The Freddie Green sound can only be obtained by using an archtop guitar that is acoustically loud. Freddie played without an amplifier for nearly all of his career. But when the Basie band played large venues, Freddie's guitar was often miked and fed to the public address (PA) system.

In today's big bands, the bassist often uses an amplifier, the piano might be miked or might be electronic keyboard, and the drum kit is often miked. To be heard and blend effectively, the acoustic rhythm guitar often has to be amplified as well. Use of a high quality microphone, and not a pickup, is imperative. The exact type of audio equipment and its correct usage is critical to achieve a natural rhythm guitar...