so I guess it's more a matter of taste and it probably depends on recording. Unfortunately, the only type of recordings I have done on my own have all pretty much been direct- with a drum machine and pod xt (I've got neighbors to worry about right now). so I think these mixes kind of need something else to liven them up. In the past when we would go record at "actual studios" I don't really recal them ever using any effects except on the vocals. Anyways, thanks for the ideas guys.