Taping shows

[nn0504]

So, I'll be going to a couple of shows this tour and I was thinking about taping them - but in a low-key, not-distracting kind of way (I don't like to take pictures or fiddle with electronics during a Tori concert because, for me, it takes away from the experience).

I'll be using an iAudio X5 that I still had and that has now been Rockboxed. I think there must be a stereo mic over at my parents' place somewhere, otherwise I can buy another mic - so that's taken care of. All of the other things, however, are pretty unclear to me right now. Because of this, I have a few questions for those with experience doing this type of thing:

- I'll be towards the front during all four shows (first seven rows or so), usually fairly centered. Are there any presets you guys and girls know of that will allow for decent recordings in most venues? I'd ideally like to adjust the settings before I go to the venue, press play when I'm there, and not bother about it anymore (for then).

- What should I do/use to prepare the files for distributing? I have no experience in sound editing whatsoever, but I'm pretty computer savvy and willing to invest some time in learning how to work with programs etc.

- Would a cheaper mic (e.g. the Sony ECM-DS70P) be okay?

- How paranoid are security guards about recordings etc.? Should I make a real effort to hide me having a recording device or not?

Thank you for your help! Of course, I'll upload for the 'glow first!

Reason for Editing: Clarification...

[corey4tori]

Well, as far as the security guard thing goes, its been my experience that the artist makes the rules. I've been to shows where the group allowed people to record audio AND video. I went to an Aerosmith show a few years back, and the band didn't allow the venue to sell alcohol.
I went to the Boston Tori show and was amazed that there was no security check at all. People walked in with backbacks, and I saw people openly taking pictures and recording audio.
It seems that the type of crowd that an artist brings in makes a difference too. I've been to metal shows where they didn't allow people to bring in anything, just their ticket and money. By the time I got to the entrance, they had a big box full of all sorts of stuff, chains, lighters, cell phones, cameras, etc etc.
As a suggestion. If your going to an indoor place and you've got a decent car stereo, play some live Tori, turn the bass up a bit, stand about as far away as you think you'll be from the stage, and see how your recordings come out. Or use your home stereo and do the same thing. Try taping the opening band and then listen to the audio, see how that sounds. Oh, and by the way. I had a friend that used to tape shows all the time and what he did was buy a decent microphone that had a clip on it, and he'd clip it to the adjustment thingy on the back of his hat. This way its up high, you wont get noises from it rubbing against your clothes, and its out of your way.
Good luck. And if you get Your Cloud live, I want a copy

[morrigan]

You should always make a great effort hiding your equipment. Always. Don't assume that security might be lax about it. In most cases they won't be.

Have a loook at toritraders.com and other torrent sites that distribute live recordings. They often have a FAQ section where taping questions are answered. They also often have forums where you might find such info or where you can post your specific questions and get answers from pros.

Regarding the settings, one thing I once did was record a bit during the support act using two different settings (one for 2 minutes and then another level for 2 minutes) then went to the bathroom to check how that came out. As T & her boys are probably going to make more noise than the support act you'd probably have to lower the settings a bit further then.

[nn0504]

Thanks for the replies, corey and morrigan, will keep all this in mind.

I saw the guy that taped the Savoy show that was available over at toritraders (I think) used a simple set-up with a mp3 player, so I'll probably try to contact him. I have found a dedicated tapers' forum (www.taperssection.com) that seems pretty helpful and active as well, so I'll be bothering them for additional information.

Again - thanks!