How long does it take to record a song?

This is one of the questions we are asked most often. How long is a piece of string! It depends on the complexity of the arrangement, how well rehearsed you are, how many overdubs you wish to do, whether you want it to sound ‘live’ or a polished ‘studio’ sound. For a ‘demo’ we would suggest allowing half a day per song for all the recording, editing, mixing and mastering etc. For commercial release we would suggest allowing at least 2 days per song.

Do you offer a discount for block bookings?

Yes we offer free accommodation with bookings of 5 days or more, free accommodation and 10% discount with 10 days or more and free accommodation and 20% discount for a month ‘lock out’

Do we need to bring our own instruments, amps etc?

We have various instruments here, drums, bass, electric and acoustic guitars you can use but you will probably feel more comfortable playing your own instruments. We have various amp ‘modeling’ processors and also some very nice boutique valve amps.

Do we need to pay a deposit?

Yes this is essential, we have been stung in the past by bands booking and then not showing up. This costs us time and money so a 25% deposit needs to be paid before a booking is confirmed. This is non-refundable as we may have to turn down other work if they wanted your dates.

What can we do to get the most from our money?

Check out the ‘Studio Preparation’ link on the web site with 10 golden rules to make things go smoothly and quickly.

Can we visit the studio before we record?

Yes, in fact we encourage artists to come in first and have a look and get a feel for the place as well as us as people.

Do we all play together?

Again this is a frequently asked question. We usually record the main rhythm parts together, drums, bass and rhythm guitars and then overdub everything else. ‘Scratch’ vocals are usually recorded too to make the song easier to follow. Of course we can cater for any situation if you wish to do everything live.

Do we all play in the same room?

For best separation and options later on the drums, bass and guitar amps are usually separated. However we have strategically placed windows so all musicians can see each other directly. As above you can if you want to!

How long does it take to set up?

It probably takes a couple of hours. We are here to get you the best results for the money so we usually ask that you bring in the equipment and set it up the night before to save time. We don’t charge for setting up the night before like many studios do and it means you can come on the day, tune up and go without any hassle.

Can we do some of the recording at home and then record specific things at the studio such as drums, vocals etc?

This is fine by us, we can convert files to run in most DAW’s (Digital Audio Workstations)

How long does it take between recording and getting the final CD?

The mixing, editing and mastering can be done immediately after the recording. However we prefer to do the editing and rough mixes without the artist and then get them to come back for the polishing of the mix. It is easier for us and means that you won’t loose your focus when we are doing the boring bits of editing and setting up routing, outboard etc. It is always good to have a few days between recording and mixing to allow the brain to clear and become more subjective.

What about duplication, art work etc?

We can do art design and small runs of CD’s up to 200. Any more than this and we can recommend a reputable duplicator to you.