General FAQ

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Starplay is music software designed to improve your instrumental skills. By giving feedback to your playing in real time, it provides a fun and exciting way to practice your chosen instrument.

What you need

System specs.

If your system runs windows XP it will likely run Starplay without any problems.

* Celeron / Athlon XP system or better

* 128mb RAM

* Windows XP [or 2000?]

* Microsoft .NET framework

* Broadband internet connection of at least 256/64 kbps

Starplay will not work with a dialup internet connection.

What is the Microsoft .NET framework and how do I get it?

What if I’m using a mac?

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Starplay is currently not available for the Mac platform.

Microphones

Where do you plug the microphone in?

The socket will often be designated by a small microphone symbol next to it, on modern desktops it will be pink in colour. It will generally be found on the front or rear of a desktop case or the side of a laptop.

Please ensure that the microphone is switched on and that it has working batteries if required.

What does a microphone look like?

Microphones come in varying styles, see our advice on models below.

What do you attach the microphone to?

If you are using a clip on microphone, it can be attached to clothing or laid flat on a desk or chair. A standard microphone can also be placed flat on a desk or chair or held by a stand.

Where do I buy one?

Any electronics store should be able to point you in the right direction.

How much does it cost?

A tie clip microphone with a battery included starts at around A$30.

Are there any specific types/brands/models I should buy?

We have tested with a tie clip microphone produced by Optimus which works very well and costs under A$30.

Can I use my existing microphone?

Most likely, yes.

What if it’s a microphone with a stand?

A microphone with a desk or floor stand will work.

Does it need to be clip on?

No.

When do I plug in the microphone?

Plug it in before running Starplay.

Can I play without a microphone?

No.

Can I use a headphone with attached microphone?

No, the microphone may pick up sound from the headphones which will affect the feedback from Starplay.

Connection

How fast does my connection need to be?

A broadband connection of 256kbps downstream (256/64) or faster is required.

Dialup connections will not work.

Do I need to be connected to the internet?

Yes, before you start up Starplay.

What if my internet connection dies?

If your connection drops out whilst using the program you will still be able to use any content you have previously downloaded, however you must be connected to the internet to start up Starplay.

Account

How do I create an account?

See the Account help.

Why can’t I log in?

If you are experiencing problems, try our Web Support.

Am I really practicing if I’m having this much fun?

Yes! Look out for more content and instruments which will be introduced into the system in the near future.