Only a servant

29th Nov...

2011-11-29T15:29:00.003+10:30

In 10 days Sher-Mayne and I will be having our 4th anniversary. Time really flies, especially when you are very busy. I've been feeling for a while already that time and events have been just passing me by just like that. Suddenly I realize I'm already 27 and its been 6 years since I've left Adelaide. Suddenly its been the same 6 years since I started a romantic relationship with my wife. And suddenly, I am no longer the kid I used to be.

The much suggested advise to personal growth is that time be taken to reflect upon experiences. This provides us with more insight (due to hindsight) into the circumstances that befall us. We realize many things we missed, and we may gain new perspectives and dimensions. This is something I haven't been doing for a while. Being so caught up with everything (dare I say, overwhelmed), I was pretty much going through the motions very much like a machine: event/problem 1, solved. Move on to event/problem number 2. And to be perfectly honest, that is how I've gone through my job so much so I no longer remember why I took it in the first place or why I am still staying.

Hence the decision was made that this year end would be a time of reflection. Reflection upon what has pretty much been the entirety of my professional life which spans getting married, learning how to be a proper husband, and ultimately evolving to become a father. 2 days ago I decided to look through older facebook pictures. Looking back, many friendships have not been maintained. Yesterday I read my very first blogpost. Much to my regret, I read it out loud next to Sher-Mayne. I couldn't help but laugh out in amusement (and embarrassment) at not only the things I wrote, but the person I used to be. Recalling those moments as if they were last week, it really highlighted the large change that I have gone through. No longer single (and flirting around I might add) and less egocentric (I certainly hope so), the 2011 version of me is hopefully more polished and refined, hopefully more wise, and certainly with more wrinkles and white hair. Sher-Mayne noticed more white hair on my head. I attributed it to stress and she nicely told me to my face, "You are old already lah." Ahh, the benefits of having an honest wife.

So here we are at the end of Nov2011. 2012 beckons. If the world does indeed come to an end next year, I hope I don't have too much of regret. But I will certainly be delighted that my prayer came true (rapture before Alyssa needs to marry). But here's to a fruitful month whereby all of us get to reflect upon another year that has zoomed by. Do so to maintain your sanity as I found it really helped maintain mine.

22 Nov...

2011-11-22T15:16:00.004+10:30

Time sure has been flying. Already November 2011 is coming to an end. Josh had his Malaysian wedding dinner last Sat. Eric and Reuben's wedding is coming up. Before we know it, Christmas will be gone and welcome 2012.

Guitar nuts will doubtlessly not miss the Bogner Alchemist hidden behind Alyssa but the rest of you will probably be surprised how big she has grown already. Aly just turned 18 months 2 days ago. Sometimes Sher-Mayne and I feel she's growing up a bit too fast.

The Bogner? Its sweet. Really sweet. And warm. And HEAVY! 36 kilos to be exact. Its the 212 combo with the Greenback and G12H speakers. My wife was telling me the other day, "Why did you get it? It thought you wanted something portable?" That is so true. I was in fact looking out for something that was portable so I could easily bring it to church. However, for the price I got it for used, it basically blew all the other alternatives in the price bracket out of the water in terms of tone and features. The only other amps in that range that had 2 channels was the new Bugera V22 or a used Marshall JTM30. Others were the new Night Train (single channel, still need cab), new Tiny Terror (single channel, still need cab), new ZT Lunchbox (no tubes and non 12" speaker), new Laney cub 12 (single channel), and new Ceriatone Prinzetone (single channel, still need cab). So essentially it was a toss between the V22, JTM30, and the Alchemist. Both the V22 and JTM were very appealing due to their great clean tone and ability to get good crunch on the gain channel. But I guess I was hooked by the Alchemist's tonescaping options.

So I made a compromise. I compromised portability to get those extra features and a huge sound with those 212 and aim to minimize this large drawback by taking out the electronics and re-housing them in a head. Carrying them separately (head & 212 cab) is infinitely easier than carrying both in 1 unit, despite the supplied wheels at the bottom. Its been with me for about 6 months already and its been sounding better and better as I learn how to get my type of sounds from it.

About Aly? Well, she loves tweaking my knobs. Just like how she enjoys changing my settings on my pedals, she loves fiddling with the knobs on my amp. Her latest craze is plugging my cables in and out of my Ibanez amp and attempting to use my wah while holding the Bogner for support. I even managed to catch her on video, attempting to unscrew one of my pedal with a screwdriver. Already a guitar tech in the making. Haha. Lets see if I can find that vid and post it here.

Well, its been busy busy busy for me, hence the very low post count. Take care the rest of you and may the end of the year provide you with time to reflect upon another year past.

Justin

A tribute to my wife.

2011-08-17T13:16:00.006+09:30

Hello folks, if there are anymore of you still out there. Being a dad is tough work. As they say, its a full time job and so I really feel for my wife who has to juggle both her full time job and being a mom. Hugs.

Its been a long journey for me as far as guitaring is concerned. The first few years were focused on playing and enjoying playing. Nothing much to do with the technicality and the hardware part of it. Those of you who follow my blog will know I only knew how to truly manipulate the 3-band eq after I left my band.

In between I journeyed into discovering who are my favourite guitarists and what kind of tone and style I prefer. This morphed from jazz to funk, to blues and now, to rock. Emphasis was placed on learning licks and attempting to learn Jack Thammarat's "On the way." I even purchased his tab only to eventually realize a lot of his stuff are beyond my skill level.

The later part - especially after I went into effects building - has been a delve into the murky world of electronics and how things work. This seriously spurred my reading as I'm a guy who craves info. Countless hours were spent on forums reading about how different circuits function, how they interact with the amp, as well as "what on earth was a tube amp." All this has led to an over emphasis on effects, tone sculpting, and collecting various pedals based on different circuit designs and genre.

Along the way, the player in me got lost. The 15 year-old kid who happily strummed away on the acoustic with little regard for mids, warmth, sustain... that guy slowly took a back seat. I haven't enjoyed playing for a while and my dear wife knew this all along but did not know how to articulate it. I normally ask my wife for feedback especially after playing my latest creations (supposed to take me to tonal bliss) and of late, she'll just say "you sound okay lah." Some times even "same old." Few nights ago she tells me something to this effect: Its not the gear that makes the player. Its the player that plays the gear. If you are a good player, you'll sound good regardless what you play. And she was right. I had to hold my hand up and admit I was sucked in to the rat race of guitar gear where you are constantly looking out for that next piece of equip that will make you better.

And so I finally decided to let it all go. I deleted all my links and bookmarks to all those forums, blogs, and anything related to guitar gear. I surmised that I will make do with what I have, looking to get an acceptable and musical tone out of it instead of looking for something else to buy or build. It was easier than I imagined though. Its interestingly refreshing and dare I say, liberating.

So here's to my next phase of my journey into guitar playing and I thank God for giving me a sharp wife who's not only able to tell me "Eh, your tone got improvement today ah" but also able to call me out on the deeper underlying issues. Thank you honey, I love you.

Powerful or powerless?

2011-04-04T12:38:00.004+09:30

To whom will you compare me? Who is my equal?” asks the Holy One.

Look up into the heavens. Who created all the stars? He brings them out like an army, one after another, calling each by its name. Because of his great power and incomparable strength,not a single one is missing. O Jacob, how can you say the Lord does not see your troubles? O Israel, how can you say God ignores your rights? Have you never heard? Have you never understood? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of all the earth. He never grows weak or weary. No one can measure the depths of his understanding. He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless. Even youths will become weak and tired, and young men will fall in exhaustion. But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint. - Isaiah 40:25-31, New Living Translation

TO: Jesus, Son of Joseph
Woodcrafter Carpenter Shop
Nazareth

FROM: Jordan Management Consultants
Jerusalem

Dear Sir:

Thank you for submitting the resumes of the 12 men you have picked for management positions in your new organization. All of them have now taken our battery of tests; we have not only run the results through our computer, but also arranged personal interviews for each of them with our psychologist and vocational aptitude consultant.

It is the staff opinion that most of your nominees are lacking in background, education, and vocational aptitude for the type of enterprise you are undertaking. They do not have the team" concept. We would recommend that you continue your search for persons of experience in managerial ability and proven capability.

Simon Peter is emotionally unstable and given to fits of temper. Andrew has absolutely no qualities of leadership. The two brothers, James and John, the sons of Zebedee, place personal interest above company loyalty. Thomas demonstrates a questioning attitude that would tend to undermine morale.

We feel that it is our duty to tell you that Matthew has been blacklisted by the Greater Jerusalem Better Business Bureau. James, the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus definitely have radical leanings. They registered a high score on the manic depressive scale.

One of the candidates, however, shows great potential. He is a man of ability and resourcefulness, meets people well, has a keen business mind and has contacts in high places. He is highly motivated, ambitious, and responsible. We recommend Judas Iscariot as your controller and right-hand man. All of the other profiles are self-explanatory.

We wish you every success in your new Venture.

Sincerely yours, Jordan Management Consultants

from Greg Ogden, "Transforming Discipleship: Making Disciples a Few at a Time."
COPYRIGHT 2004 Catholic New Times, Inc.
COPYRIGHT 2004 Gale Group

Being a working adult is certainly not easy. We are called to put our childish ways aside, take up responsibility, and essentially grow up. Which is all fine and well. But to really shine, you need to be professional, accomplished, and efficient. These are traits looked highly upon by everyone. And they are traits I aspire to acquire. I push myself. Tell myself it is my responsibility. And I did acquire them to certain extents. However, the by products of acquiring these traits gave me a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction with myself. I felt good about myself, having somewhat achieved the traits I desired, through will and hardships. Somewhat powerful I would say. And it has made me quite proud.

I've heard the story about the 12 disciples before as a teenager but heard it again not too long ago at Revival Center. Hearing it as an adult with more of a taste of life, I was able to appreciate much of the jokes, especially about the 11. Seriously, you read accounts of them in the bible and you really have to wonder what Jesus saw in them. Then you come to Judas Iscariot. With the benefit of hindsight, we know he didn't have a happy end. But rewind back to when the past was the present, I am certain the 11 would have been quite envious of him, as he was quite capable. Motivated, ambitious, resourceful, responsible. The model professional and employee. But have these skills made us too powerful to rely on God for help?

I read Isaiah 40 and 41 last night when my world came crumbling down. God would give power to the weak and strength to the powerless. At that moment, it was very clear that I had no power over my life. I did not "have it all together." But isn't that what the world demands from us? To "have it all together." Maybe my accomplishments have mislead me into a false sense of security, control, and ultimately comfort. Maybe I had become too powerful to receive God's help. I guess what I am trying to say is, it is okay to be all those things. It is good in fact. I believe God smiles when He see's us being productive, performing to the best of our abilities, using the body He designed to its fullest. I believe it brings Him glory and is a form of worship. But do not forget where that ability came from. Like me, you will end up stripped and laid bare, displayed for who you truly are: nothing. For our God will not share His glory with another. And all will see and know what the hand of God has done.

PAYJ Shredder - This is not a teaser

2011-01-12T00:47:00.005+10:30

At long last! I recently delivered the result of many hours worth of labour. Josh came down and I took him to Music Master to give his new pedal a go. You should pay them a visit. Those guys will let you test any gear without pressure and kudos to Dennis for being such good store attendants. Looking back to when I first agreed to make this, it was found in an e-mail date March 2010. 10 months ago? You can't be serious? Well, what to do?

Anyway, we ran the pedal through a Laney (100 watter?) into a 4X12 cab and it was a blast. Dirt channel was everything I hoped it would be but the real revelation was the Boost channel. Sort of transparent but with some real dirt, warmth, and the dynamics... Well, I'm making one for myself so that should say it all. Thanks TJ for taking the splendid pictures. Thanks Music Master for being such good blokes. And lastly, thanks Josh for having faith in me (of course, the DD20 is really swell).

Payj Shredder Teaser 2

2010-11-10T01:28:00.003+10:30

Updates on Payj Shredder. I somehow managed to make a spelling error previously. Its supposed to read "Shredder", not "Schredder." Sigh.

Before

After.

Shock experience: the explanation

2010-10-26T00:39:00.001+10:30

Something I came across that probably explained my shocking (literally) experience a few posts back. Dangerous stuff man.

Payj Schredder Teaser

2010-10-26T00:08:00.002+10:30

7th October 2010.

2010-10-07T13:35:00.003+10:30

Quote of the day:

One man's meat, another man's poison.
One man's sleep, another man's strangulation.
- Justin Yap

Final jigsaw

2010-10-07T01:07:00.007+10:30

On Sunday I was chairing a few presentations for the Asian Regional Union of Psychological Societies my college was hosting. It contained many quality presentations of rock solid research by some bigwigs in the field of Psychology. Of course I was quite nervous but God helped me pull through. Anyway, barely an hour passed by when I got a message from Sher-Mayne saying Josh's parents just passed her my DD-20. WHAT??? Say that again? Seriously, if only she waited and surprised me when I returned home because the following 3 hours was quite a torture with all the excitement making it tremendously hard to focus on the job.

As you can see, the used unit is essentially brand new. If Josh would have told me it was un-touched, I would believe him. Kudos to him for finding such a good deal. Also, the initial deal was to be a swap with the custom pedal I'm building him and then I'd top up the difference. But now his pedal isn't complete yet and I have already received mine. Makes me feel kind of bad but Josh is one heck of a guy by displaying his generosity.

This is seriously a delayed purchase (Aha, my first pun). Many people purchase their delays quite soon in their journey into the electric guitar. Believe it or not, I only trully understood the 3-band eq on amps AFTER I left Unabashed. What it meant was I essentially played with them for 2 years without really understanding tone. Goes to show that you do not necessarily know what you think you know.

Lastly I'd like to thank my wife who has graciously offered to pay the difference as a birthday present to me. Thank you dear. I'd still love you the same even if you didn't do it. Anyway, below is a shot with the rest of its new neighbours. Which completes the final jigsaw in the puzzle. So I thought my rig is complete... until the amp started to tap according to the tap tempo led. Did some research and it seems the Boss dual pedal series all need their own power supply. So much for the complete rig. Now I'll need to build myself a regulated power supply with individual outlets if I intend to continue using a single adapter. Looks like I'll be lugging 2 of those around until I finish that. Well, that will have to wait until Josh's Shredder is done and judging by current speed, its not going to be very soon. Ahh, more space on my pedal board.

God bless and happy guitaring.

The path of least resistance

2010-09-30T13:13:00.004+09:30

Many years ago when I was still a teenager, I was still attending Revival Center. One of the blessings being in a church is you get lots of different kinds of exposure. One of them was music. I loved playing music in church. If it wasn’t for church, I would probably have never embarked on this journey with my guitars.

Anyway, one fine year our youth camp was to peace haven. That camp was notable for the entourage of youth members who came along with the camp speaker. So, everything went as usual, until the first session. As we were setting up, we realized that all the power sockets on the left wall was not working, which left us to use the 4 sockets on the wall immediately behind us. Now we were packing a full band plus PA. And of course, yours truly had his gear (humble Korg AX1500) and all.

So we proceeded through the sound check and things were still fine. Right before we started, I had this (brilliant?) idea to say something. Whether it was a lame joke or it was something inspirational, I remember not. What I do remember is reaching out to grab the mic and current surging through my right arm. My facial muscles were all flexed and for a good 2 seconds, I was feeling the brunt of the current. I guess my legs gave way because I fell to the ground, forever denting my precious Strat as it hit the projector stand on the way down. I must say that I didn’t feel any pain from the thud though. Next thing I knew was Brother Kevin saying “Justin! Justin! Look at me. Look at me.” I’m not sure how long I was out but it felt instantaneous.

Guess what, the guys from Tabernacle of Worship (Edit: They were actually from Church of Praise Ipoh) at the back had a good laugh. They thought I tripped and fell. Must have been very clumsy of me. Anyway, I got up shortly after that and we resumed worship but for the rest of camp I had this aching feeling at the joint of my right arm. Many years later I came across this article from: http://www.guitarnuts.com/technical/electrical/safety/index.php. It talks about the shock hazards guitarists are exposed to. Here’s an excerpt with my emphasis bold in black.

"Never use your body as a piece of test equipment. During the discussion on recording music, one sadly misinformed individual recommended touching the microphone with one hand while holding the guitar strings with the other (to avoid being surprised by a painful shock on the lips). After several of us recovered from the heart-attacks caused by just thinking about that we explained to this individual that what he was recommending was the most lethal shock scenario possible because the path for the current goes straight through the heart. It is current through the heart that kills. People have survived high voltage shocks that, for example, travelled from wrist to elbow and severely burnt the arm. I've personally taken 115V 400hz shots from fingers to elbow several times with nothing more serious than, "ouch, that hurts!" and a temporary numbness. I know a guy who took a very high voltage (in the thousands) shock through his head . The shock caused severe injuries and he spent months in treatment and reconstructive operations but he survived. Yet many have died from a relatively mild shock that left no marks but routed a few milliamps through the heart."

My heart was in the path of least resistance. Was the current that I was subjected to that day less than a few milliamps? We were running the entire band and system through the same plug point and my arm was quite hurt from the ordeal so I find that hard to believe. My wife chipped in with her thoughts: “You should have died that day. Somehow you are alive, which would probably mean God saved you for a purpose.” Now I’m not sure what’s so special about me but if indeed it was a miracle, I do thank God for His act of grace. It is one of those wake-up calls that reminds you your life is not really your own. Now I can finally get over the fact that there is a large ding in my most prized asset. It would serve to remind me for the rest of my life.

Well, pondering about the most significant things which would not have happened had I died that day, the lovely lady above would have met and married someone else. Had that happened, this person would have never been born.

May the name of the Lord be Glorified.

New inspiration

2010-09-29T22:45:00.004+09:30

I came across this youtube video through a blog I have been frequenting lately. Its run by the CEO of this guitar shop in SS2. Anyway, back to the youtube guitarist. Now this Thai dude is really something. I admit, I don't feel anything for shredding but this guy manages to pull it off so melodically. I love his notes too and his smooth style. I'll let the video do the talking. I think I've just found a new inspiration. The thing I can't figure out is whether he reminds me more of Joe Satriani or Eric Johnson.

Happy birthday to me

2010-09-29T22:30:00.003+09:30

Hello folks, how has everyone been? I'm been much better as I slowly get a hang of becoming a dad. Today I met Justin Ng and realized I forgot to wish him happy birthday this year. His' is easy to remember as its 3 days earlier than mine. Then there's also Andrew Tan on the 12th I believe.

The Sunday of my birthday, people in church were wishing me left and right. My answer to them was, "Aiya, one year older only. No big deal." I was serious. I really didn't feel it was a special day and didn't feel the excitement was necessary. Upon further ponderings, I concluded that even my response was not entirely accurate. In truth, I was merely a day older compared to the day before when I was supposed to be 25. Oh well, I guess thats how society and this thing called relationships work.

The fish tank you see above is a present from my mother in-law (fish and other contents not included). My existing one had a long crack running from top to bottom and I figured I better change it before all my fish die when the cracks become catastrophic. A bit oversized but looks really good though. My present to myself? A bunch of alluminum casings for more fun.

Of guitars and pedals

2010-09-09T19:02:00.007+09:30

I’ve discovered that we as humans strive to be unique. Everyone of us want to be unique. We put in effort into things that define us. That’s why we capitalize on our strengths and we take pride in them, proudly displaying our talents, constantly looking for recognition and approval. For me, one of them is guitaring and guitar pedal electronics has fast become another.

Lately I’ve been somewhat consumed by guitar effect circuit design. Ever since discovering how to make one, I have proceeded to make a few more. Driven by a lack of excess money to spend on gear, what seemed out of reach at one time now has turned into something a little more than a mere hobby.

The one you see below is the 8th one I’ve built so far and it is the first that I made specifically to sell. It started of as a pedal I was intrigued about as it cost approx 1k RM converted. I figured I could always try it out before selling and if I liked it, I could always make myself another one. After all, the outlay into this hobby is not a small amount anymore and I would have loved to see some financial return. I must say the sense of satisfaction achieved from making a working item is immense.

Anyway, back to being unique, I found myself feeling very good about myself. Of course, who wouldn’t? Having these bunch of rare pedals on their pedal board that sounded quite good. When others would inquire about your gear and how you got it, you can proudly tell them that you made it yourself. But the point I’m trying to make is this; the attraction and the payoff from building your own stuff is immense. And it can quickly turn into an obsession as these things get assimilated into how we define ourselves.

So I have come a long way, from not even know how to solder, to making my own pedals. I guess in the end, I got more than I bargained for. Yes, it made me somewhat unique, but it also made me dependent on them for my self-worth and sense of self. I guess this is what they call “the pride of life.”

Justin

Custom Pedal for Josh 2/2

2010-08-09T23:36:00.003+09:30

I know I haven't been updating this blog but I recently checked it out and poof, 3k visits already. Thats beyond my expectations. Most of you avid bloggers may say 3k is nothing, which is true. But from 2k-3k when the blog is hardly updated is something to me.

Anyway, hope you readers are doing fine. I've been totally occupied with Alyssa. At the moment, there are 9 bulbs in the house that need changing and I have yet to do it. I was joking with a colleague today mentioning that I may have to take leave to get it done. Well, I kid you not. I can't change them because I do not have enough extra bulbs. Going out to the store requires it to still be open and by the time I'm done each day, its already 8pm and most stores are closed. Seriously, hence the leave.

So prioritize I had to. And I figured what gave me the most returns was building pedals. Not only is the payoff sweet when your hard work produces sound, others can benefit from it as well.

I earlier dedicated a post to Josh's pedal. I had made one for myself (Classic Crunch aka Big Bad Boss) and Josh liked it so I offered to make him one at a discounted price as a friendly favour. The circuit posted earlier was a boost circuit and now here's the overdrive half. I'm making the order switchable so this makes for a very VERY versatile pedal.

As you can see, the circuit is not housed yet as I'm still awaiting the enclosure from my good friend David from Singapore. Had to pull some favours as these casings are very hard to come by locally and expensive to import. I used the Ibanez into the pedal into a 15watt Ibanez practice amp (Tone Blaster). I must say that little amp is quite good for what it is. Clean sounds are decent and it has enough volume for practice. Anyway, the pedal was on full gain. As you can hear, it is quite dynamic. Pluck gently and it cleans up. Strum hard and it roars.

So Josh, this is payback for making me dream about my DD-20. Now its your turn to dream dream dream dream dream about your DLS. Hahaha.

Justin

Custom Pedal for Josh 1/2

2010-06-18T23:04:00.005+09:30

Being a parent is tough business. Kevan was just telling me the other day he was going to watch the Argentina South Korea game. I told him I wasn't interested as I hardly have any time. He replied, "Wah, so busy meh? Is it the night feedings?" Haha. I told him, "You are very mistaken if you think the night feeds are the only things that tax you."

You see, my baby wakes up at 6pm to 10pm and she demands for (read scream) food and attention in large amounts. So much for the night you thought you had to rest from the long day of work.

Anyway, today I managed to salvage some time to work on things of my liking. I decided to start on a pedal I promised a friend, since the parts came in. Its a 2 in 1 thing like the last one I posted. This half is the boost circuit (designed by Jack Orman http://www.muzique.com/amz/mini.htm).

I decided to put it on a breadboard just to confirm it was working, and more importantly, sounded good. The first time fired up produced a very loud hum which was due to the power supply filtering. I learned this when I was debuggin my OCD. A switch of position of the said power filter cap, and the hum was gone, revealing the sound of my guitar. Hooray, I thought. Unfortunately, the volume of the circuit was actually lower than my bypassed signal. This is terrible news as the volume knob was wide open. Boosters are supposed to boost your signal and this is even weaker than my original signal. Back to debugging.

After hours of rechecking the layout and the schematic, I found the problem to be the layout itself. This guy had the pins for the transistors all messed up.

Why I can say that? I found another layout and confirmed it by redoing the entire thing. After a total of 3 hours, the thing was working, with LOTS of dbs on offer. Unity volume was achieved with only 10-15% of the initial pot travel. Lets just say I couldn't put it on full volume.

How does it sound? Good I must say. Its one of those boosters with character. Not really transparent and nothing like a clean and clear Mosfet booster (Zvez SHO, AMZ Mosfet Booster). It produces the verge-of-breakup sound and responds to your picking dynamics, giving you a greater variance for expression and tone. Quite good for this application however may be a tad dirty for other applications. Nevertheless, I found mods to make it cleaner. The cleaner sound is also very usable. Not as murky but still adding some amount of warmth with a clearer top end. I put it on a switch but it'd be a waste of space for something so subtle.

Lastly, here's a shot at my workbench. Quite a mess I must say. My dedicated table was converted into a changing area, housing Alyssa's washed cloths, diaper changing equipment, and her favourite bath-time space.

Alyssa is waking up again. I got to sign off. Take care.

Funny drummer

2010-06-11T16:05:00.002+09:30

I found this link on Jamtank. Funny drummer. Drummers would have seen him before but the rest of us may not.

Favourite guitarist

2010-06-05T19:51:00.003+09:30

During short stints of rest, I've been trying to get reacquainted with the sound of music. As previously blogged, I've been checking out Strat players and one of my favourites is Larry Carlton for his work with "Put it where you want it" and "Deep into it". Yes he's known as Mr. 335 for his use of the Gibson ES335 but for that particular album, he recorded with a Strat. That was my first time getting acquainted with him. Ever since youtubing all these guitarist, Mr. 335 has been my favourite guitarist so far. Here's what I've been listening to lately. My preference of smooth Jazz, soul-full Blues, and fantastic tone, all in one clip.

Crazy guitarist

2010-06-04T17:43:00.002+09:30

Being a parent is hard work. My life literally has been reworked around my daughter. I know people with kids would be laughing at me, thinking "What were you expecting? A walk in the park?" Well, call me ignorant. Infact, I think this is such a huge change that no matter how much you prepare for it, it will still take you by surprise.

I'm at my last day for my paternity leave. HELP gave me 3 days and I took more to help out at home. It is starting to settle down so stole some precious time to do some things I like. With nothing to listen to, I decided to go to our musicians favourite music bank: Youtube. And I found this Strat player who is absolutely crazy. Do check out the clip at 5mins onwards whereby he really lets his guitar rip.

Enjoy.

Popping time

2010-05-20T20:23:00.002+09:30

Today the baby popped at 8.22am. Long story which needs just too much effort from me at the moment. Will follow up with a more detailed entry in due time. Now off to update Sher-Mayne's facebook acc.

Iron Man 2

2010-05-06T14:01:00.002+09:30

I watched Iron Man 2 yesterday at GSC Signatures. Been anticipating the show ever since the beginning of the year. I was eager to see what other fate would befall our pompous personality, Tony Stark.

Overall the show was good. Like others have noticed, maybe not as fresh and novel as the first one but still not as much a let down as Transformers 2 in my opinion. I guess that's why being the sequel to a very successful first installment is always hard. Anyway, the funniest moment in the movie was the ending song which featured the line "I'm on a highway to hell..." sang with much enthusiasm and excitement. That made me laugh. Seriously, who would want to go to hell - and fast for that matter? I really couldn't help but laugh.

Well, this is going to be a shorter entry as I haven't really had any inspiration to blog. I've been quite busy too, preparing for the arrival of my child. Its already May and I've got roughly 4 more weeks, and that's assuming she comes on time. Many have alluded that the first one usually comes early. Well, here's to the joys and fulfillment of parenthood.

Justin

Becoming a father

2010-04-05T17:16:00.005+09:30

A father? Aren't they the guys you see on the expressway during school holidays, perched behind the wheel of a Tarago [MPV] filled to bursting with mattresses, bikes, and assorted domestic detritus and through the fingerprint-encrusted window you can see the slightly crazed look on their face... the kind of look that only comes as one enters the eighth hour of listening to repetitive jangly songs about rabbits and choo choo trains?

Taken from "So you're going to be a dad" by Peter Downey.

If you follow my blog, you would notice that I hardly talk about my child that is due delivery in June. Even on the baby blog, I only posted a single entry. This is partly due to the fact that I am quite a private person, keeping most of my inner thoughts and emotions sealed away, privy to only the closest people in my life. Secondly, I wasn't clear about the many emotions I was feeling and was hesitant to share them. I was also feeling some guilt because I was not rejoicing over the fact that I was going to be a dad. But changes to the way of life and problems adapting to it drove me to find ways to adjust. One of them being reading about becoming a dad.

Reading about other dads and their reactions towards the change of their lifetime, I was comforted by the fact that my not-so-enthusiastic response was common among many of them. Here's a line I found represented me very well, almost word for word.

A father? Me? My father is a father! His father was a father. I'm only a son. Worse, I'm just a boy, a child. I've only just left home. I can't even iron my shirts properly. Panic! Changing nappies? Me? - Downey, 2005.

Believe me, it is quite a paradigm shift changing from someone who takes to someone who gives. Being a son denotes having shelter, provisions, and essentially having someone to lean on in times of need. It means having the comfort and total confidence that this someone will take care of you and not let you down. Being a parent means becoming that someone, having your life revolve around your child, providing for and teaching this midget that (should) looks astonishing like you. It means bearing the well being of someone other than you, firmly on your shoulders; that without you, they will surely not survive.

This is a huge responsibility, especially if you were provided for very well by your parents and it was one that scared the heck out of me. I thought I was being selfish and not such a good husband/father-to-be for thinking all these things. But it seems, I am not alone. I too had to learn how to iron my clothes ever since Sher-Mayne got pregnant and was more tired.

So, I will be a dad in less than 2 months time. That is when I will get to hold my child in my arms for the very first time and my life will never be the same again. Believe it or not, it will be the first time I will be holding a baby in my arms. I really do not know what to expect.

Fuzz for Oliver

2010-03-26T18:49:00.001+10:30

Post dedicated to the "peacefull Oliver".

Those of you on facebook would no doubt have seen the picture of our dear Oliver lying motionless on a bed (well, of course its motionless. Its a picture. He's not dead.). Even if you missed the original post, you would be hard pressed to miss it as RC church members poured out their care, concern, comments, and jokes. Anyway, to Oliver: Hope you get well soon.

Oliver asked me a few posts ago "what is Fuzz?" I remarked that it was very hard to explain, and the best method was to hear it for one self. The idea of recording something for him was floating on my mind ever since then. Only issue, I didn't have a Fuzz pedal. The Rat is considered Fuzzy but not what I would consider a fuzz sound I liked. The OCD also was fuzz like and thick with the gain dimed but was too bass boomy for my taste. But while exploring my new amp, I discovered some amp models became very thick and compressed akin to a fuzz when the gain was dimed as well. Furthermore with the 3-band EQ, I could shape the balance to my liking. Problem solved. Last issue, don't know what to play.

My previous recordings were somewhat substandard. I actually recorded another one for Oliver to show him the sweet spots in the OCD but didn't post because i thought it was horrible. Somehow after I start recording, I make much more mistakes than before. I have read at other blogs that this happens to them too. Something to do with the added pressure of being watched. But, I figured if I got into the groove, maybe I could focus on the music and forget about the pressure. And so happened, yesterday some inspiration happened.

Was listening to Parachute Band during the drive back home. Their songs are generally nice and are known for their canggih chords and accents. And so came along this song (Without You) with a nice solo. I thought, "Lets give it a go."

What I used was merely the Boutique Overdrive amp model (D**ble Overdrive Special), maxed out the gain, and added some delay for some depth. I rolled back my tone on the guitar for that thick sound as the amp was generating a lot of high end harmonic content. Very nice but it wouldn't really sound like a Fuzz. Think Eric Johnson. So in the end, ended up with a searing emo solo. Notes were more-or-less note for note so no credit to me on that. Overall, I think a better attempt at recording and playing:)

Well, the amp doesn't sound too bad right? Imagine it actually goes for cheaper than some SINGLE boutique pedals. I just saw a Tim (Paul Cochrane) for sale on Jamtank for 800 bucks. Yes it has an additional boost circuit and yes it has an effects loop and yes, it may sound very good indeed. But just pause and think that for less, you could get a 30 watt amp with MULTIPLE amp models. Value for money? I'd certainly think so. Overall, I'm still happy with my amp. Still because you never know.

Justin

Buffers

2010-03-26T18:40:00.002+10:30

Hey peeps, I've been busy lately. Normal life and its demands. So no time to really blog. Just some updates, Good Friday and Easter is coming up, which also means practices. Which also means weekends taken up. Its normally manageable however when you have everything happening at the same time, it can easily take up your entire weekend. Thats happening to me this week and to a certain extent, I am dreading it.

Anyway, on to more cheerful stuff, I recently (finally) played my Ibanez through my updated pedal board. Its the same board I posted up recently. Just, it coincided with the change of strings for the Strat. Now, just to run you through my chain, its Booster > Wah > OD/Dist > Chorus > Buffered Looper. With the Strat, I use the Booster as a buffer and tone enhancement because the Booster fattens up the tone a bit. When I plugged in the Ibanez, I didn't want to colour the tone as much because I felt I need to get more acquainted with how it sounded. So I turned the booster off. Now, thinking that I could settle with a buffer at the end of the chain, I proceeded to play and something felt off. Clean sound was alright but my drive pedals sounded a bit dull. I figured it could be the absence of the buffer up front. So I turned of my buffer at the end to get an idea what kind of signal was hitting the pedals. Dull. Very dull and lifeless. Quite an absence of sparkle. Looks like there was some serious resistance going on.

In the end, I couldn't accept it and proceeded to move the buffer circuit from the end (looper) all the way to the front (Booster). There really is quite a difference with the buffter there. It was a good thing I managed to find space inside the small box. Here's a picture. The circuit on the left is the booster and the buffer is squeezed next to the stomp switch.

Now I can use the booster for the Strat, and a buffer for the Ibanez.

Breaching the 1k count

2010-03-08T17:47:00.002+10:30

Blogging has its merits. It allows you to share things on your mind as well as interact with others. Part of the fun about blogging is having others respond to your posts and you interacting with them in return. I remember starting this blog in Australia chiefly to keep my friends in Malaysia informed about me. That was this blog in its heyday. Ever since then, activity has steadily dropped as I updated less frequently. I also distinctly remember addressing less people on the blog and spending less time and effort keeping in touch. So honestly, not having people comment sometimes gets at you and you start to wonder whats it all for. Granted I haven't been putting in much effort to keep in touch, this was expected. So to keep me going, I inserted a visitor counter on the right bar just to see if people actually came (and in a sense, whether my posts were relevant). Yesterday, this count breached the 1000 count, which is considered a feat, considering people hardly comment. It has accomplished its purpose in informing me that people are still visiting.

Looks like I'll continue to posts, occasionally trying to vary my stuff from uber-technical guitar related things to more light hearted jokes or observations about life. I was even considering posting something about WTS, WTB, and WTF but figured it was a bit too crude.

So take care guys and girls. May today be a fruitful and productive day for you that is equally meaningful and enriching. To my blog, happy 1000th visitor day.

Edit: I just realized this post could have been seen as an act of desperation and self-pity. Well, thats not really the case. It was merely a celebration that the blog has hit 1k, thats all. Haha. So don't feel compelled to post or visit more often. Just come by and read if the entries appeal to you.

The Book of Eli

2010-03-05T12:59:00.004+10:30

* Attention: NO spoilers revealed.

I just watched The Book of Eli yesterday night. It was really those spur-of-the-moment kind of things as we decided at 6.15 (barely 15 minutes after I got home from work) that we would be watching a movie. I promptly looked up GSC and found out movie times was at an ideal 7.30pm. We booked tickets to watch at IOI as I've been craving to eat at Wendy's for a while. Big mistake. IOI is a bit run down and the same goes for their cinema. We were seated in one of the old cinemas. Run down and stunk. Note to cinema goers, the theater in IOI are only worth it if you get the new cinemas. I managed to effortlessly tune out everything else, as usual, but Sher-Mayne had a torrid time. I guess she's spoilt by the GSC Signatures in Gardens.

Anyway, the movie is mainly about this wanderer who seems to be traveling somewhere ala Rurouni Kenshin. He carries a bible which he reads every day. The movie is set in a post-apocalyptic time whereby the surface of the earth is reduced to a barren wasteland. If you've played the excellent Fallout Role-Playing game series, you will know what I'm talking about. In fact, it almost seemed lifted right out from the game as the similarities were quite obvious.

The movie is fairly slow going and notable for only 1 scene of pure comedy when an elderly couple play some music through a gramophone. It is also notable for a sheer lack of value in human life. There are quite a few fight scenes whereby people die like flies. These are often accompanied by gore and blood.

By now you should be wondering whether the show is worth watching. So let me be honest with you: I was captivated from the start. The movie had an air of mystery right from the beginning and this was aided by the soundtrack, or the lack of it. I really can’t remember any background music but sound effects are pulled of superbly by enhancing the experience and does not distract you from the real event that is happening on screen. As such, I do recommend watching it on the cinema just for that fact as you shouldn’t be blasting your home speakers to that volume less you trouble your neighbours. However I understand it may not be everyone’s cup of tea considering Sher-Mayne thought it was just “okay lah.”

Now, what I really took away from the movie was something entirely different. In the movie, the wanderer was carrying the only Bible left on the face of the earth. One which he read everyday. And being the only one left, it was highly sought after. He protected it with his life as it was something very precious to him. Makes me wonder about my own Bible and what I would do to have it back if not a single one was left, like in the movie. Judging from the movie, I do take It for granted. I do not read it as often as I should. In fact, lately I haven’t been reading it at all. Interesting that such conviction should come from a movie.

Therefore, this movie is highly recommended especially for those of you who do not read your Bibles as often as you should. Overall, splendid movie and one which I would want to keep a copy of for future viewing. Tonight I am going to read my Bible.

New Amp

2010-03-03T00:59:00.007+10:30

I really wanted to post this yesterday but when I finished initial tests and some noodling, it was already 10pm and I did not forget I had a wife so the blogging had to wait. I couldn't do it in office either as I had quite some work to do. Tonight's round of further tests finished slightly earlier. 9.30pm so I atleast have some time to write.

If you recall my previous posts, I was pretty set on the Vox VT50 hybrid amp.Tone was marvelous, full and warm. However it had 1 very large drawback. It was large. Literally. Size wise. Heavy too. Being 1.3k was less of an issue as it was still less than the amount I sold my old amp for. But of course, the very reason for selling it was to get a cheaper amp. The VT30 was at the right price. It had many advantages going for it being smaller, much lighter (12kg vs 20kg), and at a power perfect for practicing at home. Sounds like a simple decision. I thought it was. I hoped. It wasn't. The 30 watter had a 10 inch speaker whereas the 50's driver was 12. This meager 2 inches proved a significant difference in depth and overall larger sound. I really wanted to like it but playing it next to its bigger brother didn't help. Jenn Ming and Joshua can attest to this difference. It is quite significant.

Well, after much thought, convincing, as well as researching on speaker sizes, I set my heart on the 30 watter again. Double checked with Michael that a 10 inch will do. He calmed some of my nerves by saying "smaller amp better for miking and recording." Well, I don't do recording however if I play in church, the amp will be miked (Haha. Just realized Mike gave suggestions for Miking). So finally I took the plunge and pulled the trigger. 30 watts it will be, mainly due to price and portability. It came delivered in a brown box. As you can tell from the picture below, I was really excited. Talk about opening presents.

Believe it or not, it was quite heavy already. Carrying it up the stairs at my house with both my hands was not a breeze as expected. At that point I was really glad I chose the smaller amp.

Here's a picture of the face. Clean look. My only gripe is the chrome grill. Sher-Mayne thinks it makes it unique whereas I feel it makes the amp look more like a toy rather than musical equipment. Not sure if you noticed but the amp looks a bit big for a 30 watter. The 50 watts was even worse, almost outsizing the 100 watt 2X10 Marshall at church.
Here's a shot of the top panel where all the knobs are. Left most is the amp selector. 22 models all in. Then you have the standard gain, 3 band EQ and reverb. This one also has channel volume and a master volume for getting those power amp saturation. Bottom right is the effects corner where you get to select and tweak your effects. I guess I'll only be using the delays for now. There's a last knob at the back. Its a power knob and works like an attenuator. So essentially you set the knobs at the top to the desired tone and then you adjust the power knob for a suitable volume. Splendid for practice or for gigs.
Here's the picture of the amp with the rest of my stuff. Thats my music corner in the study.
Opinions? Well, I'll say initial impressions are promising. I haven't had time to really fiddle with everything. In these two days, I feel I have merely been scratching the surface of the many capabilitites of this amp. Its like having 23 amps (22 plus operating the amp as a whole) with their own individual characteristics and eccentricities. Those of you who have your own amps know that it takes some time to get to know it. So for an amp beginner like myself, it feels as thought it may take forever. So I shall leave it at that. Promising. What else can I say? If I say it sounds great, I run the risk of sounding like many reviewers online who claim that the amp/pedal/guitar is the best amp/pedal/guitar they have ever heard/played after merely 2 hours of use and then proceed to sell of the said amp/pedal/guitar a few months down the line when they noticed it wasn't as stellar as they first thought.

On the other hand, the amp is quite promising. Fender models manage to evoke Fender characteristics, Marshalls have that unique high end and missing mids of theirs, and the Voxs have their piercing top end. I was even able to get a passable immitation of John Mayer's clean and overdrive sound with the Dumble model and my Strat. Not too shabby for an amp that cost about 800. Yes, there is still that missing depth but overall, I think it fits the practice-amp bill perfectly for me. Now whats left is to play it at a loud volume to see how it sounds and break in that speaker. And trust me, its already too loud for the neighbours.

New amp day.

2010-03-01T12:39:00.003+10:30

Sleeping has never been my strong point. For as long as I can remember, I have always had to sleep in a routine. When it is time to sleep, I'll get tired. When its not time to sleep, try as I may, its not an easy task. Unlike my younger brother, he can sleep anywhere, anytime. Reminds me of the days when I was young when my parents needed to drive me around hoping I'd fall asleep and at times, it didn't even work. Edwin? No problems. He'll sleep anytime especially in the car. Once the car starts moving, his brain is ready to enter into Delta mode.

Now to make things harder, I am quite impatient, especially when I am excited. I discovered recently that I do not handle emotions very well. Occasionally I remember one of my birthdays. My present was a Tamiya car. I was so excited that it was hard to fall asleep. Even when I did fall asleep, I awoke a few times. That night I gave up at 6am and went down stairs to open my present.

Last night was a similar experience. I placed an order for a guitar amp with Michael Lewis and he would be trying to deliver today. I was so excited that I could hardly fall asleep. I awoke often and one time due to my handphone's low battery beeping. This was the first time I was awaken by this sound. While taking it to recharge, I decided to check the time as well, hoping I'd be closer to the morning, hence my possible amp delivery. It was 2.30am. Sigh.

Now I'm seated in my office chair, typing this entry while the amp is in my car, unopened. I check the time on my watch again. 12.40pm. Ahh the wait.

Ampless

2010-02-25T18:54:00.004+10:30

Happy Chinese New Year to all you fellow Chinese readers. I've been pretty busy especially over the new year. Somehow it was particularly more busy than I've ever experienced. Last week I was supposed to be on leave for the entire week but cut it short when I couldn't finish preparing my lecture slides. Think about it. It doesn't make sense to take leave only to bring work home. So I went to office and replaced the leave today. Good break for me.

I've been ampless ever since delivering the amp a couple of weeks ago and I must say, being without one is harder than I first thought. This so happen coincided with me not being scheduled to play for another 3 weeks. I was so desperate I offered to play for Jenn Ming this week. Coincidentally, I will need him to replace me in March so it was timely. I might be getting my first payment for the amp this Saturday and I'm keeping my fingers crossed that I might get a sizable budget or a new amp.

Moving on, I recently purchased pickup covers and cream pickup rings hoping to convert my Ibanez to look like the Les Paul. Visit Woh Fatt just for that purpose. Once I got it home, all was going well. I even took pictures of the guitar for a "before and after" effect. When I put the covern on the pickup, it didn't fit. Here's a picture.
As you can see, the pole pieces don't exactly line up with the holes on the cover. Sigh. Looks like my search for the conversion is going to have to go on. Anyway, now that the strings on the Strat is wearing out, its time to bring out the Ibanez. Really miss playing that guitar. This will be the first time I'm using humbuckers through my revised rig. Can't wait to see how it fares.

The sound of Fuzz

2010-02-09T15:19:00.005+10:30

Yo! I hope things have been going good for you who are reading. Just to update that my amp deal didn't go through despite looking very promising. Guy wanted a light amp and mine was nowhere near light. Oh well, I guess I didn't loose anything so its fine, although I can't say I'm not disappointed at all. Oh well, such is life. At least I still have an amp with a 12" speaker. Was seriously considering the VT30 but the drawback was the 10". Enough about me.

Oliver was asking about what is fuzz and how to set it up. Honestly, I feel where he is coming from, with me myself not knowing what was the big deal about fuzzes, reason being I was never really impressed by their sound. Another reason was the fairly vague difference between fuzzes and distortions. As such, it wasn't really easy to describe to him how it sounded like. I figured best way was to post youtube clips of what I thought was fuzzes that sounded good so he could hear it for himself.

Well Fuzz still isn't really my thing, but at least I have come across some I have actually liked. I still don't have much experience with them so my info may not cover the whole gamut of what Fuzz offers but it should at least give you an idea of where to start in terms of tone. Here are some examples.

First up is actually a clip about wah pedals I came across during my research regarding the Vox V847 wah. He will note that the Clyde will have a more complex midrange, which can clearly be heard in the clip. However I would like to point out that his sweep was slower over the Clyde and faster with the Vox, hence the Vox missing some midrange goodness (especially in the clean run). Nevertheless, I think the Clyde is intentionally designed to have a greater mid-range sweep but I find it lacking in the upper registers especially with the overdrive engaged. Add in the band and the Clyde might not cut through enough. The Vox may be a bit shrill at the upper registers but will sufficiently cut in the mix (thanks for the tip, Josh). Anyway, back to the fuzz. This guy uses the fuzz alone for a very brief moment before turning on the wahs and I thought it sounded pretty good.

Here is another clip of a fuzz I am really impressed with. It has gotten mixed opinions over the web and avid fuzz users but I like it for its top-end sparkle. Its a Fulltone Catalyst.

Now after you have listened to these, you can start listening to users of Fuzz. I guess the one who arguably made it famous was Jimi Hendrix. Nevertheless, there are other great users of Fuzz namely David Gilmour, Jeff Beck, and Jimmy Page. In the 3 that I've mentioned, I've only read about Page, not heard him. I've heard Beck and his tone sounds more like a Rat instead of a Fuzz (but I guess thats why people consider the Rat a Fuzz?). Gilmour's tone to my ears, resembles a Fuzz a bit more, similar with Eric Johnson's tone, although their drive sound is much richer with harmonics, courtesy of the Chandler Tube Driver pedal with real tubes in it. Nevertheless, you can still get their base tone with a Fuzz pedal.

With the two, I think Johnson's tone is harder to achieve with a Fuzz as you can clearly hear the upper frequency harmonics in his violin-like tone, which pedals normally struggle to produce so naturally. Gilmour's tone on the other hand sounds a bit rounder and simulates how a good fuzz tone, for me at least, should sound like.

So that's it for me. If anyone has more experience with Fuzz and would like to help Oliver out, feel free to comment.

Selling my amph

2010-02-04T13:35:00.003+10:30

I remember the first time I sold something belonging to me. It was a handmade rifle made out of wood, designed to shoot those green cherry-like pellets. It was one of those past-time activities I indulged in when I was a kid. The rifle was made by my dad and it seriously looked the part so much so that a friend and neighbor offered to buy it. Being young and largely unsentimental, I asked my dad whether I could. My dad said, "I made it for you so its up to you." I sold it to him for 10 bucks. Thinking back on that experience, it was merely one of the many mistakes and wrong choices I made growing up. One example of such a blunder was to sell my entire Tamiya kit consisting of car, equipment, and all the extra equipment with the case thrown in, only to spend the proceeds on another car. Needless to say, I sold it on the cheap, again, and discovered the money I had wasn't enough to bring me close to the previous state. Hilarious right?

If you recall, I have mentioned in a previous post that I was never the sentimental type. In truth, I was, but just never realized it was called sentimental. These sentimental feelings bit hard not too long ago when I sold my first multi-effects after using it for 7 years. All the emotional attachments I had formed with my equipment was overshadowed by the potential monetary gain I would receive, just like the wooden rifle. I guess its as they say about guys; out of sight, out of mind. "Its merely equipment." I rationalized. "Equipment are to be used to help you. Once they cease to help you, its time to get something that will." That may be true for most things. However somethings like the wooden rifle should never be sold as the significance of the item far outweighs any potential financial gain. Ahh, if only I could buy that rifle back now.

Which brings me to a more recent choice. I decided to sell my amph not to long ago. Chief reason was due to some financial difficulty of the previous year. I managed to weather the storm and am no longer in a sticky situation. However, I've been beginning to question the wisdom of spending so much money on guitar gear, especially now that I'm about to become a father in 4 and a half months time. As such, I figured I didn't need an expensive amph (The Ampeg wasn't cheap), let alone a full tube amph that I was considering upgrading too. So when an offer came in this week, I decided to stick with my decision.

Well, on the other hand, I am wondering whether this will be a decision I will come to regret, just like all the other times I decided to sell my stuff. The Ampeg is, after all, the first amph I purchased. Furthermore, I am most likely going to replace it with a Vox VT50. Not exactly a step up and potentially a step down but cheaper. But I'll find out when I go scouting on Saturday. Going to test out the VT50, a Line 6 Spider IV 75, a Vox Night Train head (again), and a Bugera V22 all tube. Well, if any one of you have some good advice regarding my decision to sell as well as potential replacements, I'm all ears.

Anyway, signing off, here's the Ampeg. I'll be delivering it on Saturday.

Justin

Oliver's quest for crunch.

2010-01-13T01:16:00.003+10:30

A while ago I asked Oliver what kind of effects he was into and he told me he was looking for a pedal to provide him some crunchy distortion tones. Could this be the crunch he is searching for?

On a more serious note, I built a pedal not too long ago and I thought it had some serious crunch going on. I alerted Oliver instantly and promised a recording but never got around to doing it. Finally after much delays, I decided to get it done once and for all. Here it is.

In order to give it a shot, I had to do a trial run first to see if the mic on the camera could pick up enough for it to sound decent. Upon inspecting the video, sound quality wasn't half bad and I got lazy so I didn't retake it. What you will hear is some sloppy playing here and there but the point is to not pay attention to my playing but to the dynamics and tone of the pedal. I find it very dynamic and can get pretty heavy. Video was done with my all single coil strat. No other effects were on and they were all true bypass so no other circuit was interfering with the signal aside from some cable capacitance (high frequency loss).

I personally like the pedal quite a lot and it does offer some great flexibility. The circuit originally had 2 voices on a toggle switch and I added another 3-way toggle to allow a total of 6 different sounds. So far I've still been using only one in hopes of getting used to it before moving on.

So Oliver, does this satisfy your quest for crunch? Or is the Xotic BB sound closer to what you want?

Why do we play?

2010-01-11T23:49:00.005+10:30

The reason I play guitar. I've been thinking about this for a while already. The main reason I've played the guitar has mostly been for church. I even at one time made a pact with God that I'd be a church guitarist (which I have since taken back, due to the fact that I was unable to keep it up). Recently however I've been starting to play the guitar more for myself. Time was spent listening to many guitarist on youtube and time was also spent practicing blues lines. I have been wondering for a while whether that was actully okay. Then I've also been thinking about whether I've been becoming more useful, as mentioned in the previous post. Now I'm beginning to realize that these two issue are actually connected with each other.

Ever since posting that question on my blog, I have been ruminating over it almost constantly. Then came Sunday where I was due to play, which is where the shocking realization came upon me: during worship, I was actually seeking recognition. Terrible!!! It never dawned upon me as I've been playing almost like forever. I've reached a point of playing for self whereby even in worship, I was playing for attention to self, which I must say, never should be the case. Worship is done for the audience of one, which is God. And God demands our best. Hence playing should always be to please Him, and not other people or the congregation. Man I feel like a sinner (ironically, I am one).

So I've figured it out. If I play for God, it doesn't matter whether other people can appreciate my tone. What should matter is if my heart is right when I play. And ultimately, we will be happy doing our best for God because He has designed us this way. I guess over time, I let pride come into my heart by thinking how good a guitarist I was.

Ahh, such reflections. I kid you not when I say I used to think I was quite a humble person (yes, you can laugh now). I guess that was pride too. Pride in one's humility. Reminds me of something I read in a Phillip Yancey book. Something about him striving for humility and spirituality. "It would be something I'd never achieve and even if I did, I'd be proud with the fact I achieved it." Pride can also be in the form of having a very high view or regard of self, which I must admit is what I am guilty of at the moment. With this, I really respect Luke Sanjay. He was (and still is) one heck of a guitarist but very humble. Not just the I-don't-brag humble but it was reflected in the very way he carried himself. Such an awesome role model for the younger ones like us.

Anyway, I've been feeling a funny feeling in my left hand fingers (fretting hand). It started after watchnight when I played TJ's accoustic. I guess I over stressed it considering I played that guitar too for many sessions of caroling practice and caroling itself. Now I'm taking a break as I won't be up for 2 weeks.

Take care guys. Next I will be posting an Oliver special.

The unending quest for tone.

2010-01-09T01:34:00.006+10:30

A new semester is starting next week and this will be the first time I will be more involved with designing the course. In one of the subjects I'm assigned, I'm tasked to set the student's mid-term exams as well as mark one of their major assignments. Exciting times for growth and learning ahead. I'm glad that even though with these new work assignments I still have some time left to play the guitar. Of course, not to mention spend time with the wife and child in the womb. The baby kicks every now and then so it is at least some form of interaction with my child.

Last year I jammed with Michael, Isaac, and Justin and it was a blast. What was also an interesting note was that myself and Justin actually wanted to jam with rock pieces. Its so interesting because the both of us started off as hardcore jazz players. So Rock is really quite a shift in genres. On a personal level, I find my liking for tone is changing... or rather, expanding. I now find distorted/saturated tones more appealing than ever.

You know, youtube has really been a gift from God when it comes to access to music. I remember the days when all I got was borrowed from others. I started off with Larry Carlton (who recorded that album with a strat) and Lee Ritenour (also played a strat) both on CD. Then I also got G3 Joe Satriani, Steve Vai, and Eric Johnson. All lent by Benjamin from Revival Center. That was my limited exposure as far as other pro guitarists were concerned. Now all these great players are just a click away on youtube. I have since listened to Robben Ford, more of Carlton, Ritenour, and Johnson, SRV, Andy Timmons (His "Ghost of you" was awesome), more of Satriani, Jeff Beck ("Cause we ended as lovers" with Tal Wilkenfeld my fav, more for her awesome souldfull solo), and a few more, all on youtube alone. Quite a handful if you ask me.

Anyway back to my preference of tone. Here's some examples. Please skip the talking and forward to the playing to see if the tone is up your alley. Skip alltogether if you don't like the tone. But if you like it, you can listen to what attracts these players to the pedals.

This is by far the best youtube video I have come across when it comes to showing off the capabilities of the Hardwire SC-2. Great fat and aggresive tone up for grabs.

I like his crisp and clear notes that cut right through. Notice that he prefers the bridge-middle out of phase position instead of the bridge alone. Sweet.

With the next one, pay more attention to the BB preamp.

I liked this video for his almost care-free playing. His notes ooze feel and creativity almost effortlessly. I was most impressed by the part where he started to play chords with the strat and the distortion was really sweet. Not overly harsh and edgy but very heavy. If I had heard this earlier I may have bought this pedal instead of the Ibanez guitar. There'd be no need for it.

So thats pretty much a run through of the tones that have been captivating me. I've also discovered that I like the single-coil Strat tone more than the Ibby. Now that I've discovered how to milk rock tones out of it using my pedals (and tweaking with the tone knob on the guitar. Magic!), it is more or less my be-all-and-end-all guitar.

But the question I would like to ask is, would having these pedals make me a better worshipper? Would it improve the appeal of my music in the ears of my listeners? Would it invite God's presence better when I play? Truth is, if you ask most average people in church about my playing and they would say, "He's okay lah." These people who make up the bulk of the listeners of my playing can't tell the difference between my 808 and my Marshall-in-a-box.

Let me share with you another situation. I've recently been contemplating the step up from solid state to tube. Those on my radar are the Vox Night Train and the Bugera V22. Both because of their price. Say if I were to play either in church, my guess is most will not even realize (by ear) I played a different amp, much less enjoy or appreciate the tube goodness. And here I am fretting over the fact that my drive isn't as rich or organic as Larry Carlton's or as smooth as Eric Johnson's. Here I am, listening and incorporating their riffs and tone when most people don't even know who they are.

I guess ultimately I'm asking what is all this for. I am getting better as a guitarist but am I getting more useful? Because where I am headed to is a lot more expenditure, adding to the already significant outlay on existing equipment (it would have been even more had I bought, instead of built some of my pedals). I guess if I was called to be a pro guitarist, this wouldn't be an issue. Ahh choices choices... such is life.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

2010-01-04T16:19:00.005+10:30

A tad late for Christmas wishes but better late than never.

2010. What a shift. Sher-Mayne was just writing a cheque the other day and accidentals wrote 09 instead of 10. The shift does require some effort. 09 flew by on all accounts and it was not helped by the very hectic Christmas schedule. Nevertheless, may this new year be a year for new beginnings, new chances to right the wrongs, and new opportunities for all of us to serve God and live life to the fullest in Him, just the way He intended.

Anyway, in line with the season of giving, the wife gave me a Christmas present. I've been eyeing this for a while already and now finally I can put it on my board.

What you see is a Korg Pitchblack tuner. Don't ask me about accuracy ratings because it is not stated. I wanted it because I miss the ability to tune between songs fast. Imagine playing in worship and you're done with the 3 fast songs which happened to contain a solo whereby you soulfully stringed a couple of notes together and ended with some ganas bends in succession. Once the solo was done, you noticed some strings were out of tune and you were pretty sure it was the G or B string (which happens to be the most conducive for string bends). To ensure that the next few songs do not sound like rubbish due to the out-of-tune strings, you quickly stomp on the tuner and tune up the 2 strings while the pianist is still into the intro of the slow songs. I used to be able to do it with the Korg multi effects but ever since selling it, I've been making do with a standard tuner. Great when setting up but not quick enough for in-between song tunings. Wasn't much of an issue as the Fender stays in tune perfectly (I don't use the whammy bar as well) but my Ibanez G string (Yeah, my guitar wears a thong. Fits nicely at the bottom to prevent scratches and absorb sweat) is notorious for going out of tune. So I was absolutely elated when Sher-Mayne offered to buy it for me. Thanks honey. Here it is on the pedal board.

So after a long hard year I decided to treat myself. And what better gift than a case to store the new pedal from the wife?

Bought it from a shop in SS2 after doing a search online. Initially was going to buy the one from Woh Fatt at RM170. However I remember it was a tad wide. I went there all ready with measuring tape in hand only to be told that they were out of stock and the next chance of getting one in the shop would be in Jan when their container comes in. Even then, there would be no guarentee the case would be among one of their equipment. So I did further searches and it led me to a shop called Music Master. They deal primarily in second-hand guitars, selling them with a warranty. Good concept I'd say as you can rest assured they won't be running away after you've discovered you bought a dud.

Good cases come with unhingable hinges (lol) and so does this. Perfect. Here's a picture of my latest rig.

Now whats left is a good delay pedal and I'm all set... until a reasonably priced tube amp comes about. Ahh, the unending quest for tone. Sometimes I really wonder what its all for. I'm going to blog about it in my next post.

Justin

DIY Pedals pt. 4

2009-12-23T13:38:00.008+10:30

Jingle jingle... jingle jingle...

Christmas period again it is and as usual, its a packed period for Christians serving in church. I would have been run to the ground with a similar schedule in the past but somehow I am still surviving this round. Interesting how God increases our threshold of pain and grow us.

Well, at long last, all the DIY projects I initially set out to do are complete. Just a recap, I started of with a clean booster, 6-mode Rat (Shape Shifter), Mosfet TS808 (Pile Driver), my adaptation of a boutique pedal *hint: its name is a psychological disorder* made from scratch (housed in DS-1 box), and a looper&buffer. The last project was the True Bypass DS-1 Ultra to be rehoused in a larger enclosure with another booster running before for added gain. However when that was done, it just reconfirmed that the DS-1 was not my cup of tea and it didn't grow on me even with some modifications. Why attempt it in the first place, you may ask. Well, the DS-1 was actually my first ever diy project (funny how I finished it last). Being green and all, I decided to try it on a pedal I could afford to loose and so, the DS-1 it was. Since I really couldn't envision myself using such a sound, I decided not to waste the precious large box and proceeded to look for another pedal I could build. Enter the Classic Crunch.

The Classic Crunch is another one of my adaptations of a new boutique pedal capable of 70's (Plexi) and 80's (JCM 800) Marshall tones, hence the name. In all honesty, Marshall tones were never really my thing. I always found them too hard and edgy for my liking. That was until I tried a JCM2000 at Brown Black Blues recently. My staff band performed Smells Like Teen Spirit (Yes, the one by Nirvana) for our recent Psychology Ball and my Rat just wasn't cutting it. So I nicely decided to try the crunch channel on the JCM. The beginning sweep of the gain knob was a bit edgy as expected but once past 6 o'clock, other harmonic orders started to come out as the tubes went into saturation. WOW! Indescribable. That sound was nothing I have ever produced (and that was on a Strat). I always knew those "amp-in-a-box" and "amp-like" phrases pedal makers proclaimed were somewhat far fetched but the JCM rendered those sentences near downright inaccurate. So since this was the "Marshall" sound, I thought I'd give those Marshall-in-a-box pedals a go and see how they sound and here we are.

This is my neatest build by far, aided by the small perfboard and the large enclosure. This pedal was also supposed to be red if you remember. I painted it all and just when I was testing to see if the black font would stand out enough on the red paint (it did), the paint came off together with the sticker. Argh. I was too lazy to paint the thing again as it was a long process and I was getting impatient so I just decided to go with a bare-bones rugged look. Turned out quite nice actually.

The labels are in the process of being painted so you are basically still looking at what the DS-1 would have been like. The new one has a toggle to select between 70's Plexi sound with more note articulation and a fatter bottom end and a 80's JCM 800 with more drive and a tighter bass response. My verdict of how it sounds? I does have the Marshall edginess and you can make the amp scream but it still does not have the harmonic richness of the JCM 2000 I tried. Nevertheless, it is still a useful pedal to have in your arsenal. It'll be staying on my pedalboard for a while until I build some new pedals on my new list. Anyway, I'll be taking a break from building pedals for a while. Its a really lengthy process and I feel I should be spending more time with the wife as enough time has gone to this expensive hobby already. However, I'm actually quite excited with my next project, when it finally comes. I have 2 lined up and they are red and yellow boosters from a certain exotic pedal maker. Hint hint. I'm also toying with the idea of making my own version of the Plextortion from Wampler Pedals with active eq shaping from a Marshall Guvnor.

Lastly, just some minor guitar updates. I finally installed the Gotoh pots I bought from Woh Fatt on the Ibanez not too long ago. Since I was at it, I decided to get a push-pull pot for coil split. I decided to use the tone pot. So now, the Ibanez moves a step up in versatility but I'm starting to see why the Strat is known as the most versatile guitar around.

Take care folks.

DIY Pedals Pt. 3

2009-11-23T17:01:00.003+10:30

Yo! Hows life been for all of you? Mines progressively getting better. Recently managed to meet up quite a few close friends namely Wai Nyan and my musician kakis Isaac, Michael and Justin Ng. This week scheduled to meet Stephen Megam and more to come in time.

I’ve also had time to work on my projects and I must say, DIY pedals is really addictive. They unabashedly claim that it is more addictive than drugs. I have never tried drugs but I must admit that the pull is quite strong in DIY stuff.

Anyway, if you recall, my previous post on this documented my progress till painting. Now my labels are printed and here they are. Printed on transparent glossy sticker. A tad thick but still usable.

Sticking them on the pedal wasn’t as simple as first thought. I planned to stick them as soon as they were done however the imperfections (bumps) on the paint surface was revealed when the transparent sticker went on. After some reading, I had to hunt down Wet and Dry sand paper. Ever heard of that? I have not. Bought 2 grades (800 & 1000) because I didn’t know which was more suitable. Cost 2.50 each. Not cheap if you ask me. So I got the sand paper and proceeded to gently sand the surface till smooth. How this wet sand paper works is you rinse the object you want to sand in paper and while the droplets of water are still on the surface, you proceed to sand it. The water acts as a lubricant to ensure a glassy smooth surface. I was really surprised (and impressed) at the result of sanding that I gave the back plate a go as well.

As you can see, now they are stuck on and it goes on really well. That was not it. I still had to give it a few more layers of clear coat to lock everything in. A few light coats plus 2 generous coats and it was done. Here’s the fruit of my labour. Interestingly, they manage to look better in picture than compared to the real thing. The picture doesn’t capture quite a few imperfections. See if you can spot the Psyc references on the yellow one.

Nevertheless, I gave myself a pat on the back for a job well done (first timer standard) and proudly showed it off to my wife. Looking back, I actually finished constructing the electronic parts in September. Now November is drawing to a close indicating it has been more than 2 months since it was done. Now finally, 2 months later it is done. Can’t wait to try them out.

If you noticed, the Boss DS-1 isn’t here. That one another long story however it should be concluding soon. I’ll talk about it once its done. 2 new pedals shall keep me occupied for a while.

Time flies

2009-11-13T15:20:00.004+10:30

I just received a mail from Sher-Lynn who is now in the UK finishing her final year degree. As I was typing the reply, I couldn’t help but reflect upon the similarities of my own final year experience abroad. As I reflected as I typed, the events seemed so fresh and vivid it could have been mistaken for something that happened yesterday or not too long ago. Upon further thought, Adelaide actually happened about 4 years ago! Now that is 4 years that has passed by in a flash. Occasionally when Danny comes down, meeting up with him brings feelings of nostalgia of events that doesn’t seem to have passed too long ago. To illustrate that this is not only happening to me, I just got off the phone with Wai Nyan. We used to attend the same CF back in HELP days and those days I was very close to the leaders even during times when I was not in the committee. Anyway, we chatted for a while and I informed him I had more time to meet up considering my Masters is done. He replied “Hah, you’re done with your Masters already? So fast ah?” Haha. This was where I remarked “Fast? Where got fast? 3 years leh.” And then the killer line comes. “Eh, 3 years passed by already ah?” Lol. The sheer surprise in his tone of voice told me that he too thought the years has passed by pretty quick.

A lot can happen in 4 years. In fact, a lot HAS happened in 4 years. 4 years ago I was fresh from a degree, in many aspects still a boy, and I did not have a care in the world. I had just completed by Aussie excursion and made a whole lot of friends over there not to mention friends like Danny, Arthur, William, and of course, the very close Reuben just to name a few. Man, those days were bliss. It was the year where I came back and life resumed with church at Revival Center, youth involvement, and back to sharing a room with my brother. Seriously, a lot has happened.

Aussie has changed me a lot and it can be considered a turning point in many respects. Prior to take off, I had forged many close relationships with people from college. Megam, Keith, Elaine, Jerry, and other people I actually cannot even recall. I was with a band (of brothers) and they were literally my brothers with Wangsa Maju dubbed my second home. Today, I hardly contact them at all besides a select few. Back then it was a period when 1am seemed early. Today I can hardly make it past 12. Now that I think of it, I was actually a very different person. Entering academia didn’t even cross my mind and neither would I have imagined myself married in the next 3 years.

Coming back to Sher-Lynn and the “abroad experience.” Going abroad alone can be a very frightening experience. Many have shuddered at the thought of going to a foreign land alone. To some, it represents excitement and a new lease of life (I never once missed home during those 10 months). Nevertheless, being away from all our comfort zones and sources of strengths (family and friends) really forces one to do some soul searching in a bid to obtain some sense of homeostasis and security. It is almost a make or break scenario. However, for a Christian, it represents an opportune moment for God to show up. Only when all our own human sources of strength are taken away do we honestly, sincerely and truthfully seek God. In my opinion, we only re-evaluate our existing methods of coping in the absence of all hope. And it is at this point where a new source of hope can present itself. And only when we realize that all our own methods to fulfill self are ultimately futile do we sincerely turn to a Higher Being for help. My prayer is that all of us would remember just like Jonah that there is help available, should we want it in earnest.

For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened. -Matthew 7:8, Luke 11:10

You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. -Jeremiah 29:13

Of buffers and true bypass.

2009-11-10T16:54:00.004+10:30

Music is a marvelous thing, worthy to be categorized as a language in itself due to the numerous methods self-expression it enables. Musical instruments similarly are very expressive tools once mastered and I kid you not when I mention some people have cried by merely listening to another play an instrument. Without needing to mention, the guitar is one of those instruments that is highly acclaimed where self-expression is concerned. But when one gets to the nitty gritty of effect buffers, that person would find him/herself more departed from the act of playing the instrument than realized (much less enjoy playing).

Technical aspects of anything can be simple or very complicated, depending on how deep one would like to delve into. Some technical knowledge does help improve on the end product (music produced) however too much and it can take precedence over the ability to play itself. I’m afraid I may have slipped on that slippery slope.

To put simply, to play the electric guitar, one would need an electric guitar (obviously), a guitar cord, and an amplifier. Then for greater complexity and options for self-expression, you have effects like overdrive, chorus, flange and other sound/tone changing equipment. The modern church guitarist equipment needs grows with the industry as worship songs by big churches (e.g. Hillsong) evolve and keep with the times. So these effects are added after the guitar to change the guitar sound and before the amplifier. When you complete your collection of equipment needs, you will have a not-so-simple setup. Needless to say, the greater the complexity, the greater margin for error. And when people start to debate NOT the type of equipment but the ability for the effect to push the sound through the long cables and cable capacitance (see what I mean about the technicalities?), then maybe we have gone too far from the joy of simply playing the guitar.

I admit I am a perfectionist. And when it comes to guitar related things, I am a driven perfectionist because I perceive my self worth and standing dependent on what kind of guitarist I am. So the quest for the “perfect” and “complete” guitar rig dominates my mind. Before long, I was one of those nuts more concerned about frequency losses due to many true-bypass pedals and long cables than I was about the music I played.

And so, I built myself a buffer to push the sound through the cables.

It was a good thing I forgot to take the picture with everything inside because it was a labyrinth in there. By the way, I decided to incorporate it into my true-bypass looper being that there was still space and it could use an LED indicator. Being the perfectionist I am, I put it on a switch to turn it off incase I didn't need it. So in the end, then what? The rig is 1 effect closer to the complete rig, short of a tuner and a good delay pedal or two. Then what? A tube amp and it’ll be complete… until the latest reasonably priced, good sounding whatever comes along and then we are once again preoccupied with the thought of “What if that sounds better than what I have?”

Playing the guitar should be a joy, because serving the Lord should be a joyous thing. But if one is not careful like me, it can quickly turn into all the other unfulfilling and never ending pursuits we have in life.

There is plenty in my Father’s house.
I am starving.

Justin

Mistakes of the past

2009-11-05T19:36:00.000+10:30

Recently a revelation came to me about one incident in the past (4 years ago) that opened up a new perspective to that issue. At that time, it totally flew past me and I didn’t even think anything was wrong. It was relating to someone I called my good friend. Looking back in hindsight and with a new understanding of how people work, I made a grave and terrible mistake. It was at a time when self-confidence was bordering narcissism. I don’t even think I have the right to ask for forgiveness however I do pray that one day God will be able to forgive me for what I’ve done.

I guess this goes to show that sometimes, you just aren’t right, no matter how much you believe it to be true. Lately (especially after getting married) I’ve been discovering that many things I have done are simply not up to mark. You really discover yourself from another perspective when your life merges with someone else. Well, I just hope with God guiding me, I will make less mistakes and hurt others less and less.

What a somber and reflective mood I’m in.

Justin

New Acquisition

2009-11-03T13:24:00.006+10:30

The world of guitarist is a very queer one indeed. They are indeed human, and as such, impossible to please. I'm not sure if its a boy/man thing but these group of individuals have a never ending quest for more (either that, or they give it up all together). This is particularly true when it comes to purchasing equipment (guitars, pedals, amps, etc) as a term has even been coined to represent this phenomenon. Its called the Guitar Acquisition Syndrome or GAS for short. The G can also represent gear and it'll still be GAS. Very funny how forumers talk about visit to their local GAS station. Very funny indeed.

The Wah or Wah Wah for full is a guitar effect made famous by Jimi Hendrix decades ago. It shares the looks of a foot volume controller similar to those found on organs or electones. To use it, one rocks the lever back and forth to simulate a "wah wah" effect with the guitar sound. If used correctly, it effectively adds another dimensions to the already colourful expression of guitar playing. If used incorrectly, it can cause damage to its listeners in the form of bleeding ears and a heightened state of annoyance/irritation.

Now, I hardly use a Wah as I don't play music that needs it. I only remember using it for 2 songs: "All Around the World" and "My Redeemer Lives" both by Hillsong. I also used it here and there for small small passages like in "Again I Say Rejoice" and "Not Ashamed". Bottom line, I hardly use it. Then came along a mint condition Vox V847 for sale from my local "GAS" distributor Mr. Cletus Godwin. Needless to say, when the mail came in, I wasn't interested as I don't use Wah. And I made a mental note not to show interest or even try it as I had an inkling I wouldn't be returning it if that would happen.

Then Sunday came along. Mr. Cletus brought the unit which came in a carry bag. Jenn Ming wanted to hear how it sounded and so being the nice guy I always am, I duly played with it for him. Upon taking it out of the bag, I noticed that the unit was close to brand new. It was as if it hadn't even been stepped upon. So I tried it. Nothing special. The throw was different from the one in the Korg AX1500 so I wasn't inspired. Then of course came the offer "Take it back and try lah. Comes with power adapter as well. 250 only." 250 for an essentially brand new pedal is actually a steal. I wonder what came upon me (yeah right) but I took it back to try. And the rest is predictable enough to not need an explanation.

But you see, a wah pedal has its uses and it will only be a matter of time before I will use one. And its a really good deal since its cheap...er. Yah, all the GASjustification. So now, I have a V847, sitting on my pedal board. I told you we guitarist are a queer bunch.

Anyway, thats not where the fun stops. Lately I've been a bit of a nut/geek/nerd when it comes to guitar tone and have been ensuring my rig is true bypass where possible. This is because I have been able to hear the effect of 1 buffer on my tone let alone a few. I admit I am being anal about this but you already know guitarist are a bun... Anyway, so while reading up on the V847 I stumbled upon websites telling you how to mod it to true-bypass. Thankfully I already know the mechanics of true bypass and coincidentally, I had a spare 3pdt stomp switch lying around. Furthermore, there was a bonus and very handy feature of LED status indicator that a 3pdt affords you.

Here's a shot with the new switch in place with the wires soldered. The black thing on top is the old switch. The old switch had the input permanently wired to the circuit.

Here's a shot with all the wirings. I didn't want to hack up all the existing wires so I merely extended them with my own and solder.

Here's a picture of the 3mm LED indicator. I didn't drill the hole as apparently it is conveniently there on all Voxs (Dunlops as well as they share the same enclosure).

The top picture shows the entire unit and where the LED is. As you can see, the effect looks brand new. Ignore the reflection of my boxers on the side. I wasn't flashing okay. Bottom pic actually shows the unit on. The camera didn't really capture the glow but IMHO it is sufficient to tell you when its on.

Lastly, I figured out a great way to put secure the velcro on the unit. It was quite heavy so it required some heavy duty fastening. The screws were at the perfect location and all I needed to do was to punch holes on the velcro and jab the screw through. The white one was stuck there by the previous owner. Stuck it on the bar code so it'll peel the sticker right off if removed. Now it shouldn't fall off when I am transporting my board.

Well, that was quite a long post. Well if any of you guys need your V847 converted to true bypass, just drop me a mail. I can do it for you in a flash but will need to order extra switches if I don't have any on hand (I used the last one for this).

Justin

Liverpool won?

2009-10-26T02:57:00.001+10:30

Oh my goodness, I can barely believe the news. Sher-Lynn just sms-ed me from the UK exclaiming Liverpool scored in injury time to beat United 2-0. Unbelievable. I honestly thought Rafa was going to have a massive headache with United come at such a bad run. Nevertheless, they pulled of the impossible.

You see, I have been trying to support Liverpool. I love football and for the longest time, I've been a purist, watching (and playing) the beautiful game for the sake of it. It didn't matter who was winning as long as they were the better team. It didn't matter if Bolton sat at the top half of the table as long as they played attractive football (they were quite good when Okocha was the chief playmaker). Needless to say, I enjoyed watching Arsenal.

I never really supported any team because each team had its complications. Firstly, you can't support the winners (which in recent times meant MU) because everybody supports them. That makes you like everyone else. And you can't support the others because they don't win. And when they don't win, you get dissapointed. I didn't want to be emotionally attached because I would definitely get dissapointed. And then Shannon Teoh told me "Thats the passion of the game." So going up and down with your team is the way to go. Okay, since Shannon is REALLY into football, I took his advice and chose a team. No surprise here, I chose Liverpool.

I started watching football when I was quite young. When exactly I don't recall. As much as I can't remember, one match stands out. Coincidentally, it was a Liverpool vs. MU match. During that time, Robbie Fowler was in free-scoring form (Liverpool fans nicknamed him God. Serious.) and for you MU fans, it was the match whereby Eric Cantona returned from his long suspension for his karate kick on a Crystal Palace fan. That match stood out and I remember rooting for Liverpool. Don't ask me why because I don't know/remember.

So since I once had a thing for Liverpool, I chose them. Ever since, Liverpool have only won the FA cup. They on the Champions League before I started supporting them. So needless to say, it has been dissapointing, rooting for a team that doesn't win anything. Due to this, I doubt I will ever be a hardcore supporter but I guess I will always watch out for them with keener interest than the rest (If it hadn't been for Arsene Wenger's myopia, I would have chosen Arsenal.)

Justin

Chronicles from Singapore

2009-10-23T18:30:00.006+10:30

Heyp, 2 posts in a day is a rarity for me. But I figured this is the best way to convey everything I want to share without it being too long winded (the previous posts was intended to be shorter... initially).

Just to share what transpired over lunch for some laughs. I uttered something that could have sounded very wrong and only realized it after it left my mouth. We had the legendary Nasi Kukus for lunch as Eric was desperate for it. He bought 2 packs, for lunch and dinner. It went something like this.

Justin: The chicken they give is quite big. Especially the breast.

Eric then proceeded to use his Counseling paraphrasing skills and promptly wrote on our notice board under Lesson of the Day:

The chicken is good. The breast is big. - Justin

Now what's left is for you to repeat that phrase in Cantonese.

Anyway, I recently visited Singapore as my cousin was getting married. So it was my chance to finally visit the land of the guit... err lion. I was actually all set to purchase a Digitech Hardwire DL-8 Delay IF the price was right. Unfortunately, prices were sky high (cheaper than Bentley by a whisker) due to sole distributorship. Sigh, looks like my quest for a delay will have to wait a while longer.

But aside from that, the trip was worthwhile, albeit rushed. If I were to summarize the entire trip in 3 words, it would be food, rush, and public transport (there are 3 types of people in this world, those who can count and those who can't). We were constantly eating and for me, mostly over-eating. We were also constantly rushing, having so much to do in only 4 days. And of course, we were always taking public transport. As efficient as it was, I preferred the luxury available to most Malaysians of getting out your door and into the car instead of walking 10 minutes to the nearest bus station, waiting another 10-20 minutes for the bus to arrive and take us to the MRT station, travel 10 minutes by bus, travel 15 minutes by MRT, and you still have to walk to wherever you want to go. And then imagine repeating the entire process for the trip back home while lugging all your purchases. Well, as they say, when in Rome, do as the Romans do.

We managed to meet up our old friends who are over there. Here's a pic of Sher-Mayne with Sarah, her high school mate. Interestingly, I did not take a picture of her fiancee David.

We also got to meet up my buddy Reuben. That lousy fellow managed to pay for the meal. AGAIN! I tell you, cannot let him hog all the blessings. Next time you're down, you got no chance mate. Here's a pic of him and May, his girlfriend.
And of course, our travel mates. From left to right my mum, her sister my aunt, my mums sister's daughter my cousin, and my mums daughter in-law my wife. Over all was a good trip.
Those of you who follow my blog may find it surprising for me to upload so many pictures. This all can be explained by looking at the picture below. Notice that I am holding the camera case? Its a classic case of "out of sight, out of mind." Believe it or not, we spent the first two days there without taking any pictures even though we wanted to. I missed the chance to take a pic of the wonderful toilet in our room. Looks like some 5 star hotel. So the cure is to physically hold on to the camera to help you remember to use it. If not, it'll be another case of "Aiyah, I brought the camera lah. It was in my bag all along." Here's a pic of me and my lovely wife. There's no one like her.
So that sums up my second post of the day. I think I should do this more often.

Justin

DIY Pedals Pt. 2

2009-10-23T13:53:00.003+10:30

Dear all (I guess all means Oliver and Joshua now. Hahaha), hope everyone's been doing well. I guess we can say that because God is good all the time. Something I'm trying to learn. I have always known that old habits die hard and was reminded of it very recently. You see, I have just moved into a room in office and obviously had to clean my previous desk of my stuff (junk). There was so much that I had to do it in stages because papers and etc were all over the place. Once I was 70% done, the desk looked unusually clean, a feeling and sight that was very foreign indeed. By now you would have realized that I have a habit of cluttering my workplace. It was like this in my parents house, it IS like this in the study of my own home, and now its beginning to show in my new office. Well, with new beginnings, I feel I should finally learn to put in effort to clean my place (i.e. put things back where they belong after use) every once in a while to avoid clutter. Wish me success.

Anyway, as mentioned in my previous post, I was building some pedals and was now in the process of painting them. I tell, it is taking much MUCH longer than expected. After a few weeks, I have finally painted them enough to be ready for labeling. Here are some shots.

These are the pics of each pedals with the color coat on. I took some pictures of them with only the primer coats but I forgot where I placed them already. Below are pictures of them with the clear coats on. Its noticeably smoother and glossier after the clear coat but it doesn't really show in the pictures. Arrangements have already been made for the printing of the labels. After that, whats left is sticking them on and spraying another 3 light coats of primer then its completo!

I must say that I have been missing my new pedals alot. Having had them for about 2 sessions, I have tasted what its like to have them on my board so now that I can't use them, I am really feeling the void. I think the whole painting process has taken about 3 weeks because I do not always have the time to paint them. Also, painting at night is not very easy (not to mention the wind). Also had to deal with bugs who mistook my pedals for food. Coincidentally these bugs only come AFTER I have painted the pedals. Maybe its the smell of the paint. So I have to get my tweezer and extract them. One time, this bug landed on my clear coat while still wet. I didn't have my tweezer with me so I tried to use some newspaper, hoping to flick it off fast. Big mistake. It didn't come off the pedal as I expected. Pieces of the bug got stuck and came of IT instead. Sigh. After I managed to extract all the little body parts from my enclosure, I was left with a very unsightly and uneven patch of surface. Lesson of the experience, if possible, paint when there is no wind (you only notice dust and debris when you are painting), and if possible get some shielding like a box.

Guitar update
I also finally got around to putting in some Gotoh potentiometers I bought some time ago into the Ibanez. I didn't want to insert it because I felt I should at least accustom myself to the sound of it before changing anything. But with the limited time I get to play PLUS the fact that I am finally learning how versatile the Strat is, it would probably be a good half a year when finally the Ibanez wears on me. Furthermore I wanted Linear pots and the ones I had were Log/Audio ones. Once it was confirmed that Woh Fatt did not have Gotoh Linear pots, I decided to put them in. Did it last night and incorporated a push-pull tone pot to split both buckers for extra versatility. Result? Honestly, a marginally clearer and articulate clean sound. I noticed it more for the neck whereas the bridge was indistinguishable. Maybe it was because I hardly played the bridge clean. However, once I turn on the distortion, the difference is immediately heard. The bridge became more alive with a richer and more articulate drive. Coil tap? Nice alternatives however it doesn't even start to compare with what the Strat can do.

Pickup verdict
I guess you know that I swapped out the SZ pickups with Duncans SH-2 and SH-4 a while back. After poking around I conclude that the stock SZ pickups are modeled after the Duncan SH-1 and SH-12 George Lynch Screamin' Demon. Internet sources seem to believe it is actually modeled after SH-6 Duncan Distortion however the pole pieces match the SH-12 instead. Furthermore, based on Seymours descriptions of the pickups, I really think it matches the SH-12 more than the SH-6.

So, something interesting happened. When I purchased the pickups, I wanted to hear how original Duncans sounded like and the SH-2 & 4 combo was very popular. So I decided to go with those pickups. You see, the SH-1 & 12 yield more classic/PAF tones with pushed mids however the SH-2 & 4 are categorized as progressive pickups and have a flatter eq response. After changing them, I started to listen to people like Joe Bonamassa, Larry Carlton, and instantly realized my new pickups were missing something the old ones had. It wasn't the quality of the tone because it sounded good. But something was missing. Only recently did I figure out that it was due to the flat eq and so was glad I kept the old pickups. Now it leaves me a future project to work on: a Les Paul copy (or an ES335?) and insert the old pickups for PAF tones for more classic rock and roll whereas the Ibanez will be used for more modern stuff.

So thats it from me for now. May all of you enjoy your weekend. Take care.

Justin

DIY Pedals

2009-09-29T23:27:00.005+09:30

I think lately I've been a bit obsessed with guitars and gear. I can't seem to figure out how or when it all started though. I know my ears opened with the amp but I think it could have gone over the edge when I finished my DIY kits. Well, lately I've been a bit more back to life and away from guitars however I still find myself dreaming about them quite alot.

Anyway, this post is to share about some things I've been up to lately. I built a total of 2 pedals. One is a distortion pedal built from a vintage Rat circuit and the other from the TS808. Both have various tweaks to them with the 808 having more mods and features. Assembly and soldering was a breeze mainly because I had prior experience when soldering my Seymour Duncan pickups. It wasn't very smooth at first and I botched up quite a bit but once you get a hang of it, soldering is actually quite easy. I could teach you in person if you'd like.

Here's a picture of what's involved. Firstly you have to insert all those components onto the circuit board and solder them, which is the easy part. This was the second pedal and I actually performed it in half an hour.

Here's a shot at it inserted into the enclosure. The next part involves cutting the wires and soldering them to the jacks and footswitch. Now that was the thing that took the longest when it came to pedal construction. Couldn't finish it that night.
Top shot with all the pots, switches and leds mounted. What's missing is the two footswitches.
The final product. Green and Blue super bright leds were a personal touch. This nifty version of the 808 has 2 additional bass boost levels and 3 overdrive options (Normal/stock, clean/transparent, and warm+assymetric clipping). It is also modified to be brighter as I wanted to use it more for my darker Ibanez. The pedal also incorporates a separate boost circuit following the signal path of the overdrive. This provides a boost in volume and is capable of being on independently, unlike the boost function in the Fulltone Fulldrive 2 which is only active when the overdrive is on. Very good if you are the type that likes 2 pedals in 1. Not good if you prefer it stuck to the overdrive so you can turn both off at once. Nevertheless, this can be wired to only be active when the overdrive is on and can also be wired to be before the overdrive. The right side (blue led) is the overdrive part and the left side (green led) is the boost part. By the way, both pedals (Rat and 808) are true bypass and purchased from Build Your Own Clone.

Now on to another pedal I've been working on. This one did not come from a kit. In fact, this was the first pedal I worked on while waiting for the 2 kits to arrive from the US. Since I was very excited to build pedals, I couldn't wait for the 3 months for them to arrive. So I proceeded to try and modify my existing pedals and the one I could afford to screw up was the Boss DS-1. I read up online sources such as diystompboxes.com and found many information on how and what to mod. Initially I went crazy and wanted to have 4 distortion sounds but when the casing arrived, it couldn't fit. So in the end, I settled for 2 sounds, a flat-eq vs. stock scooped eq switch, and a boost circuit before the distortion to really beef up my single-coil strat. Here it is, going through testing. Glad to report it actually works and sounds reasonably good to boot. I haven't played too much with this because I didn't want to move it around too much with everything dangling around. Oh, forgot to mention. The DS-1 is also modified to true bypass.

Lastly, below is a shot with everything on the pedal board save the DS-1. The one on the left is the Rat. It has 6 different sounds on a knob (3 distortion, 3 overdrive) and a morph knob at the bottom to enable you to further shape the sound, granting you near infinite tone possibilities. I plan to call it the Shape Shifter. The black box right in front is a booster which allows you to increase the volume of your guitar and fattens it up a bit. I use it like a buffer and leave it on all the time as it brightens up my tone. It also gives me a rounder sound that works well with my Strat through the church Marshall as Fenders through Marshalls tend to sound a bit sterile and flat (compared to Fenders through Fenders. Now that's when it starts to happen). Now I actually don't have enough cables to run everything on the board together, let alone together with the DS-1.
So at present I'm caught in a dilemma. The 808 with its many features obviously trumps my TS9 reissue. No doubt they can be setup to sound very differently but pedal space is already fast running out. I have also yet to purchase a delay and a tuner which I intend to leave on the board permanently. Logic will say take out the TS9 but sentimental tuggings of the heart is preventing me from doing so. That was the first pedal I wanted to buy (the DS-1 came first but it was bought because it was a good deal and not really out of want) and it has become an integral part of my tone. It is my current lead boost with the Strat so it does have a place within my heart. Sigh. If only such choices were not necessary. Why so many pedals, you may ask. Well, I've found that not all pedals sound good enough with both single coils and humbuckers. I know that you will normally only need 3 dirt pedals (slightly dirty rhythm for full chord strums, distortion for power chords, and volume/tone shaping for leads). Most of mine work like a charm with the Strat with only the MOEN and DS-1 needing a kick from a previous pedal to sound like distortions. But the same cannot be said about my Ibanez. So to reduce setup times and prolong equipment life through minimal wear and tear, I decided to leave both Strat and Ibanez pedals on the board so I can just plug and play regardless of which guitar I might be using. With the many pedals in the signal chain, true bypass was sought.

Well anyway, that's it so far regarding my latest addiction. Next up is painting and labeling those stompers. I am actually already in the process of painting them but will upload progress notes in the next post. Wish me all the best.

Justin

Amps... Tube amps.

2009-09-07T13:18:00.004+09:30

Yo. Hope everyone is doing fine. The rigours of Masters forced me to reorganize my time and one thing that was sacrificed was time with friends. Now that its gone, I actually find it hard to resocialize with people. Tonight I’m meeting Kevan and catching up with best friends aren’t an issue. Its the other friends whom I do not meet as often. Suddenly I find that putting in effort to meet them seems to require more effort than previously felt. I wonder if I’m alone in this.

Anyway, I’ve been wanting to blog about some guitar related things for a while now. When I went to Sydney, I took the opportunity to test out some gear that I had never heard in person. This would be all-tube amps. Josh over there had purchased a Peavey Classic 30 for a steal and I thought it was about time I heard tube saturation in person after all the raves about them. That amp being a 30-watt all tube was mighty loud so I only managed to hear pre-amp drive instead of the power amp drive everybody seems to love. Even so, the overdrive produced was marvellous. What I heard was actually very novel considering all the drives I’ve heard have come from multi-effects and stompboxes. That amp drive had a warmth and dynamics previously unheard of and the saturation was incredibly detailed as well. I was seriously blown away. Josh plays some mean stuff himself with his dual delays. Kudos to Josh and his amp.

While there, I took the opportunity to try out the Orange Tiny Terror which hadn’t landed in Malaysia yet. Cleans were alright lah but the drive on that thing was something different. It was aggressive, more aggressive than the Peavey with a lot of grunt. Pumping up the gain was good but similarly, it was pre-amp drive. Even at the lower 7.5 watts, that thing was loud and I really didn’t want to be a nuisance at the shop so I didn’t crank the thing. Now, there are rave reviews about the TT online and for good reason; the quality of the drive is very good. However, I wasn’t blown away as with the C30. I was mulling over it for a while and figured it was because I liked the drive of the C30 better. The Orange sounded more like Marshalls and I was never a fan on the Marshall type of sound. I have been a Fender man for the most part of my life. Furthermore, the C30 had very good clean sounds as well whereas the TT cleans were just so so.

This brings me to the last amp I’ve tried in the recent past. A few weeks back I visited CK Music with Jenn Ming to help him try out the Line 6 Pod X3. I admit, I was there more for selfish reasons rather than purely altruistic. I was there to try the Vox Night Train. Now, that was an amp that had very good cleans. Everything was crystal clear. Based on first impressions, it wasn’t as meaty as the C30 however I left the EQ of the Night Train at 12. I guess pumping up the mids may have fattened up the sound. Moving on to the drive, now that was a sound I liked. Many have said the Vox sounds honky (mid range heavy) but that was the sound I like. It gives it more character compared to the Tiny Terror. It gave it a good bite that was quite pleasing to my ear. Similarly, I did not crank it.

In truth, I went to Australia intending to purchase the Tiny Terror if they offered a good discount. However, upon trying it, it was clear it was not my type. Don’t get me wrong. That amp is very good at what it does. It just doesn’t suit my taste. The Classic 30 is also very good however I’m looking for something portable hence the search for amp heads. And honestly, I am very close to buying the Vox. All potential obstacles (especially the price) is out of the way so I guess its only a matter of time. In the mean time, I have to figure out whether I’m going to keep the Ampeg. Choices choices choices.

So thats it folks. I was going to include my pedal DIY projects in the same post but once I was done, it was quite long already. So maybe next time then. Till the, take care guys.

Justin

Chronicles from Sydney

2009-08-29T18:30:00.006+09:30

Hi all, hope everyone is doing fine. I myself have been tying up the loose ends of the Masters (which is quite a lot of loose ends, surprisingly) and its quite a chore. Nevertheless, when it is done, I am going to savour every last drop of satisfaction I get from the break I will be (should be) taking. Anyway, as you all know, I went to Australia quite recently and I took it upon myself to make good use of our camera. I think I’ve mentioned somewhere before that neither me nor Sher-Mayne have a habit of taking photos. That was my chance to start. So as we were walking along and I saw all sorts of nice cars, rare cars that never appear in Malaysia like the Fiat 500, Ford XR6, and even an Audi R8. Sadly, I did not get to take the pictures of all of them. However, they were nice and unique enough to make Beemers look plain. Here are some.

Here we have the Euro Civic hatchback. Took this picture at a traffic light.
This however, is something you do see in Malaysia. If I'm not mistaken, its the Alfa GT.

Here we have a Scooby. Not the best looking one but hey, they are very very common on Aussie roads indeed.

Last but not least, its our ride, the car we rented over there. I think it was close to the size of the Accord, if not larger. I however, found myself drooling over these two cars.

The one at the top is the Ford XR6 followed by the Holden Commodore. This is the sport version. We drove the normal one. Over there, Ford and Holden are very close competitors and even in a league beyond the Subarus. I like the Ford better. One very interesting car I saw, was a Proton Gen 2! Yes, a Proton Gen 2! I totally regretted not taking a picture of that car. Now, with all these nice cars running around, why would one buy a Gen 2? I had no answer to that question.

Lastly, while through our walk to the park, I came across this sign at the entrance of a tunnel.
No dangerous goods? Were they referring to the M16s and C4s we had in the trunk? It gave me the impression that people frequently carry such goods in the car. Maybe they were referring to something else but I thought it was quite funny.

Well, thats about all the car-related pictures I took. 2 shots I really regret not taking was the Fiat 500 and the Gen 2. Lets hope next time I'm more alert.

My next post should be about the guitar gear I tried out. Josh over there has a serious rig going on. More next time.

Justin

The long road to academic qualification.

2009-08-14T18:33:00.001+09:30

September 2006 I attended my first Masters in Counseling class started by one of my favourite former lecturers. A few minutes ago (August 2009) I submitted my final assignment – a thesis – to the one’s who will be marking my thesis. After 3 long years of full-time work and part-time studies, this journey is finally coming to an end. A momentous moment, if you think about it.

The last 3 weeks was a slog fest where after-work hours were spent staring at this accumulation of previous research, trying to incorporate them into my argument in a cohesive manner. During such a time (trust me, there was many) I would question why did I enroll in the first place. Needless to say, I wished for the day when I finally finished to come faster. Now that its within touching distance, part of me is actually mourning. The thought of not needing to go back after work and work on assignments or read up material brought a sense of relief and sadness at the same time. Maybe I have just gotten used to not having a life so much so now that I actually have spare time, I do not know what to do with it. Maybe I’m a masochist (the non-sexual meaning) who enjoys torturing myself with work and assignments and now that there will be no more avenue for self psychological torture, withdrawal syndromes is kicking in. Maybe studying Masters part-time has been incorporated into my identity. Either way, a tangible sense of loss is felt each time I think of the life that I do not need to live anymore. Maybe it was the adrenaline and excitement… maybe it was the intellectual stimulation… maybe it was bonding with my wife… I honestly never thought I would feel this way.

Nevertheless, this journey has been very colorful indeed. It has been an adventure. I started of as a boy who had a miniscule threshold for pain and discomfort. Now through the rigours of work and study, God has somehow showed me how much more I can actually endure, and not to mention accomplish.

Would I recommend you to take a Masters? Well, it is for the brave soul who is prepared to loose his/her social life. Free time is also to a minimum. Movies? Better buy DVDs so you can save on travel time. Food? Eating out helps reduce time spent on washing dishes. Unbelievable? Believe it. It isn’t as unrelenting as this but there certainly are periods whereby work is all you think of.

All the best to all of you who do consider Masters seriously. Go for it. PhD for me will not come so soon.

Justin

Back from Sydney!

2009-07-29T12:06:00.000+09:30

Hello all, I’m back. Actually, I’ve been back for 2 weeks now. Just haven’t had the time to post because have just only settled back into the paces of life. The 12 days in Aussieland was surreal hence needing some adjustment to get back down to earth.

Anyway, after attending so many sermons (yes, I felt the Hillsong conference was a couple of sermons put together rather than a conference/training we Malaysians have come to experience) and getting so filled with God, coming back has had its effects. Life as it was somehow seems… emptier. I had symptoms of Flu A (more of that in my next post) hence was given MC for 2 days for rest and quarantine. During those days at home, I tried to make good use of my time. However, the usual hobbies somehow didn’t have the appeal they seemed to have before. Guitars? Movies? Work? All seemed meaningless. Well, it didn’t really matter anyway since I hardly had any energy to do pretty much anything. But yes, all the hustle and bustle of life all seemed meaningless. It really forced me to ponder on what I was doing with my life.

Regardless, its good to be home. Now onto the final leg of my Masters; THESIS!!! Its due in approx 14 days and I don’t think I am anywhere near completion. But its okay. Jesus is with me, God is at the bottom, and I have faith for this.

Justin

God with us.

2009-06-03T00:39:00.006+09:30

As most of you know from my previous post, my wife recently had a miscarriage. It was a grueling time for the both of us, especially my wife as she was very attached to the would-be-child. Under such circumstances, the title of the post may seem somewhat peculiar but I shall narrate to you why I feel God is with us.

In 6 days time I would be married to Sher-Mayne for a year and 7 months. This month marked the end of the third year I have been with HELP and next month, we both are heading to Sydney for the Hillsong conference. Quite a lavish expenditure if you ask me – especially in the current economic condition – considering our relative infancy in the life of adults.

Now, about a month ago (bear in mind, we were still “pregnant”) we were looking at the things we needed to buy to welcome a new family member and one of the things was a baby cot. With finances focused on the Hillsong trip, it was very tight. So we were merely talking about whether we could afford it. Prices at shops ranged from 600 to 4 figure numbers. A week later, our fridge broke down and needless to say, I was quite stressed. Then, we got a call from my mother in-law saying that her sister had a baby cot to give away. Mint condition as they only had 1 child. Sher-Mayne and I were thrilled and thanked God at His provision. We didn’t even pray about it, mind you. Right then I quipped jokingly, “Maybe we should start talking about a fridge too.” Sher-Mayne laughed it off and neither did I take it too seriously as we were fairly certain at that time it was highly unlikely. In that very same week, my father in-law offered to buy us a new fridge. Coincidence? I think not. Of course, I was fairly stunned as well and was tempted to think it was a coincidence. But I guess, in the end you just got to tip your hat off to such a personal God who really acts like a father in providing for your every need.

With this as a backdrop, the miscarriage wasn't as hard to take for me personally. I have come to believe that He has everything under His watchful eye. Nothing surprises Him. The baby may not have been born but I believe He had a very good reason for allowing or maybe even taking the baby home personally. Through all those, He has assured me that He has got my back and as such, overcoming that loss wasn’t as hard.

This journey with Him is becoming more interesting as the days go by. Now I present to you, our new fridge. Maybe you should start talking too.

Justin

A tribute to my un-born child

2009-05-21T12:12:00.000+09:30

I'm not sure how many of you knew that my wife was pregnant. Well, she was. We visited the gynae yesterday afternoon for our routine monthly check-ups. I didn't know what to expect as this would probably be the first time I saw something that actually resembled a baby. The previous time I saw it was some shape with a blinking dot (heartbeat) in the middle. Yesterday, it did indeed resemble a baby somewhat and it was at that moment it hit me. In about 6 months time I would be carrying this child in my arms and he (we both think he's a boy) would be of my flesh and blood. He would eventually learn to call me daddy. Well, how I wish it went as I had imagined. The doctor said there was some problem. The fetus was smaller than expected and she couldn't detect a heart beat. It turns out that the fetus stopped developing 3 weeks ago. The doctor suspected it was due to abnormal cells however this couldn't be proven. At that moment, I froze for a while, shocked in disbelief that this is actually happening to us.

Well, at this moment, the child is doing much better of than his parents. Sher-Mayne is very sad and I'm still trying to figure myself out whereas that little bugger is in the presence of the super coolest dad of all; God Himself. He is also probably being entertained by two great grandparents (mine and Sher-Mayne's granddads) who are busy arguing who the kid resembles most. He most likely has other kids to play catching and musical chairs with as well. And that is the place I long to be now, with my child having fun by the green grass and crystal clear rivers. I long to embrace him in my arms and hold him tight. I long to see if he gets his mother's eyes. I would like to know if he can play the guitar better than I do. I would like to see him grow up to become the spanking young man that God intended him to be and watch the girls fawn over him. I guess I just want to be with him. And I guess this is how God feels towards all of us, His children. He just can't wait to spend time with us. He patiently awaits for the time where He can get our undivided attention. He watches us as we grow up and progress through life, hoping that we would remember Him in our youth.

I do miss my child. I may not be able to see him grow up nor spend as much time with him on earth as I would like to but I know one day I will see him again and he will be waiting for me at heaven's gate. I know this for sure because I know Jesus died so I could live. By his blood I am cleansed and free. And by that very blood, I am now a child of God, destined to spend eternity in the presence of Love divine. There, we will meet again, my son, and will never be apart from each other, ever.

Justin

Modifications.

2009-05-07T23:35:00.004+09:30

If I posted a blog entry with this header a few months ago, you would think it would be about my car. Well, that is something you can find at Jason's blog if cars is what you want. But times have changed. So many things can happen in such a short span of time. This time it is about my guitar effects.

I recently stumbled upon a website selling DIY guitar effects kits whereby you have to solder and assemble the entire effect. I also ended up looking into their forum whereby tons of information can be found on modifying and personalizing your kit. Now, after poking around a bit, I realized circuits arent very complicated. converting a boss pedal into true bypass isn't that hard after all.

After looking up schematics on how to do the true bypass, I discovered I could perform other mods quite easily as well. I let my mind go wild and settled for 3 clipping options, switchbable stock scooped vs flat mids, (and it gets really ambitious) and a full footswitchbable boost pedal running in the same case (think Fulltone Fulldrive 2 except I have options for mid, top, or flat boost and independant operation). Now after experimenting with different clipping I'm left with 6 choices: stock ds-1 clipping, stock + 1led (fatter sound), marshall jcm type clipping, led (marshall crunch), mosfet clipping (supposed to be tube like), and no clipping (blues driver sound).

Options options options. At the moment I'm still experimenting to see which ones I like but have already purchased a 4-way rotary switch so at least I'll have 4 options. Finished product should look something like this.

The pedal’s looks is inspired by the Vox Satchurator (click here) where color and certain choice of labeling (more) were concerned.

Wish me luck.

Fruits of my labor: Part 3 - Pedal Board!!!

2009-03-27T18:25:00.003+10:30

Hi all. Hope you all are doing fine. Never thought I'd still be updating this blog as frequently as I have been lately. Well, hope some people are benefiting from my ramblings, guitarists especially. Anyway, after recently being able to better distinguish the guitar's tone, I noticed my setup time becoming longer and longer. First time was spent with all the wiring, then fiddling with the amp eq, and lastly tailoring my distortions, chorus' and delays.

After selling of the Korg, it was only a matter of time before I had to get a pedal board to minimize the already long setup time. Like most people, a pedal board comes in very handy as you don't have to worry about all the wiring as all of them are already done pre-practice. All you need to do is to determine pedal placing in your chain and fine-tune them to your taste. I had another reason for getting the board; preserving the lifespan and value of my pedals. You see, lugging them around in a golf bag wasn't the best of ideas as the pedal moves around and tends to scratch each other. The last straw came when my unblemished TS-9 face got some scratches. Thereupon I decided that by hook or by crook I would get a pedal board.

Now, did some scouting and the most readily available in Malaysia is the Boss BCB. Of course you'd go for the larger one as the small one only accomodates 3 pedals. However, at 400 plus, that thing wasn't exactly cheap. Then there is Woh Fatt's solution: a case thats reasonably big. Selling for 175 it wasn't too expensive but I thought it was a big too wide. Then one fine day I stumbled upon some planks where people were doing some renovation. I think that was the week Kevan came to visit my church. That was when I decided I would construct one myself.

Behold...

As you notice, the board is quite big for the meager 4 pedals. It may not look as big with them spaced out. Truth is, it is built with the future in mind - future additions include a volume pedal, and 2 delays. Now, that would fully populate the board. Now I'm also crossing my fingers for other things to come back from the US...

Justin

Withdrawal.

2009-03-25T16:03:00.003+10:30

Dear readers, hope everyone has been doing alright. I myself have been really pushed with my job and Masters at the same time. Ever since my Masters started, I've noticed I slowly (but surely) started to withdraw from society, namely other people. I haven't been meeting up friends as much, haven't been opening up as much, and haven't been going out as much. As a result, I hardly ever see RC guys, hardly catch up with ex-college mates, and hardly even open up to share during our class meetings.

If some of you feel the same way when you're stressed, you are most likely an introvert, just like me. As they say, introverts get their energy from within and extroverts get their energy from other people. So when one is stressed and pushed, they will tend to spend more time doing things that make them feel good. And as an introvert, I have found myself having little energy to meet up or layan other people. When I complete my Masters, I'm sure to look back at the 3-year void whereby I sort of dissapeared from the world. Really looking forward to finishing this thing ASAP.

Justin

Good bye, old faithful.

2009-03-15T17:44:00.003+10:30

Sher-Mayne is a very sentimental person whereas I'm the more pragmatic one. But somehow, somewhere deep down inside, I think I'm quite sentimental as well. As I moved deeper into the realm of individual stomp-boxes, I started to hear the tone-sucking properties of the Korg. Initially it was merely the electronic sound in the tone. However, eventually I discovered it does take away some of the other sounds my guitar produces that aren't so obvious. So in the end, selling it off to help fund a delay pedal seemed like a good option, financially. Without thinking twice, I decided to put it up for sale.

Last Thursday I met the guy to sell the effect and now its gone. I got the cash and with that, a delay pedal will come in due time. However, upon reflecting on it, I can't help but feel a part of me is missing.

The Korg AX1500G was a first guitar effect I ever owned. I used it pre-ICOM which would take it back about 7 years (ICOM was 2002). It has served me well for all these years providing overdrives and distortions, chorus, as well as delays. Occasional use of the wah wah also helped. It was all I ever needed for a long time until... I got the TS-9. Now that was a sweet pedal. There was no comparison. Things got worse when I got the SZ520. Needless to say, I never used the drive section of the Korg once I got the Moen.

Anyway, this is a tribute to my old faithful. I will get sweeter and more authentic sounding pedals in the future but the Korg will have a sweet spot in my heart by being my first guitar companion.

Updates: The AX series is now in the 3000 version. Those of you who are looking for an effect pedal that is capable of producing some nice tones and are not too fussy about analog, its going to keep you company for many, many years. Everything you could ask for including a tuner on the fly. Now I have to use a separate tuner (coincidentally, also 7 years old) and miss the convenience of the Korg.

Fruits of my labor: Part 2

2009-03-04T22:14:00.007+10:30

As promised, here is part 2. As some of you know, I was recently searching for a humbucker set and finally settled upon Seymour Duncan's fav pairing of SH-2 Jazz and SH-4 JB (Thanks to Poh Wei for getting the JB). This was over the next best set of DiMarzio Air Norton neck and Ton Zone at Bridge. It was supposed to be a reward for my completion of my Masters but my wife convinced me to put it in first to ensure they were working. So last Saturday I purchased a soldering kit (solder, lead, and lead sucker) and proceeded to work on it during the evening. At the top is the guitar before I started working on it.

First off, the original pickups.

I guess I won't be missing these.

Here are the replacements.

A shot of me in action.

Here's a shot at the work half done.

Here's the pickup half-way in.

The sweet fruit of my labour.

It wasn't smooth sailing all the way. On the first try only the neck pickup was working. After some systematic back tracking and trouble shooting, I got the bridge working on the third attempt. So now I should be a happy man however I hurt some tendons on my left hand which has left me with 2 trigger fingers. Which also means resting my hand and no guitaring. Sigh. Looks like you'll have to wait for my hand to heal before a detailed report comes out. What I can say now however is, both pickups are more defined (some say articulate) than the previous ones and this definitely works for the neck pickup. Will update more when I can actually press my strings properly.

Now whats left is for me to change the volume pots and put in a set of quality tuners and the guitar will be complete.

Justin

Fruits of my labour: Part 1.

2009-03-03T14:00:00.002+10:30

I previously bought my sister one of those Gundam figurines where you have to assemble all the plastic parts and make it pose in a cool way. She in turn returned the favour and bought me one. It is a Flag from the Gundam 00 series notable for being the first mobile suit Graham Aker was piloting. Have a look.

In the end the story revolved around uniting the world under one leader and bringing peace to the world. This is soooo end-time stuff where the anti Christ will rise up and lead the world. With that in mind, it isn’t too hard to recall movies which has a similar story line of bringing peace to the world through unity under one leader. Shows that come to mind are Code Geass, Hero (Chinese show with Jet Li as an assassin), and other old Chinese shows whereby the marshal art world is ruled by a “sky under number one” (Tin Ha Dai Yat) warrior who is supposed to be the best. So my father in-law was right in pointing out that the world is programming us for the coming of the anti christ. Scary stuff if you think about it.

A part 2 is coming up when I managed to get the pictures.

Justin

14 Feb...

2009-02-14T22:37:00.003+10:30

I was just recently looking for my previous post with the Ibanez picture to put up as a facebook profile picture. It didn't feel good to have a picture of things that are not mine (even though the PRS did look really good). Only when I found it did I realize I've actually had the guitar for 2 and a half years already. Surprised? So was I. Even Sher-Mayne was surprised. Put up the post in August 2006. Makes me wonder how much have I gotten to know the guitar in these 2 and a half years (not much) as only recently have I been able to distinguish different guitar tones.

2 and a half years is certainly not a short amount of time. Looking back, that was when I just got my job at HELP. 2 and a half years ago I was still bald and a boy. 2 and a half years ago, Bernard was still in KL. 2 and a half years ago my relationship with Sher-Mayne was only 9 months old. 2 and a half years ago I was still in Revival Centre and 2 and a half years ago, I only enrolled for my Masters.

2 and a half years later, I'm about to graduate and move up the rank in the job market. 2 and a half years later, I'm now a man (hopefully) and am married to the girl (now a woman) I was dating then. 2 and a half years later Bernard is in Penang and loving it. 2 and a half years ago, I was still driving my fathers car, still living in my fathers house, and sharing a room with my brother of 18 years. 2 and a half years later I now own a car, house (and still have to share a room with someone), and have saved enough money to visit Melbourne and Sydney.

These 2 and a half years have passed by in a flash. How time really flies. Before we know it we may be old and hagard with grandchildren running around and we not having enough teeth to shout at them properly. Makes you wonder how long (or short) the average lifespan of 75 years really it. A friend of mine recently passed away at the tender age of 23 years old. His name was Markus Ng. Pleasant chap, good guitarist, excellent footballer, as well as very intelligent (Mensa member type). He passed away in his sleep and they speculate because of overworking and a lack of sleep.

So, the message to all of us alive is: to cherish life. We ought not to take anything for granted. Sometimes I think we Christians are more guilty than others in taking things for granted due to the many times God's grace has been poured upon us. We think "Tomorrow I'll be better," or even "Later I'll repent." But truth is, we will never know for sure whether there is a later, let alone a tomorrow.

So yes, cherish life while you can. For those of you who are seeking, don't put it off. Seek what you are looking for now as the opportunity tomorrow may never come.

Justin

Golf

2009-02-05T15:36:00.004+10:30

While writing this post I wished I was writing about a WV Golf GTI I own but that is not to be (quite possibly never). What I am writing about is a different golf; the original one. This may be shocking but, I think I’m hooked on golf (the sport).

I’ve recently been taking golfing lessons from my dad at the driving. Initially it was a father-son bonding suggestion from Sher-Mayne. Other perks included inheriting my father’s golf set that probably would be given away in the event neither myself nor Edwin took it up. What initially was a bonding session quickly turned into a drive to master the swing. Once I started getting some range on my hits, it eventually turned into an addiction.

I can explain it. Golf makes you feel very good. My wife once told me that my father in-law would be in a very good mood after his golf sessions and I am quickly discovering why. I went to the driving range with Sher-Mayne on Tuesday night to continue honing my swing and attempted to take it to another level by incorporating bending my arm back. To my surprise, I could easily hit past the 50m mark with little effort, one that I struggled to accomplish previously by keeping my arms straight as part of training. Now when you see your ball traveling that distance and eventually disappearing, you feel a great sense of satisfaction. On Tuesday I went home a happy man.

To be honest, I haven’t stopped thinking about my last swing (which exceeded the 100m mark) ever since and I can’t wait to go back to the driving range and show my dad the progress I have made.

Ahh… golf…

Justin

A visit to bentley

2009-01-13T14:03:00.004+10:30

Last night I visited Wisma Bentley hoping to purchase some tremolo springs for my strat as well as the new Marshall Echohead (EH-1) delay pedal. I arrived with my wife and duly proceeded to survey the available pedals and their prices. It was a good thing no sales person came so I could look in peace.

In the end I was approached by this rude guy who didn't really respect me. Talked a whole lot b ut didn't have anything. No springs, no EH-1. Heck, no push-pull pots too. Well, talk to enough people in that manner and they will soon be out of business. I certainly hope you had better experiences with them compared to me.

Uninspired to eat

2009-01-12T16:53:00.002+10:30

Recently I have really been uninspired to eat. I recall previously the times when I actually looked forward to lunch time. It was the time whereby I could go out and either eat good stuff (which happens to be normal stuff) or sample new stuff (which happens to be more expensive). Lunch time was a treat then. These days, I simply spend a good 15 minutes cracking my head deciding where to eat.

Today was that day. From 11.30am right till 12.15 when I walked out of office, I was thinking about what to eat. I don't know whether you experience issues like these but I was figuratively dragging my feet. In the end, I changed my mind on the destination and proceeded for the nearest makan place. Whats happening to me?

Anyway, I've been in the market for a Delay and a Chorus pedal. I'm looking to replace my trusty AX1500 multi effect pedal. Its been with me for a good 6 years now. Its effects gradually sounded electronic with the Overdrives/Distortions first to be noticed. That was when I got the TS-9 as well as the MOEN DM. Next to go was the Chorus which was actually quite recently. Happened when I heard a Boss CE-3 (Chorus Ensemble). That thing was havoc. Which leaves me now with only 3 effects left to use on the relatively large KORG: Compressor (for EQ sculpting), Delay, and Volume. Of course I occasionally use the Wah but I bet it would instantly sound fake once I sample the real thing.

So pedals pedals. Actually in total I might have to spend approx 500 for a delay and chorus (at second-hand pricing) and still be incomplete without a volume as well as an EQ. Not to mention, I would still have to invest in a decent carry case to minimize setup times. In the end, the expenditure balloons. Now question is, whether I can get a good multi effect that isn't too big and does my modulation effects for me (a booster or EQ wouldn't hurt either). Anyone tried the BOSS ME-50 multi? I heard their distortions but not the modulations. It also has a very cool "FAT" function which is sweet for solos and leads. All have one thing in common: spending more money. So in the end, do I have GAS?

Justin

Do you have GAS?

2009-01-09T18:19:00.005+10:30

This is my score. They certain got something right in me getting married recently. However, I must admit that I may currently be at a point of highest interest in guitaring in my life. Ever since being able to hear and apprecite tone, my life has changed. Last year a Boss BCB carry case with some used effects was deemed too expensive at RM700. Now I'm paying 500 bucks for a set of pickups and 2.5k for a guitar (Les Paul, no less. My Ibanez was much cheaper than that.) is deemed worth it.

Anyway, enough about me. Why don't YOU take the test.

Take the G.A.S. self test.

1. Has the phrase "I wish I never traded that..." ever passed your lips?
2. Do you spend more time shopping for gear than practicing?
3. Do you spend more money on gear than you make playing gigs or teaching lessons [or your monthly petrol bill]?
4. When faced with the budgeting dilemma of buing a new amp or new tires, you opt for the amp?
5. Has a significant other ever left you because on Valentines Day, you bought a pawnshop [second hand] prize for yourself in lieu of flowers for her?
6. Are lessons "too expensive" but a Ibanez TS-808 a "bargain" at $200 [RM600]?
7. When you browse a musician-oriented magazine, do you skip the articles and go right to the advertisements?
8. Is a "buyer" pass to the NAMN show a U-Haul the makings of a dream vacantion? [I have no idea what this is]
9. Does your rig evolve faster than your playing? Bonus: Have you ever charted the evolution of your rig on a modified "family tree?"
10. Is it difficult to remember every guitar, amp, processor that's ever passed in and out of your possesion?

Click here and put in your answers to get your score.

Justin

G.A.S. Attack!

2009-01-09T13:43:00.005+10:30

The Guitar Acquisition Syndrome (G.A.S.) is defined as the compulsive urge to buy guitars or guitar related equipment (effects, amps, etc.). This urge is stronger than the motivation to practice or improve one's current guitaring skills. If existing guitars/equipment is used as a trade in for the new guitar/equipment, it is often accompanied by buyer's remorse whereby one regrets selling the old equipment.

* Note: reading the following post helps your understanding for this one.*

I recently made arrangements for a set of humbuckers to be purchased. A set of Seymour Duncan SH-2 Jazz and SH-4 JB (Jeff Beck) whereby the JB has already been purchased and am still awaiting news on the Jazz. This has come after many hours of research, listening to tracks, sampling other brands like Dimarzio and EMG. Finally I settled upon the Jazz JB combination as the others were to heavy for me.

Of course, some pickups that caught my attention were the Air series from Dimarzio. Was very close to selecting Air Norton in neck and Air Zone in the bridge but it leaned towards the more progressive type of music; which I appreciate the tone, but not into yet. So to calm my nerves I settled upon the thought that the Norton & Zone will be my guitar project and thought it would fit nicely with a Tele or a Les Paul.

Yesterday while visiting shops looking for a delay pedal, I stumbled upon an Epiphone Les Paul Standard. Workmanship was good but what caught me the most was the natural finish. Man, the wood grain was simply gorgeous. What made it worse was the price. 2.5k. My heart was caught. Then for the first time I felt G.A.S.! All this while I thought I was good, having only 2 guitars without any plan to collect them (I always wondered how many pairs of strings I would have to buy if I had 10 guitars). But right at that moment, I was seriously caught and proceeded to think (and dream) about that Less Paul for the rest of the night.

Sigh, the life of a guitarist... always longing for the stuff you can't afford.

Justin

Update: I have since cured myself of that G.A.S. episode by convincing myself not to pay for the brand. I will get a Les Paul COPY instead. I hear these can come as low as below 1k but the cheap ones might come in Basswood. I won't accept anything less than Mahogany. Now I feel a sense of release from that Epiphone but gosh was that wood grain a beauty.

Thank you.

2008-12-12T13:31:00.001+10:30

This is a "thank you" post for the Revival Centre church members who helped out during my wedding. A post to say that one year on, we still think of you.

The wedding car was from Daniel Loo's father. Looks good eh?

Secondly I would like to thank my entourage who had to brave all sorts of challenges just so I could get my bride. As you can see, they were mercilessly lined-up for some cross dressing ala Superman as you shall soon find out. Just as a sheep before its shearer is silent, so were the "hing tai" at the hands of the "chi mui."

Disposable underwear; I hear they were panties.

Result? Tada.

They even had to brave the humiliation of drinking from bottles that fed them when they were mere babies.

All the work and suffering all for what? All for this woman. Gosh is she beautiful.
Anyway, you made the "gate crashing" possible. Thanks guys.

Now, on to the ceremony. First of all, I would like to thank our dear Timothy for being not only the most adorable ring bearer but also the most handsome one. If only we were in the ages where people got married at his age, he would've been spoilt for choice as girls would have flocked. And of course, not forgetting my sister who was one of the bridesmaids.

And guess who was caught on camera? Three conspicuous looking guys who were seen posing for a Padini-like ad.

And now for the team who played for worship. First we have the multi-talented Kam Fwei the worship leader. He also happened to be the chauffeur for the day. On keys, we have Angeline in deep concentration. Oli was on guitars and I pressume he was looking at the chords when the picture was snapped. I'm sure he prefered to be looking at some 'pretty girl'. Then we have Flora on backup. Then as usual, Benji on the bass. One heck of a bassist he is. Last but not least, the drummer who holds everything together, Jeremy (who happens to be Kevan's brother.)

Last but not least, my best man.

Kevan was the main man whereas Bernard and my brother were the other two. A shot of us together (And yes, I was shedding a tear or two.). Also in the picture is Ps. Ronnie from Revival Center, the chuch that will always be a part of me.

We were blessed with a perfect wedding and it wouldn't have been so without the parts each of you played. Me and my-now wife give you our deepest appreciation. Like I said previously, one year on we still think of you guys. Your contribution on that blessed day has touched us in many ways and you have forever left an impact on us. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

Disclaimer: Numerous other people contributed to the wedding who are not included in these pictures. Their contribution are not any less significant.

The Strat is BACK!!

2008-12-11T16:16:00.003+10:30

After long waiting the strat is finally back.

I think I mentioned this somewhere in previous postings but anyway my Strat was sent for servicing as the neck was suffering from a terrible up-bow making the action quite high at the upper frets. Now the neck is significantly straighter and action is lower but according to Cletus, it can still go lower. Issue is, as is, some strings are already experiencing fret-buzz. But playability is fine for me at this moment.

All this comes as sort of sad news too as I was thinking of using 10s for strings instead of 9s. Now it would be almost confirmed the neck will bend again if I change to the higher gauge strings as planned. After spending an extended period getting used to the Ibanez, it seems I have also gotten used to the fat sound of humbuckers and mahogany bodies. Now the Strat sounds really small hence the quest to up rate the gauge. Now I’m left with considering changing the strings anyway or stick with this for the mean time until I have the dough for a neck change.

Nevertheless, I’m just glad to have her back. Now can try out the new pedals as well as the amp.

Secondly, I think I'm starting to get a hang on amp sounds. Few weeks ago during a practice at Hartamas (Brown, Black, Blues) I played a Marshall Mos-Fet 100 watt stack. Clean sound was really REALLY impressive. Made the Ibanez sound like a killer. Then last night I tried out a Roland Jazz Chorus 120. Now that was another killer amp. Sparkling cleans with a chorus simply undescribable. According to Cletus, no one has managed to totally emulate that chorus effect. Well, it was surely one of a kind. Now I'll have to go and be content with the other amps I'll be playing more commonly.

Justin

P/S: The JC120 is FOR SALE!!! Please let me know if you're interested.

Ibanez

2008-11-22T16:47:00.003+10:30

Yo people, hope everyone's doing good. Just some updates about my guitar. Recently after getting an amp I have come to fall in love with the Ibanez. The neck clean sound is superb so much so it has melted me on numerous occasions. So naturally to spice things up I tried to run it through some of my effects. All of them sounded okay only hence my interest in the Boss SD-2 (the yellow thing in the previous post). But even then, somehow something is missing. Then at that time I remembered Cletus' comment on cheap pickups. "They may sound good clean but when you add distortion, it becomes muddy." which was quite true of the Ibanez. The clean tone was very good but once you run it through some pedals, quite alot of the clarity is gone. Now I finally realize what I've been feeling all a long. So I visited Seymour Duncan's site to listen to their original pickups and true enough, when distorted, its still quite crisp. Sigh. Looks like I'll have to speed up my acquisition of the SH-2 & SH4 JB soon as the overdrive sound is a far cry from its clean tone. Now I know effects can only take you so far. At times, its not the effects that don't sound good. Its your guitar.

Justin

My car... again

2008-11-18T16:11:00.007+10:30

Most of you must be thinking that I’m going to go on and on about my car again due to the title. But I will not. My car suffered its first accident and I experienced my first accident which I had to deal with. Bumped into someone. Big issue for me. Cost a lot of money. Ironically, this came a day after I felt God telling me to trust Him with my finances. Not only heart breaking but extremely stressful as it comes at a time of lack of finances as we already booked the Aussie flight tickets and have to pay for them soon.

Well, the car is back (repaired in 3 days) and it looks like new from the out side. Missed driving it when it was gone. I’m not sure whether it really is the case but I feel as though I’m being pruned. Like the army of Isreal being reduced to mere hundreds, distinguished by which way they drank water from the river. This of course is done so that all will see and know that the God of Isreal was the one who won them the battle. I feel like that because I am certainly being very stretched in this area. It may be done to teach me that lesson but like all tests, wisdom comes only after the event it is needed. Obviously I haven’t learnt it yet hence the need to teach me but it is honestly really hard. I am constantly haunted by all these “what ifs” thoughts.

Well, all in all, we will survive. Just not as ideal as we would like it to be.

Anyway, has anybody used a Boss SD-2 before? It’s a dual overdrive pedal. Have one used with me now. Sounds good. I like the very mild overdrive it can produce on my humbuckers. Anybody can provide me with their feedback?

Justin

My car

2008-11-11T14:36:00.003+10:30

Okay, finally now I am writing some thoughts about my car. It is a Proton Satria Neo Highline. It comes with 16 hundred cc and manual transmission. Since its Highline, it comes with 2 airbags and Automatic Braking System (ABS). I’m not sure whether it has Electric Brake Distribution (EBD) though. Its also in Metal Grey but it looks bluish to me. Nothing like grey.

How it drives? Well when I first got the car, it was a tad sluggish with the engine not run in yet and all. Of course, I didn’t really notice it then with all the euphoria going around. How I ended up getting the car was largely impulse coz being one of those boys who would fantasize about their dream car as they were growing up, buying a car was something special to me. I had my list and most of them were Hondas. Being Hondas, prices are sky high for someone who only recently entered the workforce. So that leaves me with used ones. Then my dad stressed that you shouldn’t buy a used car when you only have ONE car. When it breaks down, you don’t have a spare. And so, I had to look at new cars. Then came along Kevan’s poison. Hahaha. The Neo was actually HIS dream car at that time. So I looked it up and reviews about it was fairly good. So in that heightened state of excitement, I decided to get it. I only managed a short test drive with Daniel Lazaroo’s one. I couldn’t get a test drive at Proton (tried multiple times but never got a chance). After that, I promptly placed a booking.

You must be wondering how on earth someone can end up being excited about a Proton car. And one would be even more puzzled if they have had first hand experience with a Proton. You see, my opinions about Protons came largely from my father. He had one and it didn’t leave a good impression to say the least. And so when we were talking about cars I told Sher-Mayne proudly when asked whether I would get a Proton: “Over my father’s dead body.” Hahaha. Well, that was how it was. And my opinion change towards Proton, needless to say, was also due to my father’s change of opinion.

Truth is, it paid off. The car is solidly built with minimal problems. Of course fit and finish is not as good as mature car makers such as the Japs but as far as major components are concerned, the car is good. Only problem I had sorted out was some unusually high fuel consumption. Other wise, car is good.

Now, back to driving the car. As I mentioned, the car was actually sluggish and this has become common knowledge of the CamTakPro engine as they call it – Campro stood for Cam Profiling System. Ours has cams but no profile (changing) hence CamTakPro. So, what this meant in lay-person’s terms is, car has strong pulling power at 4k revs and above but very lembik before that. Worse still, at 2.5k-3.5k nothing happens. Eventually I stumbled upon some upgrades available to help this out and I decided to get some. Now the car drives differently. No more torque dip and overall responsiveness.

Another thing that’s fun about the car is also a drawback. The suspension system. They’re stiff and allow higher speed cornering through greater grip by less bodyroll. So this makes the car very fun to drive around bends. The drawback is, its significantly less comfortable compared to my dad’s Corrolla SE. I drove that car previously so was accustomed to it. I mean, its bearable lah but travelling outstation is where you will feel this the most when you bump around following the uneven roads for a few hours.

Other drawbacks include entry and exit for rear passengers. 2-door cars are always a hassle. Well, the price to pay lah for impulsive buys and self justification. Worse thing is, Sher-Mayne is the one paying the price. Well, I’m making up for this by promising her a Alfa 147 to be driven by her as a second family car.

Fuel consumption is good! I average about 500+ kms per 40 liters of petrol by commuting from OUG to Damansara Heights daily. I initially thought it was good only compared to my dad’s old Toyota but it seems this figure isn’t very far off from Kevan’s 1.3 Saga.

Well, I shan’t bore you too much with all these. Pictures will be up when I manage to take some. In short, I love it. Every time I drive I feel good. I look forward towards driving it every time.

Now, just some side tracking. I LOVE MY AMP!!! It makes my Ibanez sound soooo good. Fender is still undergoing diagnosis so been spending more time with the other one. And it sounds marvelous. The sound actually melts my heart and I have never loved a guitar sound to this extent. Seriously! Distortions and overdrives sound great too. It was really worth getting the amp as I really like the sound it produces. Now this gives me the motivation to withstand carrying it to wherever I want to play coz it weighs a ton for an amp that size. Was starting to wonder whether I made a correct decision by choosing it when I wanted a portable amp.

So, more stuff for you bored people to read.

Justin

Ampeg

2008-11-03T17:58:00.007+10:30

Okay, the pics are finally here. What you’re looking at is a vintage Ampeg SS-35 made in the USA. Its production period was during the 87-89 hence it’s already obsolete. That makes it approximately two decades old.

Here’s how the amp ended up here. It was hand carried from the US just like my Strat and t

he owner met up with Cletus. Cletus thought the amp sounded good and the owner coincidentally liked a guitar he had. So when you have two willing parties, you trade lah. They swapped and that’s how the amp

landed up with Cletus. And coincidentally I was in the market for an amp and I did like how it sounded when I used for youth camp some time back. So it was between this and a Blues Junior. Price of BJ went up so settled with this one lah.

Ampeg SS-35 with 35 “stated” solid state watts. What I generally look for is a 3-band EQ as well as reverb. What this thing gave me extra is a gain knob as well as volume. Kinda like those tube amps. This thing is loud. I

normally play with the volume at full and increase the gain as I go. Gain is set at 2 whereby

it’s the first degree where sound comes out and even that would make it too noisy for home use already. This hints that Ampeg may have underrated the wattage just as Cletus suspects. Its mighty heavy to for a 35 watt

er.

Sound? I honestly have no idea with this being my first amp but what I can tell is I can

get a good sound with minimal fuss. Clean sounds are clear and does bring out the guitar sound. Distortions are solid too with the bite I like and with sufficient depth. Well, we shall see how it compares to other amps as I get used to the sound of it but at the moment, I’m liking it.

Just some extra couple of shots of some new stuff I got. That red thing next to the Moen is a Digitech Hot Rod courtesy of Mr Cletus for an indefinite loan. Not bad this little thing. Easy to get a good sound. Best of all is the morph knob which enables me to select from classic distortion to modern and even grunge. Of course I don’t play grunge coz I don’t like the sound but sculpting it anywhere else is a breeze.

That’s my main guitar now only because church nowadays play a lot of Hillsong and their youth songs. Furthermore the Strat is having some problems with the Truss Rod. My neck is up-bowed with too much relief and the rod simply won’t turn. Now I’m waiting to pass it to someone for some checkup.

And that’s us. The guy on the left is Tee Eng, my cousin in law. He’s a drummer. One in the middle is uncle lah. Anyway, that’s about it. I wonder if there are still people who visit (aside from Jerry and Sher-Mayne lah). But heck, who cares. Take care, who ever you may be.

Justin

NEW AMP!!!

2008-10-28T16:01:00.005+10:30

I purchased a new amp. Can't wait to blog about it. Still awaiting pics from Tee Juan. Only one word for now; vintage. Amp was born when I was 4. Stay tuned.

Justin

Loner

2008-10-15T14:33:00.001+10:30

I wanted to use the words “anti social” but didn’t want to confuse it with the notorious Anti-Social Personality Disorder. That is a possibility given then greater awareness of psychological disorders among the lay people of late. Anyway, yes, I noticed I have been quite a loner lately. The blog, being as stale as it is, is another point that supports this finding. I have hardly been meeting my close buddies as well as going for social gatherings and outings. I have also continued on my tradition of lunching alone since beginning my job but I’m wondering if that could be the cause of my predicament.

Nevertheless, I figured that I should at least write something so that the latest post won’t be so gloomy so here it is. I’m probably going to write about my car next. Love it.

Further updates are, I’m probably getting a Fender Blues Junior soon. It’s a 15 (Cletus says its 20 so I’m not too sure) watt tube amp and it sounds great. Its going to be my first ever tube amp. Heck, its my first ever guitar amp. One would have imagined that a guitarist would need an amp for personal practice and use. Its amazing to imagine that I’ve gone 8 years without actually owning an amp ever since I started playing the electric when I was 17.

Common question I get asked is “How do you practice?” Well, I practice just like everyone else. Just not through an amp. My Strat is still loud enough unplugged in the quiet environment of my house so I have managed to survive that way. What I probably have missed out all these years is improving my hearing by listening to various amp sounds. Now at this stage as I’m moving more into analog distortions, I suppose the need is more pressing and believe me, if it wasn’t, I wouldn’t have thought of getting one. Even for this Blues Junior, Sher-Mayne had to really push to convince me I should get it. I really wonder why I’m so unwilling to get one (a great sounding TUBE amp at that). Anyway, now that its supposed to arrive, I’m quite excited. Its really about time I get back into playing seriously. Quite a waste of talent if I don’t go into it.

So hope everyone’s doing good. Bernard’s doing good in Penang. Reuben’s doing good in his career preparation (got an offer in Singapore). Kevan’s in a good company (that pays well too). And Sher-Mayne’s happily married (Hahaha). That more of sums up the closest people in my life at the moment. Lost touch with lots of people. Hopefully I’ll have my life back after Masters. Yay, 6 more months to go. But honestly, I think its going to stretch beyond that. Oh well, that’s life.

Justin

At the end of the road.

2008-05-09T18:28:00.000+09:30

I am at the end of a certain road. What is in front of me is a barrier that I cannot overcome with my physical strength. Likened it to following a gps led route whereby it has led you to a steep cliff that stands in your way. You are caught with no hiking gear (taking into consideration you are no extreme climber who can do it with his bare hands). There is no way around it and there is no logical solution to your predicament.

This is how I am feeling at the moment. At the moment, I am performing below par in my masters, performing below par in my job and a miserable excuse of an adult. My end of the road is because I have done all I can (known to me) to improve the situation. And this is very sad because I posses huge potential but am only fulfilling a fraction of it. This reminds me of my belief in the key that unlocks human potential.

You have heard before that we only use 10% of our brain. Nevertheless, we also do hear of extra-human feats such as lifting cars and jumping over 6ft walls. The bible’s own version is a man ripping into a lion with his bare hands (granted, it only happened once). Some say its our adrenaline. But what about the other 90% of our brain? Has anybody heard about reports of maybe 15% of our brain being used? If you have, please respond. I would like to know about it. Well, I believe the other 90% is unlocked by the Holy Spirit. Bear with me for I stated that this is my belief. I have no proof to offer, only observations. If I somehow do end up having proof, it will be published immediately in one of the Psychological Journals. Anyway, my personal recollections of being led by the Holy Spirit include speaking words that are not my own, making extra coherent speeches, as well as playing notes on the guitar that are almost beyond my imagination. So then after exhausting all my means in living a productive life, I am reminded of the times when I was at my best. Times when everything I did went well. This is backed up Romans 8:26 where it says the Spirit helps us in our weakness. Those were the same times when God was in the center of my life. Through the course of life (and transition to adulthood) I have forgotten that He was the one that held my life together. His Spirit was the one who breathed life into me and by that I mean REAL life. Life like how it was meant to be. Life more abundantly. Not surviving and merely going through the motions. I was living then.

Well, I suppose this is happening so that I will return to God. Most of us (me especially) only do so when we have exhausted all our resources (or money, like the prodigals son). I have forgotten that I still need Him. At times I really forget this. I suppose more often than I should.

A change of family.

2008-05-02T18:43:00.001+09:30

Just met Oliver yesterday during the BCM open day and had a conversation with the current resident guitarist of Revival Center. It wasn’t until then that I realized I haven’t actually told many of my previous church mates that I’ve changed church. Anyway so here it is.

Dear fellow revivalites, after much thinking and prayer (approx 8 months plus) me and my wife have concluded+decided that Vineyard is the church God is prompting us to attend. Due to the nature of the “nudge” (my own personal experience), it wasn’t a very sure sign whereby you can come out and proclaim “God told me that…” No. It was a silent, still nudge. For months I was toiling over this “nudge”. It wasn’t exactly clear and everything and for those of you who know how I tick, it drives me nuts to not know the exact details and to not be exactly sure. That’s why from a simple decision that was supposed to be made before I got married stretched until 2 months plus after the wedding bells. What happened was in the end, it all ended up with my decision. At times in our lives, there are no certainties and this includes God’s direction. For me, I felt the onus was on me whether I would decide to act upon that still small nudge. My normal reaction was to ask for confirmations and signs and I did. Months just went by waiting. Finally, I decided that a man should just act. As I am normally very slow on decision making because I want to make the perfect one, I tend to rely on data gathering before making the decision. Without sufficient and accurate data, I was unable to proceed. Then it came to me that at times life does not yield “sufficient” data to make a decision. We will just have to use whatever data we currently have gathered and act on it. So in the end I decided to act on that nudge and spoke to Ps. Ronnie. All went well and he prayed for us at the end.

So yes, I have currently stopped attending Revival Center (Although officially I’m still a member as I have yet to submit my membership termination letter) and am attending Vineyard with my wife. Grew up in RC and have many many memories in that church. Heck, all my close friends are there. And to now leave, is not as easy as thought out to be. Have had ups and downs, involved in various events, have had successes and quite a few failures. But ultimately may those experiences spur me to become a better person for God so they may not be wasted in the quest to maximize the gifts God has placed in my hands and my responsibility to nurture and use them to their fullest potential.
Thats all folks. Take care. Will update when I have more time.

Justin

4th April

2008-04-04T18:48:00.002+10:30

Woah, I'm back from the dead. Well, more of like back from life. Hahaha. Been very busy with everything. Anyway, it seems Kevan's blog is the latest in thing. All sorts of stuff going on there.

Some updates would be, I've actually completed 11 Masters subjects already (exams are next week). That would leave 1 more study subject to go before I do my practical internship. Quite excited actually. Not exactly about counseling, but more because of the end of classes. Lol.

Bought a new car last year. Satria NEO. Highline with ABS and all. Of course, it has to be manual as there is no point buying a car like that and then going for auto. Might as well buy a Myvi. Cheaper and more fuel economic. More comfy too actually. Took some pictures the other day. May post it if I have the time.

Going to be married for 4 months now. It is actually a world of a difference. Lots of adjustments that I never dreamed of are required. But ultimately rewarding at the same time. Single folks who want to get married one day, do look forward to it. Its great. So remember to save yourself for your future mate.

Anything else? Oh, I've added Kevan's link at the side panel. Looks like I'll have to update some photos too.

Take care. I may not be updating this site very regularly due to time constraints. Hope this will be sufficient for those of you who want an update on me. Send me e-mail lah. I reply faster.

Cheers,
Justin

To Jerry Lee.

2007-11-28T12:17:00.001+10:30

Dear Jerry, I received your present for me yesterday. It looks swell and it’s a very interesting present indeed. But what touched me more were the words you wrote in the card. That was close to the kindest thing anybody has wished me. Came at a time when I least expected it. Thank you so much for your kind words. I got to run coz its my last week at work. Need to finish stuff before I go on leave. You take good care of yourself over there. Till next time.

Justin

12 November: Sick again.

2007-11-12T17:38:00.000+10:30

Yo peeps, surprised by another post? Yes. I’m surprising myself too. Well, am seriously reconsidering continuation of this blog as I haven’t had as much time as I used to and do not think it serves a purpose anymore. Anyway, I shall decide soon buy figured before I go dark, I should post one last picture I’ve been wanting for a while.

Comments some people have asked me of late is, “Why not feeling good? Cold feet ah?” If it weren’t for the many people asking me that question, I would never have known what it meant, much less where it came from (North Pole?). Here’s a picture that may illustrate how you may feel when your feet are freezing.

Friend sent the pic to me. Apparently was some best-man sabo kind of thing but it sure is darn funny. So since I found it so entertaining, I thought I post it on my blog and share it with you guys. We shall see whether my feet need treatment from the frost bite but as of now, they are fine.

Anyway, have been falling sick more lately possible due to the wedding and everything that comes with starting a new family on your own (not to mention studying part-time). Well, what to do? I only have so much time. Hope the picture was entertaining. It will probably be the last post I will write for a while. Next thing I will probably be writing would be my speech for a 'supposed' very cold night. Lol.

Justin

Wedding reception.

2007-10-18T15:41:00.000+09:30

Hey people. Been putting this off for a while already partly because I hardly have time to blog in office and also because I didn’t think it would come to this. Nevertheless, in relaying messages such as these, I believe the straightforward way is the best. Anyway, here it is.

I would really love for all of you to come but sadly I do not live in an ideal world. So if you didn’t receive an invitation, take my word that you were sacrificed with a heavy heart. Seats for the dinner are terribly limited due to the supprisingly many friends my parents have and the guests that come with marrying a Senior Pastor's daughter. So I hope you guys would understand.

Anyway, the date is drawing closer and closer. Quite near actually. When it hits November it will be terribly close. Which worries me more in terms of time for my Masters' course work. I can't help but smile at the times when I would think the wedding is still so far of when I proposed and throughout the year. Now, its no longer the case. I suppose if I had more time, I would be doing the same thing as my friends Gillian and Delwin would be doing; preparing ourselves. Over here, we haven't even done marriage counseling and still no word from my Pastor when we are to do it. Oh well.

So take care guys. I'm in the midst of a human doing but all will end come December.

Justin

9th October...

2007-10-09T19:43:00.000+09:30

Visiting a few blogs have gotten me into one of those phillosophical moods. Haven't been in this mood for quite some time already. Used to have them alot when I was still in Adelaide. I guess I just haven't had the time to sit down and reflect ever since my life fast tracked into the working phase + studying part time + wedding planning. Oh well, I chose it, I live with it.

Anyways, visited a friends blog recently. He posted up pictures of his still-new-but-not-so-new born son and I must say that his child looked exactly like him. Just need to put on a pair of spectacles and wala, like father like son. But what it also sparked is the thought of my own son. Will I be getting any? Would I be ready to be a father when he comes along? Really tough question to ask especially a Malaysian who is 23 years old. Of course, rationale will tell me "You won't be getting a child so soon lah. Probably when you finally plan to, it will be 2 to 3 years time and you should be ready lah." As usual, my eternally optimistic voice speaks. But thing is, I will need to consider these things NOW as if I can't, then I don't have any business getting married.

So yeah. Prompted thoughts about marriage, child rearing, parent/fatherhood, and above all, the decision of whether or not to have any at all. Well, for the sake of my wife, I would want to have children as I believe it is another of God's great gifts to a women; the ability to bear a child. But on the other hand, I shudder at the thought of raising a child even in the current generation. So many dangers abound, so many ungodly influences striving to corrupt the pure, so much evil out to sully the perfect plan God had for earth. Not only do I forsee myself struggling to keep my son safe, but I also forsee struggling to keep my son sexually pure. Woe to me if I get a daughter. Many female friends I have can testify that they have been mistreated sexually some way or another and I can only imagine how much God's wrath burns against these offenders since I'm beyond fuming.

Invasion of all sorts of nonsense in the media has not allayed my fears. Many has already commented on how movie violence has desensitized almost the entire generation to blood and gore. I even heard it from the horses mouth. I was once at Sher-Mayne's office waiting to pick her up from work. Since I was early, I decided to occupy myself with a round of DotA. As usual, a group of kids crowded around me in excitement. One boy said, "Hey, the colours makes it look like a kids game." Another boy, (9 years old, mind you) rebutted his comment by saying, "It can't be a kids game lah. Look at all the blood!" I pressume these 9 year olds no longer see themselves as kids. Chances are, they already know how to use a computer, log on to the internet, and key in the address to watch Happy Tree Friends. This seriously forces one to consider what has this world been turning into. Whats worse, what kind of world will our children grow up in in the future?

I know I may sound a tad negative as some people can say "All things happen for the good of those who love Him..." and "If God is for us, who can be against us?" but the truth is, things are merely going to get from bad to worse. We are living in the end times and it was already written that it will only be downhill all the way. So how then do we cherish and celebrate the creation of a new life when the world we are bringing them into is in such a pitiful state?

Just some thougts.

Justin

26th September...

2007-09-26T11:55:00.000+09:30

Arguing with a loved one is never easy. Its easier to do it when its your fault. All you need to do is realize where you went wrong and apologize. For me, these are normally more authentic because it seems Analytical people (a factor in Leonard’s Big Five inventory) are driven by accuracy. Hence, if I am at fault, I feel a compelling need to apologize. It becomes really hard when it isn’t my fault. This is where all my patience are summoned into the scene and frankly at times, mine runs out. If the other party acknowledges their wrong and apologizes (authentically, of course), then my emotions begin to subside. But what happens when both do not think its their own fault? Both will defend themselves vigorously and end up hurting each other. So what happens when both are hurt and nobody wants to apologize? Cold war ensures where patience has ran out on both sides and no one is willing to take the extra step to make things better.

How then do we proceed from here?

11th September...

2007-09-11T14:41:00.000+09:30

Sick and sick. I've been sick for the past 2 weeks. Sunday was getting much better and yesterday I was close to fine. But somehow today am feeling terribly lethargic. I wonder how come. Maybe its the glue they applied in the room adjacent to my office. Great stench outside.

Anyway, I actually forgot I had a blog until I remembered to check Olivers. Lol. Its been real busy and looking at the way things are going, I may not be updating this for much longer. Hopefully it has served its purpose in whatever way when it was up and running.

Just some updates. Although it is approximately 3 months away from my wedding, it is actually a mere 13 weeks (12 weeks plus to be most accurate). Although 3 months and 13 weeks are technically the same thing, it sure makes a heck of a difference when it comes to anticipated events (atleast to me it sure does). It really hit me the other day when me and Sher were at the MATA fair. Were supposed to "scout" for honeymoon packages. After doing some much needed analysis, I realized there wasn't any more time to delay (or in my own words, think through for the best decision). Do it any later and we would risk not having any flight seats to leave the country and then we would have to settle for something like Langkawi or Redang.

Anyway, honeymoon is set. We're going to Bali in December. Sounds real fun. Its my first trip outside the country on my own. Australia was different because I was there as a student on parents budget. This time I'm going out of my own pocket and going my own man. So its really different this time.

So yeah. 12 weeks plus and things are going to be real different. Atleast now I'm feeling real excited about the honeymoon with loads to do and a great villa to come back to.

I'm signing off. I think the glue is getting to me. Having a headache now. Take care.

Justin

1st August: Effects and effects.

2007-08-02T18:17:00.000+09:30

I couldn’t take real pictures of my effects because my PDA camera is lousy, my phone’s pictures cannot be extracted from the phone, and I’m not willing to put in enough effort to setup the camera at my house (Trust me, its quite a hassle). Hence, pictures were taken all over the place.

Anyway, on display is my latest acquisition. Was going to save up and buy it but my dearest fiancée surprised me by giving me an advanced birthday present. She’s really the best. So, this is a MOEN Distortion Master. Sher says it looks ugly but I can overlook that because it really sounds awesome. Did some reading and apparently this device was initially a boutique pedal (Hand-made & customized) which was eventually mass produced thus ending up in Malaysia all the way from China. Its mainly an analogue pedal that produces classic distortion sounds. If you want an example of how a classic distortion sounds like, you can listen to “I’m not Ashamed” by Hillsong (First song on their newest album). Listen to the rhythm guitar playing the power chords during the verse. Well, if some off you have a better example, feel free to share it with us. At the same time, if you do not agree with me, don’t hold yourself back and please enlighten us all.

As you can see, 3 knobs for Level (Volume), Tone (Supposed to control highs but ends up changing various parts of the EQ at various positions), and Dist (For drive/distortion level). Below the 3 knobs is a mode selector switching between 3 different types of distortions. Color mode is the most transparent of the 3 allowing the sound of the guitar to come through. I felt it was quite similar to the DS-1 when I tried it briefly. Hot mode is more midrangy and harder driven compared to the Color mode with Scratch the heaviest. It also has a pre-amp switch at the side which acts like a booster. This boosts the volume to very high levels and has to be turned on to get the kick out of lead lines. Too bad I can’t comment a bit more because I have yet to fully explore the gadget. Maybe I’ll edit this post after I’ve fiddled with it a bit more this Sunday but suffice to say, first impressions were really, REALLY good. Am currently even contemplating selling off the DS-1.

We shall move on to the older gear. Now this I can share a bit more. This orange thing is a Boss DS-1. For those of you who don’t know, Boss is a maker of analogue stomp-boxes that seems to be used by almost every guitarist. Even if you don’t use one, you’ve probably heard of them. Anyway, back to this. I bought this way back from a fellow from Ipoh named Chu Chee Heng for RM180. Its still in the mint condition that I bought it from him partly because I didn’t know how to get a good sound from it. Its typically a clear type of distortion which apparently is also used by Joe Satriani and Steve Vai. Only recently have I realized how to better tweak EQs to get a good distortion sound (Comes after listening to many different types of distortions). So that pushed it a step up and I could finally use if for worship.

Part of the problem was because for the most part of my electric guitaring, I’ve been using an American Series Fender Strat. As you know, those models come with 3 single coils which leads to great funk tone but a thin sounding bridge position when distortion is concerned. I say thin because I was still playing for Unabashed and they play mostly progressive type rock. For those type of music, the Strat sounds thing but I’m sure in the hands of a country guitarist, it will excel. Then I stumbled upon another discovery when I played on the Youth Alive band that went to KK. If you notice, Hillsong songs have been becoming increasingly guitar/distortion driven and I knew my guitar just won’t cut it. So I thought I’d just try run both the TubScreamer (Read below) first and then only the DS-1 together. It was a whole new sound. The guitar actually sounded quite fat. Anyway, that’s how I stumbled upon how to use the thing.

Similarly, 3 knobs for Tone, Level, and Distortion respectively. Another qualm I had with the effect is the fact that the sound of the guitar is still fairly distorted even when the Dist knob is turned all the way down. Another reason why I found it hard to use in worship. The MO-DM on the other hand is capable of producing a clean sound. Just used it the other day for one of the lead parts in a slow song. Sounded terrific. Even got compliments from Kevan and Sher-Mayne (who both are pianists). So anyway, I might and might not sell this pedal. Probably the knowledge that Vai and Satriani uses it and their sound is awesome is holding me back. Time will tell.

Last piece is the little green thing that I would have never thought to be a pleasing sight. Now this baby is the best of my buys. One purchase that has satisfied me the most. It’s the Ibanez Tubescreamer TS-9. This pedal comes modified to TS-808 (Vintage Tubescreamer used by Stevie Ray Vaughan) specs and having the brown mod performed (I think the brown mod originated from Analogue Man effect modders based in the US). Anyway, the TS-9 produces vintage overdrive sounds likened to a tube amp driven hard to clip zone. With the brown mod, its extra sweeter so much so it almost never distorts (Symmetric clipping for those of you who understand). Till date I have only been discovering more and more ways of using it. I can use it for lead, I can use it for rhythm, I can use it as a booster, I can use it with my distortions, I just can use it! Well worth every RM paid for it (RM600 for 1 pedal. The last I checked few years back an un-modded TS-9 retails at Bentley for RM750. I may have dropped by now).

Again, 3 knobs for Drive, Tone and Level (Whats with the similarity? Can’t one of it be named ‘loudness’ or something? Lol). 2 weeks ago I discovered I can turn the drive all the way down and use it as part of my soft leads because that wee bit extra bite is beautiful. I can also strum harder on the same settings to give me a nice [I think they call it ‘creamy’] drive for added dynamics. Really a gem to have. Only thing I haven’t really learned is how to use this well with the SZ520. But really, it has became my favourite pedal to use and I can only envision myself using it more and more.

Oh well, a little report on me. Exams are in two weeks time and its back to life once again. This semester has been beyond no life and from a learning experience it has become a dread. Only way I managed to keep sane was to not expect a distinction. A note to all of you who might eventually do part-time studies one day, 3 subjects are normally too much to do it while working full-time.

Justin

20th July: Effects and updates.

2007-07-20T13:30:00.000+09:30

Dear readers, how has everything been? As usual, I’ve been caught up with Masters. For a start, the semester is coming to an end (FINALLY!!!). Three more weeks to the final. I’m seriously merely aiming for a pass as it’s the only way to keep sane. As my lecturer says, even if you fail, it doesn’t mean you can’t be a good counselor. What encouraging words… lol. Anyways, I found out what to blog about. I’m going to write about the effects I recently acquired.

I came back from Australia with a modified Ibanez Tubescreamer. The original is a TS-9 but modded to TS-808 specs with a brown mod (Analogman type). This is an overdrive pedal that does not distort. Pictures and description to come next post. Anyway, what I purchased recently is more interesting. Its an effect all the way from my homeland, China. Don’t know if you’ve heard of MOEN effects (Pictures and description to come in next post too). Apparently originally was boutique pedal and not mass produced. It has 3 distortion types and produces classic analog distortion. Really sounds authentic and warm (unlike the AX1500 that’s electronic).

Truth is, I’ve noticed the short comings of the AX some time ago. So for distortion work, I’ve been using a Boss DS-1. At times, I run the TS first then through the DS to get a fatter sound on my strat but now I’ve been using the Ibanez sz520 for heavier songs and it just doesn’t sound too good through the DS-1 which prompted my search for another distortion pedal if it came along. Then along came the MO-DM (MO for Moen, DM for Distortion Master!!!). Its a hot piece of equipment that’s really versatile. Test runs at the Guitar Shop were really impressive (Also due to a 100 watt amp). I’ll post up some pictures and write more about it in the next post.

Anyway, guitars aside, further updates on my life. I’ve been doing pretty well. Although preparations for the wedding are going along fine, preparations for the marriage are quite good as well. Recently met up with Enoch of Unabashed and it was a killer of a time. I really miss the guys. Anyway, it prompted lots of reflection. I realized that me and Sher are actually doing pretty well. Also discovered God’s hand has been pretty evident in my life. Everything just can’t help but point to Him. We humans are really fickle creatures. When problems come, we quickly forget and loose sight of our Hope and Provider. At least, that’s the case with me. Nevetheless, now I can confidently say that when we walk down that isle in December, we WILL be ready for marriage. After all, God has said himself that a cord of 3 strands is not easily broken. A leader of mine told me that the third strand that binds husband and wife is always God.

Anyway, that’s it for now. Await the next post. I’ll try to get it up as soon as possible. Take care guys.

Justin

27th June: I miss blogging.

2007-06-27T14:29:00.000+09:30

As the title reads, I really miss blogging. Or rather, I miss being connected to people, trading comments on my blog, being funny/trying to be funny/lame with the intention to entertain, and all the other stuff that come with blogging. Sadly, with my current schedule, many of my desires have been placed aside (Most notably my guitaring). Friendships have also been placed aside but this has been facilitated by the fact that most of my friends are also working thus have no time for minuming and what not. Nevertheless, they are still losses which I hold dear. Oh well, I guess such is the life of a part-time student. Nevertheless, I shall survive. Can’t wait for the semester to be over.

Anyway, sorry for the lack of updates. There’s nothing much to update anyway. Life’s been the same. Work, class, homework. But I did get to meet up with Danny and am planning to do something for Bernard. Some other things possibly worth noting would be the intended purchase of a distortion pedal. Sounds alright but I suppose it’s a try-to-like kinda thing. Guitarist would understand. Hopefully I can acquire it soon.

Will try and post up events when they happen (Assuming they are interesting to me). So you all should take care. Oh, and do come by when the house is done. I’d welcome most of you with open arms.

Justin

6th June: Updates

2007-06-06T15:34:00.000+09:30

Dear readers (If there are still any), I've randomly decided to update my blog. After all, thats what you do when you have a blog. You will understand why I haven't been updating it as you read on.

Masters: Masters has been killing me. More so for this semester. This is the only semester I have 3 subjects therefore it means I have 3 classes per week; Monday, Wednesday and Friday. I can't really say its been a joy so far as weekends are sacred and weekdays are gone aside from Tuesday and Thursday nights which are commonly used for doing assignments. Well, as predicted, my life is zooming by my very eyes. Now is already June and before we know it, its already 2008 and I’ll be living in OUG by then. Oh life.

Wedding: As mentioned, I’m in the fast track of life and its 6 months to my wedding. This is so so quick. Anyway, have already paid down payments for the dinner, gown, tux, and photographer. Most of the things are falling into place with what remains is the wedding cards, favours and probably the honeymoon that is left to be arranged. Oh, did I forget to mention marriage counseling? I’m in a stick here because we don’t know which church we are yet to attend. To be more specific, I haven’t decided which church we will attend so marriage counseling is currently put on hold. Well, I told Sher-Mayne I’d be deciding very soon. Hopefully this time I can keep to the dead line.

With so much happening, it is very easy to loose sight of things in your life. The things that I have lost sight of are music/guitaring, reading (Not like I used to do it but I sure love to), and most importantly, God. I have realized that most of the reasons I’d give are merely excuses. Excuses used to mask the fact that there is no longer a hunger; no longer a fire. So what do we do at times like these? I’ve been trying to force myself to read one chapter of the bible a day. Even to the extent of reading it while I’m having lunch. Some of you may laugh but this is because I leave the house at 8.30am and reach home after 11pm. This happens 3 times a week and Tuesdays and Thursdays are used to catch up not only on revision but also on sleep. I’d like to say all this will change after I’m done with my Masters and I’ll have a whole lot of time to do a proper devotion but what if Jesus comes back before then? That excuse isn’t going to cut it. Sigh. I wish there were an easier way to do all this (Live life).

Oh well, I hope this will give those of you who have not been in contact with me a peek into my life. Special apologies to my good kawan Reuben in Adelaide. Hope you understand la buddy. By the way, I’m still expecting you to turn up for the bachelors night. So yes. A short snipet will do. All of you take care. I’ll catch up with you some time or other. Hopefully its before Jesus comes. Lol.

Justin

10th March: Work, work work.

2007-03-10T14:35:00.000+10:30

Sorry for seemingly having dissapeared into oblivion. I have been terribly busy of late being caught up with work and masters and everything else that gets crammed into whatever free time I have left after that. Work is an excuse because that is the place where I get my primary source of internet connection. Naturally, people at work would be occupied by work; not blogging. And masters because when I'm not at work, I'm probably attending their classes or studying for them thus eliminating most of my time outside work to blog. Real sorry to my friends who are not in KL, the gang in Adelaide, and a select few in other countries.

Anyway, besides that, I’ve been doing good. Working and studying hasn’t killed me yet. I would say I am surviving and hopefully in due time, would have mastered this schedule so much so I can rejoice even in these circumstances. But as of now, I haven’t.

As far as my engaged life is concerned (Yes, I know most of you would think of this the moment you think of me), its been going alright. The road hasn’t been a bed of roses but progress would be the right word to use. We have had our shares of ups and downs but the end result is more important; through dialog on differences, understanding emerged. And now its less than 9 months till the actual wedding. I suppose my greatest struggle would be to include God into this whole process. Ever since the burn-out, have been finding it very tough to climb back to the place where I once was.

Anyway, our department recently had our annual Career Fair. This is the major project that I was caught up with at work which saw me staying back after office hours and if you know me, that’s very much a rarity. It was quite a success but being in this department for close to 9 months now, one thing continues to linger on my mind. Why are students not interested in learning about what they would be doing after their degree?

This came to me because my department isn’t meeting the numbers. Maybe this could be due to the existing culture and the novelty of a career center here in Malaysia. Most students I have spoken to mention that “I’m a student. I don’t want to think about that yet.” And to be honest, I was, and am still in some ways, like that. I merely wanted to focus on my studies and get good grades. Whatever that came after that would be determined when I arrive at that crossroad because I had a rough idea where I was already heading. Now, the question is, why?

I’m sure the generation of our parents would definitely grasp the chance to expand their horizons with the opportunity of hearing from prospective employers. But us? Why not? Could it be that we have had everything provided to us so much so we have come to believe that a job too, will be waiting for us when we graduate?

To take things further, I have spoken to some other graduates about where they would like to work. One accounting grad told me she would not want to work in a firm. Starting pay was too low. She mentioned that “the money is in opening your own firm. If I were to work for someone else, I’d expect a minimum of 2.6k.” I was pretty certain she wouldn’t even be looking at offers which had a pay even a few hundred below her target. This brought me to my next train of thought. Is this generation spoilt as well and as a result has become fairly demanding?

I have been having a major shift in mindset ever since I’ve started working. It seems that this is a totally different world from the one I used to come from. Right now I am starting to question the mindset of a worker. Does he come first (salary) or the job (commitment)? During the fair, I overheard conversations between my colleague and 2 other participants. One was a general manager and one was a HR manager. One of them commented that “During the first 5 years of work, do not think about the pay. You are the one who needs the experience.” That was quite a humbling experience for me.

Only now do I realize that this transition is having a greater impact on me than initially thought off. Maybe that’s why I am so stressed and am incapable of withstanding even the simplest of trials. I am going through a period of great change without God. This will only get worse after I’m married as the transition will be fast forwarded to another phase. Looks like I will need a lot of prayers.

Anyway, I have ranted enough. I am ending with a plea for help whereby a boy enters the world of men and I am, once again, a small fry in the ocean.

Justin

29th December...

2006-12-29T19:02:00.000+10:30

Hi there fellow readers (if there are still any). I haven't had the time to blog recently. Although I'm on my Masters break, I still find I have hardly anytime for anything else. I can't imagine when I go into my second semester. Sighs. Anyway, in respond to Oliver's comment: No Oliver. Working doesn't end you up like me. Only working and studying; unless you are working in Shah Alam, that is. You'll end up something like Kevan.

I've been busy with work. By the end of the day, I'm quite tired. But these few days have been good. Sibblings are at camp which means its only me and my parents. So I get to have chats with them over dinner. But to mention this, it seems that my parents are enjoying it more though.

It was a surprise I did not receive any comments on my previous post. I was really expecting some though. Surprise surprise. Well anyway, its a miracle that I am not sick with the way things are going. For almost a week, my mucus was yellowish/turning greenish. But to my surprise (again) I'm still holding together today. Interesting eh. Oh wells.

Last Sunday was bad for a couple of reasons. 1st service presentations didn't go so well. We presented the song "All for Love" with Kam Fwei singing. The progression is:

1 Verse, Chorus, 2 Verse, Chorus, Bridge, 3 Verse, Chorus.

This is what he sang.

1 Verse, Chorus, 1 Verse, Chorus, Bridge, 1 Verse, Chorus.

Lol. This was because the power point fellow showed the wrong lyrics and Kam Fwei forgot his. So funny man. Anyway, second service he did better.

Another reason it was bad coz I found out the extent of my unability to play. I actually found problems switching chords correctly. SWITCHING CHORDS!!! Can you believe it? Let alone doing the lead lines, I found my fingers feeling awkwards at times when I wanted to use my hybrids. Looks like I'm really getting old.

Anyway, hope all of you had a good Christmas. Mine was a tad short. And again, hope you have a good new year. Mine's a bit longer than Christmas. Take care guys.

Justin

Still a guitarist?

2006-12-09T15:30:00.000+10:30

Being able to play the guitar reasonably well has always been something I prided myself with (evident with the background display picture). But a recent turn of events have seen me unable to devote as much as I’d like to practicing and playing that instrument.

It all started with work which was closely followed by a Masters in Counseling. Needing to adjust to a 9-5.30 task was soon followed with a 7-10pm, 3 times a week class. This has left me with little time for myself let alone my fiancée, my friends and family, and much less, my guitar. No doubt the purchase of the SZ 520 gave me some boost and much time was spent getting used to the smaller frets and flatter radius. But eventually assignments kicked in and sleep has been deprived till I have been getting the feeling of body-is-getting-sick for every single day of the past 2 weeks. This has also led to reduced frequency on the worship team leading to reduced playing altogether.

Recently when I wanted to incorporate some licks I heard into my repertoire, a run was made on my Strat. Fingers and movements that used to run seamlessly through the fretboard was met with awkward slips and unfamiliar traps. “What happened?” I thought to myself. It seems that there was no problem feeling the music in my head but my fingers just refused to follow. I suppose the commonly over-optimistic me was delusional when misled into thinking that “since all this is still fresh in my head, I should have no problems translating them unto the fretboard.” Ahh, memories from the past.

It wasn’t too long ago where I was enjoying playing for the Lord again. Australia sparked a revival in me. It rekindled a passion that was lost in the years of serving and playing for the band in and out. Now it all seems like a distant past whereby I can only imagine the joy I felt. Of course, not playing as regularly in the worship team coupled with the withdrawal from Unabashed has seen my music exposure greatly reduced. All this was in the name of ‘equipping’ myself for my future ministry. Alas, it has come at a great price. It seems as thought my life is no longer my own with responsibilities, deadlines, and more responsibilities to be met. On top of that, there are still others who beckon me to do more, to get involved more, to ‘serve’ more. This is something I do not understand. Isn’t ‘no’ and ‘I’ll think about it’ as acceptable an answer as ‘yes’? Or are other people to continually run my life and make decisions for me to continue like it always has been?

There is also one last thing I have lost track off. Albeit being the most important thing/person, I have lost sight of Him nevertheless. I suppose its true when people say busyness is the devils greatest tool of the 21st century. With that, two things linger on my mind in response to that statement. What if the things you are busy with is supposedly things of God? Things that will prepare you for your future ministry? The second thing that comes up is, “If that is the case, why do people from the church still demand more from you?”

I know this may seem fairly immature to have thoughts like these. Some will claim that I should keep such thoughts to myself less I stumble others. But I have not changed much in spite of all that has happened. I am still the same Justin who freely shares himself without much fear. After all, in the end I am still merely another human (a sinner, no more) looking for a greater cause in this life.

Justin

Tagged?

2006-12-02T00:23:00.000+10:30

Oliver tagged me. Although I do not normally participate in them unless I find the questions interesting, I just thought it may generate some activity in this much-stagnant blog. Master’s assignments are getting to me. Will be glad after the finals (In 2 weeks time). Pray for me. I’ll need them.

Four things many don’t know:

[1] I’m actually an introvert
[2] I have a grade 4 in piano
[3] I used to have hair that touched my nose and ears
[4] I pierced my left ear before

Four movies I can watch over and over:

[1] .
[2] ..
[3] …
[4] Shrek?

Four places I have lived:

[1] Taman Rasmi Jaya, Ampang
[2] Taman Bukit Indah, Ampang
[3] Magill, Adelaide
[4] Bukit Jalil/Sri Petaling?

Four TV shows I love:

[1] English Premier League
[2] 24
[3] Maximum Exposure
[4] That AXN games review (Like Max X, the commentator is hillarious)

Four places I have been on vacation:

[1] Penang
[2] Melacca

[3] Melbourne

[4] Sydney

Four of my favourite food:

[1] Indian
[2] Malay
[3] Thai
[4] Korean

Four places I’d rather be:

[1] On my bed
[2] Adelaide
[3] My fiancee’s arms
[4] Heaven

Currently listening to songs:

[1] Hillsong ‘Mighty to Save’ album
[2] Salvador ‘Worship Live’ album
[3] Skillet ‘Collide’ album
[4] Paradise ‘Set Me Free’ album

Four other people who will be tagged:

[1] Sher
[2] Bernard
[3] Abu the imaginary friend
[4] Ah Kau, his dog

16th November...

2006-11-16T15:09:00.000+10:30

Greetings fellow readers. Re-construction of my blog is continuing one step at a time. Most of you will be able to spot similarities with Bernard's blog instantly and I'd like to thank him for the ideas. For a person who is less visually creative as well as a dummy in source codes, I copied the lines exactly out of his source code. Therefore I'd like to thank Bernard for the ideas. Lol.

At office and almost brain-dead from conducting a 3-hour tutorial that started at 8am. Was quite a challenge but seeing my students putting in effort into it really encouraged me. Am considering the tutor job as I do enjoy it somewhat plus I don't have to work on Saturdays. Looks like I'll have to speak with my boss then.

Anyway, Masters is coming along fine but I guess its taking a toll on other areas of my life. I now have less time for my family, my friends, my fiancee and ultimately, less time for myself. Of all these, I missed out on time with God which I suppose, is affecting me the most. I may be alive in body but spiritually, not up to par with my hectic schedule. The busyness of life... sigh. I pray I'll have more determination to make time for God.

Justin

NEED HELP!!!

2006-10-30T03:44:00.000+10:30

For those of you who know more about source codes than I do (I know close to nuts), could you please have a look at mine and find out why the stupid background won't stay. It just scrolls up with the rest of the page. I've tried that "style:background-attachment:fixed" thing and many others. Sheesh... been so stressed trying to work this out for hours. Thanks to who ever replies.

By the way, a little piece of news. I'm sure many of you already know this (I'm sure impressed that the coverage at which news travels) but nevertheless, shall post it up anyway. Me and Sher-Mayne are engaged. Proposed last Sunday. For those of you who know me, at times I'm a man of few words and this is one of those issue where I do not talk alot. So thats it.

Anyway, year end is around the corner. I'm looking forward to meeting up with the people who will be coming back from Adelaide especially some fellow from Ipoh town who's going to bring me to that awesome white-coffee shop which sells roti bakar. So all of you who are coming back, please let me know. I really miss you guys.

Masters started. Am getting used to the life (no life). 1 more month till the semester ends. And thats 5 more to go. Looks like it may pass me by faster than I expect.

Take care all of you and please can someone help me out with that wretched background pic.

Justin

13th October: Blog under construction.

2006-10-13T15:27:00.000+09:30

Hello again, to my dwindling blog visitors. I don't blame you with the rate I'm posting up my stuff. But well, I don't expect this place to be blooming with visitors like a hot spot. That wasn't the purpose of this blog anyway.

Just to inform you guys, the reason for the ever-changing blog skins is because its supposed to be under construction. Problem is, I haven't got the time to sit down and properly design a background picture. Suffice to say, it shall all be done in due time. In the mean time, I'm leaving you with some literature I got from Kevan. Funny stuff. Goes to reiterate my point on the lack of communication between genders/couples/people.

Enjoy.

Justin

Memo from CEO to Manager:
Today at 11 o'clock there will be a total eclipse of the sun. This is when the sun disappears behind the moon for two minutes. As this is something that cannot be seen every day, time will be allowed for employees to view the eclipse in the parking lot. Staff should meet in the lot at ten to eleven, when I will deliver a short speech introducing the eclipse, and giving some background information. Safety goggles will be made available at a small cost.

Memo from Manager to Department Head:
Today at ten to eleven, all staff should meet in the car park. This will be followed by a total eclipse of the sun, which will appear for two minutes. For a moderate cost, this will be made safe with goggles. The CEO will deliver a short speech beforehand to give us all some information. This is not something that can be seen every day.

Memo from Department Head to Floor Manager:
The CEO will today deliver a short speech to make the sun disappear for two minutes in the form of an eclipse. This is something that cannot be seen every day, so staff will meet in the car park at ten or eleven. This will be safe, if you pay a moderate cost.

Memo from Floor Manager to Supervisor:
Ten or eleven staff are to go to the car park, where the CEO will eclipse the sun for two minutes. This doesn't happen every day. It will be safe, and as usual it will cost you.

Memo from Supervisor to staff:
Some staff will go to the car park today to see the CEO disappear. It is a pity this doesn't happen everyday.

Two minute Management Course.

2006-09-26T16:35:00.000+09:30

Hello faithful readers. I've been doing alright. Just started my Masters yesterday. Was nothing much. I should be able to cope with it although I may feel like dying for the coming weeks. But I have a feeling that once I get the hang of it, it'll be fine.

To lighten up the mood, I've decided to post some entertaining mail I've received just for laughs. Hopefully you enjoy lah.

Justin

--------------------------------------------------------------

TWO MINUTE MANAGEMENT COURSE

Lesson One

An eagle was sitting on a tree resting, doing nothing.

A small rabbit saw the eagle and asked him, "Can I also sit like you
and do nothing?"

The eagle answered: "Sure, why not."

So, the rabbit sat on the ground below the eagle and rested.

All of a sudden, a fox appeared, jumped on the rabbit and ate it.

Management Lesson - To be sitting and doing nothing, you must be
sitting very, very high up.

--------------------------------------------------------------

Lesson Two

A turkey was chatting with a bull. "I would love to be able to get to
the top of that tree," sighed the turkey, "but I haven't got the
energy."

"Well, why don't you nibble on some of my droppings?" replied the bull.

"They're packed with nutrients."

The turkey pecked at a lump of dung, and found it actually gave him
enough strength to reach the lowest branch of the tree. The next day,
after eating some more dung, he reached the second branch. Finally
after a fourth night, the turkey was proudly perched at the top of the tree.

He was promptly spotted by a farmer, who shot him out of the tree.

Management Lesson - Bull shit might get you to the top, but it won't
keep you there.

-----------------------------------------------------------------

Lesson Three

A little bird was flying south for the winter. It was so cold, the bird
froze and fell to the ground into a large field.

While he was lying there, a cow came by and dropped some dung on him.

As the frozen bird lay there in the pile of cow dung, he began to
realize how warm he was. The dung was actually thawing him out! He lay
there all warm and happy, and soon began to sing for joy.

A passing cat heard the bird singing and came to investigate.

Following the sound, the cat discovered the bird under the pile of cow
dung, and promptly dug him out and ate him.

Management Lesson -

(1) Not everyone who shits on you is your enemy.

(2) Not everyone who gets you out of shit is your friend.

(3) And when you're in deep shit, it's best to keep your mouth shut!

This ends your two minute management course.

10 guy rules?

2006-09-16T13:16:00.000+09:30

I recently read this mail from a colleague of mine. Just thought I'd share it with some of my friends. Then I took it a step further and decided to post it on my blog. Here it goes.

Mail start:

The Guys' Rules

At last a guy has taken the time to write this all down.

Finally, the guys' side of the story. I must admit, it's pretty good. We always hear " the rules "From the female side. Now here are the rules from the male side.

These are our rules!
Please note.. these are all numbered "1"ON PURPOSE!

1. Men are NOT mind readers.

1. Shopping is NOT a sport. And no, we are never going to think of it that way.

1. Crying is blackmail.

1. Ask for what you want. Let us be clear on this one: Subtle hints do not work! Strong hints do not work! Obvious hints do not work! Just say it!

1. Yes and No are perfectly acceptable answers to almost every question.

1. Come to us with a problem only if you want help solving it. That's what we do. Sympathy is what your girlfriends are for.

1. A headache that lasts for 17 months is a Problem. See a doctor.

1. Anything we said 6 months ago is inadmissible in an argument. In fact, all comments become null and void after 7 Days.

1. If you won't dress like the Victoria's Secret girls, don't Expect us to act like soap opera guys.

1. If you think you're fat, you probably are. Don't ask us.

1. If something we said can be interpreted two ways and one of the ways makes you sad or angry, we meant the other one.

1. You can either ask us to do something or tell us how you want it done. Not both. If you already know best how to do it, just do it yourself.

1. Whenever possible, please say whatever you have to say during commercials.

1. Christopher Columbus did NOT need directions and neither do we.

1. ALL men see in only 16 colors, like Windows default settings. Peach, for example, is a fruit, not A color. Pumpkin is also a fruit. We have no idea what mauve is.

1. If we ask what is wrong and you say "nothing," We will act like nothing's wrong. We know you are lying, but it is just not wor th the hassle.

1. If you ask a question you don't want an answer to, Expect an answer you don't want to hear.

1. When we have to go somewhere, absolutely anything you wear is fine. Really.

1. Don't ask us what we're thinking about unless you are prepared to discuss such topics as baseball, the shotgun formation, or golf.

1. You have enough clothes.

1. You have too many shoes.

1. I am in shape. Round IS a shape!

Thank you for reading this. Yes, I know, I have to sleep on the couch tonight;But did you know men really don't mind that? It's like camping.

Pass this to as many men as you can - to give them a laugh.
Pass this to as many women as you can - to give them a bigger laugh!

Mail end.

So, you guys laughing yet? You girls fuming yet? Okay. Before you stone me, hear me out first. As I starting reading, sure some points tickled me. But as I continued, I couldn't help but notice the vast misunderstandings that were going on. Whats worse, some people do actually think like that. If you notice, the writter has most likely encountered a bad relationship (probably at a young age with a young girl) and has a lot of pent-up frustration and anger. So I thought I'd comment on each of them to share my opinions.

Men are NOT mind readers - Well, in simple terms, no two people are exactly alike. I believe this stems from the practice of some females who expect to be understood and also the lack off communication on the males side to voice his inability to comprehend the signals. Conflict arises due to the differences in communication styles and expectations. This will most likely lead to an argument about the hurt that is caused AND, if you notice, has nothing to do with the root problem.

Shopping is NOT a sport. And no, we are never going to think of it that way - Hm, this is a trick one. For a start, I get an impression that females force their partners to accompany them while their shopping. I'm sure not all do but I suppose some do. The first thing to understand is, not everybody enjoys shopping for the sake of it (Yes, even girls.). Girls like to shop because most of the time they are shopping for things they like. Guys don't shop much because most of the time, they already have everything they need. Guys aren't really interested in looking through multitutes of earings that look almost identical. To reverse the situation, its like shopping for football boots, computers, and guitar effects (Most girls aren't interested in these stuff). BUT, if you find someone willing to accompany you as you shop for hours, thank God for him. To guys: If you DO mind going shopping with her because it is boring, then just say so. And females shouldn't presume that it is a guys duty to accompany you. Its like forcing you to go fishing or watch soccer. Well, some may argue that "Hey, some girls even play soccer." Well, my answer to that is some guys like shopping too.

Crying is blackmail - Well, if its done on purpose, I agree. But if it isn't, would it hurt to show compassion and love that she so deserves? If you feel she doesn't deserve it, then why are you in that relationship anyway?

Ask for what you want. Let us be clear on this one: Subtle hints do not work! Strong hints do not work! Obvious hints do not work! Just say it! - This is very much like the first point. Guys aren't stupid. They're just different. They communicate almost purely via language and words. To strongly expect them to get every hint is unreasonable. BUT, at the same time, it wouldn't hurt for a guy to learn them.

Yes and No are perfectly acceptable answers to almost every question - I view this as an unwillingness to negotiate on the guys part and a stubbornness to compromise on the girls part. Effective communication is the answer.

Come to us with a problem only if you want help solving it. That's what we do. Sympathy is what your girlfriends are for - Now this is not right. I view this problem as an inability to keep one's opinions to themselves (on the guys part). First of all, understand the difference between guys and girl. Guys are generally practically minded. Problems are meant to be solved. Then it won't be around to bug them. Of course girls would like to be like that too. But their emotions won't let them until they're gone. They are emotional/relational minded. She wants to be heard first. She wants to let out her inner-most feelings. You be grateful that she's chosen to let you in there. Most of the time, they know what to do about the problem. But be sure, if they need your advice, they'd ask for it.

A headache that lasts for 17 months is a Problem. See a doctor - This is a trait that is common to human beings. Most do not take action on health problems until they are really severe or they intrude into their daily routines. But really, if girls do it more... I do not know why either. Better to be safe than sorry.

Anything we said 6 months ago is inadmissible in an argument. In fact, all comments become null and void after 7 Days - It is part of love to forgive and forget. If you girls feel there are some issues that you are still hurting for, then bring it out and settle it once and for all. Then burry it and put it past the relationship and move on to other things. UNLESS, it is a recurring problem. Then both of you will have to work on it.

If you won't dress like the Victoria's Secret girls, don't Expect us to act like soap opera guys - Its hard for me to comment on this one. For a start, it expresses some of the needs of both genders (sexual fulfillment for males and a need to feel loved for females). Again, if you feel your need isn't being met, communicate them properly. And by the way, no sexual fulfillment for you guys who aren't married. I know its hard. But until she is married to you, she could very well be another man's wife.

If you think you're fat, you probably are. Don't ask us - Lol. I suppose some guys view this as a trick question. Understand this, girls have an innate want to look beautiful. Why? To attract, satisfy, and feel wanted by the love of their life. So if that question pops up, most likely she is feeling unattractive due to that tummy thats developing. And what underlies that question is a desire to be assured/re-assured that she is still wanted by you, still attractive to you. Thing is, not many people would put it into words so plainly that all would understand. Girls, if you think your guy wouldn't understand, try to put it plainly. Guys, try and catch the underlying meanings in those questions. If both of you don't want to back down and put in effort to change for whatever reasons, go and marry yourself. Then you will know how to perfectly satisfy your own needs.

If something we said can be interpreted two ways and one of the ways makes you sad or angry, we meant the other one - Communication. It pays to not jump to fast into conclusions (Females are very guilty of this due to their rushing emotions which cannot rationalize) and also to choose words very carefully. Couples who have been married for umpteen years have significantly less communication misunderstandings because they've understood each other very well. The sooner you can communicate better, the sooner the other party will understand you and the less conflicts you will have.

You can either ask us to do something or tell us how you want it done. Not both. If you already know best how to do it, just do it yourself - This is not something I believe that girls practice more than guys. Everybody doesn't like feeling like an idiot. If you give general instructions on how something should be done, do not be surprised if it is not done exactly your way. There are hundred and one ways to do so many things. Your way might not be their way. If you want to correct them along the way, be sure to do it nicely. All of us aren't experts at life. The second part of the question is written by someone who has a ME-VS.-YOU attitude. What is wrong with lending a helping hand? Especially if its your partners? If its so hard contributing to a relationship, just live a life of celibacy.

Whenever possible, please say whatever you have to say during commercials - Hahaha. I suppose some people can get quite irritating. Well, I believe proper time scheduling should help. No one likes to be disturbed when concentrating. Some will argue that they are more important than the issue at hand. Well, that should be reflected in the time allocated to you compared to the time allocated to the TV/Task and what not. Of course, if its a matter of urgency, by all means go. Have you ever heard of someone who just received news that a close relative/friend has just been hospitalized or in need of urgent help and this fellow refuses to budge because Who's Line Is It just started?

Christopher Columbus did NOT need directions and neither do we - I suppose this is refering to the reluctance of the man to ask for directions when they seem lost. For a start, the suggestion to ask for directions is viewed/perceived/felt as a challenge to his competency. And a man wants to feel competent because God made him that way. Why? A man needs to be competent to lead his wife and be the head of the household. But at times, everyone gets lost. Some men know they have a good sense of direction and know they can eventually find the place without help. Some men don't have an ideal sense of direction and these may need some help. BUT the problem arises when they do not have a healty self-esteem. This is normally expressed through pride. And thus, further fueling their determination to maintain their pride. Well, suffice to say that self-esteem and self-concepts should be rooted in God for it to be healty as thats the way we were made.

ALL men see in only 16 colors, like Windows default settings. Peach, for example, is a fruit, not A color. Pumpkin is also a fruit. We have no idea what mauve is - This is funny. A girl once asked me this question: What was she wearing? I answered, "A pink dress." Then she said, "Ahh. Typical male answer." I was surprised. So I asked her, "What would you have answered then?" She said, "I probably would be able to tell you the shade of that pink, whether it was spagetthi strap or halter or bareback, and the design of the dress, and probably whether the dress was from Urban & Co." I was stunned. This is one of the many differences between males and females. Therefore be more understanding of each other since we are so different. But to expect the other to be totally like you is, again, being unreasonable.

If we ask what is wrong and you say "nothing," We will act like nothing's wrong. We know you are lying, but it is just not worth the hassle - Again, this has underlying meanings. Most guys ask that question with the intention to get the other party to talk. From a guys manner of conduct, They will push all their emotions aside, and strive to answer that question. But if the girl is filled with emotions, they will most likely be unable to be in the right mind. Thus, the answer "nothing" is, in a sense, the safest answer. BUT, a guy will view it as an unwillingness to push emotions aside and confront the problem objectively (I have been guilty of this one alot.). I suppose the best thing is to wait for things to cool off first before reattempting negotiations.

If you ask a question you don't want an answer to, Expect an answer you don't want to hear - This, yet again, is a hurt/need masked in a form of a question. Girls, learn to express your needs in a manner the listener can understand. There's no point speaking French in Malaysia and expecting everyone to understand. Guys, learn to watch out for the root issue. If both do not, you'll get caught up in arguments that, again, have nothing to do with the need at hand.

When we have to go somewhere, absolutely anything you wear is fine. Really - Again, a desire to look beautiful for the man lies in the root. So by understanding this, just humour her and put in effort to be interested. I'm sure she tries to do that for you too.

Don't ask us what we're thinking about unless you are prepared to discuss such topics as baseball, the shotgun formation, or golf - This fellow may have a point. But is that all men think about? Furthermore, at times, that question is used to strike up a conversation. Can't a guy give way a little and talk about topics that are mutually interesting? Imagine if everytime we asked our girl friends and they only blaberred about their clothes, pimples on their faces, and manicure?

You have enough clothes - *Smiles. Again, male-female differences. But yet again, please buy according to what you can afford.

You have too many shoes - This I must comment. I'm sure what goes through that practical guy head is, "If you wear one pair a day, when are you going to finish wearing every pair?" Well, as girls used them to match their clothes, at times it just baffles us. But I suppose just as men collect guitars, cars (we sure wish), and games, girls collect shoes, bags, and clothes.

I am in shape. Round IS a shape! - Hahaha. Come to think of it, I'm quite round too. Lol. Anyway, some people can be overly critical. But I suppose just like guys like their partners to have hour-glass figures, girls would like their partners to be built (This is a guess). Furthermore, it is more healthy to stay fit.

So yes, I have finally finished commenting on each of the rules. If you notice, many conflicts arise from either miscommunication or the total lack of it. Since we are so different from each other, both genders should learn how to communicate with each other. No one is better than the other. All of us have fallen short of the true standards. So lets work together to minimise the conflicts that are always going to occur.

Justin

P/S: I know I've placed myself out in the open to be shot by making quite a few bold statements but do feel free to comment/question/challenge to your hearts content. Everyone has their opinions anyway.

24th August: 6-stringed beauty.

2006-08-24T15:10:00.000+09:30

Hohoho. Merry... err, sorry. Wrong season.

By the way, that was my attempt at trying to be funny but I seriously doubt it worked. Anyway, am now blogging during my lunch break.

Was working on Oliver's tag the other day and suddenly, one of the other explorers gave a problem and that "Internet Explorer has encountered some problem and has to shut down" thing and all my explorers just dissapeared. So now I sudah malas want to write those 8 stuff all over again.

What I havent' wrote about is my new acquisition. I can no longer label it as my wife as a real one will come in due time. So I don't want conflict due to simple labelling flaws and arguments about terminology. So to keep things simple, inanimate objects such as my guitars shall be called accordingly (Although I still love my Fender very much).

Anyway, enough about that. Now to unveil the new stuff. I recently purchased an Ibanez SZ520. The one I got is top of its range (The only one featuring Flamed Maple top and Heartbeat inlay). It was a month old (In that sense, it is relatively new). This was bought from the ever reliable friend Mr. Cletus Godwin. This guitar sports 2 Seymour Duncan humbuckers, a set-in neck and two volume pots (Neck and bridge pickups respectively). It also features a rosewood fingerboard, Mahogany neck and body with Maple top. It is quite a buy for the price I paid (Not gonna tell yah:).

Now less of the technicalities. This is a totally different guitar than my Stratocaster. People say that at the two extremes of guitar sounds you have the Fender sound (Telecaster and Stratocaster) and the Gibson sound (Les Paul and co). It was all head knowledge to me and I never fully understood it till I actually properly tried one with the intention of buying it. For a start, the output is bigger/stronger (2 vs. 1. Obvious fight). This see's the guitar having more character and bite compared to the single-coil Strat I own. It picks up the difference in guitar picking and will shout (loud) and even scream when your fingers are angry. This may be due to the humbuckers courtesy of the reputed Seymour Duncans.

Another thing I noticed is the sustain on this baby. It sure rings well when you strum (And this shows itself unplugged as well). I suppose its due not only to the set-in neck but also the thru-body stringing. First time I'm playing an electric like this. All others have tremolo bridges. Also, I suppose its because my Strat was setup to suit rhythm play with the pickups set close to the high strings to offer bite. But no doubt, sustain suffered due to the magnetic pull of the pickups. Whereas since the humbuckers are stronger, it doesn't need to be so near the strings for the tone to come through therefore allowing more room of the strings to ring.

When I told Oliver that I might buy an Ibanez, he reminded me that I once mentioned I didn't like Ibanez's. Well, that was because the Ibanez guitars within my budget (Fairly low. Below 1.5k?) were fairly limited. The RG series' strength was rock (And good, I might add) but its clean sound was horrible. But I must admit, I was spoilt by the Fender. But yet again, my statement may have been a tad strong with me playing a fairly limited variety of Ibanez guitars. But now this SZ really proved me wrong. It has a warm clean sound due to its Mahogany body. I believe the Les Pauls are also made with Mahogany body. But I suppse you can't compare an RG with this as I believe its considered a mid-range guitar retailling at 2k+.

So yes. Its totally different from my Strat. The bridge pickup (Used mainly for rock and distortion) dishes out some pretty nasty tone and output bringing the most out of my Boss DS-1 (Something my Strat struggled to produce. Only managed to sound good by running it through a modded TS-9 first.). Out-of-phase pickup position is decent for chord strumming. Not as muddy as using 2 humbuckers as it is wired to use half of both dual-coils (=single-single). This is a novel sound to me as I'm used to either the bridge-middle pickup or the neck-middle pickups on the Strat. This is neither here nor there. Neck position sounds great for solos giving edge to your emotions. In short, this guitar is HOT!

When I told my church mates that I bought a new guitar, they instantly asked me this question all the time. "What happened to your old one?" or "How about your Strat?" are very common questions. Well, like I said before. They are two completely different guitars. I've managed to sum them up into 2 simple equations based on their strengths. Strat=Rhythm, Ibanez=Rock, Lead. The Strat has clean, funky rhythm outputs whereas the SZ will be used for lead playing due to its high output and sustain. Lastly, this SZ retains quite alot of Ibanez's strength. ROCK. So there you go. For those of you who are wondering, no. I am not selling my Strat. Anyway, I think I've written quite a bit. If I do decide to further express my reignited passion, I'll just add to this post.

Anyway, for those of you who want more information about the guitar, you can visit Ibanez's main website by clicking here.
The picture was taken from there as well. There's one in grey which looks really cool. Thats my only complaint about it; wishing it was the rarer, cooler, grey.

This post shall be strictly about my new guitar. Shall write another one about myself soon. Hope it wasn't too syok-sendiri for you readers. I've just rediscovered my passion for guitars and music. Cheers.

Justin