In the interest of disclosure, I'm currently working on a bluegrass record, and I'm self-recording in my living room. This is due not only to my obvious lack of funds, but also to a desire to try a record for which I am solely responsible. I wrote/am writing every song, playing every note, singing, engineering, arranging, mixing, and even mastering... if the final product sucks, I'm the only guy listed on the credits.
That said, I'd MUCH rather be doing this project at a good studio. I find I need someone to play and sing for, in order to get the best performance. When tracking vocals in any project, I always wish I had an audience there to show off for, and keep me "honest." Also, it's tough not having another party there to keep pushing things forward.------->JMS
an experienced engineer.
GOOD mics.
a decent sized room with a good natural sound.
for some reason, i like the idea of the engineer being familiar with many different styles and genres of music.
