Everything you need to know before renting iPads to read sheet music

There are many advantages to using digital scores. It allows musicians to modify their annotations ad infinitum, while maintaining a clean, unblemished work surface; it makes page-turning easier, and provides quick, easy access to the music.

But before you invest in iPads, it's quite understandable that you'd like to try out the equipment and opt for the rental solution, especially for large-scale experimentation with many musicians.

Here are a few recommendations for the best rental experience.

Which iPad to choose?

For the best reading experience, we recommend the largest iPad size, the 12"9 format. Your iPad will take the place of your scores on your stand, so it's important that you're comfortable.

When it comes to storage capacity, you don't have to go for the device offering the most space. If you only use your iPad to organize your sessions and play with Newzik, the minimum offered is more than sufficient.

If you have a 4G box or a wifi network, this will enable you to connect your device and thus be able to synchronize Newzik accounts, use the Projects section, import and share content instantly, etc. On the other hand, if you know in advance that your device won't be able to connect to the Internet, we advise you to rent an iPad with 4G access and a valid sim card, so as not to be dependent on the network.

Finally, the Newzik iOS app is supported by all iOS versions up to update 13. This means you can rent the iOS device of your choice as long as it supports iOS 13 or higher.

iPad accessories

The page-turner pedal

The choice of pedal depends on many factors: the context in which it is used, the instrument played, and of course the preferences of the individual musician.

Here's our guide of the different types of pedal compatible with the Newzik application.

Our first choice is theiRig Blueturn. It's lightweight, easy to pair and very easy to use.

Pencil

An iPad for reading sheet music is great, but a digital stylus for annotating is even better! The model most compatible with the Newzik application is theApple Pencil. Its annotation quality and battery put it at the top of the list. It's precise and connects easily with the iPad. It's definitely our recommendation.

Although this model is the most efficient, it is also the most expensive.

There are now several cheaper alternatives to the Apple Pencil that offer excellent annotation quality. We have written an article that compares in detail the different models according to specific criteria.

Covers for iPad

iPads are precious electronic devices, but they're also very delicate. Composed mainly of glass and aluminum, it's important to take great care of it. If it is dropped or rubs against other objects, it can be scratched and damaged easily.
Heavier than a phone, it is harder to hold and can therefore fall quite easily. That's why it's important to make the right choice when it comes to protecting your device.

To do this, you can invest in an iOS device protector to limit breakage and protect it during transport and practice.

There are special choir covers that allow you to hold your iPad with your arms wide open: they're more comfortable and allow you to open your ribcage wide, so you're not in the way when you're singing. You can find them here.

Tip: when choosing your case, think about how you'll be using your digital devices. If you're on stage in front of an audience, it's important that it's not too conspicuous.

Additional options

Router

Whether it's to import content, share annotations in real time or update everyone's changes, the Newzik application needs to be connected, at least periodically, to the Internet. If your rehearsals take place in a remote location with no wifi to fall back on, it's a good idea to have a router so you don't get stuck the day before a performance or in the middle of a rehearsal.

That said, there's no need to worry: Newzik works perfectly offline. Any changes you make will be saved on your devices, and once connected to the Internet, they'll be stored in our Newzik Cloud. Just make sure all your music is downloaded to your device before you start your offline rehearsals.

Adjustable iPad holders

Just like paper sheet music, iPads need an adjustable stand so that each user can adapt it to his or her size and position according to the instrument he or she is playing.

A conventional music stand may do the trick, but it will be less suitable for digital scores, heavier to carry and less suited to the size of the iPad.

We have written a guide that lists the different types of iPad holder, depending on your habits and expectations.

Power strips

They are the key to your musical performances and rehearsals. They allow you to recharge all your equipment and accessories at the same time, without wasting time or trouble.

Recommendation: it's important to use long power strips to avoid getting tangled up in too much equipment.

Where can you rent quality equipment safely?

When renting equipment to play music digitally, it's important that musicians feel confident.

That's why Newzik partners with reliable, high-performance rental services that understand the needs of music institutions.

With these partners, your devices are already preconfigured with the latest Newzik application, so you can start working as soon as you receive the equipment.

They also offer a personalized service, providing styli, Bluetooth pedals and more, so you don't need to ask other suppliers.

1. Get-IT-easy, based in Mainbernheim, Germany

Get-IT-easy offers short- and long-term rental of IT equipment throughout Europe.

In this this document details of prices and accessories based on various criteria (duration, number of items rented, etc.).

To order equipment, click here: get-it-easy.de/newzik

2. SmartCom, based in Paris, France

The company defines itself as the expert in audiovisual equipment rental throughout France.

Here details of the price list and equipment on offer.

Contact: s.soton@smartcom.fr

You now have all the resources you need to rent equipment and experiment with Newzik with complete confidence. Let's get started!