Thanks for the compliments. You’ve asked a couple of tough questions here, but the simple answer is “it depends”.

Sometimes I cut a band all together, other times we cut scratch tracks and then go back and overdub. A lot of it depends on how they are comfortable working and how I feel they will perform best. It really changes from one session to the next.

It’s kind of the same with the mics. I have my favorites, but I would hate to be limited. Everyone’s instrument and technique is different, resulting in different tones. I try to listen the instrument, figure out what sound the player is going for and then mic accordingly. Sometimes I’ll use a pair of small diaphragm condensers on the guitar, other times I’ve used large tube mics, or even ribbon mics. It really just depends. In fact, it might change from one song to the next with the same player. The song is what’s important, and you want to do what will make the music sound the best.

Sorry I didn’t have a cut and dried answer for you. Just use your ears. That’s the best answer!

I’ve really enjoyed your Kenny and Amanda Smith recordings (quality, mastering, etc) and wondered if you could comment on your recording process. Do you have enveryone play together? Do you use scratch tracks and then cut in parts? What mics do you find work well for specific bluegrass instruments?

Thanks and keep putting out great work!

Brian