[sdiy] re : carry-on mini-synths

[David J. Hughes]

Hello,

synth_dg at yahoo.com asked :

> my concern is
> maybe a bit paranoid, but is there any risk of my
> equipment getting confiscated or me not being allowed
> to board? i know bombs probably look pretty different
> than synths, but... anyone have any stories or advice?

We went through this process last year and decided that the best option is,
where possible, to use gear at the far end for the concert. Move your sounds
around on CDR or floppy. Putting an iomega drive through an x-ray machine
probably won't hurt it but I wouldn't do it.

Experience has proved that baggage handlers the world over are low grade
morons with all the intelligence of a sweaty sock. If you opt for putting
your delicate equipment in their hands you may as well start filling in the
insurance claim form now. Remember, in their language "Handle with Care"
translates into "Please play lawn tennis with this parcel".

Getting equipment on the aircraft is easy enough but be prepared for some
questions from airport security. If strip-searched always insist that they
wear rubber gloves and use a good lubricant.

David