Topic: Do tapers have fun at shows

[TeaLeafer]

Sorry if this had been posted I couldn't find it, if anyone knows of a link just post it

So I'm thinking about getting started in taperdom, I have a good hook up for the gear to get started and I'm looking into it and researching.  One main thing that I need to know is how is taping a show different from just attending a show.  I love everything about live music, and think that taping would be a good thing thing for me to do, but don't want to sacrifice some things I enjoy about shows dancing,drinking,"other things",being social, and I like to be up close to the stage (I realise that's pretty obvious, won't be able to do that), but do you have to kinda be by your equipment all night?  Not that I need these things to enjoy a show.  So, what I'm looking for is all of your oppinions on this matter, I hope you understand what I'm trying to ask:  How is the experience different when taping? 

I hope to learn from your experiences
Thanks
Ben

[Fatah Ruark (aka MIKE B)]

I have fun at shows. I taped Ween and The Flaming Lips the other night and was fried out of my mind for most of the night. It was a great time, and I'm listening to the Ween set now.

Depending on the show you may have to stay by your gear. I usually feel comfortable at most shows at I'm at. When there are other tapers about they'll usually keep an eye on your gear. Just don't be that guy that asks if you can watch his gear...every show.

If you really want to enjoy a show, skip taping for that night. I've skipped on taping a few shows this year (only ones that I know are being recorded). It was nice to know I was having a great time, and I could still get a copy of the show.

Frequently I have MORE FUN at shows when taping. I'd actually say that I'm sure I had more fun the other night hanging out with my taper friends vs. the "regular" friends I came with!

[Gordon]

I have more fun taping and I drink like a fish.  just make sure you can handle your booze and "other".

[bconnolly]

I have the most fun taping when

a) I really like the band (duh...)
b) I'm not with my girlfriend
c) I can sit on a stool or at a table
d) I have a friend to hang out with who doesn't mind hanging in the back and chilling.

I have a lot of fun at shows.

[tfs8271]

Fun?

[china_rider]

I've got to say I have a great time taping at shows.  There is the random person around your mics that are bound to bug you... but thats life.  After recording several shows it will stop bugging you and you will get used to it.  Also, I have met some very kind people in the taper section.

I think one key for me to having fun is that we have a few local tapers here that are at most shows.  We have fun with each other and if any of us decide to leave the taper section to hit the rail or go get drinks we know that the rest of us will look out for our gear so there are really now worries.

Taping became much of an addiction for me and I love doing it.

[easy jim]

I generally have more fun at shows that I'm taping vs. not.  Although maybe a bit removed from the normal concert going experience, there is a unique satisfaction in capturing it in a recording...kinda like fishing.

There is a bit of delayed gratification involved, of course.

[bconnolly]

I generally have more fun at shows that I'm taping vs. not.  Although maybe a bit removed from the normal concert going experience, there is a unique satisfaction in capturing it in a recording...kinda like fishing.

There is a bit of delayed gratification involved, of course.

I especially like it when you capture something completely unique (even better when you're running video).  Like something you hear about a few weeks later from someone else... "Hey, did you hear they covered such and such a song?" or "Did you hear what he said between these two songs?"  And you have it on tape.  That's nice.

[ehg]

I mostly do stealth so leaving the gear is not an option obviously. I guess I could say I don't enjoy the concert the same way when taping (no drinks, dancing, claping and so on) but on the other hand I can really listen and watch what's going on on stage without much distraction.

Also, if I'm not taping (or taking pictures) I tend to stand the whole concert thinking "I would have got a great tape/photos from here. I should have brought my stuff"...

[Liquid Drum]

I mostly do stealth so leaving the gear is not an option obviously. I guess I could say I don't enjoy the concert the same way when taping (no drinks, dancing, claping and so on) but on the other hand I can really listen and watch what's going on on stage without much distraction.

Also, if I'm not taping (or taking pictures) I tend to stand the whole concert thinking "I would have got a great tape/photos from here. I should have brought my stuff"...

Yup, I stealth tape also and that can be a bummer not being able to move much. But, at the last show I taped I managed to put the mics on my jacket...

...But the jacket was on the barrier (I was front row balcony) so I was able to move and enjoy the gig without wrecking my recording. Only bummer is the people that keep moving past to get drinks or go to the toilet. My mics got knocked about 4 times that night - but overall a decent tape and I enjoyed it more.

Its a good thing that for a few of my next gigs are at the same venue so hopefully do the same thing.   

[tapeheadtoo]

I am strictly a stealth taper... I've taped over a hundred shows and not a single one of them open.  I must say that these days I have more fun taping than not.  I've never been much of a drinker or partaker of "other" substances so I don't miss that.  (I will say that my early taping "mentor" used to make sick tapes even when fried out of his brain.)  I've gotten so used to the not-moving-around thing that it doesn't bother me anymore.  I do a lot of head-bopping in my seat.   Sometimes it does suck that I can't talk to my friends during the show, but it more than pays off when I can listen to a nice recording later. 

I get a real kick when I look down and check my meters and see those VUs going.  I absolutely love that.  (except when they're clipping)

As someone else said above, when I'm not taping sometimes I'll be saying to myself, "Damn, I should've brought my gear."  And definitely afterwards, I'll regret not having taped it. 

[jlykos]

I have more fun taping and I drink like a fish.  just make sure you can handle your booze and "other".

Word.  I feel naked without a beer constantly in my hand.

[Javier Cinakowski]

I don't have much fun taping.  Esspecially stealthing.  Open taping I have not had much fun because I have had problems with my rig.  Now that I got my rig all put together and have a ton of practice, I think it is gonna be a ton more fun.   

[anodyne33]

I stopped being the "front row guy" a few years ago. The TS was the next logical step for me.

[willndmb]

usually i have fun, at times you have the asshole who wants to give you shit or play with your gear
but as a whole its fun

[Wiggle]

I stopped being the "front row guy" a few years ago. The TS was the next logical step for me.

Swap 'guy' with 'gal' and that was me a few years ago too. I find music sounds so much better just about anywhere but the front row. Not to mention that part of me gets off on watching the crowd get into the show too. The further back I am (within reason) to take it ALL in the better.

[JoeKiller]

I stopped being the "front row guy" a few years ago. The TS was the next logical step for me.

Swap 'guy' with 'gal' and that was me a few years ago too. I find music sounds so much better just about anywhere but the front row. Not to mention that part of me gets off on watching the crowd get into the show too. The further back I am (within reason) to take it ALL in the better.

True that.  Some of the most fun I have is watching all the people doing crazy stuff and having fun.  Also, I figure I'm a bit too much of a booze hound to go all the way up front.  I'll have to pee eventually (no nalgene)  Generally the only problem I have is when the show is over and I'm picking up a chick, I gotta be like, lemme run this shit outside and sometimes I miss her, or if my friends are like, lets go hang with the band, sometimes I miss that transition but its totally 100% worth it. 

[tapeheadtoo]

I love everything about live music, and think that taping would be a good thing thing for me to do, but don't want to sacrifice some things I enjoy about shows dancing,drinking,"other things",being social, and I like to be up close to the stage (I realise that's pretty obvious, won't be able to do that), but do you have to kinda be by your equipment all night? 

For the band I tape the most, and for certain other artists, I am a fan first... meaning I would rather be up front.  I have taped from the front row a handful of times...  It is certainly doable and depending on whether the taping gods are watching over you it IS possible to get a decent tape.

One pull I have fond memories of was a Yes symphonic show back in 2001 in Interlochen, MI.  I ran my Sonics and MZR70 MD completely stealth (no visible wires, no touching deck from beginning to end) from the front row.  I was directly in front of the PA for the orchestra.  The recording sucked... 80% orchestra, 20% band, in mono...  but I had a great time and it was the only tape to ever surface from that show.   (Plus, having had experience playing in an orchestra, it was real interesting to hear exactly what was going on back there, as it was usually drowned out by the band.)

[Aaron41]

I've been wondering this the last couple shows I've been hitting. Yes I have fun at the shows but taping can definitely put some strain on the evening. I will say though that I find it hard NOT to tape. I'd imagine I'd feel worse not having taped an event than taping it and not enjoying it as much in person.

[wbrisette]

I think it all depends on what you call fun. I walk away from my gear, but only if I know it's in a secure area or that the crowd isn't going to mess with it. But, I have fun at shows too, but for me that's sans any extras other than some beer or wine (or the ocassional vodka & tonic). But I'm a music geek, I love music and love recording. I'm not much into the whole dance thing, or being a "front row joe", so hanging back a bit is just fine with me... and really for me that's all part of the fun.

Wayne

[twatts (pants are so over-rated...)]

Sorry if this had been posted I couldn't find it, if anyone knows of a link just post it

So I'm thinking about getting started in taperdom, I have a good hook up for the gear to get started and I'm looking into it and researching.  One main thing that I need to know is how is taping a show different from just attending a show.  I love everything about live music, and think that taping would be a good thing thing for me to do, but don't want to sacrifice some things I enjoy about shows dancing,drinking,"other things",being social, and I like to be up close to the stage (I realise that's pretty obvious, won't be able to do that), but do you have to kinda be by your equipment all night?  Not that I need these things to enjoy a show.  So, what I'm looking for is all of your oppinions on this matter, I hope you understand what I'm trying to ask:  How is the experience different when taping? 

I hope to learn from your experiences
Thanks
Ben

The biggest difference between taping and not-taping is your mobility.  At least for me, I don't feel comfortable leaving my gear out and like to be where I can watch it.

I stopped dancing and partying a long time ago and became a chill-in-the-back guy, so taping was natural.  If you still want to go crazy, I don't think taping will be fun for you, you might even find it boring.

However, that's not saying you can't become a patcher...  That might be the way to go...

Terry

[Sanjay]

If it wasn't fun I wouldn't tape.  Taping for me is solely a way for me to preserve and have a copy of the concert I went to, its not a contest, its not a race, and its not a job.  As soon as it stops being fun for me i'll quit since I want to have fun at the concerts I go to.  There are several tapers who I know who think of taping as a Race, they sit, have no fun, are really pissy at other people for coming within 10 feet of their stand, and at the end of the night have the tape converted before I pull into my driveway.  I've even seen one taper set up and go back to his car and go to sleep for the majority of the show, coming back later to get his stuff.  These people probably don't have any fun at concerts, but its what they want out of it.

Its all what you make of it, as long as you tell yourself that your enjoyment of the concert comes first you will leave happy and probably still with a copy of the show. 

[Kevin Straker]

Keeping the dumbasses off your stand is the only real headache. Otherwise, I still dance around, drink beer and partake of the occassional.....whatever. We have a pretty good group of tapers in the SE and it's fun to get out and hang with friends that share a common interest.

[mmmatt]

I have a great time at concerts I tape!  I feel strange if I'm at a show and I'm not taping.  When I first started taping I had a girl who loved to go to show's as much as me, but she had a lot less fun when I was recording because my attention was no longer on her.  I actually prefer to go to shows alone when I am taping so that I can focus just on that.   I'll move from my rig to go into the crowd from time to time each show, and I drink a few beers but I don't get trashed... I don't typically get trashed anyways.  The challange of getting the great pull is a very exciting thing for me.  Sometimes you nail it, and sometimes you don't!
     Sometimes when I bring my full multitrack rig out (this is my personal "prefered" way to tape) the load-in > setup > tear-down can get old, but I have gotten to know so many bands, venues and engineers by being there early/late that I often get in for free, or atleast early when I bring that rig out, so that is a nice perk.  My ambient rig is now a very small open rig and bringing that out is just pure pleasure.  Some shows I am at, I know the band is running on all 8 and if I am the only taper I get huge satisfaction knowing I preserved a very special moment in time that would otherwise never be heard by outside ears.  I guess for me the fun is there but it is the ending satisfaction that makes me want to do it again.  I look at some of my recordings on the archive and see that hundereds or thousands of people have downloaded my source and I feel pretty proud of myself!  One band actually thanked me in the liner notes of their first album because they attribute a lot of their early success to my first recording of them and then the efforts of of other tapers via the buzz I started about them through the TS taping community.
     Then add to that all the friends I have made at shows with just hardcore fans of the artist, bands archivists, other tapers, or even just the people who come up and want to know what I am doing and how to get started.  Taping is cool as shit!

Matt

*edit*  When I first started out I was very anal about staying with my rig, staring at my meters, checking to make sure batts were OK, and gurding my shit.  I have since relaxed and I think that would be true for most people who have been taping for awhile.  First few shows are a little nervewracking but fun nonetheless.

[leehookem]

I've got to say I have a great time taping at shows.  There is the random person around your mics that are bound to bug you... but thats life.  After recording several shows it will stop bugging you and you will get used to it.  Also, I have met some very kind people in the taper section.

I think one key for me to having fun is that we have a few local tapers here that are at most shows.  We have fun with each other and if any of us decide to leave the taper section to hit the rail or go get drinks we know that the rest of us will look out for our gear so there are really now worries.

Taping became much of an addiction for me and I love doing it.

that sums up taping here in Austin too!

[Liquid Drum]

If it wasn't fun I wouldn't tape.  Taping for me is solely a way for me to preserve and have a copy of the concert I went to, its not a contest, its not a race, and its not a job.  As soon as it stops being fun for me i'll quit since I want to have fun at the concerts I go to.  There are several tapers who I know who think of taping as a Race, they sit, have no fun, are really pissy at other people for coming within 10 feet of their stand, and at the end of the night have the tape converted before I pull into my driveway.  I've even seen one taper set up and go back to his car and go to sleep for the majority of the show, coming back later to get his stuff.  These people probably don't have any fun at concerts, but its what they want out of it.

Its all what you make of it, as long as you tell yourself that your enjoyment of the concert comes first you will leave happy and probably still with a copy of the show. 

These people are mainly sellers, I reckon.

They only care about a decent tape so they can make a quick bit of cash.

I do get pissed when people knock my mics around on purpose (when they basically sitting on top of me) its not good.

[cgrooves]

Stealth taping isn't really 'fun' to me personally.  I have fun open taping though.  I don't tape the 'big' shows I go to since there are always multiple sources from big money rigs available the next morning online (I have patched a time or two at these types of shows).  I usually tape small local shows where there are 1-3 tapers present.  I don't have a big money rig and all my stuff fits in a waterproof gear bag (cooler).  This allows me to leave the rig and not really worry about someone spilling a beer on it or walking out with it.  Since I've stopped using DAT, I've even let the recorder run while I've left the venue momentarily.  It's nice not worrying about running out of tape or using it efficiently.

[firmdragon]

I went from being front row guy to guy stealthing in front of a stack to being front row guy with a cam.

I still get a buzz whenever I come out of a show with awesome footage. 

[Sanjay]

These people are mainly sellers, I reckon.

They only care about a decent tape so they can make a quick bit of cash.

no just people who tape a hobby too seriously.

[Liquid Drum]

These people are mainly sellers, I reckon.

They only care about a decent tape so they can make a quick bit of cash.

no just people who tape a hobby too seriously.

Maybe, but they gotta calm down, lol. 

[RebelRebel]

when I taped I didnt have much fun because I am obsessive compulsive about my gear, so I was constantly checking levels, elbowing people away from me, etc.

Now I dont tape anymore and have a lot more fun at concerts. (I still record gigs, but only classical and in an employment setting)

[Gordon]

Keeping the dumbasses off your stand is the only real headache. Otherwise, I still dance around, drink beer and partake of the occassional.....whatever. We have a pretty good group of tapers in the SE and it's fun to get out and hang with friends that share a common interest.

true.  taping solo is not nearly as fun.

[TNJazz]

Yup, I used to be pretty obsessive about making the tape.  My behavior was so extreme in some cases that I earned myself a nickname among the fans of the bands I was archiving for at the time (the Silencer).

I rarely record shows for fun anymore, as it's become a business for me.  I still do get out and run from time to time though, just because it's something I've been doing for almost 20 years and dammit, it's still pretty fun sometimes.  I don't stress out about anything anymore though unless it's a paying gig.

Dirk

[twatts (pants are so over-rated...)]

Keeping the dumbasses off your stand is the only real headache. Otherwise, I still dance around, drink beer and partake of the occassional.....whatever. We have a pretty good group of tapers in the SE and it's fun to get out and hang with friends that share a common interest.

true.  taping solo is not nearly as fun.

QFT, Team SE represent!!!

I do have a habit of not taping shows I know will be taped by others, and looking for shows where I may be the only taper...  So I don't get to hang out as much...

T

[bconnolly]

These people are mainly sellers, I reckon.

Not exactly.  At this point, I have a hard time not tracking out my recording the night I get home (which makes for a shitty next day at work).  I don't know what it is... I just feel a need to get it all squared away before my next show.  P.S. I have never sold a show.

[Tenn Man]

Yup, I used to be pretty obsessive about making the tape.  My behavior was so extreme in some cases that I earned myself a nickname among the fans of the bands I was archiving for at the time (the Silencer).

I rarely record shows for fun anymore, as it's become a business for me.  I still do get out and run from time to time though, just because it's something I've been doing for almost 20 years and dammit, it's still pretty fun sometimes.  I don't stress out about anything anymore though unless it's a paying gig.

Dirk

Dirk,

I haven't seen you at any John Cowan shows lately. Are you still recording any of his? I saw him at the Down Home last Saturday. I had run in to you there and at Somerset, KY.

[TeaLeafer]

Wow, thanks for the great responses, that clarifies a lot for me!

Thanks

[rowjimmy]

just to throw one more out there...

I have been on the fringe of the TS for years and years. had friends who taped and hung out nearby, bringing them beers carrying the stand in and happily reaping the benefits as a music collector. In those days I could easily move around, get loaded, spun, whatever but Id drift back toward the section because,

a) my friends were there
and
b) i do better in the more tame surroundings away from the lip.

Then I became a patcher for many of the same reasons but now I got to come home with the show...

Since then I've made a few forays into the field with borrowed gear. The results have been mixed (one great recording, one... not) but It's been fun so far...

 

[Chuck]

I won't go to hear music I don't like just to record it. I went through a "taping isn't fun" stage, but I'm over it. I have fun and don't sweat it now. The all in one ACM PMD 671 has liberated me!

[~~~>]

Nah.  I hate going to shows.  The moment the show starts I'm looking at my watch wondering when it's gonna end so I can go home and listen to it.

[beefstew]

Nah.  I hate going to shows.  The moment the show starts I'm looking at my watch wondering when it's gonna end so I can go home and listen to it.

LOL best post ever

[tfs8271]

The all in one ACM PMD 671 has liberated me!

Sweet Daddy +T

Nah.  I hate going to shows.  The moment the show starts I'm looking at my watch wondering when it's gonna end so I can go home and listen to it.

I know you were kidding, but...
It was the same here, twenty years ago and it wasn't to go home and listen to the show. Just to get to the hotel  . Sick old days.

[L Ron Hoover]

I definately had a lot of fun taping at Blues Traveler tonight. Small crowd. 250-300 people, and they still brought it. Still worth the coin IMHO.

[Gizby]

Regardless of taping or not, I seem to be perennially stuck behind tall teenage guys at concerts. They just seem to know that I want to watch a performance, and they position themselves in front of me in packs.

Just say no to tall teenagers.

[twatts (pants are so over-rated...)]

The all in one ACM PMD 671 has liberated me!

Sweet Daddy +T

Nah.  I hate going to shows.  The moment the show starts I'm looking at my watch wondering when it's gonna end so I can go home and listen to it.

I know you were kidding, but...
It was the same here, twenty years ago and it wasn't to go home and listen to the show. Just to get to the hotel  . Sick old days.

Hahaha...  I run out to my car after shows and listen on the way home...  The benefits of JB3's line-out and an AUX input on my Alpine...

Terry

PS... I love technology...

[bconnolly]

Regardless of taping or not, I seem to be perennially stuck behind tall teenage guys at concerts. They just seem to know that I want to watch a performance, and they position themselves in front of me in packs.

Just say no to tall teenagers.

I was taping from an elevated bar platform (like, 3' up) on Sunday night and a guy standing in front of the rail was blocking my view.  I was sitting at a table, but still... come on.

[bubbybooshay]

at open shows i have lots of fun, particularly if i am with other people and can throw back some drinks without worrying about my gear, at stealth shows i have lots of fun listening to the show afterwards

[tenesejedd]

I definitly agree that some people take it way too seriously. My whole rig fits in a hard metal case (the kind you find at Lowes for Home Depot) so once my levels are set, I close the case, lock it up and go have some fun. I typically stay within eye sight of my gear and get a feel for the crowd. If its all good, then I'll wonder off and enjoy the show. There have been shows where I'll start recording, stay through the first song and a half and watch the levels, and then lock up and I don't see my rig until the end of the show.  If I get a good pull, then I'm happy, if my pull isn't worth listening to, then thats the advantage of the compact flash card and rechargeables... no money lost. For me, enjoying the show comes first. If I get a good pull and I can enjoy it over and over again, then thats a great bonus. And its those good pulls that keep me taping over and over again.

[beathydrolysis]

I probably won't say anything that's not already been said but I have way, way more fun at a show when I'm taping vs. not taping.  The other tapers are right that there's the occassional concertgoer that forces you to watch your gear but its usually a non-issue.  Personally I prefer the view from the tapers section but that's not to say I feel chained to it.  If there's a tapers section, there's likely going to be more than one taper and tapers are great at protecting each others gear.  All you have to do is ask another taper to keep an eye on your rig and you can take off and party your ass off.  Then when you come back you return the favor (it's a great little system).

Also you can be pretty drunk and still handle your rig (you shouldn't even have to touch the levels during a show unless someone drops a bass bomb on you).  And any little effort you spend minding your gear is far eclipsed by the enjoyment you'll get listening to the show on the way home/the next day at work, etc.  I taped my ass off at Bonnaroo and 10klf this summer and don't regret a single moment (I'm sitting on 30 hours of tunes from 10klf alone, post-editing them as we speak, and loving my life).  I stealth a lot too and that can be a different story.  Stealthing requires a lot more effort and self restraint (depending on how much you value a "quality" recording) but you can get some amazing pulls and it is a definite thrill.  'nough said.  Go out and tape, you won't regret it.

[svenkid]

Ive been recording for about 6 years now. at first I patched only from a great sbd at cafe tomo and always partied and was amazed at how easy things were 
Whenever I patched out of actual tapers, I always tried to stay in the section to watch gear, block drunks etc. I was also in a stage of getting older (and wiser  ) and actually enjoyed being in the back more, better sights and sound.

when Im taping 90% im the only taper. I usually have to stay by my rig the whole show, but I dont mind, cause I usually get best sight and sound. I have some friends who occasionally bring me beers, but I usually just stay sober so I can also drive home. sometimes for intown sgows, Ill lock the gear in the car and walk home if there's a show at the humboldt brewery  but if I have to drive to a show a ways away, Im definately driving back.

Taping is fun and enjoyable. I love it bc in a way, its like Im part of many bands, putting in time at shows, and sometimes working as diligently as the artists on stage 
and Its a trip and a half if you become an archivist for a band, or introduce them to the whole taping thing.

[tfs8271]

humboldt brewery 

  Not really one of these anymore. But there is Humboldt Brews   

edit: spelling [shit]

[balou2]

There has never been any question in my mind that I enjoy recording opposed to NOT recording.  In fact, when I attend shows without my gear, my mind often wanders back to my gear...enough to change my focus.

For me, what really changed my attitudes and approach was my show-going experience.  When I was young, dumb and full of cumb, it was nice not having anything to worry about.  Then again, that was 20 years ago, and taping was not in my mind yet.  As I aged, went to over 1500 shows, the "been there, done that" attitude was kept in check by introducing recording in to the mix.  I can honestly say that the last 10-15 years of taping have steadily gotten better, and continue to do so.  I continue to learn, I continue to make contacts, I continue to become more and more a part of each show I attend.  I used to leave a concert with a hangover and a ticket stub.  Now I leave with a hangover, a ticket stub, and a well planned out evening of recording and the show itself.

+t by the way for the question.  That's an important aspect of recording.  If you're going to lose something in the experience, you probably shouldn't do it.

[tfs8271]

There has never been any question in my mind that I enjoy recording opposed to NOT recording.  In fact, when I attend shows without my gear, my mind often wanders back to my gear...enough to change my focus.

For me, what really changed my attitudes and approach was my show-going experience.  When I was young, dumb and full of cumb, it was nice not having anything to worry about.  Then again, that was 20 years ago, and taping was not in my mind yet.  As I aged, went to over 1500 shows, the "been there, done that" attitude was kept in check by introducing recording in to the mix.  I can honestly say that the last 10-15 years of taping have steadily gotten better, and continue to do so.  I continue to learn, I continue to make contacts, I continue to become more and more a part of each show I attend.  I used to leave a concert with a hangover and a ticket stub.  Now I leave with a hangover, a ticket stub, and a well planned out evening of recording and the show itself.

+t by the way for the question.  That's an important aspect of recording.  If you're going to lose something in the experience, you probably shouldn't do it.

WOW +T around...feelin' drunk  good night

[Liquid Drum]

These people are mainly sellers, I reckon.

Not exactly.  At this point, I have a hard time not tracking out my recording the night I get home (which makes for a shitty next day at work).  I don't know what it is... I just feel a need to get it all squared away before my next show.  P.S. I have never sold a show.

Well, not everyone is a seller and I'm sure there is none here also. 

[funkoff13]

for the most part yes.  it varies depending on the venue, crowd, me.

if it wasnt fun we wouldnt do it.

afterwards its always worth it when those headphones go on in the car.

[bgalizio]

I always have fun taping. For one, I tape music I like, not just because the band is taper friendly. I generally see/tape folk music. The crowds are usually very well behaved and quiet. My fiancee enjoys the same music too. I'm usually the only taper, which has good and bad points. The folk community is very grassroots and are always very appreciative of the archival efforts of tapers.

I recently went to see GRAB and there were some moments of near stress with blocking stands, talkers, etc. I don't think I would enjoy taping as much if I had to deal with that environment each show. As it is, I don't like seeing shows in that type of environment very often anyway - taping or not.

[cyfan]

I have as much fun taping shows now as when I started. But I do find it nice sometimes to just scrap the mics and run a JB3 board patch that I can essentially ignore until the end of the show. (I only do this on solo acoustic shows, stuff with DI boxes, things I know will sound OK). It's a little more low-stress, no gear to haul around, easy breakdown for fast exit ...

On the other hand, I have not kept the same joy for the transfers/mastering process. Given that I run a lotta multi-tracks and do some post matrix work, it sometimes means spending a long time at the PC at home to tweek them into shape.

Still nothing like nailing a sweet recording of a performer you dig though ...

tim

[Ryan Sims]

Here's my view on it.  Right now I have a hell of a lot of fun recording my music and my friends, even with the less than wonderful equipment I have.  I love concerts, and even with as many fun experiences I've had on the rail, I would love to put out just a smoking recording for myself to enjoy and hopefully someone else can enjoy that concert as much as I did.  This all started because I absolutely love listening to fan recorded shows, all things recording are of interest to me, and because I feel that shows by good bands deserve to be preserved.

That said, I'm starting small, for both financial and logical reasons.  Anyone want to sell me a 3-wire box?  

[bluntforcetrauma]

i really enjoy taping and i stealth.  i guess its becuase i think i am doing something--i guess i am wound up tight--just cant relax, but as the years pass from the shows i have taped, then i go back to listen to them again it brings back the memories of that show so vividly.  Its like the time is in the fabric of my skin

[tenesejedd]

QFT

........ but as the years pass from the shows i have taped, then i go back to listen to them again it brings back the memories of that show so vividly.  Its like the time is in the fabric of my skin

I think my favorite thing about taping is that every show I tape has a story behind it. Whether its something cool the band did, new friends that I made, seeing old friends I haven't seen in a long long time, etc.

[guitard]

As far as having fun taping... there's more to it than just the few hours you spend doing the actual recording.

I would rather not have to worry about the rig and everything else that goes along with taping a show - and just dance, drink, and have a good time.  But I forego that because I really enjoy listening to the show later and sharing the music - there is more than enough fun in that to make the part that I don't enjoy that much worthwhile.

[svenkid]

As far as having fun taping... there's more to it than just the few hours you spend doing the actual recording.

I would rather not have to worry about the rig and everything else that goes along with taping a show - and just dance, drink, and have a good time.  But I forego that because I really enjoy listening to the show later and sharing the music - there is more than enough fun in that to make the part that I don't enjoy that much worthwhile.

definately! +T

[grider]

absolutely, admittedly a different kind of fun, in that the excitement of being in the front row or being as loud as you want to be is replaced with the satisfaction of pulling tape during the show, I prefer to tape when I see live music

[rocksuitcase]

As far as having fun taping... there's more to it than just the few hours you spend doing the actual recording.

I would rather not have to worry about the rig and everything else that goes along with taping a show - and just dance, drink, and have a good time.  But I forego that because I really enjoy listening to the show later and sharing the music - there is more than enough fun in that to make the part that I don't enjoy that much worthwhile.

Good perspective.  I see those points for sure.  Sometimes taping IS NOT fun, but for me,those times are few and hopefully farther between!

[Digital Quality]

The only not-fun part for me is getting there super early for the big shows. That and getting pegged by the heavy duty glowsticks, the light ones don't bother me but some of them are like test tube hard and heavy,, ouch. Other than that it's a hoot, sometimes we even meet people of the opposite sex  By the end of summer season I'm ready to come out of the rain do some indoor taping and of course at the end of winter it's nice to be outside.

Edit: Now we have indoor smoking ban too so I'm looking forward to that.

[F.O.Bean]

I stopped being the "front row guy" a few years ago. The TS was the next logical step for me.

you were 'the front row guy' for moe morgantown on 2/27/2005 but shortly after, i recall you taping wait a minute, you were 'the front row guy' at roseland moe as well

[aberg]

There are several tapers who I know who think of taping as a Race, they sit, have no fun, are really pissy at other people for coming within 10 feet of their stand, and at the end of the night have the tape converted before I pull into my driveway.  I've even seen one taper set up and go back to his car and go to sleep for the majority of the show, coming back later to get his stuff.

I think I pooed a little reading this... fucking funny shit!

I can think of a few people like this... reminds me of some tapers that spend their whole time at the show grabbing balloons and beach balls and deflating them, when they could just have a little fun and realize that a practically weightless balloon will not only not make any noticeable sound on the recording if it grazes the mics, but it will also do no damage. Big ass beachballs are another story, but still... some people should really just find a new hobby if they're going to take this one so seriously that they can't seem to enjoy themselves.

[Oysterhead00]

Pro's:
 - PERSONAL lasting memory of the show
 - Can revisit the show any time you want
 - Fun to play with your expensive toys
 - Some bands give you special attention and REALLY appreciate your taping and giving them copies
 - Same for venue, little clubs will give you all the free drinks you want for copies of great shows
 - MOST IMPORTANT:  Hot chicks seeing you tape and asking you for copies...you do the math 

Con's:
 - Security hassles
 - Drunks (in my case, that includes me at lots of shows - ha ha ha)
 - Big venues, your friends want to run for a beer in the beer garden...leave your gear or stay by yourself??
 - MOSH PITS near your gear

Overall - I love taping.  If I go to shows with a special someone, I won't tape as I hope to make my own special memories for the night   When stealth taping, I used to stand like a rigid pole to get a good recording, have since relaxed and just hoped the recording turned out OK for my own personal enjoyment.  What I can say is I've gone to see some taper friendly/little bands that I NEVER would have gone to if it wasn't to tape them and have been introduced to some of my favorite bands that way.

If you're thinking of getting into the hobby, I'd recommend a cheap setup to see if you enjoy it...if not, why do it?  If you enjoy it then the investment is totally worth it and the Pro's will greatly outweigh the Con's.

[itook2much]

When stealth taping, I used to stand like a rigid pole to get a good recording, have since relaxed and just hoped the recording turned out OK for my own personal enjoyment.

Ditto.  I have a few drinks, smoke, move a little, & you usually can't ever hear it.  If so, oh well, that's the nature of the game.  I have a stiff neck often, I've found i enjoy stealthing (my usual MO) a lot more when I can go home without my neck hurting for the next coupla days.

[mmmatt]

  ...What I can say is I've gone to see some taper friendly/little bands that I NEVER would have gone to if it wasn't to tape them and have been introduced to some of my favorite bands that way. ...

This is very true for me as well.  I never knew what I was missing before I started taping.   SOOOO much good music out there these days!

Matt

[admkrk]

i was shut down taping tuna last month. had a misserable time because every time i went to ceck on my rig, it wasn't doing anything. as long as my gear isn't in any iminnent danger, i just let it be.

had a date friday, and that was even worse than not taping or being anal about gaurding gear. she wasn't into the tunes and just wanted to sit in one spot. usualy i'll only do that if i have to take my turn watching others gear, and quickly wander off as soon as someone returns.

[edit] the "work" comes in when you need to get a tape to the band asap(sorry, i can't do instant live). it's worth it though when the praise comes from them.

[guitard]

I taped UFO ('70s British rock band) last night (I'll post about some other things that came up while recording in a different thread if anyone cares to read a bit about the show).

This probably sounds kind of stupid ~~ but it worked for me!

OK ~ how to add a little enjoyment to the recording experience... lip synch the music.  Yes - I said LIP SYNCH.  Sing your lungs out.  Flap your gums.  Belt 'em out like the drunks in the front row.  Just be careful you don't get so carried away that you start dancing and jumping around and you're all set.

I was diggin' the jams so much (haven't seen them in 25 years) and knew I probably had a good sounding tape rolling that I just couldn't mess up by singing out loud.  So I just started lip synching... and by God, it was almost like the real thing.  Kind of like sex with a rubber on... not nearly as good as the real thing - but a helluva lot better than nothing!

Next time you tape - give it a try - you've got nothing to lose.

[Javit]

I think the best thing (and not just with taping) but collecting music is introducing it to people that would have otherwise never known about it. I just turned my dad onto an Elvis show he was at back in the 70's and the look on his face when he was getting to listen to it was priceless; so happy. i have tons of fun at shows if I'm stealthing (getting the gear in is half the fun) or if I'm open taping in a huge forest or the only taper.  So if I'm taping somewhere and someone wants to bother me for a copy of the show I'll give them my contacts and stuff because I want people to be able to hear the same stuff we do on a regular basis. [/hippie]

[tapeheadtoo]

This probably sounds kind of stupid ~~ but it worked for me!

OK ~ how to add a little enjoyment to the recording experience... lip synch the music.  Yes - I said LIP SYNCH.  Sing your lungs out.  Flap your gums.  Belt 'em out like the drunks in the front row.  Just be careful you don't get so carried away that you start dancing and jumping around and you're all set.

I do the same exact thing!!  Makes it more fun.  Plus if I'm taping from the front row, or I'm near the front, it just looks more natural to the performers on stage... like I'm singing along with everyone else.

[tapernateva]

if you have seen any of my posted picts they speak for themselves....
fuck yeah i have fun at shows
unless its like a giant show with like 1000000000 people then i get lost in the crowd and forget where my gear is plus i never get to piss if i'm stealthing but oh well

[ts]

There are several tapers who I know who think of taping as a Race, they sit, have no fun, are really pissy at other people for coming within 10 feet of their stand, and at the end of the night have the tape converted before I pull into my driveway.  I've even seen one taper set up and go back to his car and go to sleep for the majority of the show, coming back later to get his stuff.

I think I pooed a little reading this... fucking funny shit!

I can think of a few people like this... reminds me of some tapers that spend their whole time at the show grabbing balloons and beach balls and deflating them, when they could just have a little fun and realize that a practically weightless balloon will not only not make any noticeable sound on the recording if it grazes the mics, but it will also do no damage. Big ass beachballs are another story, but still... some people should really just find a new hobby if they're going to take this one so seriously that they can't seem to enjoy themselves.

That one came close. I think the beach ball was the giveaway

[cgrooves]

I have always thought that the problem with balloons is that if they get popped near the section it is very audible in the recordings (not that people worried about them brushing up against their mics, as was implied above).  Beachballs are another story entirely.

[admkrk]

poping ballons is very good way to fuck uop a recording. expecialy if there a whole lot of them. say at a new years eve show for example 

[JackoRoses]

I have always thought that the problem with balloons is that if they get popped near the section it is very audible in the recordings (not that people worried about them brushing up against their mics, as was implied above).  Beachballs are another story entirely.

I saw the best beach ball murder to date over the 4th weekend.
The guy went psycho on the ball literally.(he was in the middle by himself and the ball blasted his stand)
Alfred Hitchcock would be proud. tapinfool can attest to that one.
We think the murder weapon was a screwdriver, the funny part was the next night the owner patched the ball up and paraded it past the section with all these white patches on it. It didn't make another appearance after that though.

[OGTL]

OK ~ how to add a little enjoyment to the recording experience... lip synch the music.  Yes - I said LIP SYNCH.  Sing your lungs out.  Flap your gums.  Belt 'em out like the drunks in the front row.  Just be careful you don't get so carried away that you start dancing and jumping around and you're all set.

Next time you tape - give it a try - you've got nothing to lose.

Accept your dignity!

[Brian_CT]

OK ~ how to add a little enjoyment to the recording experience... lip synch the music.  Yes - I said LIP SYNCH.  Sing your lungs out.  Flap your gums.  Belt 'em out like the drunks in the front row. 

I've been doing this right from the start and assumed everybody else did it too.
My wife & I are also great at "stealth-clapping"

[funkoff13]

where my gear is plus i never get to piss if i'm stealthing but oh well

that is what water bottles and beer cups are for!

[SparkE!]

where my gear is plus i never get to piss if i'm stealthing but oh well

that is what water bottles and beer cups are for!

You underestimate my capacity. A 2 liter bottle can be marginal.  Those 16 oz containers would never make it and as you know, it's nearly impossible to stop once you get that stream running.

[funkoff13]

where my gear is plus i never get to piss if i'm stealthing but oh well

that is what water bottles and beer cups are for!

it's nearly impossible to stop once you get that stream running.

aaahhhhh control young padawan.

[RebelRebel]

I just hook up a colostomy bag first.

where my gear is plus i never get to piss if i'm stealthing but oh well

that is what water bottles and beer cups are for!

You underestimate my capacity. A 2 liter bottle can be marginal.  Those 16 oz containers would never make it and as you know, it's nearly impossible to stop once you get that stream running.

[kcmoejoe]

you could use this- http://us.gizmodo.com/gadgets/gadgets/fake-beer-belly-gets-you-tanked-140140.php

and reverse engineer it to be used to fill back up after you drink it all, as long as you remember its not beer in there anymore! 

[Kevin Straker]

poping ballons is very good way to fuck uop a recording. expecialy if there a whole lot of them. say at a new years eve show for example 

I usually stretch out the neck where you blow it up and bite a hole in it, then let it fly away. It's pretty funny to watch it fly away losing air with people trying to bat it around.

[merry77]

I am doing the same thing.
lip syncing, stealth clapping.
1) it shows your appreciation for the music
2) it distracts security

I am always stealth taping and this year during one show some chick clapped me on the back and shouted: You rock!
Hehe, that was very funny. I think she is on the recording. Normally I would find it annoying, but she said it to me so it brings back memories of that show.
I record shows because I WANT to be able to listen to them again and again.
It's funny to hear the singer's comments.

This year I've recorded 3 shows from the first row and my BEST recording for this tour came from a 1st row recording.
You can even hear off mic comments and that is really funny. Or hammering under the stage and then the performer talks about it. And the great thing is you can hear it all on the recording.
I get a kick out of the fact that after the show the first time you listen to the recording and hearing how good it is and then checking all of the songs.
After that distributing of the recording and getting a kick out of the reaction of other people when you can see they like hearing it again as well.
Shared joy is double joy!

So far I've got a recording of nearly every show I've seen in my life. Only missing one.

OK ~ how to add a little enjoyment to the recording experience... lip synch the music.  Yes - I said LIP SYNCH.  Sing your lungs out.  Flap your gums.  Belt 'em out like the drunks in the front row. 

I've been doing this right from the start and assumed everybody else did it too.
My wife & I are also great at "stealth-clapping"

[Gutbucket]

I am doing the same thing.
lip syncing, stealth clapping.
1) it shows your appreciation for the music
2) it distracts security

Perfected my stealth clap after a guy next to me looked at me funny when I was feebly clapping like an old lady.   I look like the head of the fan club now, plus it shows my true appreciation to the performers. 

[funkoff13]

I am doing the same thing.
lip syncing, stealth clapping.
1) it shows your appreciation for the music
2) it distracts security

Perfected my stealth clap after a guy next to me looked at me funny when I was feebly clapping like an old lady.   I look like the head of the fan club now, plus it shows my true appreciation to the performers. 

I just clap, sing, woo hoo, start whistle wars, get laid get fucked.....etc with the full on intent of truly obtaining that 'live' experience and archiving it for the ages..

[pmonk66]

My only problem is I can't go more than 10 inutes without taking a peek at my recorder to make sure the levels are fine, the thing is still on, etc...!

[firmdragon]

ya just got to set it and forget it.

[Gutbucket]

My only problem is I can't go more than 10 inutes without taking a peek at my recorder to make sure the levels are fine, the thing is still on, etc...!

..must...have....self-

dicipline

[SparkE!]

My only problem is I can't go more than 10 inutes without taking a peek at my recorder to make sure the levels are fine, the thing is still on, etc...!

..must...have....self-

dicipline

...especially to stealth Fripp.  Excellent reference. Excellent album. +t

[dreyfuss]

This was a great thread that I had missed when it was posted,

As everyone has pretty much stated, the real payoff is after the show when you listen to it, share it, give it to the band, etc

[ThePhog]

Any other married people here?? Ever taped a show just for your spouse? That is the only time I will not have as much fun as normal...my wife loves Kid Rock, I think he is a tool. But doing one show for her makes it possible for me to travel all over the midwest to tape the bands I like. Small trade-off I guess.

[Humbug]

Any other married people here?? Ever taped a show just for your spouse? That is the only time I will not have as much fun as normal...my wife loves Kid Rock, I think he is a tool. But doing one show for her makes it possible for me to travel all over the midwest to tape the bands I like. Small trade-off I guess.

You might make "kidrocklive" happy as well!

http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=55104.0

[ThePhog]

He played the same show in 2006 that he did in 2004...I've had to endure 3 shows in 2 years and that is too much. I think he played a few more hits this year but it was the same gimmick. I feel dirty even talking about it. That kidrocklive guy is a trip...I give him major credit for his enthusiasm.

[beathydrolysis]

Any other married people here?? Ever taped a show just for your spouse? That is the only time I will not have as much fun as normal...my wife loves Kid Rock, I think he is a tool. But doing one show for her makes it possible for me to travel all over the midwest to tape the bands I like. Small trade-off I guess.

I know what you're saying.  I tape the ocassional gig for my girlfriend so she won't be upset when I want to go to a show that she has absolutely no interest in.  Then I gotta watch my rig like a hawk.  I was tapin Nickel Creek for her at Bonnaroo this and my rig went down during the second track.  I lost the first two tracks with that little disaster (thanks to all the dust at the Roo I think...boy was she dissappointed.  The only minutes I lost during the entire festival and it was during the show she wanted to see most. 

[wbrisette]

Any other married people here?? Ever taped a show just for your spouse?

Nope. ;-)

Actually the only stuff she has any real interest in are things I've turned her onto. I have however, recorded a show for my daughter. But then those were shows that were fun too. Farmer Jason (aka Jason Ringenburg - Jason & The Scorchers), Joe McDermott. All fun stuff.

Wayne

[RebelRebel]

well, recording pays the bills now, so in a offhand way..each show I record is for her and my daughter.  They both go with me to the gigs when possible and love music..

[rocksuitcase]

Any other married people here?? Ever taped a show just for your spouse? That is the only time I will not have as much fun as normal...my wife loves Kid Rock, I think he is a tool. But doing one show for her makes it possible for me to travel all over the midwest to tape the bands I like. Small trade-off I guess.

Ok, I've got you all beat.  My first wife ( yep, I'm with the 2nd one now) was also an engineering student while we were in college and while I was starting to be a Grateful dead Taper ( 1982 ish).  In 1984 she announced she wanted to buy her own TC D5M ( Portable cassette recorder- almost professional grade).  So we drove down to NYC and went to Uncle Steves and paid $499 for her brand spanking new D5.  This deck was at at least 200 Dead shows and recorded many many other shows before it got retired.  Yes, my taper friends, she "gave" it to me in the divorce settlement.  At many GD shows we were at we used her deck to patch from another source or  maybe be a back up on a second set of mics.

[Gutbucket]

Any other married people here?? Ever taped a show just for your spouse? That is the only time I will not have as much fun as normal...my wife loves Kid Rock, I think he is a tool. But doing one show for her makes it possible for me to travel all over the midwest to tape the bands I like. Small trade-off I guess.

Ok, I've got you all beat.  My first wife ( yep, I'm with the 2nd one now) was also an engineering student while we were in college and while I was starting to be a Grateful dead Taper ( 1982 ish).  In 1984 she announced she wanted to buy her own TC D5M ( Portable cassette recorder- almost professional grade).  So we drove down to NYC and went to Uncle Steves and paid $499 for her brand spanking new D5.  This deck was at at least 200 Dead shows and recorded many many other shows before it got retired.  Yes, my taper friends, she "gave" it to me in the divorce settlement.  At many GD shows we were at we used her deck to patch from another source or  maybe be a back up on a second set of mics.

Nice! Did the second wife go digital?
It's like a taper dowery.

[rocksuitcase]

Any other married people here?? Ever taped a show just for your spouse? That is the only time I will not have as much fun as normal...my wife loves Kid Rock, I think he is a tool. But doing one show for her makes it possible for me to travel all over the midwest to tape the bands I like. Small trade-off I guess.

Ok, I've got you all beat.  My first wife ( yep, I'm with the 2nd one now) was also an engineering student while we were in college and while I was starting to be a Grateful dead Taper ( 1982 ish).  In 1984 she announced she wanted to buy her own TC D5M ( Portable cassette recorder- almost professional grade).  So we drove down to NYC and went to Uncle Steves and paid $499 for her brand spanking new D5.  This deck was at at least 200 Dead shows and recorded many many other shows before it got retired.  Yes, my taper friends, she "gave" it to me in the divorce settlement.  At many GD shows we were at we used her deck to patch from another source or  maybe be a back up on a second set of mics.

Nice! Did the second wife go digital?
It's like a taper dowery.

Hehe, exceot she didn't have to catch her self on fire a few years after the wedding!!!!!!   (joke)
funny question: the second wife wants nothing to do with taping, she enjoys the music and lets me do my "taper thing".

[F0CKER]

NOBODY! has more fun than we do!

Taping adds to the enjoyment from my experience.  And you'll meet a whole new group of friends who share the same dorky hobby.  Subculture within a subculture.