Joey Endorses Gibson & Aphex!

Joey Stuckey is excited to announce that he is now an official artist endorser for 2 of the preeminent music industry leaders, Aphex and Gibson Guitars.

 
"Part of my unique guitar sound comes from using Gibson guitars both live and in the studio," says Joey. "They are unparalleled in quality and versatile tonality. Aphex has been making music more vibrant in sound and the listening experience more immersive for decades. Their legendary Aural Exciter even has an iPhone app that every music enthusiast should have!"
 
For more information, visit
 
 
Joey Endorses the Following Company Products

Everything from guitar effects to microphones and more, these products are the essential tools that Joey Stuckey uses to produce his high-quality recordings and performances.

These companies respect Joey’s work and talent and proudly support him in his endeavors.
 
Music Gear > Studio:
 
Scroll down to read reviews on these products.
 
 
 
 
Music Gear > Performance:
 
Scroll down to read reviews on these products
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Music Gear > Performance > Artist Pricing:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Software > Plug-Ins/Softsynths:
 
Scroll down to read reviews of these products
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Software > Plug-Ins/Softsynths > Artist Pricing:
 
Software > Audio or Video Utilities:
 
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Software > Audio or Video Utilities /  Software > Data Management:
 
Scroll down to read reviews of these products.
 
 
 
 
 
Read All about WHY Joey endorses these products!
 
 
Joey Receives New Endorser, Extreme Headphones

 Joey is please to announce his latest endorser, Extreme Headphones.

 
"These headphones are simply amazing!" says Joey. "I got a chance to check them out when I was at Oceanway with Alan parsons as several of the session musicians were using them.
 
They sound beautiful and in addition, keep all extraneous noises out of your headphone mix. Best of all, they don't bleed click tracks back in to live mics, a real problem when tracking low vocals or acoustic guitar."
 
For more info, visit: www.extremeheadphones.com
Joey uses Levy's Leather Guitar Straps

 

It might sound silly, but to me finding the right guitar strap is just as important as finding the right guitar! I have never been satisfied with any of my guitar straps... that is, until I got my first strap from Levy’s Leathers.

 
When you are a full time musician like me, sometimes you have to play for several hours on end at live gigs or in the studio. After a while your shoulders, back and neck really start to hurt from holding the guitar in the same position for hours and hours. Having a strap that is well-made helps keep down the level of discomfort.
 
Also, did I mention style? Man, Levy’s straps have style and how! Part of the Levy’s magic is their ability to make straps that really look good, but more importantly they make a statement about who the artist is by their amazing designs. I don’t know how I ever got by with out my Levy’s guitar straps!
 
 
For more info: www.levysleathers.com
Joey uses only DR Guitar & Bass Strings:

 

As a very busy session player and live performer, I need strings that don’t break, lose tonality or otherwise get "funky."

 
DR Strings are simply the best! They last for a long time... and even better, they are very flexible and sound great too!
 
I use them for all of my string needs (electric and acoustic guitars as well as bass).
 
Whether you realize it or not, the strings that you use are just as important as the amp, pedals or guitar you play - and in my opinion DR Strings are a true necessity for any serious musician.
 
Thanks DR Strings for making such a great product!
 
Click here to hear DR Strings in action!!
 
Types of DR Strings Joey Uses:
 
Bass Electric Acoustic
NMH-45, MH-45, LH5-40, MH6-30 HT-9.5, MT-10, PHR-9-46, LH-9 ZE-10, PL-10, RPL-10
 
For more info: www.drstrings.com
Kazoobie Kazoos!

 

I am excited my fans will have this unique souvenir and fun musical instrument which truly allows us to share the gift of music! As a blind musician, sound is the only thing that I care about and Kazoobie Kazoos are unparalleled in their tonality and quality of construction.

 

I also use Kazoobie Kazoos for my own recording and performing. I use the Kazoobie HUMMbucker electric kazoo which is truly an innovative musical instrument--it is a metal kazoo with a HUMMbucker pickup like you would find in a guitar allowing you to amplify and use effects with your kazoo.

 

Think a kazoo can't rock?? Then check out "Crosstown Traffic" by Jimmi Hendrix which features the kazoo. I also use the Kazoobie Wazoo, which has a horn similar to an old style phonograph. This allows the kazoo to produce a much more powerful and robust sound.

 

For more information or to acquire your own Kazoobie Kazoo go to   

Joey

 

To add even more reasons to come out to one of Joey's live performances, Joey has partnered with Kazoobie Kazoos. “As the official ambassador of music for Macon, Georgia – the birthplace of the kazoo – I am thrilled to partner with Kazoobie Kazoos to provide a limited number of souvenir kazoos to be givenaway and used during the audience participation parts of my concerts and inspirational talks,” says Joey. “I am excited that my fans will have this unique souvenir and fun musical instrument which truly allows us to share the gift of music! As a blind musician, sound is the only thing that I care about and Kazoobie Kazoos are unparalleled in their tonality and quality construction.”

 

 

NextUp Article & Link

 

LINK to pdf article

 www.nextup.com

Viel Klang Products

Why Joey only uses StudioEase Software

 

 

StudioEase software, by Stefan Schramm is one of the best programs I have ever owned bar none.
 
As the name implies, it is very easy-to-use with features that are absolutely essential to any studio owner. Whether you own a small, home studio, a mid-sized semi-pro studio or a big, professional studios with three or four rooms - StudioEase helps you take control and organize your work.
 
There are so many great features from track sheets, to invoice creation and even an effects calculator. You can even organize your music files - and keep track of all your studio equipment with pictures, serial numbers and repair logs! Great for insurance information!
 
It’s just great! I don’t know how my studio ever got by with out it!
 
Be sure to download your copy of StudioEase at Root Solutions website.
 
For more info: www.rootsolutions.de

 

Why Joey uses 4ORMULATOR Vocoder Extreme software

 

 

Oh man, it's just too cool!

 
Ever wonder how to get those great vocal effects that artist like Phil Collins and BT use all the time? Well, wonder no more.
 
The process is called Vocoding and while there are many vintage pieces of outboard gear that you can try to find - and buy (get ready to spend a lot of $$) to create those cool sounds and effects, the best and most practical answer is the 4ormulator Vocoder Extreme!
 
It is so reasonably priced (US$49) - and to tell the truth, I really have too much fun playing with it, it's that amazing!
 
 
This is a must-have creative VST Plugin that every music producer should have in their sound tool kit!
 
And hey, It's not just for vocals. You can get some awesome sounds for other instruments as well.
 
Find out for yourself at:
 
Why Joey uses A/V software by Applian Technologies

 

The main reason I love their software is... (drum roll please)...  ease of use!! Now, pretty much anyone can convert or capture video or audio from any source - including the web because it's so easy.

The variety of products and great support from Applian Technologies is outstanding too!

 
I use the following software programs and highly recommend all of them - either individually or in the "suite": Replay Audio/Video Streaming Capture Suite featuring Replay A/V, Replay Converter, Replay Screencast, Replay Player, At-Large Recorder, Replay Music, Freecorder, MP3 Magic and Radio Wizard.
 
Why Joey uses AcoustiLock by Noren Products, Inc.

 

I think the fact that Noren Products, Inc. has been in business since 1968 says much about why they are such a great company.

 
When I met the great folks from Noren Products, it was "respect at first listen!" I had the honor of meeting Kimberly Dawn, one of the smartest and nicest company heads you would ever want to meet. I met her at the 2005 AES trade show in New York City. I kept hearing this "swishing sound"... when I could stand it no longer, I walked over to the Noren Products booth and asked them what that sound was that I kept hearing.
 
For those of you that don't know, I am blind, so sound is my world and I was more than curious about that swishing sound...
 
I quickly found that I had met people after my own heart! I hate extraneous noise - like my computer's cpu, power supply, fans and external disk drives. Noren Products specializes in making AcoustiLock Noise Reduction and Heat Removal Cabinets. That sound I had been hearing was the sound of a white noise generator totally maxed out. When the door of the AcoustiLock was opened it was almost unbearably loud with all of that racket! When it was closed, it was completely quiet - unbelievable!
 
After getting my own AcoustiLock, my studio is so quiet now that I keep thinking that something is wrong! It is very obvious to anyone that checks out one of these cabinets in person, the pride and craftsmanship that goes in to each cabinet they make. They are truly cool...
 
[I use the model ACL 24TD-B-1600]
 
Noren Products makes a cabinet for every budget and need.
 
 
Check it out at:
 
 
Joey Stuckey and Shadow Sound Studio are now the official (and only) distributor for Noren Products, Inc. in the state of Georgia.
 
Says Joey: "Noren Products are SO amazing that I decided to start a new service providing recording and audio gear to my clients for their own home studios, churches and offices."
 
If you live in Georgia, call the studio and schedule a time to check out some of their gear in action - you'll be glad you did!
 
For Georgia sales, please contact:
Joey Stuckey
(478) 742-7956
joey@joeystuckey.com
Why Joey uses AMPUPLUGNPLAY mini guitar amps

 

Here at last is the answer to the age-old problem of wanting to use your electric guitar to practice, but without having to lug your entire rig around with you!

 
I guess that "handy" is an over-used word, but it just fits the amazing way the AMPUPLUGNPLAY mini guitar amps perfectly meet the need of musicians that want to be able to hear their electric guitar without having to set up their stage rig.
 
It's so easy a cave man could do it!
 
For me, the highlight of the amp is two-fold. First, you don’t ever need a cable. That’s right, the mini amp just plugs right into the guitar output jack. This means that you don’t ever need a chord and you can always use the amp as you don’t have to remember anything but the amp itself - just throw it into your case and go.
 
The other outstanding feature is the distortion. While the clean sound isn’t bad either, the amp really gets going when you use it distorted. It has lots of presence and gives you awesome musical feedback and sustain!
 
Other great features are of course, its small size: about the size of two regular iPods or two small video cameras (like the Flip Video ones). And it runs on a standard 9-volt battery.
 
However, the outstanding craftsmanship doesn’t stop there! It also features an MP3 (or other portable media device) input for playing along with tracks and a headphone jack. And for those of you that think you can just plug a pair of headphones in to your guitar direct - you would be wrong - there is an impedance problem for starters, but problem solved with the AMPUPLUGNPLAY.
 
I truly love using the AMPUPLUGNPLAY mini guitar amp because it quickly allows me to work with my electric guitar without the fuss of hooking up my pedal board and finding guitar cables and plugging my amp into the power supply. This is the ultimate practice tool for guitar and at a price that is about what you would pay for one DVD.
 
It even won Best In Show at NAMM TWICE!!
 
So, take your practice to a new level and enjoy your electric guitar like never before with the AMPUPLUGNPLAY. Check one out today.
 
 
Why Joey uses Anarchy Sound software

 

 

AnarchyRhythms is a hybrid between an effect and a drum machine.  It takes an audio input and applies a user-controlled matrix of amplitude modulation, bandpass filtering, feedback loops, internal oscillation and compression. It allows you to compose rhythmic patterns from the sonic timbre of the input.

 
Now, what does that all mean? Just that you can develop some awesome new sounds to spice up your drum loops!
 
The amount of control that you have with the VST plug-in is unbelievable! While, it does take a bit to get used to how to get the best results from the interface, it is time well spent.
 
SwarmSynth
 
Makes sound by mixing output from a user-sizeable bank of oscillators
 
Oscillators are controlled by five parameters - volume, pitch, pan, resonance and noise
 
Values of each oscillator's parameters continually change, equating to movement through five-dimensional hyperspace
 
Movement through hyperspace is constrained to a bounding box specified by a home position and permissive range for each parameter
 
Graphical envelopes modify the bounding box through the duration of each note
 
Within the bounding box, each oscillator follows a rule-based flocking algorithm - a 5D equivalent of AI simulations of 2D and 3D animal flocking behavior
 
3D visualization of the oscillator's movement through hyperspace, using hue & luminance to represent the other 2 dimensions
 
Mouse-clicking the hyperspace visualization affects the sound by causing oscillators to veer towards or away from the mouse
 
Hotkey powered sticky-mouse for moving the cursor in 5 dimensions
 
Controllable reseeding to make the algorithm deterministic or non-deterministic
 
IIR resonant lowpass filter
 
Overdrive
 
101 automatable parameters, controllable through VST automation or fully re-mappable MIDI control messages
 
Collection of preset sounds
 
QWERTY control - SwarmSynth can be played with the computer keyboard
 
Anarchy button to randomize current settings
 
To get the maximum out of this VST, you should really understand a bit about modulation and filtering, but even if you don't the great presets will get you through just fine.
 
This softsynth is a must for any one that is in to sound design for TV, Theater or Film. It is also a must for those that do a lot of Electronica type of music.
 
I have used SwarmSynth in several projects as a nice "subtle layer" to the mix.
 
 
AnarchyEffects v1.4 Suite of Five VST 2.0 plug-ins:
 
SpectralAutopan assigns different pan positions to the different component pitches in the input signal. The effect pitch has on pan position is controlled by control points, which can change in pan position and pitch according to LFOs. This adds stereo depth and motion to sounds.
 
Corkscrew mixes together multiple pitch-shifts of the input signal, increasing or decreasing their pitches in parallel, and fading them in/out at the extremes of their range.
 
HarmonicAdder creates harmonic resonances by pitch shifting the dominant frequencies in your input signal by the various intervals in the harmonic series (octave, octave+fifth, two octaves, two octaves+major third, etc).
 
LengthSeparator bisects the input signal according to the lengths of its component frequencies. Short sounds become the 'transient' part, long sounds become the 'stable' part. These parts can be isolated (i.e. the other part removed), or assigned different pan positions to create stereo movement.
 
Convoluter applies a convolution matrix to the spectral representation of the input signal. This bends the sound along the continuum between pure sine tones and pure noise.
 
Yes, I saved my favorite for last! This VST Plug-in Suite (AnarchyEffects) is a stunning addition to anyone's sonic canvas! They are great to really make some noise (and be featured in the track), or my personal preference - mix them in very subtle-like to create some very special mixes! Check out the full collection of VST's at:
 
Why Joey uses Apollo Multimedia Software

 

It's simple with Apollo Multimedia. Their software is fast, easy to use and professional! I use the Apollo Multimedia Audio DVD Creator. This nifty little program lets you store audio files on a DVD and play it back on just about any DVD player. This is a great way to take all your music with you on long trips or to backup master recordings in the recording studio.

 

 
I also use Apollo Multimedia DVD Copy. It's better than Nero Burning ROM at copying DVDs - and it's fast, with simple controls  ...and one of my favorite things is the horn flourish sound that tells you that your copy is finished!
 
 
Check out all of Apollo Multimedia's products at:
 
 
 
 
Why Joey uses Applied Acoustics Systems plug-ins

 

Realistic sound, innovative parameter control and great value for your money! -AND- Applied Acoustics Systems are always improving their products with new updates and more downloadable sounds!

 

String Studio: This is one plug-in you can't be without if you want some truly live-sounding stringed instruments in your softsynth collection! The best feature about this plug-in and what really separates it from the other good string plug-ins out there is the "Damper Module." In all string instruments there is a mechanism to mute the sound from the instrument. In the piano, a felt is applied on the strings when keys are released. In guitars and violins, the performer mutes the strings with his/her fingers. These muting mechanisms are not always totally quiet and usually produce some noise artifacts which has to be considered as part of the timbre of the instrument. In String Studio, the Damper Module is used to reproduce this same muting mechanism making the sound incredibly realistic.

 

Lounge Lizard: It comes with an extensive preset library that is simply inspiring. Giving you access to the Rhodes and Wurlitzer sounds, there is a choice of pure and true tones as well as a selection of processed ones courtesy of the high-end effect section. Especially designed for the electric piano so you don't spend hours tweaking external plug-ins or boxes. The effect section includes the classic tremolo, chorus, wah, and phaser effects as well as EQ, delay and reverb making it really easy to create your own distinctive customized tones.

 

Ultra Analog: Just about every vintage analog keyboard sound you will ever need.

 

Tassman 4: This plug-in is for finding and creating really cool and unusual sounds. I love it! It's one of my absolute favorites.

 

Check them all out at www.applied-acoustics.com

Why Joey uses Audiomatic by Wise Riddles Software

 

 

 
This tool is not just for blind (or otherwise disabled) computer users and it's not just for musicians. It's for anyone that uses a computer on a daily bases and does many repetitive tasks - and the best part of it is, that you don't have to be a computer genius to make it work!
 
You can use Audiomatic to make "system-wide macros." Macros are, in short, a few keystrokes that can take lengthy and sometimes complicated commands and reduce them down to a quick keyboard command (button or series of button pushes). 
 
With Audiomatic, in just minutes you can start using the program to reduce wasted time - no matter what you do: musician, lawyer, web designer - anyone - the program takes your repetitive tasks and gets them done with just a keystroke or two.
 
 
I use Audiomatic to sign my standard closing lines to business letters, launch programs without having to return to the desktop or start or close the program I am currently working with.
 
I could talk forever about how many great things you can do with Audiomatic, but go check it out for yourself instead at:
 

 

 

Why Joey uses BPM Detector Pro

 

 

This is one of the most useful tools I have for marketing my music!  ...and just what do I mean by that?
 
 Well, this software can tell me the BPM (beats per minute) on any AUDIO FILE supported by the program, which are:
 
CDDA (Compact Disc Digital Audio - the format used for music CDs)
 
WAV (standard Windows Audio file format)
 
MP3 (compressed audio/music file format)
 
 
Now, if you're any kind of DJ, the advantages of knowing your Song BPM is obvious, but I also mentioned that it's a great marketing tool for musicians, and so it is!
 
Many times when film, tv, and radio Music Directors are looking for music for various projects - they know what type of beat and feel they need, but it takes valuable time to try and determine that accurately. BPM Detector Pro does that quickly and accurately.
 
Best of all, you don't have to be a computer genius to work the program and with great features like:
 
Min & Max Tempo manual settings in order to minimize detection errors
 
Up to dot 2 digits detection (.00)
 
Ability to rename and modify your music files by including the BPM information on the file name itself (at the beginning or at the end), furthermore it can also leave the original music files untouched and duplicate the files with the BPM information.
 
Automatically generate a text file (or log) with all the songs or tracks BPM information. This function allows you to print the text file and insert the BPM information in your CD jewel case. There is also a CD insert template, so you can cut and past your BPM info in to a CD-ready printout.
 
A manual tapping function has been added to re-enforce BPM Detector Pro and correct occasional errors on complex rhythm patterns, where it will automatically "lock on" to the true value if you are tapping a tempo near the true rhythm.
 
What could be easier?
 
So, for DJs this is a must-have tool -- and for musicians, the info that BPM Detector Pro can give you might make the difference when people are looking for a particular type of music to use in a specific production. Now, you can put the BPM info in your metadata and you're all-set.
 
For more info:

 

Why Joey uses CD Metronome

 

 

This is one of the best tools for self improvement and student instruction I have ever worked with! It's like having your own all-star jazz drummer!

 
Now, the problem with just playing to a metronome (or as we studio guys like to say a "click track") is that you can't really "groove" with a click track. Oh, sure it's fine for getting rhythmically accurate and everything, but it does nothing to help with the actual feel of the music - and jazz is all about feel.
 
Enter CD Metronome. Each 2-CD set contains 50+ tracks of LIVE jazz drumming for you to use as your metronome when you are practicing anything in a swing style.
 
Downloadable versions of CD Metronome are also available and can be purchased as high-quality MP3 files and are available individually or in money-saving combo packs.
 
Volume 1 - 4/4 Straight Ahead Swing
Volume 2 - 3/4 Straight Ahead Swing
Volume 3 - 5/4, 7/4 Straight Ahead Swing (download only)
 
So, how does it work?
Each track on CD Metronome is a single tempo approximately 3-minutes long. To work at one specific tempo for longer than that, you set your CD or MP3 player to repeat one track (a function common to almost all players). To increase your speed on your selected practice material, set CD Metronome at a speed slower than your "comfort level" and let the CD play track after track. Every 3-minutes you will automatically hear a slightly faster tempo giving you a great workout!
 
 
Check it out at:
 
Why Joey uses CHRONOStream software by P Soft.

 

 

If you do a lot of jingles and commercials, then you know that you must have the spot at a precise length to fit the client's needs, while keeping the music or voiceover's artistic integrity intact.
 
Usually, something must be sacrificed for time considerations - but not with CHRONOStream by P. Soft of Japan.
 
 
This software program is sophisticated, yet easy to learn.
 
If you've ever used a pro music program like Sony Sound Forge, then you've seen (and heard) the Time Stretch/Compress feature built in, but in most programs - even Sound Forge, this feature is not really all that helpful and often leaves undesirable artifacts in your audio.
 
That's where CHRONOStream comes in! Now, I can get the Time Stretch/Compress features that I want with little or no artifacts.
 
Check out this cool must-have tool at:
 

 

Why Joey uses Code-it Software

 

 

 

When the folks at Code-it say that they "offer an array of innovative software solutions" - that's almost an understatement!
 
I have never seen such a variety of awesome products at such great prices (even FREE ones)!
 
They have everything from programs to protect your personal data from spyware, to free products for the blind (like Text 2 Audio), and of course, audio programs.
 
I use Volume Equalizer, Wave MP3 Editor, and MP3 Toolbox just to name a few.
 
Perhaps my favorite thing about the folks at Code-it is that they can develop custom products or even "branded products" with your likeness, weblink or other information to personalize the software.
 
Folks, they have quite an array of FREE SOFTWARE you won't believe!
 
Check all the cool programs out at:
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

Why Joey uses Digital Music Mentor by Sienzo

 

 

This is an easy-to-use tool for any musician that wants to make charts for band members or other musicians.
 
It is so simple - my Mom can even do it! To tell you the truth, I couldn't believe that this program would work as advertised, but lucky for us it sure does!
 
[Did I mention that it's EASY TO USE?]
 
You just import a song (in most any standard audio format such as Audio CD, MP3, WMA, WAV and many more) and then click "Analyze" and let it do it's thing.
 
Digital Music Mentor is about 90% accurate with it's "analyzed output" and it is very easy to fix small errors that are bound to occur. So, you can have a professional chart in about 10 minutes - WOW!
 
Your spiffy new chart can include:
 
Lyrics (if you have them already in a text format like a Word Document)
 
Chords
 
Bass Tablature
 
This is an investment that you should definitely make!
 
Check it out at:
 
 
 
 

 

Why Joey uses DyVision Works products

 

 

I've always been a fan of "turn table artists" -  those guys that can take a vinyl Lp record and make it do cool things, but being blind... uhhh, let's just say that Joey Stuckey and vinyl don't get along very well! :-)

 
Now, that awesome record scratching effect can be incorporated into any recording project - and you don't have to use a record or turntable to get that sound!
 
DyScratch from DyVision Works is a VST instrument (VSTi) for use in modern DAW programs and sequencers such as Cakewalk Sonar, etc. It provides a music producer with the ability to create "record scratch" sounds and effects from their own samples or recordings without leaving the sequencer environment. What's more, every single parameter (including the actual "scratch" motion and speed) can easily be recorded, tweaked and automated using MIDI from within your VST sequencer environment. DyScratch can also be 'played' live using a standard MIDI keyboard.
 
 
Here's a few DyScratch features:
 
Load and "scratch" any standard .wav file
 
Integrates seamlessly with VST hosts that support the VSTi format
 
ALL parameters can be recorded and automated via standard MIDI
 
Scratch your samples 'live' using a controller keyboard with a pitch-bend wheel or play scratches using the keyboard (this feature is unique to DyScratch)
 
Set the start and end points of the range within the sample you want to scratch. For example, you could load an entire break-beat, isolate just the snare, then scratch the heck out of it!
 
Wave display for a visual representation of start/end points as well as the current scratch position within the wave.
 
Optional 'Gate' can be used to create crossfader cuts and FX.
 
Animated turntable.
 
Bulit in 'Clipper' effect simulates overdriven vinyl levels.
 
Variable 'Humanize' function simulates the human touch.
 
So, I say welcome to the art of scratching!
 
I also use DyVision Works' 6-BC, a 6-Band VSTi Compressor. It is so intuitive and easy to use and the quality is simply amazing.
 
Check out these products at:
 
Why Joey uses Frank's MIDI Plug-Ins

 

 
These plug-ins are some of the most useful and time saving plug-ins out there! They do so much and cost so little!
 
In the current collection there are 6 plug-ins, but more are on the way.
 
Here are the ones I use:
 
Delete Double plug-in
 
Split by Patches plug-in
Split Poly plug-in
 
Rhythmic Controller plug-in
Humanize plug-in
 
MIDI Statistics plug-in
These are essential tools for anyone that is a serious MIDI programmer!
 
You can use these cool plug-ins with SONAR, Cubase SX, Project5, Cakewalk 8.0 (and higher) and many other software-based MIDI products.
 
Frank's MIDI Plug-Ins provide the ability to use plug-in MIDI effects. Using plug-in effects is very similar to using the MIDI processing commands like quantize, transpose, interpolate, but with Frank's plug-ins you get other great options like:
 
Deleting all kinds of doubled, repeated and possibly unnecessary MIDI events:
 
Or striping a chordal passage into individual single-line melodies on separate midi channels.
 
And so much more!
 
Check out the amazing MIDI plug-ins at:
 
Why Joey uses Graph Tech

 

I have always said that true service is more important than just about anything. This is true whether you are going to the doctor, finding a good mechanic - or even when you are working with a music gear manufacturer.

 
I first started working with Graph Tech in March of 2005. We had a lot of trouble early on adapting one of my main guitars to their Ghost Modular Pickup System, but in January of '06 we got it right - in a big way.
 
This is what I'm talkin' about when I say "service": The folks at Graph Tech never left me hanging during that time. They kept working with me until I was completely satisfied and I really appreciate that because I love my guitar and I wanted their system to work with it.
 
 
That being said, usually it's not hard to install their system at all, but I wanted to put the system in a Steve Morse Signature Model guitar and that's where the trouble started. At first, it seemed like it was just another install, but the bridge of this particular guitar is not a standard bridge (because it was already full of electronics), so there wasn't a lot of room for the Ghost components. However, we persevered and got it working with that particular guitar finally.
 
Now, what is the Ghost Modular Pickup System you might ask? Well, it's possibly the coolest thing to come out for guitars since the electric amp! - seriously.
 
I now have awesome "action" with the Graph Tech bridge design... you can't get the strings to break if you try!
 
The Ghost system also boasts 6 saddle bridge pickups for a very convincing acoustic guitar sound as well as also giving you the flexibility of a MIDI pickup to really open up your guitar playing to the world of electronics (if you like that sort of thing - and I do!)
 
If you want awesome quality of sound AND flexibility, you MUST invest in the Ghost Modular Pickup System by Graph Tech - it's WELL WORTH IT!
 
 
Check it out at:
 
Why Joey uses Guitar Pro

 

 

 

The top three reasons you should use Guitar Pro are:
 
1. It's quick - AND you don't have to be able to read standard music notation either. If you can write guitar tab, the program will also produce the same info in standard notation as well (and the reverse is also true).
 
2. The end result looks great! You would never know you prepared it quickly on your laptop or home computer!
 
3. You can do not only guitar music, but also bass, drums and vocals/lyrics.
 
Oh... and the BEST reason to use Guitar Pro is that it is priced so even a musician can buy it!
 
Check it out at:
 
 

 

Why Joey uses H.G. Fortune's VSTi Synthesizers

 

 
If you want to catapult into the fourth dimension with your VSTi synth library, then H.G. Fortune's VSTi Synthesizers are certainly what you need!
 
A vast array of sound textures that are both rich and complex sounding are what you get when you tap into the amazing universe of sounds that these virtual synthesizers offer.
 
One of my favorite features is the "Lazy" button. This allows you to randomize different sets of parameters with just a click of the mouse. How cool is that? Great for those moments when you're feeling, well - lazy.
 
I use the following H.G. Fortune VSTi synthesizers:
LaserBlade Synthesizer
ProtoPlasm TSM Pro Synthesizer V.1.8
STS-24 Transition Synthesizer
STS-26 Synthesizer
 
Do yourself a favored and check this stuff out!
 
Why Joey uses Har-Bal

 

 

 

First, let me say that the developers, Paavo Jumppanen and Earle Holder are geniuses - with way too many awards and accomplishments to name here, they have really created something special with Har-Bal.
 
It is the most musical, and at the same time scientific, process I have ever used for mastering music! By coupling spectrum analysis with linear phase digital filtering Har-Bal provides the most powerful, yet functionally simple means of re-adjusting the spectral balance of sound recordings; be they original, new masters, or re-masters of existing works.
 
 
Just some of what you can experience with Har-Bal:
 
1. You can immediately view the problem areas of your stereo files and "Har-Balize" the corrections. If you are serious about your mixes sounding their best, then Har-Bal should be a standard program you use in your studio to test every song before final limiting (loudness) is applied. You can't go wrong!
 
2. The initial volume level of your file remains unchanged even after performing the EQ changes, thanks to the "loudness compensation" technology.
 
3. The program removes the need to test your CD's on different mediums. The templates used have been compiled from hundreds of songs to give you an accurate frequency range for your songs. The inventers actually took the average frequency and decibel range these styles reside in and created templates. These are NOT "presets". Once you load your stereo track into Har-Bal, you will immediately SEE why your songs just didn't sound right outside of your studio. It removes the guesswork and places you in the ballpark of what sounds right on most any sound system.
 
While the program is easy to use, the actual process is quite complicated to explain, so I won't try to do that here, but you owe it to your self to check it out! And if you really want to get in to the nuts and bolts of the program and all the science that goes in to making it work, there is info-a-plenty on the the Har-Bal website.
 
So, what are you waiting for? Click on over and start making your music better! Your ears will thank you!
 

 

Why Joey uses Indie Band Manager Software

 

 

 

I have managed my band, recording studio, web design and internet Radio businesses with it. Trying to use conventional business-type programs – I had little success.
 
Indie Band Manager gives you everything you could ever ask for in one music management program!
 
 
You get integrated email, database and advanced form-letter word processing. You can even generate contracts, set lists, maps and so much more.
 
Indie Band manager also has lists of colleges, print media and contacts for Canada.
 
I know you will agree with me, that Indie Band Manager is the perfect office tool for everyone that has a thriving musical career.
 
This program allows us to focus on the music rather than all the pesky details!
 
 

 

Why Joey uses KlangLabs plug-ins

 

 
I am having too much fun with these programs!! Okay, let's start with my favorite KlangLabs program, StompBud. It's a percussionist's dream come true!!
 
 
With this program, you have a variety of "body sounds" like hand claps, finger snaps, and so on that you can control from your keyboard. Now, at last you can get that cool Stomp sound on your next recording project. It also works great to create a "live" ambience, like crowd noise at a concert, etc.
 
Another cool program I use from KlangLabs, is VOKKO. This is one of the best vocoder plug-ins I have ever used! Vokko is a stereo vocoder. It supports stereo inputs so you can use stereo modulators and it processes all signals internally in stereo so you can also use stereo carriers. Basically, this plug-in processes left and right signals in parallel using two embedded "MDA Talkbox" vocoders and two separate filters. Stereo operation is very uncommon in vocoders and very handy because you can vocode two signals with rich stereo content. For example, you could vocode a voice with a stereo wide-moving pad (a la wavestation).
 
 
Finally, I use BackMan too. This is a realtime audio reverse (backwards) plug-in. Take note, this is a free plug-in, but it's so good that I use it in my recording studio with all my other expensive plug-ins and just love it! I guess sometimes you can get something good for free!
 
There's lots of other cool free stuff on the KlangLabs site - just click on the FREEBIES button and grab some plug-ins to try them for yourself.
 
Check-out all the great plug-ins from KlangLabs at:
 
 
Why Joey uses Misa Digital makers of the "Kitara"

 

To enhance his studio and live performances and take his music production ability to the 23rd century, Joey has partnered
with Misa Digital makers of the "Kitara". "The Kitara is one of the most remarkable instruments to come out since the advent of the electric guitar," says Stuckey.

 

This amazing MIDI controller gives guitarists new and innovative ways to make music both live and in the studio.

 

While it is a little alien at first, I quickly got used to the difference of not having any strings on my guitar and the amazing things I could do with this controller that the traditional guitar MIDI controllers can't accomplish!

 

No matter how much I love my real guitar with it's MIDI pick-up, the tracking is never quite right and to get it playable, it takes hours and hours of trial and error. With the Kitara right out of the box, literally, you can start making some of the best music ever to come out of your imagination!

 

I love the right hand capabilities of this instrument, honestly, you have to try one out to truly understand! The unparalleled flexibility of this instrument is something that has to be played to be believed.

 

I am an adequate keyboard player, but, with the power of the Kitara my keyboard patches sound much more appealing and musically pleasing because I am performing them in my comfort zone, yeah, I am playing them on a guitar and a keyboard at the same time, get it? it's the Kitara!

 

For more information please visit

www.misadigital.com

www.facebook.com/misadigital

YouTube: www.youtube.com/misadigital

Twitter: Misadigital

 

Why Joey uses MixMeister Technology's Podcasting Software

 

Whether you're a professional DJ or a hobbyist, you must shell-out the $50 for this program. There are features, features and more features!

 
In fact, there are such great features that I am now using the program to produce my new internet radio show called "Joey Stuckey's Audio Style" (on Engage Internet Radio).
 
What do I like best? Well, first it is so easy to add songs to the playlist, I mean just a few clicks and it's done. It's also super-easy to change the order of songs on the fly - just drag and drop.
 
 
But just because it's easy, don't make the mistake of thinking that it's just for beginners. I have been a professional DJ for years on FM radio and this software is so good that I am now using it in place of other programs like Sony's Sound Forge audio editor for my radio productions.
 
With its plethora of sound effects, easy-to-use Volume and EQ controls and the *awesome* way that it allows you to layer music, voice-overs and transitional sounds, you won't another piece of software to make truly professional sounding radio shows and/or "Podcasts."
 
You can save your programs/song playlists in either MP3 or WAV format and you can upload your Podcast right from within the program too - it's just so cool.
 
Check it out at:
 
 
Why Joey uses Morley Guitar Pedals

 

 

When I first got started and got in to doing the Wah thing, I used the standard CryBaby. I can’t tell you how many times I wanted to throw it out the window! Eventually, I just couldn’t take the constant annoying scratching sound coming out of it... Also, I usually would get so excited when Wah-ing, that I would end up turning the pedal off from too much forward motion.

 
Enter Morley to Save the Day!
 
I looked around and found the Morley WahSp. It had everything I had ever wanted in a guitar pedal. For one thing, when you put your foot on the pedal it was 'on' and if your foot was off the pedal it was 'off'. So that took care of one problem. It also had such a great and smooth sound - it was like playing a new guitar!
 
I have continued using Morley pedals since the day I got my first one and I’ll never ever change to any other pedal for my Wah needs.
 
I currently use the Bad Horsie pedal, the Dual Bass Wah, the Little Alligator volume pedal, the Mark Tremonti Power Wah, The Tripler, the ABY Selector/Combiner and the Hum-X 2-channel hum eliminator.
 
Bye the way, the Alligator is probably the best guitar pedal ever made! Not only can you use it as a conventional volume pedal, but you can also use it as a lead boost by setting the volume knob on the pedal. Cool!
 
 
For more info: www.morleypedals.com
 
** HEY BIG NEWS! Joey is featured on the new Morley CD, Morley Sampler CD VOL-3. Joey’s song "Morley Magic" is track 17 and the jam-along track of the same title is track 18.
 
>> Click here to listen to "Morley Magic" <<
 
MORE BIG NEWS!!
4/12/05 - Joey Stuckey has been named an Honor Award winner in the 6th Annual Great American Song Contest. Joey's song "Morley Magic" is in the Top 100 best songs out of 2,000 entries. The competition was judged by industry pros including Pat Pattison (professor at Berkley College of Music in Boston, songs recorded by Kathy Mattea, Emmy Lou Harris, Allison Krauss, and Trisha Yearwood), Pete Anderson (grammy award-winning producer working with Dwight Yoakam, k.d. Lang, Sheryl Crow, Sara Evans, Roy Orbison, and Buck Owens), Tim Coons (original producer of the Backstreet Boys; worked with NSYNC, Rob Thomas, Match Box 20, Jefferson Starship, and Take5), Pamela Phillips-Oland (lyricist Reba McEntire, Brian Adams, Whitney Houston, and Selena), Michael Laskow (producer for Eric Clapton, Neil Young, and Crosby, Stills, & Nash; founder of TAXI), and many more. "Morley Magic" scored 45 points out a possible 50. The judges comments included "Solid Blues Theme", "Big Time Guitar Work", Makes Me Wanna Wah!!!" For complete listing of 2004 winners go to http://www.greatamericansong.com/honorary.html.
 
Joey performed all instruments on the song "Morley Magic" (and used Morley's Bad Horsie and Baby Alligator pedals) and recorded it at his studio, Shadow Sound. Loops by Doug Diamond. Mastering by Doug Diamond (courtesy of Shadow Sound).
 
 
 The CD features other great artist like:
 
1) Blues Saraceno, composer for U.S.A. network "Dead Zone" and studio sessions with artists like Melissa Etheridge and Ziggy Marley.
 
2) Toshi Iseda has been featured on over 10 CD's (including all four of Guitar World magazine's 'Indie Bin' CD's - the only guitarist asked to be on all four CD's!), recently collaborated with former Dixie Dregs bassist Andy West to record and co-produce 'RAMA 1' on Magna Carta records.
 
3) This project also features such renowned musicians as drummers Mike Portnoy (Dream Theater/Liquid Tension Experiment), Rod Morgenstein (Dixie Dregs/Winger/Jazz Is Dead), Jonathan Mover (Joe Satriani/Einstein) and keyboardist Jens Johansson (Yngwie Malmsteen/Stratovarious), T. Lavitz (Dixie Dregs/Jazz Is Dead) and Mike Keneally (Frank Zappa/Steve Vai).
 
Joey is also in good company with other Morley endorsers like:
 
ROBERT BARRY (EMERSON LAKE & PALMER)
 
JOY BASU (JESSICA SIMPSON)
 
JIMMIE BONES (KID ROCK)
 
ANDY BRAUER (EARTH WIND & FIRE, CHAKA KHAN, MEREDITH BROOKS)
 
RODNEY BROWNING (DISHWALLA)
 
PETER BUCK (REM)
 
KEVIN CADOGAN (THIRD EYE BLIND)
 
CHARLIE COLIN (TRAIN, ANI DIFRANCO, AL DIMEOLA)
 
CHRIS HINSON (BLUES TRAVELER)
 
ANTHONY JOYNER (TIM McGRAW, FAITH HILL)
 
LENNY KRAVITZ
 
ADAM LEVINE (MAROON 5)
 
NEIL SCHON (JOURNEY)
 
BRIAN SETZER (BRIAN SETZER ORCHESTRA, STRAY CATS)
 
MARK SLAUGHTER (SLAUGHTER)
 
ROBERT SMITH (THE CURE)
 
MICHAEL SWEET (STRYPER)
 
MARK TREMONTI (ALTER BRIDGE, CREED)
 
STEVE VAI     ...and many more!
 
 
For more info: www.morleypedals.com
Why Joey uses only Nelson Custom Cases

 

 

If you're like me, you form an emotional attachment to your instrument. Not only do you spend a lot of money to get the best instrument you can afford for the right sound for your style, but you make it an extension of yourself. So, you can’t afford to trust the care of your instrument to just anyone... that’s why I use Nelson Custom Case Company guitar cases.

 
The folks there are knowledgeable, friendly and really try to help you with your needs. However, the main reason for using them is that their cases just can’t be beat! These cases are attractive, rugged and durable.
 
I am proud to be one of the many professional musicians that use them. They are used by the Beach Boys, Fuel and many more.
 
 
For more info about how Nelson Case Company can provide you with the right cases for you or your band, please visit their website or call them at: 908-479-6902.
 
Check out two pictures of the great amp case that Nelson made for me!
 
 
 
For more info:
 
Why Joey uses PedalSnake

 I love my PedalSnake! It is simply amazing. No more mess of cables like a spaghetti factory, just one snake that handles power, audio and MIDI control. And best of all, if you aren't an electronics guru that understands ohms, polarity and the like, then the easy-to-use website and knowledgeable staff at PedalSnake can fix you right up!

 
Flexible, durable and sounds great - these are just a few great things I can say about my PedalSnake. It really cleans up my pedal board and cuts setup time in half, plus it coils into a nice and neat 10" circle - small enough to fit into any pedal board case. How's that for cool?
 
I demand a lot out of my gear and only use what I consider the best. With being blind, having a clear floor space around me is essential to keep from getting tangled up in my cords. And as all I can do is "listen", then I must have the cleanest sound possible and the PedalSnake delivers every time. I get my dream setup with the PedalSnake!
 
 
Highly Recommended! Click on over and design yours today...
 
Why Joey uses Pigtronix products

 

 
I am always looking for better tone, better control and cool and unusual sounds. So that's why I knew that I had to have the Pigtronix EP-1 Envelope Phaser. It has been designed to work quickly and easily live, but it was also designed as a pro recording studio tool!
 
With a plethora of features like the sidechain input and a space-age look, it is the best filter for guitar, bass and even vocal or drum sounds in the studio! The Envelope Phaser also features footswitch-able phase inversion, expression pedal speed control for mind-bending rotary speaker effects and can even be used as a clean analog fat booster.
 
I also really like this unit because it doesn't require eyesight to work the controls! Most of today's effects pedals and processors rely upon touch screens or a display of some sort, but the EP-1 is pretty much all buttons and knobs baby!
 
Don't just take my word for it though, there are a number of high profile artists that knew the EP-1 Envelope Phaser was a must-have tool to. Among them are some of my favorites: The Flaming Lips, Omar Hakim, Victor Wooten, BT and Marcus Miller just to name a few.
 
 
Want to know more?
 
Why Joey uses products by Acon Digital Media

 

 

 

 

 

 

Whoever said that the best things in life are free must have heard about Acon Digital Media. Okay, okay, it's not quite free, but the value is such - that for what you get for the little money you have to shell out, it might as well be free!!! Seriously...
 
I use the Power Bundle. This is a great package deal with all the tools you need to do professional digital editing and mastering. Power Bundle comes with Acoustica. This is just as good as Sound Forge for such a low price I can't believe it! All the important tools like digital editing, file conversion (like .wav to .mp3, .wma and so on) - and audio effects, like reverb and noise reduction are all there!
 
To sweeten the deal even further, Acoustica makes use of the three DXi plug-ins that come in the power bundle: Studio Clean, Studio Time and Studio Necessities. These plug-ins give you the power to really do some major mastering and other processing. Again, they're every bit as good as Sound Forge's Noise Reduction and effects plug-ins, but at a fraction of the cost! In fact, the Studio Time plug-in, from Acon Digital Media is far superior to the equivalent Sound Forge time compression/expansion tool!
 
...but, you don't want the full package deal? No problem, all of the products available in the Power Bundle are available separately as well.
 
I also use My Ringading (!). This is a nifty little program that lets you make cell phone ringtones of your very own tunes. As a musician, it's free promotion for one of my original tunes to be my ringtone.
 
Check out all that Acon Digital Media has to offer at:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

Why Joey uses products by DashSignature

 

 

An amazing world of sounds is what you get with products from DashSignature!

 
They have several great products that are perfect for the film/TV/video game composer.
 
Ever since I received my VST's from DashSignature I have used them in about 75% of the music I am producing - which is a lot!
 
I use the following DashSignature products:
 
EMM Knagalis Ethno Synth - Many "sample players" or libraries often offer "ethnic" samples, sometimes of a low quality. Knagalis goes much further and offers much more realism. It has been designed to imitate the characteristics of several ethnic instruments, for a great sound quality, an unpaired realism and ease-of-use.
 
 
EVE Electronic Vintage Ensemble -  EVE stands for Electronic Vintage Ensemble, which suggests the design philosophy behind the instrument. EVE was made to recreate in the virtual world of softsynths, the exciting and immediate experience of the early age of electronics in pop, rock and jazz music from the 1960's and 1970's. In this creative period in music history, many musicians started to employ the innovative sounds of the 'electric keyboards' which were newly available for use on stage and in the studio: Rhodes electric pianos, Hammond and Vox organs, Hohner clavinets, strings machines such as the Arp Solina string ensemble, Moog synthesizers, and all those that are now considered 'classics'. Not only were keyboards a part of this revolution in popular music, but the use of effects and recording techniques for layering, blending and manipulating sounds transformed the way music was produced and conceptualized: Tape-based delay lines, rotating speaker cabinets, guitar distortion pedals, wah-wah, phasing, flanging and other effects became an integral part of the process of sound design.  EVE takes these vintage sounds and this early approach to 'electronic' music production as a starting point, and brings this general philosophy and sound into the modern virtual environment with an intuitive and powerful interface. At the core of the EVE approach to sound design is the basic structure of 3 sample-playing layers, 2 multi-effect racks, and a selected library of multi-sampled 'electric keyboards'. This enables the blending of several waveforms and instruments into a vintage wall of sound, or alternatively, the use of the 3 layers multi-timbrality as a vintage workstation. These layers can then be further processed through the EVE's powerful multi-effect racks.
 
SWOOSH Machine Fx collection with player - SWOOSH Machine is a VST DashSound Player like EVE, but with a dedicated 1GB library including a wide range of natural and synthesized audio effects, suitable for any musical application like soundtracks, soundscaping, advertising and others - it includes a default 684 MB sample set.
 
 
Check them all out at:
 
Why Joey uses products by iZotope, Inc.

 

 

When I first heard about the amazing products by iZotope I knew they would make a real difference in the great sounds I am always striving to achieve in my recording projects.

 
Well, I was right; I don't know how I got by without them for this long!
 
 
They are hip, imaginative, fun, easy-to-use and they have excellent tutorials and help menus as well, not to mention an almost unbelievable amount of thoughtful parameters that you can customize quickly and easily.
 
One of my favorite plug-ins is iZotope Vinyl. The ultimate lo-fi weapon, iZotope Vinyl uses 64-bit processing and advanced filtering, modeling and resampling to create an authentic "vinyl record" simulation, as if the audio was a vinyl Lp being played on a record player. You have complete control over the following parameters:
 
Mechanical Noise - The amount of turntable motor rumble and noise.
 
Electrical Noise - Internally generated electrical noise, such as 60 Hz grounding hum.
 
Wear - Control how worn out the record is, from brand new to played a few thousand times.
 
Dust - The amount of dust on the record.
 
Scratch - The number and depth of scratches on the record.
 
Warp - The amount of warping and the warp shape for the record from no warp to the edges totally melted and warped.
 
Record Player Year - The year of the record player from current linear tracking turntables to 1930 phonographs.
 
Stereo/Mono - Switch between stereo and mono output.
 
Input and Output Gain - Set the gain in and out of the effect with visual level meter feedback.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
You can see the time, effort and thought that went into this plug-in. Now, are you ready for the most amazing thing about this plug-in? It's free! That's right, it's free. Now, just think how much thought and craftsmanship goes in to the plug-ins that they charge for!
I also use:
 
iZotope Stutter Edit - It's an effect. It's an instrument. It's Stutter Edit—an innovative tool for both studio and stage, designed by BT and developed by iZotope.
 
iZotope Nectar - Complete Vocal Suite: a complete set of 11 vocal production effects combined in one plug-in that's designed to give you immediate results.
 
iZotope Ozone -Complete mastering effects system using 64-bit analog modeled processing.
 
iZotope Trash - 64-bit modeling of classic amps, distortions, delays and filters.
 
iZotope Spectron - Manipulate audio in the frequency domain using spectral delay, pan and morph.
 
Check it all out at:
 
Why Joey uses products by Sescom

 

 

 

In my line of work (sound recording), or live sound production or even sound installation, you need a group of products that are well made, well thought out by audio professionals, for audio professionals and priced so that you can afford them. Such a company that makes such products is Sescom.
 
With outstanding distribution by TecNec distributors worldwide, you can't go wrong with any of the multitude of amazing audio solutions by Sescom.
 
Here are just a few of the products I use and highly recommend.
 
1. Sescom SES-SOUND-CHECK Stereo Amplified Speaker System for Audio Confidence.
 
This nifty little set of speakers is perfect to check and see if you have audio coming from the source without having to hook-up headphones or monitors. I use them to check direct from my patchbay if I am having trouble running down a poor connection and I have even been guilty of listening to my iPod while working through them; they are that great sounding! I also love the killer feature of being able to, with the flick of a switch of changing from full stereo sound to just left or right channel. Add to this, that they have a great mounting system for easy access and you can't go wrong!
 
2. I also use Sescom IL-19 Inline Professional Audio Hum Eliminator -THE INDUSTRY STANDARD.
 
Having trouble with hum?
 
Doesn't matter what the cause is, so far I have found that these little devices can fix anything - really! It is like having my own magic wand for hum. Just plug them in to your XLR cable chain and presto, problem gone.
 
3. Sescom IL-19-2 Two Channel Professional Audio Hum Eliminator with Isolation. Same as above, but in a handy DI-type box configuration.
 
 
For more info, please visit the website: www.sescom.com
 

 

Why Joey uses products by SFX Machine / The Sound Guy, Inc.

 

 

Earl Vickers, founder and CEO of The Sound Guy, Inc. is an audio engineer, programmer, musician and product developer. He has done sound design and/or music composition for arcade games such as Star Wars, Tron, Gauntlet and 720. He has worked at companies such as Bally Midway, Atari Games Corporation, Time Warner Interactive, Aureal and Creative Labs' Advanced Technology Center. So naturally, he is the man (in my humble but accurate opinion) to head-up a company that has produced some of the best audio plug-ins with which I have ever worked!

 

Many of their products have won prestigious awards like, Electronic Musician's 2007 Editors Choice Award and MacLife Editor's Choice Award.
 
Let's start with SFX Machine RT. This amazing product offers quick and easy access to over 250 presets. It is designed for simplicity and ease-of-use. Simply choose an effect category, click on a preset, tweak the sliders and you're done. Remember those great vocal effects on recordings by John Lennon and Phil Collins? Well, getting those ground breaking sounds is a snap with SFX Machine RT. A more updated version of this product is also endorsed by my hero of the music world, BT (Brian Transeau - composer, singer, songwriter and Hollywood film score producer) - so, you don't have to just take my word for it; other pros are using it to.
 
 
Another valuable plug-in that I use is Backwards Machine. With this little beauty, you can reverse continuous audio in real time. By reversing and overlapping snippets of the incoming audio, Backwards Machine produces an ongoing backwards effect. It includes three presets: Reverse Playback, Forward Backwards, and Reverse Repeat
 
Perhaps the best thing about these products is that they are user-friendly and at a price that is unbelievable.
 
Check them out now at:
 
Why Joey uses products by Xilisoft Corporation

 

 

 
I just love the ease-of-use and pro quality of the amazing A/V products made by Xilisoft.
 
It is just the right application for those of us that don't want to sink lots of money into a big-time pro video set up, but still want to make good quality videos for clients, friends and family.
 
All products of Xilisoft are released after intense research. Xilisoft DVD Ripper, powerful, easy-to-use DVD ripping software, helps you rip DVDs to VCD, SVCD, AVI, MPEG, DivX, WMV, WMA, ASF, etc. Xilisoft Video Converter, a versatile video converter, converts between all popular video formats including DVD, VCD, SVCD, MOV, RM, AVI, MPEG, WMV, 3GP, H.264/MPEG-4 AVC, H.264/PSP AVC etc. easily, quickly with high-quality. Xilisoft DVD Audio Ripper, an ideal, up-to-date DVD MP3 ripper and DVD audio extractor, provides a simple, fast way to rip DVD Audio to all popular file formats including MP3, WAV, WMA, AAC, AC3, OGG, RA etc.
 
 
Now, you can have it all and at a price that won't break the proverbial piggy bank - with the Xilisoft DVD Ripper Platinum software bundle you get:
 
Xilisoft Video Converter
Xilisoft DVD Creator
Xilisoft Audio Converter
Xilisoft CD Ripper
 
Check it all out at:
 
 
 

 

 

Why Joey uses Psychic Modulation products

 

 

They are inventive, rich and just the right tool to keep your music production on the cutting edge!

 
I have the privilege of using many products from Psychic Modulation including:
 
Cerebrum - a sophisticated groovebox-style synth/sampler hybrid drum machine featuring seven drumsynth modules as well as a bass synth module, each with it's own dual A/B sequencer for beat-matching. Designed with live operation in mind, Cerebrum can be used for making complex beats on the fly that can be randomized, mixed, matched and manipulated in a number of ways.
 
Aethereal - the latest addition to the Neurosynth Pack, Aethereal is an ambient vector synthesizer with several built-in sounds for creating evolving atmospheres and textures along with a wide array of possibilities.
 
Subconscious - a dual arpeggiation sequence synth with oscillator crossfading, feedback modulation, and independent filter and amp envelopes for both oscillator sections. Subconscious has two different onboard sequencers, a gate sequencer and a modulation sequencer, which can be used for stepped sequences, gated pads and modulation of the pitch and filters.
 
Check them all out at:
 
Why Joey uses software by Anvsoft

 

With the advent of online communities like MySpace and Bebo, sharing video and photos are now a great way for family and friends to stay in-touch. For the professional musician, it is very important for fans to be able to be involved on an ongoing basis with their favorite artists and bands - and for artists and bands, it is a great way to sell product and grow your fan base.

 
And... you DON'T want to look like an amateur - you need to look like the star you should be! So, it's Anvsoft to the rescue! With the arsenal of pro video and flash and other photo tools, you get a professional product in just minutes and at a fraction of the cost of hiring a designer to do it for you!
 
Not only can you do flash slideshows with cool transition effects, photos, videos and music, but you can convert these same slideshows so that they can be viewed on your iPod, cell phone or even your Sony PSP. Plus, you can do great-looking slideshows and even edit and author video for DVD as well.
 
Anvsoft has some really great tools you need!
 
I use the following products:
Movie DVD Maker, Video to 3GP Converter, DVD Photo Slideshow, iPod Photo Slideshow, 3GP Photo Slideshow, Flash Slideshow Maker
 
Check it out at:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Why Joey uses software by Audio4Fun

 

If you have a limited budget or are a beginner in the AV industry, the super-cool collections of AV music and video morphers by Audio4Fun is for you!
 
These programs have many of the pro features you would get with high-end programs like Sound Forge or Acoustica. Simple wave editing and some outstanding effects like reverb, delay and many more avant-garde types of effects.
 
 
 
Check it out at: www.audio4fun.com
 
Get your free copy of MP3 Morpher at:
 

 

Why Joey uses software by Black Cat Systems

 

 

 

When I started in the radio/music business - during my time in regular "terrestrial" FM Radio, I worked with cart machines every so often. Carts kind of looked like the old 8-track tapes (remember those?), a format I personally loath. However, the great thing about the cart system was the ability to put sound clips or commercials on them and quickly bring those recordings up and cue them, kind of like a tape version of a digital sampler.
 
Well, now thanks to Black Cat Systems, the best part of the cart idea is back again and in a digital audio format that makes it a must for anyone in theater, radio or recording. It's awesome! All the sounds you need, right at your fingertips. Check out Sound Byte Pro at: www.blackcatsystems.com
 
I also use their Diet Sleuth software. You may think that this has nothing to do with music, but I believe that it is essential to keep your health or you can't do anything. You must be able to give your live performances everything you have (and life in general for that matter) and to do that, you must be - at least somewhat - in shape (think Elvis here...). Diet Sleuth is just amazing. It is the perfect way to keep track of how much you are eating and the nutritional value of your food intake.
 
 
 
Check it all out at:
 

 

Why Joey uses software by Nufsoft

 

 

 

These guys have screensaver software down to an art - not to mention science!
 
We all know that screensavers are fun to watch and a great way to kill time by mindlessly watching them do their thing. They are also a cool way to personalize your computer. I mean, nothing says "me" like animated fish swimming by a picture of you in a snow storm right there on your computer screen.
 
 
Now with the help of the amazing Ace Pro Screensaver Creator and the Water Illusion Screensaver you can make your very own screensavers and at professional quality - animation and all!
 
Besides being fun, if you are a marketing guy like me you will probably already know that free screensavers are a great way to keep your company, band or "brand" in front of folk's eyes.
 
Download Joey's FREE Screensaver (6MB)
 
For more information:
 
 

 

Why Joey uses software by YellowTools

 

Rich sound, flexible and intuitive controls, the best algorithms... what is it, you ask? Does it sound amazing? Is it state of the art? Is it a must for every producer and recording studio? Yes, it's YellowTools! And it just keeps getting better!

 
Okay, I don't want to seem too proud of myself, but the truth is that since I am blind, all I do when making a recording is one main thing really - and that's listening! I demand the best and that is what YellowTools gives me time after time.
 
From the incredible realism of Culture, to the mind-blowing possibilities with the multi-effects of Freedom. From drums, to guitars, to sax, YellowTools has it all!
 
 
Check it out at:
 

 

Why Joey uses SpectraLive by Crysonic

 

 

If you have ever tried to get a lot of depth  and clarity from recordings without spending the money on mastering, I am sure that you have probably been disappointed.

 
Oh, sure you have tried all the tricks like BBE Exciters and the like, but the truth is that most of those type of products are not very flexible - and can more often than not make the recording sound worse than it already does!
 
Enter the SpectraLive Intelligent Spectral Audio Vitaliser VST
 
 
Just start playing around with it's presets and you will be amazed at the cool sounds you can get - even if you're a novice - and it's so easy-to-use too.
 
Now, for those of you that actually do engineering, mixing and/or mastering for a living like myself, you will find that SpectraLive gives you a great new tool for even your most challenging projects and it is perfect for the modern recording engineer in it's VST format.
 
For more info:
 
Why Joey uses SwirlyGig

 

So, what is a SwirlyGig I hear you asking?!

 
Well, it just might be the most useful invention for the working musician since the VW Bus!
 
The SwirlyGig is a stylish, yet practical mic stand beverage holder.
 
You want one, you need one, and you can get one at:
 
 
Why Joey uses the ARP 2600 V & Minimoog V by Arturia

 

 

It’s amazing!!!

 
The ARP 2600 V is simply the most innovative music software to hit the market since the advent of computerized multi-track recording!
 
What *can’t* you do with the ARP 2600 V is a much better question than just asking about it’s multitude of features.
 
If you already know about the history of this classic analog instrument, then I’ll just say that Arturia has brought the classic into the 21st Century in a big way! If you don’t know about the classic version, then do yourself a favor and check out this latest incarnation without delay.
 
The sound is just "other worldly." I have never had so much fun coming up with new musical sounds and effects.
 
 
With it’s plethora of presets, flexible controls and great audiophile sound, the ARP 2600 V is the perfect blend of great analog sound while providing an easy (and modern) computer interface, that is more like a virtual reality instrument than a standard “softsynth.” I mean, it’s like having the actual keyboard and all its controls right there, but without the annoying hassle of patch cables.
 
With all of its possibilities I can’t ever see myself not being able to provide the right sound for the right song that needs that special analog sound.
 
It’s true, this is a new era in music production with the advent of the ARP 2600 V and it’s all thanks to Arturia!
 
Minimoog V
 
I also use the Arturia Minimoog V software plug-in (screenshot below) for that classic "Moog Sound."
 
 
Arturia has worked with Bob Moog himself to bring this one-of-a-kind classic synth in to the contemporary music/work environment.
 
It's just like the original, but it's less-filling and tastes great! Click here for more info about Minimoog V.
 
 
 
 
For more info:
 
Why Joey uses the Cameleon 5000 by Camel Audio

 

 

The Cameleon 5000 is a must-have softsynth for anyone that does any type of electronic music, rap, hip-hop or house.

 
Before I even heard the sounds I was sold on it because it is used by recording artist/producer/composer BT. Ah, but as always the proof is in the listening...
 
The basic sounds, like piano are really good - but where this softsynth really excels is with it's cool electronic sounds; they are some of the best I've ever heard - no kidding.
 
Another amazing feature are the "extra banks of sounds" coming out at on a regular basis from folks like Tim Conrardy and Peter Schelfhout.
 
And wonder of wonders, the support for Cameleon 5000 is truly awesome too! There are great manuals, demos and tutorials to get you started whether you are a softsynth newbie or an advanced user.
 
 
You owe it to yourself to check this thing out!! It's super-cool.
 
Why Joey uses the intelliScore Polyphonic 6.2 Software

 

Okay, if you are like me you have at times needed an audio file turned into a MIDI file for one reason or another. Usually, it’s the easiest way to make sheet music out of an existing audio file or maybe you want to turn one of your original compositions into a cellphone ringtone.

 
Well, this technology has not been very easy-to-use or understand - until now!
 
Innovative Music Systems has a program called intelliScore Polyphonic 6.2 that makes this process: that of converting audio to MIDI - both affordable and intuitive.
 
Don’t get me wrong, this program works best if you are an experienced MIDI user, but the Audio-to-MIDI Wizard makes it possible even for a beginner to use effectively.
 
intelliScore is polyphonic so it can handle more than one sound at a time, though one sound at a time still works best (i.e. less editing of audio or midi information).
 
I have looked at other programs that claim to do similar types of things, but intelliScore is hands-down at the top of this field!
 
 
Give it a try today!
 
For more info: www.intelliscore.net
Why Joey uses Tonal Alchemy software

 

 

 

This is an amazing tool that every music teacher and studio producer should have!
 
I use it to help my guitar and bass students learn and also it’s a great tool when you are trying to come up with a bridge to a song in a writing or recording session.
 
 
ChordAlchemy features an outstanding "Reverse Chord Lookup" capability. Use the Reverse Chord Lookup fretboard to click in your fingering then click "Find Chord." ChordAlchemy will reverse lookup the chord and it's enharmonic equivalents; e.g. a C6 chord is also an Am7 which is also a D9sus4 (no root).
 
In addition, ChordAlchemy has a "theory engine" that can’t be beat! Take for example the way it handles Tonal Essentials. Tonal Essentials (tm) are notes needed to maintain the tonal characteristics of a specific formula. For example, a full Major 13th chord is made up of the major scale intervals: 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13. The "defining" intervals are the 1, 3, 7, and 13. The 5, 9, and 11 intervals are not critical to the tonal quality of a Major 13th chord. In fact, trying to play a full 13th chord (7 notes) on a 6 string instrument would be quite a trick! ChordAlchemy’s chord theory engine implements Tonal Essential intelligence to ensure a robust and complete selection of chords; but, there’s more. Besides chords, ChordAlchemy supports single notes, intervals, and a large number of scales.  If there is a scale that isn't pre-defined in the formula (chord) list, it can be created using the "Real-Time Formula Modification" capability.
 
 
ChordAlchemy 3.3 Now Available! The ultimate tool for looking up and reverse searching notes, intervals, scales and chords for fretted instruments. Check it out now, you'll be glad you did!
 
 
For more info:
 

 

Why Joey uses Toontrack software

 

 
I have always had a passion for drums and percussion. I minored in percussion in college, but alas I am not really a drummer. However, being able to get a great drum sound is a critical part of making outstanding musical recordings and something that every recording engineer should be able to do. Making this process easier then ever before is what Tunetrack is all about.
 
I have to say at this point that I was thrilled to become an endorser of the complete line of Tunetrack software! I knew they were great products, but when I actually got the programs and the sample library installed on my computer, I couldn't believe my ears!
 
Again, while I use the full line of products, I want to talk in detail about two programs in particular.
 
First, Superior Drummer...
 
This program in combination with your DAW of choice is one of the best programs I have in my very large collection! You can do so much with the amazing samples of drums. You can play from your keyboard for programming MIDI sequences, you can trigger from drum pads or other sound sources and you can use the MIDI library with some of the best drum loops and patterns to quickly fashion a pro-sounding drum track for your song in minutes.
 
I have the complete library of samples and recommend you do to! But using any of them you have control over changing the brand of drum, its size, its mic type and placement and so much more. I mean it, every producer must get this program!!
 
Second is EZmix. A top-of-the-line effects processing plugin that has truly awesome (and practical) user presets for EQ, Compression, Reverb and more.
 
All TuneTrack products are extremely user-friendly for the pro or beginner alike. In short, make your tracks stand out with Tunetrack; it is more than worth the investment!
 
 
 
For more info, please visit the website: www.toontrack.com
Why Joey uses Ultimate Support

 It's a no-brainer really, Ultimate Support simply have the best Keyboard Stands available for every occasion! Whether you are a performer or studio musician (or both) -  if you use keyboards and synths at all you need one of these babies!

 
Ultimate's Apache Triple Tier stand has really become an integral part of my studio setup. The flexibility of the Apache is awesome! I can configure my keyboards, control surface and MIDI controller for optimal work-flow, performance and comfort.
 
The stand is easy-to-assemble and breaks down quickly too for great portability and if that weren't enough, it looks super-stylish! (Well, if I could see - I know it would!)
 
Oh, did I mention how sturdy it is? I mean, you can really "get down"/rock-and-roll and your keyboard doesn't move at all, but that's not all...
 
There is a wide range of extra attachments you can get to really make the most of your work area - like the mic stand, music stand, 19" rack, or "small shelf" for things like drum machines, sound modules or external "box-of-some-sort."
 
 
Joey also uses the Ultimate Support MS-36 monitor stands for his studio speakers.
 
Check out all the great products from Ultimate Support at:
 
Why Joey uses Vocal-Eze by Travel Wellness

 

 
 As a vocal coach, I know how important throat moisture is to good voice maintenance. Vocal-Eze does that and so much more!
 
Staying in good voice health is very difficult, especially if you constantly use it to make a living. Oh sure, you can drink hot tea with honey and lemon (though not always readily available) or use a cough drop, but that will oftentimes leave you with an un-reflexive voice. So, why bother with all of that when you can carry Vocal-Eze in your pocket?!
 
This amazing product has really made a difference in my ability to perform when my voice was scratchy, dry or very tired!
 
 
Check out Vocal-Eze and the other great health products at:
 
Why Joey uses Voxengo plug-ins

 

 

When they say: "Voxengo - Sound With A Soul" - that’s just what it means!
 
The warmth and old-school sound of analog is all there without any of the drawbacks thanks to Voxengo’s state-of-the-art treatment with their software impulses.
 
For great vocal processing that just can’t be beat, the Voxengo Voxformer is a must-have for everyone that wants the big-studio-vocal-processing-sound without having to pay thousands of dollars!
 
I also use the remarkably flexible Voxengo Pristine Space reverb, Voxengo Analogflux Suite, Voxengo Elephant mastering limiter, and LF-Punch plug-ins and love them!
 
Voxengo has a truly great line of plug-ins that you should experience to believe - and most importantly, hear for yourself. From amazing reverbs, to warm tube compression and great analog tape effects, but don’t just take my word for it - check it out for yourself.
 
For more info: www.voxengo.com

 

Why Joey uses VSTunnel

 

 

Ever known a great musician that you just had to have on your recording project, but alas they lived in another town, state/province or even another country?

 
Well, thanks to the magic of VSTunnel you can now collaborate to your heart's desire across the internet! You both (or all) need to have a decently powered computer, high-speed internet access and some type of multi-track recording software; most musicians already have these things - or at least access to some or all of them.
 
This plug-in is amazing, very affordable and just plain fun to use. Not only can you have private recording sessions, but you can jam with any other online musician too.
 
 
 
 
Check it out at: