NationStates Jolt Archive


What musical instrument should I get next?

Kanabia
31-05-2006, 11:34
Hm, I just realised i'm going to have a reasonable amount of spare cash in a couple of months. I contemplated going on an overseas trip, but it's not quiiiiiite enough for that....so I figured, meh, why not get another instrument and learn that?

Space is a problem, so a drumkit is probably unfeasible...but pretty much anything else goes. I'd prefer a stringed instrument though.

Already got guitars; but my electric is pretty average. Maybe I could get a new one instead. Meh. Already got a good vocal mic as well. A bass'd be cool, or maybe a keyboard....or even a mixer so I can properly record stuff.

I figured why not leave it up to the whims of random strangers? ('sif i'd base it totally on that, but hey :p)
The Beautiful Darkness
31-05-2006, 11:37
Get a triangle :D
Philosopy
31-05-2006, 11:39
Hm, I just realised i'm going to have a reasonable amount of spare cash in a couple of months. I contemplated going on an overseas trip, but it's not quiiiiiite enough for that....so I figured, meh, why not get another instrument and learn that?

Space is a problem, so a drumkit is probably unfeasible...but pretty much anything else goes. I'd prefer a stringed instrument though.

Already got guitars; but my electric is pretty average. Maybe I could get a new one instead. Meh. Already got a good vocal mic as well. A bass'd be cool, or maybe a keyboard....or even a mixer so I can properly record stuff.

I figured why not leave it up to the whims of random strangers? ('sif i'd base it totally on that, but hey :p)
Assuming you're into pop/rock type music and not classical, I would say a keyboard out of that list. Great sound, and you can fake the music of the other instruments on it as well. :p
Cannot think of a name
31-05-2006, 11:41
Therimin
Splang
31-05-2006, 11:41
Keyboard is great, and it allows you to learn the theory much more easily than guitar.

Either than or some sort of golden jewel -encrusted Kazoo.
Kanabia
31-05-2006, 11:42
Assuming you're into pop/rock type music and not classical, I would say a keyboard out of that list. Great sound, and you can fake the music of the other instruments on it as well. :p

Pop? ppffffft :p

I mostly play metal/noise rock type stuff...but classical instruments can go hand in hand with those...

But yeah, i've been leaning towards keyboard.
Pepe Dominguez
31-05-2006, 11:45
The choice is clear: Banjo! :)

Nothing lifts the mood like a banjo!
Kanabia
31-05-2006, 11:46
Therimin

Heh, interesting one... :p
Kanabia
31-05-2006, 11:47
The choice is clear: Banjo! :)

Nothing lifts the mood like a banjo!

Heh, I wouldn't mind that, actually :p
Splang
31-05-2006, 11:47
Banjo and Theremin are both great instruments. I've found the banjo very hard to get along with, though that's mainly due to my laziness I think.
Pepe Dominguez
31-05-2006, 11:51
Heh, I wouldn't mind that, actually :p

It's next on my list, followed by the trixordo bouzouki, slated for 2009 and 2013 respecively, given my financial situation.. :p

I've played a banjo in a music shop though.. the toughest part is holding it if you're used to the guitar.. and they weigh about 40 lbs.. sounded great though. :)
The Alma Mater
31-05-2006, 12:10
A glockenspiel. Though it of course is not stringed.
Rasselas
31-05-2006, 12:38
Get a bass! Basses are great.

Or find one of those tiny folk music shops and buy a weird instrument that noones ever heard of.
BackwoodsSquatches
31-05-2006, 12:44
Pop? ppffffft :p

I mostly play metal/noise rock type stuff...but classical instruments can go hand in hand with those...

But yeah, i've been leaning towards keyboard.


Take $500 dollars, and buy a digital 8-track.

Record some tunes.
Kanabia
31-05-2006, 12:49
Get a bass! Basses are great.

Or find one of those tiny folk music shops and buy a weird instrument that noones ever heard of.

Heh, I supposed I could also build my own weird instrument with help from a tech-minded friend and a few spare pickups and stuff... :p

Take $500 dollars, and buy a digital 8-track.

Record some tunes.

Hm, the problem is i'd need a condenser microphone as well, I think...and they're a bit expensive on top of that.

And then, recording tunes isn't so good when it's just me and no percussion or bass or anything. There's acoustic guitar, but I can make do with what I have with that right now.
BackwoodsSquatches
31-05-2006, 13:03
Heh, I supposed I could also build my own weird instrument with help from a tech-minded friend and a few spare pickups and stuff... :p



Hm, the problem is i'd need a condenser microphone as well, I think...and they're a bit expensive on top of that.

And then, recording tunes isn't so good when it's just me and no percussion or bass or anything. There's acoustic guitar, but I can make do with what I have with that right now.


Many times you can get package deals that have condenser mics included.

As for the bass, if you can play guitar, you can hold down a simple bass line.

As for the drums....if you dont have a drummer, you can always add drum tracks to the mix with the help of the computer your posting on right now.
They dont sound as good as the real thing of course...but its fine if you just want to record some songs to use later.

I highly suggest you get one....you'll be glad you did.
Kanabia
31-05-2006, 13:05
As for the bass, if you can play guitar, you can hold down a simple bass line.

True, that's what I do now...

As for the drums....if you dont have a drummer, you can always add drum tracks to the mix with the help of the computer your posting on right now.
They dont sound as good as the real thing of course...but its fine if you just want to record some songs to use later.

...and that :p

I highly suggest you get one....you'll be glad you did.

Hm. I'll price around, I guess. I'm budgeting for $700 or so.
Mooseica
31-05-2006, 13:25
Get a flute! :) There aren't enough of us flautists around these days, and everyone loves a flute don't they?

Of course, not the most rockin' instrument ever I suppose...

From the list then, I'd say the keyboard.
Bodies Without Organs
31-05-2006, 13:25
Hm, the problem is i'd need a condenser microphone as well, I think...and they're a bit expensive on top of that.

Cheap condensers? Behringer are you friend.

Of course a bog standard sm57 will see you right just to start with.
Taldaan
31-05-2006, 13:26
Get a sitar!
Czardas
31-05-2006, 13:53
Hammered dulcimer ftw. I've never heard of rock dulcimer.... you can be an innovator.
Mooseica
31-05-2006, 13:55
Hang on, had a brain-wave - get a ukelele! Even if it sounds horrible get it for the name!
Kanabia
31-05-2006, 14:12
Cheap condensers? Behringer are you friend.

Of course a bog standard sm57 will see you right just to start with.

Hmm, they're within my budget. Might have a look around.

Get a sitar!

Ooooh, and then I could be a real hippie. :D

Hammered dulcimer ftw. I've never heard of rock dulcimer.... you can be an innovator.

Hmmm, well....it'd be interesting, at least.

Hang on, had a brain-wave - get a ukelele! Even if it sounds horrible get it for the name!

Why would I bother with one of those when I already have a guitar? :p
Mooseica
31-05-2006, 14:17
Why would I bother with one of those when I already have a guitar? :p

Because of the name! :D And for much the same reason that you would bother with a sitar/banjo - because it is a unique sounds unlike what one would get from a guitar :)
Bodies Without Organs
31-05-2006, 14:18
Hmm, they're within my budget. Might have a look around.


I've heard good reports about the C-2's, particularly in connection to live violin, but haven't picked up any of them myself yet. However if you are still just limited to recording guitar I'd say go for the sm57 - if it is good enough for about 90% of all guitar amp miccing, then it should be good enough for you. Were you considering one of the large diaphragm condensers? If so what were you planning on using it for? You say you already have a good vocal mic - what is it?
Bodies Without Organs
31-05-2006, 14:19
Because of the name! :D And for much the same reason that you would bother with a sitar/banjo - because it is a unique sounds unlike what one would get from a guitar :)

Add to that the fact that it is tuned differently, and can be played clawhammer style (unlike the guitar) due to the drone string, and is incredibly portable compared to a guitar. They are also implausibly cheap for entry level ukes.
Mooseica
31-05-2006, 14:21
Add to that the fact that it is tuned differently, and can be played clawhammer style (unlike the guitar) due to the drone string, and is incredibly portable compared to a guitar. They are also implausibly cheap for entry level ukes.

See? it's clearly the perfect instrument, and with a name like that, witht he abbreviation 'uke' how on earth can you possibly lose?!
Bodies Without Organs
31-05-2006, 14:24
See? it's clearly the perfect instrument, and with a name like that, witht he abbreviation 'uke' how on earth can you possibly lose?!

Being able to learn how to play one in a day is quite nice too.
Kanabia
31-05-2006, 14:31
Because of the name! :D And for much the same reason that you would bother with a sitar/banjo - because it is a unique sounds unlike what one would get from a guitar :)

Hmm, i'm not sure that they really do, because as far as I know, they're basically a small guitar with 4 strings. Except for the tuning, which I could do on a regular guitar anyway.

My local music store sells them for $20 each, so i'm dubious.

I've heard good reports about the C-2's, particularly in connection to live violin, but haven't picked up any of them myself yet. However if you are still just limited to recording guitar I'd say go for the sm57 - if it is good enough for about 90% of all guitar amp miccing, then it should be good enough for you. Were you considering one of the large diaphragm condensers? If so what were you planning on using it for? You say you already have a good vocal mic - what is it?

Hm, I guess i'd go for a sm57. I wouldn't use it seriously, it would just be a hobby thing - so probably only a small mic. I might use it if I start a band one day or something. It'd depend what sort of quality I can get out of it.

My vocal mic is a Sennheiser e835. I'm told it's good anyway.

Heh, the truth is, I don't know a whole lot about recording stuff at all. :p
BackwoodsSquatches
31-05-2006, 14:33
True, that's what I do now...



...and that :p



Hm. I'll price around, I guess. I'm budgeting for $700 or so.


Im looking at a digital 8-track (with condenser mic) and 40 gig HD for $250.

(thats enough to leave you enough to buy a decent bass.)

Get both!

Woot!
Eutrusca
31-05-2006, 14:36
"What musical instrument should I get next?"

I recommend a Matterhorn. They sound kewl and you could put it out the window if there's not enough room inside. :D
Kanabia
31-05-2006, 14:37
Im looking at a digital 8-track (with condenser mic) and 40 gig HD for $250.

(thats enough to leave you enough to buy a decent bass.)

Get both!

Woot!

It won't be, i'm afraid...

Not only are music-related things generally more expensive here than in the States, I also play left-handed guitar.

I'll be looking at $700 for a pretty average bass + amp.
Bodies Without Organs
31-05-2006, 14:38
My vocal mic is a Sennheiser e835. I'm told it's good anyway.


Meh. Workable enough. Neither a mic to be ashamed nor proud of.
Mooseica
31-05-2006, 14:39
Hmm, i'm not sure that they really do, because as far as I know, they're basically a small guitar with 4 strings. Except for the tuning, which I could do on a regular guitar anyway.

My local music store sells them for $20 each, so i'm dubious.

I'm fairly sure there's a significant difference. Could be wrong. *Shrug* Never know till you try eh? :) And since they're only $20, it's not exactly gonna break the bank if it turns out to be a bad investment.


p.s. w00t!! 1000 posts :D *Is absurdly proud*
Kanabia
31-05-2006, 14:41
Meh. Workable enough. Neither a mic to be ashamed nor proud of.

'mm. I'm on a pretty limited budget what with supermarket wages, though; and it'd be silly to get a better mic when I hardly use this one.
Bodies Without Organs
31-05-2006, 14:42
I'm fairly sure there's a significant difference.

Even if you do take two strings off a classical guitar, replace the 4th string with a 1st string and capo it up at the appropriate fret before putting it into uke tuning it still isn't going to sound quite like a uke - the larger body guarantees that.
Kanabia
31-05-2006, 14:46
Even if you do take two strings off a classical guitar, replace the 4th string with a 1st string and capo it up at the appropriate fret before putting it into uke tuning it still isn't going to sound quite like a uke - the larger body guarantees that.

Well, obviously. I reckon the uke'd be a step down in quality, though. I've played miniature 6-string "travel" guitars before, and they sound pretty terrible in comparison to a normal guitar. I don't see why a ukelele would be any different.
I V Stalin
31-05-2006, 14:47
It won't be, i'm afraid...

Not only are music-related things generally more expensive here than in the States, I also play left-handed guitar.

I'll be looking at $700 for a pretty average bass + amp.
I play left-handed too, cost me £95 for an average bass and an amp. How much is that in Aussie $s?

Actually, seeing as you're an Aussie, you should get a didgeridoo. Or a zither. Not that zithers are Australian. I just like the name.
Kanabia
31-05-2006, 15:01
I play left-handed too, cost me £95 for an average bass and an amp. How much is that in Aussie $s?

I knew there was a reason you were cool. :p

Err, $235 apparently. And that would get me a very shitty bass with 10w transistor amp, probably.

Heh, although looking around, this (http://cgi.ebay.com.au/Fender-Jazz-Bass-LeannMean-left-handed-axe_W0QQitemZ7418077391QQcategoryZ4713QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem) is cheap...but I wouldn't spend that much money on ebay.

Actually, seeing as you're an Aussie, you should get a didgeridoo. Or a zither. Not that zithers are Australian. I just like the name.

Heh :p
Bodies Without Organs
31-05-2006, 15:02
Well, obviously. I reckon the uke'd be a step down in quality, though. I've played miniature 6-string "travel" guitars before, and they sound pretty terrible in comparison to a normal guitar. I don't see why a ukelele would be any different.

Because they are meant to sound like that.

To get you motivated:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w1o7MSENfhc
Not bad
31-05-2006, 15:10
mandolin or steel guitar
The Tribes Of Longton
31-05-2006, 15:14
Therimin
I second this.
Vogonsphere
31-05-2006, 15:16
get a bass it is that simple
Vogonsphere
31-05-2006, 15:20
you could play a mean iron man
IL Ruffino
31-05-2006, 15:21
Conk shell!
Vogonsphere
31-05-2006, 15:22
Conk shell!
that works to
Vogonsphere
31-05-2006, 15:24
wind chimes
Kanabia
31-05-2006, 15:26
Because they are meant to sound like that.

To get you motivated:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w1o7MSENfhc

OK, i'll admit defeat - that's very very cool. :D
I V Stalin
31-05-2006, 15:30
I knew there was a reason you were cool. :p
That's getting sigged...

Err, $235 apparently. And that would get me a very shitty bass with 10w transistor amp, probably.

Heh, although looking around, this (http://cgi.ebay.com.au/Fender-Jazz-Bass-LeannMean-left-handed-axe_W0QQitemZ7418077391QQcategoryZ4713QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem) is cheap...but I wouldn't spend that much money on ebay.
Hmmm...that £95 was on ebay (then there was about £30 postage). I know how much of a bastard it is a bastard trying to find left-handed guitars. Good luck.
Letila
31-05-2006, 15:37
Hmm, I've heard good things about the violin and the clarinet. The saxophone seems pretty cool, too. The violin is a great instrument, really. Don't mind the signatures that claim its not for real music; those people think Britney Spears is better than Antonin Dvořák.
Not bad
31-05-2006, 15:46
Chromatic harmonica
Kanabia
31-05-2006, 16:12
you could play a mean iron man

Pfft, easy... (http://rapidshare.de/files/21859096/ironman.mp3.html) who needs to know the bass? :p

That's getting sigged...

w00t! sigged! :D
Kanabia
31-05-2006, 16:17
Hmm, I've heard good things about the violin and the clarinet. The saxophone seems pretty cool, too. The violin is a great instrument, really. Don't mind the signatures that claim its not for real music; those people think Britney Spears is better than Antonin Dvořák.

Hmm. If I were going to play an instrument with a bow, i'd probably go for a cello rather than violin, but yeah, I never claimed that they weren't a real instrument either....

Saxaphone; meh. Not really into jazz much, so I can't see a whole lot of pathways open to me. I'll probably give it a shot one day for kicks, but it's not exactly high up on the list.

Oh, and i've played clarinet and recorder before. Didn't like 'em.
Kanabia
31-05-2006, 16:18
Chromatic harmonica

Already got one, somewhere. :p
I V Stalin
31-05-2006, 16:21
Hmm. If I were going to play an instrument with a bow, i'd probably go for a cello rather than violin, but yeah, I never claimed that they weren't a real instrument either....
Listen to much Apocalyptica?
Kanabia
31-05-2006, 16:26
Listen to much Apocalyptica?

Yup. :)
Vogonsphere
31-05-2006, 16:30
Because they are meant to sound like that.

To get you motivated:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w1o7MSENfhc beatles rock
Vogonsphere
31-05-2006, 16:35
fuck fuck
Xandabia
31-05-2006, 16:35
bag pipes
Knuk Knuk and Knuk
31-05-2006, 16:35
Marimbas are cool, and about the size of a keyboard. I like that other dudes idea of making an instrument. My dad and I just finished building my electric guitar! Its a Gibson SG. It took 6 yeards to finish...but we started from scratch. We did everything except put in the fret slots on the neck. A kit would be much quicker.
Accrammia
31-05-2006, 16:43
I'd go for a Midi-keyboard, Imma buy me one of those too. Basically it's a keyboard that you hook up to a pc with a midi-usb cable and then you use an audioprogram to simulate sounds. The sounds are generally waaaaay better than the ones you'd get on a stand-alone keyboard. (ofcourse you'd have to find an "alternative" solution for the software as buying it would cost you approximately €350- (which I reckon' is about 400 bucks)). You could buy a really neat (really neat) keyboard for the cash you could make a trip through europe with.
The Alma Mater
02-06-2006, 06:43
I am ging to change my vote in favour of the Ukulele.
Just watch the vid: http://www.b3ta.com/links/10932