Inside Sweetwater Studios: Drum Mics, Bass Recording, and Studio Setup

While bassist Pops Megellan was recording a session at Sweetwater Studios, I had the opportunity to spend some time with engineer Jason Peets and get a behind-the-scenes look at how the studio operates.

We covered a lot of ground in a short amount of time, from drum mics and room mics to bass recording, preamps, and the thought process behind setting up a session for a full band. Along the way, Jason shared some of the choices he makes when tracking musicians and how he approaches capturing great performances in the studio.

Of course, Sweetwater Studios is also packed with gear. We got a look at everything from vintage and modern bass rigs to an impressive microphone collection, keyboards, drums, guitars, and the Rupert Neve Designs 5088 console that serves as the centerpiece of the studio.  Jason leans heavy into the Ampeg gear when tracking bass with multiple Ampeg heads, cabs and even a B15.

But what made the conversation interesting wasn’t just the equipment. Jason offered insight into why certain tools get used, how he balances flexibility with simplicity, and what really matters when it comes to recording a band. Whether you’re into studio gear, recording techniques, or just curious about what goes on behind the glass during a professional session, there’s plenty to enjoy in this tour.

Check out the video below for the full walkthrough of Sweetwater Studios and our conversation with Jason.