Smoke & Mirrors Percussion Ensemble — A Reference-Class Recording

Single microphone. Direct to tape. No EQ or compression. This video explains how one of the most purist analog recordings was made. This video looks closely at Smoke & Mirrors Percussion Ensemble, the exceptional Yarlung Records release originally issued in 2012 and newly reissued in 2025. Featuring a virtuosic contemporary percussion ensemble, the album combines inventive compositions with a rigorously music-first, purist analog recording approach that places the listener directly in the hall. Beyond what I covered in my written review at Audiophilia.com, this video shares additional insights drawn from conversations with producer and recording engineer Bob Attiyeh. I discuss the single-microphone, direct-to-tape recording process, the absence of traditional mastering, and how microphone placement and the acoustic space itself are used to shape the final sound — elements that help explain why this recording feels so immediate and natural. If you’re interested in contemporary percussion, all-analog recording, or how a minimal approach can yield extraordinary musical and sonic results, this video offers perspective not included in the written review. 👉 Read the full written review at Audiophilia.com https://www.audiophilia.com/reviews/2025/12/28/smoke-mirrors-percussion-ensembleyarlung-records-reissue-2025 My thanks to Bob Attiyeh and Yarlung Records for providing the review sample and for generously sharing insight into the recording philosophy behind this release. Reference System -VPI Scout with Classic Platter Upgrade -JMW Memorial Tonearm -VPI Analog Drive System -Phasemation PP-500 MC Cartridge -Miyajima Labs Infinity Mono MC Cartridge -ModWright PH 9.0 Tube Phono Preamplifier -Cayin A-50T Integrated Tube Amplifier -System Audio Pandion 30 Loudspeakers -Degritter Ultrasonic Record Cleaner -VPI 16.5 Vacuum Record Cleaner -Sweetvinyl Sugarcube SC-1 Mini -Pioneer RT-707 Reel To Reel Tape Deck -Ramar Record Brush -The reference system is wired exclusively with Audio Art cables. #YarlungRecords #SmokeAndMirrors #PercussionEnsemble #Audiophile #AnalogRecording #DirectToTape #VinylCommunity #HighEndAudio #ContemporaryClassical 00:00 Introduction 00:56 Some Percussion Records 03:50 About Yarlung 04:26 Smoke & Mirrors Details 10:18 Music and Sound 13:31 Pressing Quality and Conclusion