I have been noticing many more solo acts as well as band,refer to an IPAD2 to stage their music.

Working from a laptop with a software called Swift Elite-Lite. This software allows me to prepare a list of songs prior to show time along with their key changes where necessary. I then open list, aand automatically the songs play one after another within two decks and pauses scheduled in between allowing me to talk to audience. NOW, will an pad be able toaccept a program like this in place of a laptop pc??
anyone have any suggestions as to what software an IPAD2 will accept to do this?please advise

Is your PC automatically playing backing tracks?

I use Songbook Plus (In a search use the plus sign not the plus word...the sign won't copy to these posts) for the iPad.

It does just about everything. Songbook Plus is the only one that accepts midi to select pages.

It will also allow you to select a lyrics sheet on the iPad and it will automatically select and play your mp3 backing tracks. You can play it directly from the iPad's output jack. Sure makes for less bulk on the stage.

The iPad program displays PDF files. So anything you can convert to a PDF can be loaded into the app via itunes.

The ipad doesn't crash, make noise in your PA or take up a lot of room.

I highly suggest you not go cheap on a holder. Get the GigEasy...trust me on this.

Just a throw in here, I considered the ipad but had second thoughts for a couple of reasons; I consider the small output jack to be somewhat unreliable with constant in/out use and it could be prone to theft or damage in venues where alcohol is in full swing. I use the American Audio Media Operator http://www.electromusic.co.uk/...-Media-Operator.html ready made for entertainers, I use the free 'mp3 Gain' software for normalising volume then load them into it in set lists. It uses phono, so I have L1 Type II, Pod HD Bean, Tonematch and I'm away.
Tony

This message has been edited. Last edited by: tonyparnham,

quote:

I consider the small output jack to be somewhat unreliable with constant in/out use

I don't think this would be an issue. It will get much more use from a normal user and headphones over it's lifetime. If you just need a device to play mp3 files then it is overkill, but if your reading lyrics then it is a double duty device. It's also excellent for playing angry birds