Yeti I think our little community is pretty good at judging the entries according to the theme of the challenge without getting too bogged down with the production level and keeping it open allows people to experiment and push themselves, which I feel is part of the point.
I like to think we can put creativity > production. However...a wise, wise man (previous moderator) observed that, over time, higher production tended be favoured heavily. Hence the four track, two minute limit from back in the day.
Thing is I agree with him. So over time, one tries and keep it interesting for everyone - if there's a group of peeps upping their production game and getting really into - we go with it. If there's a group of beginners wanting to share some ideas - we go with it. For me, participation (by entrants & listeners) is key - the only other thing is to keep it always accessible (like you said, I always stress, any recording is welcome).
Technology keeps on re-re-re-leveling the recording 'playing' field. Today, a phone or tablet (if you have a decent mic), youtube tutorials and free plugin's = potential high quality production. I just hate the UI probably because I'm a old skool fps gamer = gimme a goddamn mouse & keyboard ffs 🤲
All I can say is, the challenges will continue to evolve as GT evolves - hopefully developing useful traits - knuckle dragging is overrated 😉
