SmartMusic Output

The drop down menu (button at the bottom left) will list the sound sources which are available for your output. Choose “Built-in Audio” - which is your computer’s speakers and/or earphone output.

Speakers or Earphones? Do not use your computers built-in speakers!

I strongly recommend using Earphones for your SmartMusic output - the in-ear type, used with MP3 players - not the heavier ones that totally cover your ears. Be sure to get an earphone extension cord (at least 10 feet).

In-ear Earphones are light and don’t interfere with your playing:
- you can hear yourself quite easily - including subtleties in dynamics and tone
- you can have the playback volume as loud as you like without disturbing others or interfering with the SM input
- and, perhaps most importantly, if you really suck, only you will know - anyone else listening will only hear your instrument not the accompaniment (as you improve playing with the accompaniment, you might then consider using speakers and letting everyone else hear the “complete” performance).

Playback volume is the combination of the two volume meters (Computer Volume & SM Volume). I always set the SM Volume higher (3/4 or full) and adjust the final output volume from my computer keyboard. I am using a Mac and have volume controls on the computer keyboard and find this the easiest and fastest way to change the volume.

The SM Volume appears (and can be adjusted) in the SM Play module when you play any file.

You can check the playback level by pushing “Play Test”. You will hear the beginning of the 3rd movement of Bach’s Sonata No. 2 for Flute in Eb major, BWV 1031. To stop the play, click the “Play Test” again.

Clicking “Next” takes you to Microphone placement and setup (Input).

Back to Smart Music Setup