3 Steps to Choosing a Recording Studio

Price quote, engineers, producers, location, terminology, experience. Who has time to keep up with the things that a studio is supposed to have? You really don't have to know as much as music industry people would have you believe. If you are an artist, a manager or just curious, here are 3 steps that you can take in choosing the recording studio.

Location : The studio location is important information to know when choosing a studio because there are a lot of studios in many locations. Some studios locations can range from inner city basements to suburban warehouses. Location should be important to you because you want to stay within a reasonable traveling budget. You don't want to travel too far unnecessarily. The travel there and back can be draining if the distance is too far. On the other hand, if the studio is too close, you may, like most artists, be tempted to spend unnecessary time in the studio and spend outside of your budget. Remember to take into account the distance and transportation options.

Service : The type of recording studio is also appropriately significant. Some studios specialize in specific areas. For example, there may be a home studio that specializes in voice over work but you are interested in higher end studio that can accommodate a full rock band. The home studio that services voice over work primarily may not be the reasonable choice for you. Contrariwise, if you are in need of a studio that services primarily vocalist and smaller accompaniment, securing a $125/hr studio who services big bands is not the optimum decision. Be sure that you ask questions specific to your needs and the services the studio normally handles to make a sound decision.

         

Price: Finding the location and service that you would like are probably the most comfortable 2 of 3 topics about choosing the recording studio. When it comes to the cost of recording, you have to match the cost with the service. Be sure to listen to the quality of sound that comes from that studio. Ultimately, you want the best "bang for your buck". Understand how that studio charges and if there are any hidden rates. Some studios offer different services which may all have different fees attached to them. Stay within your budget as much as possible.  

Always remember, the recording studio is service based business. Value their service while you try to make the most of your experience!