Capturing Your Unique Sound at Grandview Records
- Brandon Frizzell
- Jan 25
- 4 min read
Updated: Feb 13
Our Flagship Digital Audio Workstation: Luna by Universal Audio
We use Luna by Universal Audio as our primary DAW. Luna stands out because it integrates seamlessly with our hardware, offering a workflow that feels natural and intuitive. Unlike other DAWs, Luna is designed to work hand-in-hand with Universal Audio’s interfaces and plugins, which means you get the best possible sound quality and the lowest latency.
Luna’s analog-style mixing console and tape emulation plugins give recordings warmth and depth, making digital tracks sound more organic. This is crucial for us because we aim to capture the analog feel while keeping up with current industry standards.
Audio Interfaces That Define Quality
Our studio features two main Universal Audio interfaces:
Apollo x8p: This is our powerhouse interface, perfect for handling multiple inputs simultaneously without sacrificing sound quality. It offers top-tier preamps and onboard DSP processing, which means you can run amp modeling and effects in real-time without taxing your computer.
Apollo Twin Duo: This compact interface is ideal for smaller sessions or mobile setups. Despite its size, it delivers the same pristine sound quality and real-time processing power as the larger Apollo units.
Both interfaces are known in the industry as some of the best available, and they allow us to capture every nuance of your performance with clarity and precision.
Amp Modeling That Feels Real
We use amp modeling plugins that sound even better when run through Luna and our UA hardware. This combination creates a tone that rivals real amplifiers, with the added flexibility of digital control. Whether you want a crunchy rock sound or a smooth jazz tone, our setup can deliver it with authenticity.
The key is the synergy between the software and hardware. The Apollo interfaces provide the analog-to-digital conversion and onboard DSP that make the amp models come alive, while Luna’s interface lets us tweak every detail.
Instruments That Bring Character to Your Music
Our collection of instruments is diverse and carefully chosen to add unique textures to your recordings:
Stringed instruments: We have banjos, Schruties (a type of folk instrument), tin whistles, bass guitars, a Fender Stratocaster, and a Music Man Silhouette. Each instrument brings its own voice, from bright and twangy to deep and smooth.
Drums: Our Ludwig 4-piece drum set delivers classic, punchy drum sounds that fit many genres.
Piano: We feature a Bazookie large stand-up grand piano, restrung and maintained since 1914. This vintage instrument adds a rich, warm tone that modern pianos often lack.
Other instruments: A violin, a Juno keyboard, and Taylor acoustic guitars round out our collection, offering a wide palette of sounds for any project.
The Room and Acoustic Treatment
The studio space itself is crucial for capturing great sound. Our room is acoustically treated by a local custom builder who understands how to balance absorption and diffusion. This treatment reduces unwanted reflections and standing waves, ensuring that recordings are clean and natural.
The result is a space where instruments and vocals sound their best, and mixing decisions translate well to other listening environments.
Microphones That Capture Every Detail
We use a selection of microphones that cover a broad range of recording needs:
Mojave MA-200 tube mic: Known for its warm, vintage tone, this mic is perfect for vocals and acoustic instruments.
Lewitt LCT441 Flex: A versatile condenser mic that handles everything from vocals to drums with clarity and detail.
Shure SM57: This mic is famous for its durability and ability to capture electric guitar amps and snare drums. It’s also known as Michael Jackson’s flagship mic, symbolizing a connection to music history and roots.
Together, these microphones help us capture the essence of your performance, whether you want a classic sound or a modern edge.
Automation Controllers for Precision
We use personal automation controllers to fine-tune mixes with precision. These controllers allow us to adjust levels, panning, and effects in real-time, giving your music dynamic movement and polish.
What Clients Can Expect
When you come to our studio, you get more than just a recording session. You get access to:
Top-tier gear that blends vintage warmth with modern clarity.
A carefully treated acoustic environment that enhances every sound.
Experienced engineers who know how to make the most of our equipment.
A wide range of instruments to add unique flavors to your music.
Flexible workflows thanks to Luna and Universal Audio hardware.
Our goal is to provide a recording experience that feels both professional and personal, where your music can grow and shine.
Investing in Quality Sound
Working with our gear means you’re investing in quality sound that respects tradition while embracing innovation. Whether you want the warmth of a 1914 piano or the precision of modern amp modeling, we have the tools and expertise to bring your vision to life.
Ready to create something extraordinary? Contact us to book your session and experience the difference our premium gear makes.
At Grandview Records, we are committed to helping you capture your unique sound and fostering a vibrant local music community. Let's make music together!



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