Resources for the Aspiring Gigging Singer
I created this page because I get a lot of questions about what equipment I use here in the studio and when I gig. I could not live without these things. They are tried and tested. And simply, I just love them.
Microphones FOR PERFORMANCE + PRACTICE
Sennheiser Vocal Dynamic Mics
I love the Sennheiser cardoid vocal microphones. In fact I use this at gigs more than I do my Shure Beta 58A, which in itself is equally good. For jazz, I feel as though the Sennheiser can pick up more nuance and definitely cuts through the mix. I also use this in the studio.
The difference between these two mics is the E945 has a narrower pick up pattern meaning that it really cuts through a band. It is much richer in detail. The E935 is still packs a punch, offering a clean natural sound.
Shure Mics
The Shure microphones are industry approved and are popular amongst singers. I personally would bypass the SM58 mic and go for the Beta 58A. It helps create a lovely warm, resonant quality on your voice and does pick up quite a lot of nuance. So it’s particularly great for jazz singing.
MIC LEADS
The best brand for mic leads that I have found is Neutrik. They are truly the best. They are quite resilient and durable. Here’s one that I found, which is 10 feet. I always say go big or go home but if you want a smaller one, check out Guitar Brothers or the Guitar Centre here in Brisbane.
AMPS & PA’s
Amp
To start your journey as a singer, you could actually get by with a good quality small amp.
I strongly recommend the Roland Cube Street Amp. For a little unit, that is light weight, it really packs a punch. You can also put effects on your voice.
Speakers and Mixing Desk
If you are ready to get yourself out there to gig, it’s highly useful for a singer to have their own PA system so you are not relying on anyone else, such as a venue or an instrumentalist. I have always used QSC speakers with the Allen & Heath mixing desk. After much research, I decided that QSC would be best for quality and lifespan. I can't stress enough how powerful these are. I have two of these speakers but often only ever need one for a gig. This includes outdoor gigs. Make sure you get a case for your speakers!
The Allen & Heath mixing desk is an industry go to. I’ve never had problems with mine and has many vocal effects you can nerd out on.
Mic + Music stands
TAMA Mic Stand
Let me save you a whole lot of frustration and ultimate heart ache when it comes to mic stands. Don’t buy any stand from any other brands. Tama is the only one that will never start sinking down in the middle of the set while you’re playing the piano and singing at the same time. I’ve had mine for a couple of years now and it has never let me down.
Music Stands
Look to be honest, you could any music stand but I absolutely love my baby pink Manhasset stand. It really pops in the studio and on the gig. I get a lot of compliments.
Technology
iPad Pro 12.1'
As a gigging singer or musician, it would be a great investment to have smart pad. I personally love my iPad pro. It’s ginormous but for good reason. Having it in A4 means that it’s easier to read music on my apps. It’s like having a copy of the music in front of you. Also there are so many amazing things you can do on your iPad; like recording, making videos. It really is the bees knees to me.
