Ive been using natural charcoal in my smoker and then I put the flavored wood chips in usually hickory or pecan wood. I tend not too go crazy with the wood because it can tend to overpower your meat. Here's a kick ass bbq sauce recipe that I make which can use with just about anything. Great on ribs, pulled pork and chicken. Make this and you won't eat anything else.
KC Classic BBQ sauce Makes 6 cups
2 tbs chili powder
1 tsp black pepper
2 cup catsup
1/2 cup yellow mustard
1/4 cup cider vinegar
1/4 cup lemon juice
1/4 cup steak sauce
1/4 cup molasses
1/4 cup honey
1 tsp hot sauce
1 cup dark brown sugar
1 med onion chopped
3-4 cloves minced garlic
3 tbs veg oil
Saute onions in oil until soft. Add dry spices to release oils, then wet ingredients. Bring to slow boil, then cook over low heat for 15-20 minutes. You can omit the honey of you want to cut down on the sweetness. Also can cut back on the vinegar depending on your own preferences. This makes enough to last you for a while. I usually store in large mason jars.