Open Sound

...The best example of what I'm wanting to do can be found on the self-titled 1997 3EB (Third Eye Blind) Album on track 11 "I Want You". What method would I go about doing this (reverb, spatial, ect.) and if there are any VSTs that would help or mic tricks maybe...

I just listened to the 3EB song (Rhapsody® from RealPlayer is a wonderful tool to have in instances such as this when I'm not familiar with the particular song that is referenced), you just need to apply properly "tuned" reverb and/or delay effects to the tracks you want to add the "ambience" to. "Tuning" reverb and delay devices is almost an artform in and of itself. You have to deal with parameters such as "Pre-Delay", "Bandpass" or "Cut" filters, "Decay Time", "Feedback", "Detuning", etc.,...

There are plenty of VST plugins that can achieve the effects you want. The DaSample "GlaceVerb" is one. You can find it (and many others) by CLICKING HERE.

You're going to have to spend some time "tweaking" the parameters to make your tracks "sit" properly in the mix and still have the "ambient" aura that you're seeking.

You should also spend some time searching the internet for sites such as THIS ONE to learn as much as you can about recording and mixing techniques (Tips & Tricks)...

Regards,
Papa

Excellent book suggestion, boten...I've always been of the opinion that a studio should have a decent library of text reference materials (including magazine subscriptions to publications such as EQ, Recording, Keyboard, Guitar Player, ProSound News, Mix, etc.,)...

I should have mentioned a few other sites that offer helpful tools like "Delay Calculators" (much easier than in the old days when we used stopwatches )...A quick and easy online version can be found HERE. You can also download a freebie from AnalogX.

Another useful tool from AnalogX is Frequency Converter. Simply type in a note (such as A4) and the corresponding primary frequency will be displayed.

Also, remember that internet searches can reveal a plethora of useful information. HERE is one site that links to many magazine articles that cover a wide range of information pertinent to recording (DAW and otherwise)...

The internet, in and of itself, is a valuable tool...Use it often to research & learn and your recording experience will be much more enjoyable (and productive)...

Regards,
Papa