Stok’s forty-two comments

If you have to plug something in to make it work, it doesn’t belong IMO. The only exception would be maybe an electronic piano simply because they can sound so much like real acoustic pianos. But I don’t like pianos in trad music anyway so.. more…

Does anyone know of a fiddle and mandolin duet recording? My two favorite instruments! more…

The gibson ovals like Marla uses is a great sound for recording or small groups. But in a full on session, MOST of them just get drowned out. They are very variable though and some are particularly powerful. more…

Yeah the national is ideal. It’s amazing sounding I think. Especially with flatwound strings. more…

It’s just a sad fact that a mandolin isn’t a great session instrument. I love mandolin but I took up fiddle more…

I really love albums which feature just two instruments playing duets. I like the way that the different instruments mix, in fact I like this setting more than a whole group as it tends to get a little muddled sometimes. Harder to hear the melody for me. more…

Wow I loved that rendition of devil went down to Ireland. The Merry Highlander didn’t get the credit he deserved In this thread. more…

Using an open drone string can help with intonation a bit. I wouldn’t use it much at a session, but when your practicing it can help you to hear if your fingers in the right spot. more…

@Jerry O’donnell more…

Very true vlnplyr! I noticed this when I used to play drums. It’s easier to keep a steady beat when your not letting your head get in the way. Easier said than done of course more…