As a musician, you’ve spent countless hours working on your craft—practicing your instrument, writing songs, rehearsing with your band, and creating content on social media. At the end of the day, though, people will judge your music based on how it sounds. In today’s music industry, it’s crucial to get your recordings just right.
To help you make the best choice for your next single, EP, or album, we’ve created a list of five crucial factors to consider when choosing a recording studio:

1. What Is Your Genre?

Define what kind of music you need to record and check whether the studio has experience with similar styles. Not all studios focus on the same genres, so it’s important to review their portfolio. For example, a jazz band likely wouldn’t achieve their desired sound in a studio that specializes in club hits, no matter how successful the studio is. A studio’s familiarity with the sensibilities of your genre is key to the success of your project.
Pro Tip: Look for recording studios that showcase similar works in their portfolio. If you’re a jazz artist, find a studio that has worked with jazz musicians. If you’re into rock, check out studios with a strong rock background.
2. What Are Your Needs


Why are you reaching out to a professional studio? Different artists have different needs, so look for a studio that can accommodate yours. If you’re a solo artist, you might require help with production and arrangement, as well as access to session musicians. Bands may need a high-end recording facility to capture their live sound.
If you’ve already recorded your tracks and only need mixing, listen to examples of the studio’s previous mixes to ensure they align with your vision. Perhaps you’re looking for a cozy space to record acoustic tracks or film intimate videos—the right studio can provide the perfect setting for your project.
Pro Tip: Make a checklist of your requirements—production, recording, mixing, mastering, or even video recording—and discuss them with the studio beforehand.
3. What Gear Is Needed For Your Project?

Let’s face it: vintage analog gear and large mixing consoles look impressive and can add character to your recordings. However, what’s more important is that the studio has the right tools for your specific project. For instance, if you’re inspired by Coldplay, you’ll need access to a good piano that’s in tune.
On the other hand, if you’re producing modern pop tracks, you may prefer a studio with cutting-edge equipment rather than gear with a 70s vibe. Conversely, if your band is chasing a classic sound, make sure the studio is stocked with the instruments and hardware needed to achieve it.
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Pro Tip: Ask the studio about their equipment list and whether they have the specific tools you need for your project.
4. Does Size Matter?
The size of the studio should match your project’s needs. Don’t be overly impressed or discouraged by the studio’s size. For singer-songwriters, large spaces can feel overwhelming, while bands may need bigger rooms for optimal drum sounds. If you’re after a massive drum sound, such as those heard on Pixies albums, a spacious studio may be necessary. However, modern drum sounds are often tight and punchy, which can be achieved in smaller rooms. Advances in technology mean that even small spaces can produce recordings that sound massive.
Pro Tip: Think about the acoustics and vibe of the space. A smaller, more intimate studio might be perfect for capturing raw, emotional performances.
5. How Does The Studio Communicate with You?

Perhaps the most important factor is communication. This entire process hinges on how well the studio’s team connects with you—both musically and personally. You’ll be spending long hours with the studio staff, so it’s essential to ensure they understand your vision and you understand their workflow. Clear communication can prevent stress during the recording process. Additionally, make sure you have clarity on the scope of your project: what’s included in your deal (e.g., production, recording, mixing, mastering) and what isn’t. Iron out these details before you start.
Pro Tip: Trust your instincts. If the studio feels like the right fit during your initial conversations, it’s a good sign they’ll be a great partner for your project.
By keeping these points in mind, you’ll be well-equipped to find the right studio for your music.
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