American Songwriter participates in affiliate programs with various companies. Links originating on American Songwriter’s website that lead to purchases or reservations on affiliate sites generate revenue for American Songwriter . This means that American Songwriter may earn a commission if/when you click on or make purchases via affiliate links.
Sennheiser D1 Evolution Wireless Microphone Set
(Street: $699)
When you’re on a gig, the last thing you want to worry about is the reliability of your gear. Reliability, coupled with ease of use and modern features like automatic gain control, feedback rejection, and iOS/Android app functionality make the Sennheiser D1 evolution wireless vocal set the perfect choice for those who want crystal-clear vocal reproduction in a rugged handheld wireless microphone. The one-touch sync makes this wireless set a great option for those who are unfamiliar with wireless technology, as the microphone can sync with the receiver, choose the best frequency, and set gain levels all with the touch of one button. Out of the box, the mic is operational in seconds. Advanced users, on the other hand, will enjoy the manually control via the iOS or Android app, and additional effect options like de-essing, megaphone, phonem and 7-band graphic EQ. Both users will benefit from the rock-solid wireless signal, provided by Sennheiser’s “Wireless Link Protection” that works in the background to ensure that your signal and transmission power is always optimal, virtually eliminating dropouts and conflicts with other systems in the crowded 2.4Ghz range. -- STEVE MARTIN
Yamaha DBR12 speaker
(Street: $699)
Yamaha’s DBR12 speaker is rated at 465 watts (1,000 watts peak) with 400 watts dedicated to reproducing low frequencies and 65 watts dedicated to highs. Controls on the back of the DBR12 are simple with two channels that accept both 1/4” and XLR connectors. To add to the versatility of this speaker, a mic/line switch allows channel one to match different input levels and channel two has RCA-type stereo input connection. Each channel has a level control so mixing can be done right on the back panel. LEDs provide a quick indication of limiter use, signal, protection circuit activation and power. The DBR12 is designed to work well as a main or monitor. Two can be easily configured as a main and monitor or two mains as left and right. A nice feature of the output section is that it can be used to chain other DBR speakers together.
I put the DBR12 through its paces on a solo acoustic gig, and then put two DBR12s on stands to cover a party with a trio of acoustic instruments. The DBRs covered both events well with surprising amount of bottom and crisp highs. The system was very clean and had plenty of power for these light gigs and load-in and set-up was easy. If you are looking for a full-range system that's versatile and won't break the bank, give the DBR12 powered speakers a listen. You'll be hard pressed to find something in this price range that sounds this good and is this flexible. -- ANDY MCDONOUGH
Guild F-1512 Acoustic 12-String (pictured right)
(Street: $999)
A 12-string is a bit of a specialty instrument that’s been used by legendary players like Leo Kottke and Shawn Phillips, and is instantly recognizable on some great iconic recordings (think “Hotel California”). It’s not used a lot, but for the times something special is needed to provide inspiration, or to add some character to a track, it’s an instrument unlike any other. Guild’s F-1512 totally fits the bill for those occasions.
With a jumbo body, this thing can get LOUD, but is also capable of producing shimmering nuances of all volumes that ring forever and fill the sonic spectrum beautifully. With a Sitka spruce top, and back, sides and fingerboard of Indian rosewood, the F-1512 has the vintage-shaped Guild neck, the iconic 1960s Guild Chesterfield headstock emblem, and a period-correct tortoiseshell pickguard, making for a really cool jumbo axe. It comes with Guild’s new lightweight polyfoam case. This is an excellent 12-string and a great deal for just under a grand.
