I have to say that I am an old fashioned gal. I soak my beans overnight, bring to a boil and simmer for 1 hour, drain and throw beans and all the other ingredients into my big roaster. They go into the oven at 275 for 4-5 hours. I usually make a double batch because they freeze well.
I have stopped adding salt to the water. I found it made for a much tougher bean. Instead, I wait until the last hour of cooking, to add the salt and any other spices.