into a festive mood. Here are 10 classic activities you’ll find at any fiesta in the Philippines. Don’t be surprised if you have happy flashbacks while going through this list. Chances are, some of these popular fiesta activities were part of your childhood! 1. Street Parades You know there’s a fiesta when there’s a street parade making its rounds around town! This can be a rare chance to see the mayor in person if they’re part of the parade. Other common sights include a baton-twirling majorettes and a marching band from the municipal high school. Have you managed to find out the parade’s route in advance? Get into position early, otherwise you’ll find yourself straining your neck to get a glimpse of the parade! 2. Lively Variety Shows When a stage pops up near the municipal hall or multi-purpose venue , chances are there’s a variety show lined up for the night. Sit back and watch as town residents show off their hidden talents on stage. Clap along as a local dance group shakes it to a crisp remixed beat. Hold your breath while a star singer does an impression of Mariah Carey’s whistle. Laugh out loud at the on-point punchlines from some of the top comedians in the area. If you’re lucky, you might even get to watch a magician eating fire or turning handkerchiefs into doves before your very eyes! This is one fiesta activity that people of all ages can definitely enjoy. 3. Beauty Pageants Here’s another staple of the fiesta stage! Local beauty pageants invite the most beautiful girls from around town to show off their looks and wits. These activities often include talent showcases, swimsuit competitions, and a Miss Universe-level Q&A. Usually, the local crown isn’t the only award up for grabs. You might see sashes reserved for “Best in Talent” and “Miss Photogenic” as well. Some municipalities also hold a Miss Gay pageant, which is often a cheeky but fabulous “battle of the wits.” 4. Late-Night Discos If you lean out of your window and hear budots music blaring in the distance, it can only mean one thing: disco night! This fiesta activity usually takes up one of the town’s roads, which is closed off with metal railings. A hired lights and sounds provider sets up large speakers, disco lights, and even smoke machines to set the mood. Locals may start to fill the dance floor early in the evening and stay there until past midnight. Thinking of dropping by the makeshift discotheque? Take a bit of pocket money with you. You might be asked to pay a minimal entrance fee before hitting the dance floor. 5. Colorful Perya Attractions Think Enchanted Kingdom or Star City but at a much cheaper price. The perya or traveling fair is a lively blend of amusement park rides and luck-based activities with kitchen utensils at stake. It first pops up a few days before the fiesta and packs up once the festivities are over. Walk around while munching on popcorn and sipping on a mango shake with condensed milk on top. Try your hand at some dart-throwing or coin-tossing games. Or hop onto the ferris wheel, caterpillar, or horror train for some classic thrills! 6. Parlor Games When was the last time you joined a sack race? The next town fiesta can give you the chance to relive your childhood with classic activities straight out of a grade-school sportsfest. Here are some parlor games you can’t miss: Sack Race - Thought that indoor sack races were hard? Wait until you try hopping across a field of dirt and grass. Pabitin - An old favorite for the little ones! Small prizes are tacked to a bamboo lattice and suspended for players to reach. Paluan ng Palayok - The Filipino version of the piñata. Blindfolded players try to smash a clay pot with a wooden stick. The players are usually made to turn a few times, making them dizzy for an added challenge. Agawang Buko - Participants struggle to take hold of an oiled coconut. It’s a lot harder than it sounds! Palo Sebo - Players take turns trying to climb an oiled bamboo pole to grab the prize at the top. Believe it or not, someone always manages to reach the prize. Culiot - Tug-of-war never gets old, even in the Philippines. Expect a lot of shouting and counting from team leaders to help players pull hard in unison. 7. Basketball Tournament You’ll be surprised at the number of basketball teams you can find in a single town. The fiesta basketball tournament gathers them all for an exciting showdown. Some of the more intense matches can feel like a live NBA playoff. Be sure to catch the finals! 8. Lechon All Around All right, lechon itself is more of a spotlight-stealing dish than a fiesta activity. But you’ll have a hard time finding a fiesta that doesn’t feature a giant roasted pig with crispy skin and juicy meat! Once the roast pig is set out on a banana leaf or pig-shaped wooden dish, you’d better line up fast. A single lechon can feed a few extended families, and it usually draws that many people, too. The best part about this fiesta “activity”? If you know a handful of people in the barangay, you can simply hop from house to house for your lechon fix. Call it your cheat day. 9. Eat and Drink All You Can Lechon is far from the only food you’ll spot at a fiesta in the Philippines. Want to load up on fish fillet, chicken lollipops, and the sauciest spaghetti or lasagna in town? Go right ahead, and grab a small bowl of buko pandan while you’re at it. You’d better make enough room in your stomach! Fiestas are also an excuse to go wild with the drinks. Some households will have entire cases of beer on standby in time for the festivities. It’s even better when there’s a karaoke machine around! Get ready to belt out your favorite tunes right after your drinking spree--just do yourself a favor and skip Frank Sinatra’s “My Way.” 10. Fireworks Display This is one fiesta activity you won’t be able to miss even if you tried. At the end of the fiesta day itself, the entire sky lights up with fireworks ranging from glittery fountains to awe-inspiring peonies . In some cases, the fireworks can be seen all the way from the next town! Some fiestas take their pyrotechnics a step further and match them with music for a one-of-a-kind spectacle. Keep an eye out for these 10 classic activities the next time you’re in town for a fiesta! These all-out celebrations are a rare chance to bond with family, neighbors, and childhood friends. Thinking of sponsoring the lights and sounds at the next variety show, pageant, or disco in town? Treat your friends to some high-quality beats by booking an industry professional like Red Damien! This lights and sounds provider in Quezon City offers state-of-the-art equipment and expert technical support for a festive and hassle-free night. Inquire with us today for more details! Liked this article? Visit our blog regularly for more interesting posts.

You’ve been thinking about booking a professional lights and sounds rental for your upcoming event in Quezon City. Maybe your event has expanded to require more powerful sound design, or you’ve decided that a mic and a speaker just won’t cut it this time. But you have a few questions in mind before anything else. Curious about the average price of a lights and sounds rental, or about the range of equipment you can bring into your venue? Take a look at the answers to these 5 FAQs about professional lights and sounds rentals in Quezon City! 5 Common Questions about Professional Lights and Sounds Rentals in Quezon City Answered 1. How Much Does a Professional Lights and Sounds Rental Cost? You might be hoping for a specific figure to use as a standard while you gather quotations from different lights and sounds companies. But even ballpark prices for professional lights and sounds rentals depend on the size of your event: ₱4,000 - ₱8,000 for basic setups and small events (e.g. birthday party) ₱10,000+ for bigger gatherings (e.g. wedding) ₱100,000+ for huge concerts That being said, the best rentals can also give you the most value for your money. You can either ask for rental packages or have them customizing your rental for your event needs. At the same time, professional lights and sounds rentals are always open for inquiries. You may inquire online with Red Damien and save yourself time and energy, for example. 2. What Equipment Do Rental Companies Offer? The exact lineups will differ from company to company, but you’ll always have a wide range of lights and sounds equipment to choose from. The list below should give you an idea of what you’re in for: Microphones with matching receivers Speakers Power amplifiers Mixers DJ systems CD players Karaoke equipment PA systems Keyboards Disco lights Stage lights Depending on your needs, a professional lights and sounds rental can lend you trusses, fog machines, bubble machines, and special effects lighting for an event your guests will remember! Red Damien in particular offers rentals for LED walls, band equipment, and conference microphones as well. TIP: Always try asking if your chosen rental company can lend you speaker stands. You’ll be surprised at how much better the sound will be if your speakers are at shoulder-height or higher! 3. Do Rentals in Quezon City Include Tech Support? The best lights and sounds rentals will gladly let you hire seasoned crew, including a DJ for killer beats! These people have been trained to effortlessly fine-tune an entire event’s worth of world-class equipment. You won’t have to worry about technical glitches going downhill with these professionals around! Just remember that you’ll want to be clear with your provider about whether professional fees are paid separately. 4. How Early Should I Book a Lights and Sounds Rental? Planning out an event definitely isn’t an easy feat! It’s understandable that you’ll also have to take time to scout for a venue, find a caterer, and maybe even advertise your event. Fortunately, most lights and sounds providers in Quezon City accept rental inquiries that are just two days before the event itself. But as much as possible, book your rental early to be sure that your lights and sounds provider is still available! Two weeks in advance is a good standard for smaller gatherings while a month or longer is best for larger events. 5. Where Do Rental Companies Source Their Equipment? Not all speakers and microphones are built the same! Professional lights and sounds providers in Quezon City invest in high-quality equipment to the best of their ability. Some companies even form partnerships with world-class brands so that they can reliably offer the best gear to their clients. You might have to shell out a bit more to hire these companies, but it’s better than having your event spoiled by malfunctioning mics and blown speakers! Red Damien’s partners include Fender , Mackie , Marshall , Mipro , Pearl , Peavey , Rane , and Allen & Heath . Do any of these names ring a bell? That’s right--they’re all global heavyweights when it comes to sound system technology!   ALSO READ: 5 Ways Lights and Sounds Rentals Can Make Your Event Awesome   Still have a few questions left? Get all your answers with the help of the professionals at Red Damien! We can fit you with all the gear you need to complete your upcoming event, thanks to our first-hand knowledge and experience in the music industry. Whether you have an intimate gathering or a big-time concert in mind, Red Damien is your best bet. Contact us today to find out more! Visit our blog regularly for more articles about lights and sounds rentals in Quezon City.

For a typical partygoer, a sleepless night is nothing compared to the fun brought by endless music. Thanks to the DJs who constantly provide great music, staying awake up to the wee hours of the morning has become a simple feat. Dance music has slowly become the subculture of the younger generation and with great artists like David Guetta, Avicii, Skrillex, and other top DJs, party music has truly gone notches higher! Certainly, there are DJs that are worthy of recognition. And they are the ones who exerted extra effort to find tracks that changed the party scene. Without further ado, here’s a list of the Top 10 DJs who blew the minds of partygoers by simply acing their game! 1. Tiesto Topping the list is Tiesto who is a Dutch DJ and record producer at the same time. He was named as the “Greatest DJ of All Time” by Mixmag Magazine and recognized as the “Best DJ of the Last 20 Years” in 2013 by DJ Magazine. To top those recognitions further, he bagged a Grammy for his remix of "All of Me" and has become the first DJ ever to perform in an Olympic Opening Ceremony. Tiesto is definitely a name to beat in the DJing scene. It is no longer surprising to know that Forbes magazine named him as the second highest earning DJ, with a nightly gross of $250,000. To prove his popularity even more, his waxwork is one of the attractions at Madame Tussauds. Tracks to listen to : Red Lights, Elements of Life, Just be 2. Martin Garrix Another Dutch made it to the list. At the age of 20, Martin Garrix embodies every teenager's dream. He rose to fame after making his electronic track, "Animals" when he was only 16.  The track has now reached almost  a billion views in YouTube. His remarkable status as a DJ is further sealed by getting the first spot in DJ Mag’s Top 100 DJs in the world--which he won without even campaigning for it.   Tracks to Listen to: Animals, Forbidden Voices, Virus 3. David Guetta David Guetta is one of the most popular DJs in the world. This Parisian has hit the airwaves with tracks like Hey Mama featuring Nicki Minaj, with almost a billion views in YouTube, and Titanium ft. Sia which is a big hit in the Philippines. As one of  the highest earning DJs recognized by Forbes magazine, he has some notable performances, one of which is his remarkable stint under the Eiffel Tower for the UEFA Euro 2016., where he was also recognized as the musical ambassador of the said event. Tracks to listen to : Without you, She Wolf, Dangerous 4. Skrillex Recognized by Forbes as the $15 million DJ, Skrillex has an inspiring rags-to-riches story to tell. Before becoming an electronic dance music producer, DJ, singer and songwriter, this six-time Grammy Award winner was once a homeless. Right now he is the second highest paid DJ and performs with the world's best artists. He also owns two labels OWSLA and Nest HQ and is now on the job of putting up “The Nest”, a creative hub in Los Angeles, California that will include a high end recording studio and interactive spaces. Tracks to listen t o: Bangarang, Make it Bun dem, Scary Monsters & Nice Sprites 5. Avicii Tim Bergling, popularly known as Avicii is a Swedish musician who has become one of the global EDM icons in just a short time. He is a big hit in European countries including Sweden, France, UK and Belgium, and has always been a mainstay in MTV Music Awards as an awardee. Aside from Djing, he's busy with his own charity “House for Hunger”, which is aimed at eradicating hunger. Tracks to listen to: Wake me Up, X You, Hey Brother. 6. AfroJack The 3rd Dutch that make it to the list, AfroJack has been consistent in making it to the list of the Top 10 DJs of DJ Mag's top 100 for the past 5 years. He has done collaborations with great artists like Pitbull, Snoop Dogg and even Madonna. His recent success was his collaboration with fellow Dutchman, Guetta in their track "Hey Mama". In an interview he said that his biggest achievement was helping new artists get a share of the limelight. He has been instrumental to the success of newcomer artist Fai and EDM’s rising star Oliver Rosa. Tracks to listen to: Hey, Summerthing!, Ten Feet Tall 7. Steve Aoki This Japanese-American EDM icon is not only a Dj, but also a producer and record label boss with his Dim Mak empire. He has earned the recognition from Pollstar as the highest grossing dance artist in North America from tours in 2012 and has been featured in a Netflix documentary film which traced his success. Though he is undoubtedly one of the busiest DJs in the world, Aoki still has time for charitable causes. He is the founder of the Steve Aoki Charitable Fund, an organization that raises money for global humanitarian relief organizations. He is also a known supporter of several charitable organizations including  PETA, Oxfam, United Way, The Humane Society, and others. Tracks to listen to : Delirius, What we Started, Back to U 8. Calvin Harris Calvin Harris broke a world record back in  2011 with his diamond award for We Found Love featuring Rihanna. This time, with a whopping $63 million gross earning, he was named as the highest earning DJ of 2016. One of the most talked about DJs in the world, with his split up with Taylor Swift and involvement in a car accident that almost got him, 2016 was still an eventful one for Calvin with a slew of awards (e.g two MTV VMA, Caesar's icon of the Future Awards and GQ Artist of the year) that further defined his remarkable status in the industry.   Tracks to listen to: This is what you came for, Blame, Summer 9. Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike The Belgian brothers landed the 2nd spot on DJ Magazine’s list of top DJs this year. It was their down to earth attitude that sets them apart from the rest of DJs and their connection with the crowd made their performances a hit among partygoers. From the 79th spot back in 2011, they leapfrogged to the 39th in 2012. They rose to fame alongside Belgium's Tomorrowland Festival that became a dance culture phenomenon. Tracks to listen to : Stay A while, Higher Place, Find Tomorrow 10. Hardwell Hardwell was twice voted as the Top DJ in the world and at present, he occupies the third position. 2016 has been a tireless year for the DJ as he went on a world tour to spearhead Music festivals in Miami, Holland, Ibiza and more. His record label has also been busy as it released its 250th--a milestone for any label, as it is described. Topping it off is the Golden Award he clinched for his most innovative idea with his fan-focused bot on Facebook. Tracks to listen to: Young Again, Thinking about You, Dare You A night of partying wouldn’t be as fun as it is without the DJs who never grow tired of giving their best through their selection of music. It definitely makes sense to give these masters the recognition for making magical moments possible on the dancefloor! Do you find this article helpful? Share us your thoughts by commenting below Looking for a DJ equipment? Contact us.

Mixing music is already a complex thing, and the last thing you will ever want as you start with your DJ career is an instrument that doesn’t deliver top-quality sound. Since DJ controllers play an important role in the life of a DJ, it is essential that you choose your best equipment that will set you off in your new career. However, with an overabundance of DJ controllers available in the market, choosing the one out of the lot becomes difficult. If you’re looking for the best controllers for DJs, browse through our random list of the 5 best DJ controllers to help you get started. Numark Mixtrack Pro 3   Native Software: Serato DJ Estimated Price: $199 (P10,149) The Mixtrack Pro 3 is a sleeker and compact update of the 2015 version of the series. It comes in with multi-function backlit performance pads, channel filters and a unique touchstrip FX control that is ideal for entry-level DJs. It’s already bundled with the free Serato DJ Intro software and it will cost you extra to get the full version. Pioneer DJ DDJ-SB2 Native Software: Serato DJ Estimated Price: $299 (P15,249) Considered a workhorse in its class, the DDJ-SB2 is a compact, 2-channel 4-decker mixer that has all the features of its predecessor, the DDJ-SB. DDJ-SB2 comes with added professional features such as trim pots, level meters and pad transform effect. It allows easy use and set-up and is portable at the same time, making it equally good for professional and entry-level DJs. Denon DJ MC4000 Native Software : Serato DJ Estimated Price : $399.00 (P20,349) The MC4000 is an addition to the distinguished line of professional DJ products. However, it features a no-fuss and practical experience  that also makes it ideal for entry-level DJs. It features a sleek new design that houses 2-channels, 2-deck controllers and sampler pads. It also puts in a dual microphone with a studio-grade echo effect, which is a plus to both club and mobile DJs. Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S2 MK2 Native Software : Traktor Pro 2 Estimated Price : $399.00 (P20,349) The Traktor Kontrol S2 MK2 is a compact, lightweight version of its predecessor, Native Instruments S4. It performs with two channels, a pro-grade mixer and RGB backlit buttons. It has an arsenal of specialized DJ effects and at the same time, allows you to personalize your sound with Remix Decks. Its compatibility with a desktop/laptop and an iPhone or iPad also allows for mobile DJ setups. Pioneer Native Software: Rekordbox Estimated Price: $1,399.00 (P71,349) The XDJ-RX system is a laptop-free solution for DJs who wish to get rid of additional loads during gigs. It already comes along with a built-in LCD screen but, the best feature of this controller lies on Pioneer’s own Rekordbox software it runs on, and its use of USB devices as a music source. These allow for easy setup, mix, and control of all your music files without having to play it in your laptop. When it comes to DJ controllers, there’s no one-size-fits-all. The truth is, the best DJ controller comes in the form of the one that works best for you. So, choose wisely and carefully. Do you know some beginner-friendly DJ controllers you can add to this list? Let us know in the comments section below. Read  our blog for more of the latest and interesting news!

Introducing the Penny Pad A consistent evolution in the MIDI controllers is nothing new in dance music. This tool that generates and transmits Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI), it triggers sounds or beats by using a specific interface, with the keyboard as the most common type of controller.After trying out some other movement-oriented equipment, PENNYWILD, has gone far beyond the basic as she collaborated with finger drumming champion, Coby Ashpis, to produce a MIDI controller that uses a dance pad--the Penny Pad. Penny Pad uses a dance pad that is reminiscent of the ones used in Dance Dance Revolution (DDR), which converts the foot pressure into MIDI beats.While the DJ equipment is still in a prototype stage, PENNYWILD is already looking into developing and creating a beta version of the Penny Pad . The artist who is Melanie Penny Wildman in real life has hinted that she will be releasing an EP in March, with its tunes created with the controller."Dance has always been a reactive expression, and I feel like it's time dance is a generative expression," PENNYWILD tells Billboard."The entire concept of my upcoming EP in conjunction with the Penny Pad is that movement breeds music. It doesn't have to be the other way around,” she adds.Read the full story here . What do you think about the dance pad MIDI controller? Let us know in the comments! Visit our blog for the latest and more interesting news!

Every professional DJ needs a decent set of DJ headphones. It’s one essential piece that allows them to cue up the next playlist while also mixing between tracks. If you’re wondering how DJs do their magic without interruptions or dead air, a pair of professional DJ headphones is the answer. However, it’s not just a regular headphone. You have to know how professional DJ headphones differ from ordinary ones, as well as the top choices that can guarantee the best sound quality you’ll need for your job. DJ Headphones vs. Regular Headphones Unlike studio headphones or regular models, a pair of DJ headphones is designed to work in specific conditions. It typically has a wider frequency range and higher gain levels and uses closed-ear caps, which has the ability to cancel outside noise. DJ headphones are meant to offer good noise isolation, well-pronounced highs and deep base. A lightweight, foldable body and rotating ear cups is also a requirement. But, while it seems every pair of headphones in the market are the same, they actually have different key selling points to suit every taste and budget. To help you with your search, take a look at this list of top 5 professional DJ headphones of 2018 in random order: Sony MDR-V55 Average Price : P4,031 The MDR-V55 is an excellent entry-level DJ headphone that is a perfect balance between quality and price. It features a solid but lightweight body, with reversible ear cups for flexible listening. Its decent looks come with a powerful bass and satisfactory clarity. However, one thing to note about this Sony equipment is that it’s 90% made of plastic, so creaking can be expected. Numark Red Wave Carbon Average Price : P4,998 For DJ headphones that offer great value for money without compromising quality, the Red Waves can be your best bet. It’s an over-ear closed-back headphone that features an impedance of 24 Ohms and frequency response of 15Hz to 20kHz, all in a 280g-body. It comes bundled with a removable coiled cable, dual cable inputs and a carry bag. Audio-Technica ATH-PRO700MK2 Average Price : P6,500 The ATH-PRO700MK2 model carries the sophisticated technology and superior components Audio Technica is known for. Its lightweight body surprisingly carries massive 53mm audio drivers with 38 Ohms of impedance and a frequency response of 5Hz to 35kHz. It comes with a swiveling earpiece that guarantees a perfect fit for every DJ. Sennheiser HD25 Average Price : P17,569 The HD25 is an on-ear, closed-back headphone that is reasonably lightweight at 300g. It features an industry standard DJ headphone properties including a frequency response of 16Hz to 22kHz and a maximum SPL (short for standard pressure level) of 120dB. With the HD25 range, you can also opt for a light or plus version. The latter mirrors the standard version except that it’s packaged with additional accessories: a replacement pair of soft velour ear pads, a pouch and a coil steel cable. Beats Pro Average Price : ‎P19,990 The fact that Beats Pro is listed as one of the best professional headphones doesn’t come as a surprise. What makes this gear a standout is that it houses swiveling ear cups, deep bass and as well as dual cable inputs in an aluminum body that is comfortable yet nearly indestructible. Also, a bundled cable with a built-in controller allows you to enjoy Beats Pro with a mobile device.   Headphones are the finishing touch of a complete DJ setup . No matter how it’s tempting to buy the most expensive ones available in the market, still, you should put greater consideration to the ones that will suit not only your budget but your skill level as well. Did you find this article helpful? Let us know in the comments! Read our blog for the latest and more interesting listings!

Sennheiser, one of the best brands in the professional sound system industry, is bound to make its debut in the world of consumer speakers this 2018. At the recent CES event, the company has shown a prototype soundbar that is targeted to launch before the year ends. This is a first for Sennheiser, as for the past years, it has focused on loudspeakers. Sennheiser’s First Consumer Speaker During the event, the speakers are already working although the prototype’s body was not yet completed. And based on the demo conducted by a representative from Sennheiser, the company’s first soundbar is bound to set a higher standard in the market as it sounded much better than the available consumer speakers today. Sennheiser plans to make the soundbar available through its Ambeo brand. The consumer speaker is designed to produce 360-degree audio. The company promises that the soundbar can create a virtual 5.1.4 sound as it boasts of some of the features that made this speaker, a thing to watch out for. The chunky soundbar includes 13 drivers, 6 four-inch woofers, 5 tweeters, and 2 top-firing speakers. While Sennheiser hasn’t announced its pricing, as well as its release date, consumers can expect another outstanding product from the company who gave us high-quality speakers, headphones and other professional sound requirements. To learn more about this story, read here . Regularly visit our blog to find the most interesting news and updates in the professional lights and sound industry.

Your DJ equipment represents a large investment in your career and because you put a lot of money into it, a broken piece is something you can’t allow. But the truth is, no matter how much money you spend on it, it will still not excuse your equipment from any damage it may be subjected to. Aside from the usual wear and tear, the worst culprits your sound system has can also come in the form of dampness, dust build-up, and neglect. That said, investing in the proper care for your DJ gear is crucial as it will ensure that it will endure the test of these elements. So, to help you, we break down the best practices in maintaining your treasured DJ equipment. 5 Practical Tips to Care for Your DJ Equipment 1. Invest in a DJ Equipment Case As a professional DJ, most of your time will be dedicated to traveling with your equipment from one point to another – and, carrying it unprotected is one of the worst mistakes you can do. Invest in a case that is specifically made to protect your gear while on the go.  Gator Cases carry bags and cases are designed to do exactly just that. 2. Cover Your Setup Cases will take your equipment safely from place to place but, protective covers will keep your turntables, controllers, and CDJs prepared for not-so-unpredicted damage such as food and drink spills from a random person popping round to request a song. DecksaverTM offers cases tailor-made for your audio gear. 3. Prepare for Rain The weather can be unpredictable and when performing outdoors, it’s best to prepare for rain. Otherwise, risk having your equipment soaked and possibly damaged beyond repair. Consider keeping a canvas or anything you can easily throw in your setup nearby, in case when the rain starts pouring.  4. Set-Up in the Shade Similar to dampness, extreme heat can also mean harm to your equipment. When performing outdoors in the day, set up in a shade as much as possible. It is in these times when you’ll realize how important investing in a tent or canopy is. 5. Keep it elevated Finally, when setting your gear up, place it on a raised platform. In this position, you help your gear with overheating issues not to mention, protecting it from possible drink spills.   How to Properly Store Your DJ Equipment Besides the normal damage when in use, your DJ equipment is actually more vulnerable when kept or left untouched. Store it in a dry place with minimal to no dampness. Over time, humidity slowly builds up moisture that can cause electric contact surfaces to corrode, resulting in poor contact. Here are some other tips you can keep in mind: If you are storing your DJ equipment for a long period of time, apply a layer of protective material like WD-40 on the plugs and sockets. If you must store your gear in a cold place, let it warm to room temperature before using it again. As soon as everything is warm, it should operate normally. For mixers : blow off the dust from the mixer using compressed air. It will help prevent dust build-up to ensure it maintains its good condition. For turntables : clean your platter occasionally with a soft cloth soaked with alcohol and water solution. It will help reduce friction and result in a slicker surface. For vinyl records : store your vinyl in a cool storage. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can melt and warp the vinyl. DJ Equipment Rental The lifespan of your DJ equipment depends on the degree of how well you care for it. Taking reasonable care will reward you with years of excellent service. But, if you want to skip all these, your best option is to rent your DJ equipment! Red Damien caters to your entertainment needs by providing  DJ equipment rentals in Quezon City , the rest of Metro Manila and other key cities in the Philippines. Contact us today! Did you find this article helpful? Let us know by commenting below.

To start a band, you need to start with the essentials of a basic band setup. There are lots of music stores out there that cater to ‘real’ musicians, not to mention the thrift shops where the most persistent shoppers can also find great bargains. But for the financially challenged, buying a band equipment isn’t always the best option--especially with a sounds and lights rental company that can provide dependable band equipment for beginners. Now that you already know where to find your band equipment, the next step is to identify the necessities for your band’s live performance. The Essentials of a Professional Band Setup Whether you’re ready to spend thousands for band equipment or just wanting to know what to rent, you’ll find yourself looking into a wide range of options. To keep it simple, here’s a quick guide that will give you a rundown of the essentials that make up a typical band setup: 1. Audio and PA system Let’s start with the basics. A set of monitors is a musician’s best friend while on stage. Monitors serve as speakers, where all the sound that every band member must hear comes out. These are absolute essentials to ensure great sound. But that’s not all. Next in line for your audio and PA system is the mixing board which is used for the microphones and connected to an amplifier. With a sound technician to take charge, your mixing board can ensure tone quality, volume balance and can avoid audio faux pas, e.g feedback. What you’ll need: Pair of speakers Mixing board Amplifier Microphones and stands Cables 2. Guitars There is a guitar that matches your vision for your band, as well as your choice of sound and genre. Basically, it is a choice between acoustic or electric guitar. Acoustic guitars create a warm and bright tone that suits a range of genre, while electric guitars allow tone control while adding effects to the typical guitar sound. What you’ll need: Guitar strap - comfort and durability are two things you should consider. Guitar amplifier- This is quite expensive but can be used for a range of purpose, including: for rehearsals, small gigs, or performances in open areas. For a gig and live performance, an average 50-watt amplifier is needed to get enough sound boost. Here’s a brief guide to choosing your first amplifier. Pedals- you need this if you want to control the tone, quality, effects or distortion of your guitar. There are innumerable sounds that you can potentially create with pedals. Ultimately, it all boils down to your choice. 3. Bass The bassist is often the silent player of the band but actually plays a significant role in making good music.  The bass can maintain rhythm and tempo and provide foundational notes for the soloists to play upon. But unlike the guitar, you’ll need an entirely different set of strings (thicker ones) and an amplifier to get this equipment working. What you’ll need: Basically, bass requires the same accessories as what electric guitars use ( e.g strap, pedals and amp). However, there are some important considerations when using amplifiers for bass. You wouldn't want to put an electric guitar amp at risk, so don’t plug a bass guitar on a guitar amp. Plugging a bass guitar on an electric guitar amp can give you a “thin” sound which contradicts what you want to achieve. Bass amps have closed cabinet to give you thicker sound. 4. The Percussion or Drums Rhythm is the basic foundation of every great band out there and with a good drummer, pace and tempo is controlled.  Along with a good bassist, a band performance guarantees to stand above the rest. There are several drum kit setups out there. One can be for a jazz band, others for folk indie, while many are for rock bands. However, there’s a basic 6-piece drum kit which is basically composed of the following Cymbal Floor drum (floor tom) Pair of toms (high tom) Bass drum Snare Hi-hat 5. Keyboards A keyboard or digital piano is a basic component of modern music. Along with the guitar, it is largely responsible for the melody. Modern keyboards or organs can also imitate the sound of wind instruments, and more.   Do you find this article helpful? We value your comments, share us your thoughts by commenting below.

Fender is launching its newest line of instruments while keeping the unique signature that customers loved from their original American Standard series. Fender announced in January that they are introducing its newest series American Professional series of instruments replacing the American Standard. Fender has introduced its newest line of instruments, the New American Professional. This latest release from the company replaces the original American Standard series, but still, preserves the unique signature elements that customers loved from their brand. The company's VP of Electric Guitars and Basses, Justin Norvell told Forbes that they’re trying to balance the old and new: "We’ve got these instruments that are sacred, they’re beloved, and we have to balance that knife’s edge of keeping the form factors and everything that we love about them the same and authentic, but at the same time, finding ways under the hood or inside to color inside the lines and modernize." According to CEO Andy Mooney, the changes they made were minimal: "There are not too many things other than the basic form that hasn’t been updated. Anything that’s tactile—the neck shape, the fret heights—have been altered to reflect what we’re hearing back from artists about what they want in a contemporary guitar. Pickups have been changed. We’ve put in features that a lot of pro players have been modding into the guitars. We’ve packed everything into this and customized every model." The new series was aimed at giving a new rendition to the vintage American Standard which was born in the 1960s. Young and contemporary players find the new series a good update to the signature guitars and basses. Mooney said that Fender loyalists are adopting the new series, from Bruce Springsteen to Kenny Wayne Shepherd. Looking for band equipment rentals ? Contact us to avail of professional-grade instruments and audio equipment. Phone us at 0917-806-1144 or 0920-952-5363. Or email us at reddamien@gmail.com

The time comes when you need band equipment rental service to support your gig venture. Either you’re starting out and needs a performance-worthy instrument or you have logistics problem and needs to rent, whatever the case all performers may come across the need to rent band equipment.   If you’re about to rent or when the time comes you need to, follow these simple tips and advice when renting band equipment to get the most out of your bucks. If you’re a musician, you will never really know when you’ll need to rent a band equipment. Whether you’re starting out and needs a performance-worthy instrument or even if you already have your own but experiences unexpected problems prior to a gig, finding a quality and dependable band equipment rental is an absolute lifesaver. However, you can only satisfy your expectations if you will put enough attention on renting a band equipment.  To help you here are some useful tips and advice to guide you in finding the best band equipment for rent. 6 Band Equipment Rental Tips that You Must Know Follow Your Luxury When renting musical instruments, it pays to follow your luxury. If you want to have that 60s blues bass, get a ‘63 Precision Bass or an Epiphone Viola bass. Don’t skimp on renting the music instrument you play, or else compromise the sound of your band. Hence, when looking for band equipment rental services, only go to suppliers that offer branded instruments. Inspect the Instruments After choosing the brand of band equipment you want to rent, make sure to inspect the condition of the unit If it is a string instrument, check the action and setup. For percussion, inspecting the condition is quite easier. Of course, you can check the “real” condition of the instrument through its sound quality. Test the Instrument before Renting Now that you’re sure that the instrument is in mint condition, the next thing you want to check is it’s “feel” and sound to know if it is suited to your taste and according to the requirement of your band. Testing the equipment is also crucial to ensure that you won’t fall into any problem when in the middle of a performance. Ask About Other Services Offered When you’re finally able to choose the instrument to rent, ask the band equipment rental supplier about other inclusive services that they offer. Is there any additional fee for delivery and setup? When renting band equipment, you want a to find a supplier that offers the most services for the same price. Be Clear with the Damage Policy Let’s face the fact, accidents happen. When you’re high with the song you’re playing, chances are you may accidentally break the snare head. At times, even when you’re careful in using the band equipment, unexpected damages still occur. As such, it is important to talk to the band equipment rental supplier about their damage policy and how you can negotiate if ever it doesn’t sound good to you. Treat the Instrument as if Your Own. Lastly, keep in mind that as a renter, it is important to be courteous and treat the instrument as your own. As a musician, it is expected of you to take care of the instrument you only rented, especially when it is the best instrument you never had. Not only will it help you avoid fines, treating the instrument as your own also earns you a good renter reputation--and possibly, a discount for your next transaction with the supplier!  Do you find this article helpful? Share us your thoughts by commenting below.

When you play for a music festival that is watched by some thousands of fans; when you play music along with other bands in one large-scale event, you will need extra preparation to make an impactful and unforgettable performance. But preparation goes beyond practicing your song. It also includes preparing a stage plot and input list. These two are the secrets to making a good performance great, fending off glitches and technical problems. If it is your first time to prepare a stage plot, you’re in the right place to learn the basics of this performance SOP. What is a Stage Plot? Stage plot is simply an illustration of what your band's setup would look like onstage as you perform. This diagram includes specific placement of your band equipment and some other useful information for the sound engineer. Stage plot is useful when identifying the outlets that you’ll need and in planning the general monitor mixes. When preparing your stage plot don't forget to include: The name of your band, venue, and date Names of each member of the band and their instrument Number of mics, monitor, cables and DI boxes you need Gears you'd be providing Specific placement of amps, instruments, and mics. As mentioned, stage plot helps the sound system team to plan the wiring and mixes of your band. Preparing one when you're on tour is very helpful to save time Why do I need a Stage Plot? You need a stage plot because you don’t want to experience technical glitches while performing live. Stage plot is important when you're playing in big events along with other bands like in music festivals, concerts, and other large-scale shows. This helps the sound guys keep your music projected in good quality and minimize technical glitches. With your stage plot on their hand, they can plan out the stage, prepare the gears and equipment they need to run the show smoothly. How do I create a Stage Plot? Good to know, you don't need special artistic skill to prepare an illustration of your onstage setup. A simple diagram of shapes is enough to convey your message to the sound men. If you want sophistication, you can try tools like  this --a drag and drop stage plot tool. But if you just need what's necessary, a stage plot as simple as this would suffice: In any case, your stage plot should not lack the preferred locations of your monitors, amplifiers, instruments, mic, and the position of each member of the band. What is an input list? Working hand in hand with the stage plot is the input list. As the name suggests, it lists down all the outputs and the required mixer inputs involved. This list plainly describes to the sound men what specific equipment you need from them. A simple input list includes columns for the channels to be used, second the corresponding band equipment, and third the microphone, stand and DI box you need. It roughly looks like this:   [Sample Image] The first column is the ordered number of channels. The middle column indicates the channels. And the third one indicates the mics or DI requested. You can also specify whether to use a compressor or gate on particular channels. Do you find this article helpful? Share us your thoughts by commenting below.