Transcribing CD players

[Mike Cesati]

I was looking into getting a CD Trainer from Windplayer.com. It is a CD player that slows things down to transcribe or change the key of a play-along. Does anyone own this or know of any other types of players? I really don't want software I would like to get a unit that is self contained and doesn't have to be used in conjunction with the computer.

[Gregg W. Jackson]

The Windplayer Instrumental CD Trainer looks exactly like a TASCAM CD-VT1 voice trainer. I've been thinking about getting the CD-VT1, so I recognize the product.

First, I would suggest that you check out some of the customer reviews of the CD-VT1 on Epinions.com, Harmony Central, and the Musician's Friend website. The reviews are mixed, lots of pluses and a few minuses.

Second, assuming that the unit that Windplayer.com is selling is a TASCAM CD-VT1, is it the original model or the upgrade? If it's the original model, you can get it on closeout for about $99, since the upgrade has many valuable improvements.

Third, again assuming that it's the TASCAM unit, you should consider the price and what you get with the bundle. The major online music sites (Musician's Friend, Music 1-2-3, Sam Ash, Woodwind and Brasswind, etc.) show an MSRP of the TASCAM CD-VT1mkII is $199 and a selling price of $149. Windplayer.com is bundling a $25 AC adapter and $15 headphones with the CD-VT1 and charging $195. Personally, I'm a little skeptical about $15 headphones. First of all, if you're going to use the unit with a sax, you don't need headphones, unless you're going to mic the sax. If you already have headphones, the $15 ones would be unnecessary, and if you don't, you might want to spend a little more money and get a better pair.

Good luck. If you do get the unit, no matter from whom, let us know how you like it.

[Mike Cesati]

Greg,

Thanks for the valuable info. I'm going to call the people at Windplayer and inquire about the model#. I think you just saved me some $$$$.You da man.


If I get the unit which I want to I'll let you know. There are some things I want to transcribe and this sounds like the best option over a Marantz that does similar things. They were very pricey.I'm not up on the electronic end of music to know whats out there. Mike

[BigDaddyJ]

Why not just get a program like Slow Gold for you PC?

http://www.worldwidewoodshed.com/

$50 and it works great.

Later

Joel

[Mike Cesati]

Joel, Thanks for the Slowgold link. I got the trail version and it seems like just what I need. I'll let you guys know if I get the Tascam.

[astuart]

Mike, you also should try the s/w Transcribe by Seventh String. It allows for a complete slowdown of various degrees and transposition. Very inquisitive. Here is the link.

Good luck,

Als
http://www.seventhstring.com/xscribe/overview.html

[uksaxman]

Great program called Winamp, downloadable free, use plug-in called pacemaker, and loopmaster, both are superb. Enjoy :)
Brian

[uksaxman]

Sorry forgot to add location: http://www.winamp.com/
plugins available as links on main site
Its a great music player and archiver too, downloadable videos too (good one on fourplay with Larry Carlton et al)
Brian