FAQs
General Studio Questions:
What's the difference between hourly rates and project rates? Hourly rates charge by time used. You're only billed for the time you are in the studio. Project rates are fixed per song (or EP, LP, etc) with set inclusions.
How far in advance do I need to book? We recommend booking at least 2-4 weeks ahead, but we'll accommodate shorter notice when possible.
What's included in my studio time? All equipment, professional engineering, comfortable lounge, snacks, beverages, and full facility access during your session.
Can I bring friends/band members with me? Absolutely! Just let us know who's coming when you book to ensure everyone's comfortable. Also, while recording is fun, it's also hard work, so we recommend limiting the number of people you invite so as to minimize distractions.
What if I've never been in a recording studio before? Perfect! We'll walk you through the whole process and make sure you feel completely comfortable before getting started. There are no dumb questions, so let your imagination loose!
How long does it typically take to record a song? That varies widely based on the nature of the song, but in general, most songs take 3-6 hours to record. This does not include mixing, which is another, distinct phase of music production.
What is mixing and is it necessary? Mixing is taking all of the takes, solos, parts, components of the song and putting them all together so that the parts sound like a whole. It's also a creative act whereby the mixing engineer uses his or her creativity to make the song something unique and special by virtue of how it was recorded and in light of the artist's vision for the song. Think editing in film. So yes, if you want to release the song, mixing is necessary. If you are just tracking with us and doing more work elsewhere, then no, mixing is not necessary and we will gladly give you a rough (faders up) mix of what you have tracked.
What's the difference between recording, mixing, and mastering? Recording is using microphones or DIs to capture your performance of all of the parts (instruments and vocals) of the song. Mixing balances the tracks and puts them together so that your recording sounds like a song. Mastering polishes the song and prepares it for final distribution. To use a film analogy, Recording is much like film recording, it's capturing performances with multiple takes. Mixing is like film editing, it's the process of choosing, editing, colorizing the best parts and stitching them all together as a finished work (film). Mastering is preparing the work for distribution and ensuring it meets broadcast standards.
What is a producer and is it the same as an engineer? No. An engineer oversees the technical aspects of the recording: deciding which equipment to use, making sure it is working properly, troubleshooting and solving any technical or logistical problems, and delivering a positive recording experience. A producer is someone who oversees the artistic direction of the song or project, and enters into the creative process in a number of ways: songwriting, arranging, deciding which musicians will play on the recording, which instruments will be used, etc. Producers and engineers often work together to capture the vision for the song, but they have distinct roles.
Pricing & Payment:
What does the deposit cover? The 50% deposit allows you to book a session and assures that the studio is available for your creative project.
When do I pay the remaining balance? At the conclusion of the session. Check out our Rates & Policies for more info.
What payment methods do you accept? We accept cash, check, or card, and also other electronic payments such as Venmo, PayPal or Cash App. You can decide how you would like to pay when you receive your invoice.
What happens if my session runs over time? This is usually not a problem unless there is a session after you. Any time that runs over the booked time will be billed at the hourly rate of $65.
Do you offer payment plans for larger projects? We do not offer payment plans, but don't want finances to be a barrier to recording, so be sure to talk to us about what you would like to get done, and we'll do our best to accommodate.
What if I need to cancel or reschedule? Deposits are non-refundable, but life happens - we're always happy to reschedule if you need to and if we have availability. Cancellations require at least a 24-hour notice.
How Recording Works:
What happens when I first arrive? Chris will meet you and show you around the studio if it's your first time. Then you and anyone recording with you will bring in any equipment you would like to use. Once everything is set up, let's record!
What's a "take" and how many do I need? A take is a performance, either on an instrument or as a vocalist. We do multiple takes in the studio and will use our experience to determine which ones suit the song the best.
Can I record multiple instruments at the same time? Yes, the studio can accommodate recording multiple musicians or band members at once.
What does the engineer do exactly? Everything! Just kidding. The engineer is there to assure that all performances are recorded properly, that all of the equipment is utilized correctly and performs up to standards, and to make sure everyone who is recording has what they need to do their best.
Can I bring reference songs to show what I'm going for? Yes, this is very helpful in charting a course as far as the best way to capture your performance and deliver a mix that you are pleased with.
After Recording Next Steps:
What format will I receive my recordings in? Most sessions are recorded as 24 bit, 48 kHz wav files and will be delivered as such in a final mix, unless otherwise requested by the client.
How long after the session do I get my files? This depends on the nature of the session. If you are just tracking, then your files will be given to you at the conclusion of your session. If we are mixing your work, then the engineer will give you an estimate as to how long it will take.
How do you deliver the files to me? We use a file service that allows you to listen to all of the work that you did, as well as make comments about revisions you would like to hear, if applicable. Once your balance is paid, you will be able to download these files from the file service.
Do I need mastering after mixing? You need to have any material that you're going to distribute undergo the mastering process. Whether you are envisioning streaming, CD, or vinyl, anything you plan to distribute needs to be mastered.
What do I do with my recordings once I have them? That's entirely up to you. Some people record for their own enjoyment or to share with friends or family, others are professional musicians who make their living on their music, and have a fan base that is greatly anticipating their next release.
How do I get my music on Spotify/Apple Music? This refers to distribution of music and there are several outlets available to you if you are not managed by a label. We can help you walk through this process and even consult with you how it should be done.
What if I want to record more songs later? Hit us up!
Do you keep a copy of what I record? Yes, we keep several backups of everything that you record which you can request at any time.
Does it cost anything to have you make stems of my recordings? Yes, preparation of stems can be a time-consuming process, depending on the song. The hourly studio rate applies.
Does the studio own or have rights to what I record? No. Even though it sits on our hard drives, it's your material and we only provide access to it to you or anyone that you authorize. We have no ownership of your material.
Results & Expectations:
Will my recording sound like professional albums I hear on the radio? That's a very subjective question and depends upon a lot of factors, so that's kind of hard to answer. What we can answer is that all of the equipment in the studio is considered the absolute best in the industry, and we assure you that given our experience, you have access to everything you need to make a professional sounding recording. The rest is up to you.
How much difference does expensive equipment really make? Expensive equipment is only useful in the hands (and ears) of a skilled and experienced professional. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and while certain home recordings have a lot of charm, most professional musicians still opt for going to a studio. Why? Because at a studio they have access not only to world class equipment, but also to individuals who know how to use it and know how to collaborate well with the artist to make their music better than they could by themselves. Audio engineering is an art and a science, and the best recordings are produced by individuals skilled in both.
Practical Concerns:
What if we need more time than booked? This is usually not a problem, any additional time will be billed according to the hourly studio rate. Just communicate with the engineer.
Can I bring a producer? Absolutely. Anyone serving in the role of producer is more than welcome in the studio, just communicate with the engineer and let them know who this person is.
Can I stay overnight if needed? Absolutely. See our accommodations page.