SWAMP Content
True Bypass and Guitar Pedals
Date Posted: 9 June 2012
When guitarists get together and talk about their rig (either their actual gear or a dream setup), there is often much discussion – if not arguing – about the advantages of “true bypass” in the effects pedals that are a part of said rig. But what exactly
Change in Wiring on our XLR to 3.5mm "Balanced to Stereo Cables
Date Posted: 6 June 2012
Some customers have reported that new our "Balanced / Mono" XLR to "Stereo" 3.5mm cables have not been working with some Camera and Laptop inputs. Found to be due to Pin1 and Pin3 on the XLR not being bridged. We have now bridged all remaining stock. Anyo
Piezo Tuners - The Clip On Tuner
Date Posted: 22 March 2012
Instrument tuners come in all manner of shapes, sizes and kinds – and all fit different needs for different musicians. For instance, if you are just playing guitar in a quiet house or apartment, then a standard electronic tuner that uses a microphone to p
External USB Sound Card Audio Interface Comparison
Date Posted: 1 December 2011
With the copious advancements made in recording technology over the past decade or so, coinciding with the price drop in computers with huge hard drives and lightning fast processors, building a home recording studio...
A buyers guide to Guitar Strings
Date Posted: 4 November 2011
Whether browsing for strings online or standing in a music store, the numerous options for types of guitar strings can seem overwhelming. Here we’ll look at the different options available and explore how to best choose the perfect string for you.
Acoustic Guitars - For Beginners
Date Posted: 24 June 2011
At first glance, all acoustic guitars can seem basically the same. But these glances are deceiving, as there are literally thousands of types and models of acoustic guitars to choose...
All about RCA Cables
Date Posted: 6 May 2011
RCA cables are the standard cable used to connect consumer A/V equipment such as TV's, DVD players and Foxtel boxes. RCA connections are also found in the pro audio field on mixing desks and...
Pro Audio Speaker Cables - Explained
Date Posted: 14 April 2011
Whether you are constructing an elaborate sound system that will produce enough sound to fill a full 1,000 seat club, or wiring a couple speakers to amplify an acoustic guitarist in a small coffee house...
Audio Cable Shielding Explained
Date Posted: 16 March 2011
Audio shields are one of the most crucial defenses against unwanted noise in your sound system. However, with the different types of audio shield cables, the choice between them can seem daunting. Here, the three main types of audio shield cables are disc
Piezo Pickups
Date Posted: 25 February 2011
Piezo pickups are designed to pick up audio signals from stringed acoustic instruments, of instruments with a hollow body, such as acoustic guitars, violins and cellos. Using a piezo pick-up can deliver far superior results on acoustic instruments compare
DI box / Direct Injection Box - Explained
Date Posted: 19 February 2011
Even the most sheltered of musicians will no doubt one day encounter a DI box. These small boxes often found littered around stages allow for instruments such as guitars and keyboards to be plugged into XLR microphone inputs on mixing consoles.
Guitar Effect Pedal Boards – Daisy Chains and 9v Adapters Explained
Date Posted: 7 November 2010
So you have purchased your first guitar effect pedal and inevitably you are now looking to expand your collection? Or perhaps you already have a horde of sound tweaking beasts. Either way, unless you are rich or enjoy wasting money you are probably lookin
SM57 v DM-57 - Sound Recording Comparison
Date Posted: 23 October 2010
Sound recording comparisons of the Shure SM57 and iSK DM-57 dynamic instrument microphones. Recordings were taken in the same environment at the same time and demonstrate the similarities and differences between the two instrument mics.
Phantom Power and Condenser Microphones
Date Posted: 29 September 2010
Whether you are a seasoned pro audio expert or amateur home musician, at some point you will encounter phantom power. For many this occurs after purchasing a condenser microphone and wasting plenty of time trying to figure out why the thing isn’t working.
TRS Cables – Balanced or Stereo?
Date Posted: 27 September 2010
A TRS cable can carry either a balanced audio signal or a stereo audio signal. It depends on what audio output you connect the cable to. People often ask, “Are the TRS cables balanced?” The answer is “They can be, if you connect the cable between a balanc
What does 'PA' stand for?
Date Posted: 1 September 2010
Technically PA stands for Public Address, not Pro Audio as many people assume. The term public address literally means to ‘address’ the ‘public’. The public being a loud bunch of people, a system was obviously needed to amplify ones voice over that of the
Microphone signal into Guitar Amp (Hi-Z)
Date Posted: 24 August 2010
Singers and vocalists will sometimes find themselves needing to plug their microphone into a guitar amplifier. Often for practice with other band members or in the home environment.
Laptop or Ipod into Balanced XLR Input...?
Date Posted: 14 July 2010
There are 3 things to note when plugging a "headphone level" signal from a laptop, Mp3 player or Ipod into a PA system via a balanced XLR microphone input. This type of input is often found on mixers, pre-amplifier's and all in one powered speakers...
Balanced Audio Explained
Date Posted: 13 July 2010
Balanced audio cables can transfer an audio signal while canceling out noise and interference picked up along the length of the cable, providing they are connected to balanced inputs and outputs.
Audio Production Course
Author: SWAMP Industries Date Posted: 6 September 2026
Seven free lessons taking you from which cable goes where to running sound for a gig or recording at home. Self-paced, no signup.
