Big Studio, or little studio?

I mentioned in a previous post that I am recording and producing an album for rock band Berliner's. During this process, I've played several tracks from the album for musicians, civilians, and my wife.

Without fail, they all ask, "so, what studio did you record at?"...

Many people are still surprised to learn that music production and recording software/hardware has plummeted in cost over the past 5-7 years. Those days of only getting a great-sounding recording by being signed to a major label and sent off to a Manhattan studio are OVER. Anyone with a good ear, a decent mic, and some recording software can get the job done. Well.

Berliner's had initially recorded their first album (as That Rabbit's Dyn-o-mite!) at two seperate studios in Atlanta. Overall, the process was educational, and we were fairly happy with the outcome. But when it came time to record the 2nd album, we reconsidered spending another $25,000.00 to record in outside studios when we could do an even better job in-house. Using my own personal studio to handle everything minus drums (which we handled at a nearby studio that only charges $20.00 an hour!), we were able to work at our own pace. I won't even tell you what we've spent up to this point. You wouldn't believe it after hearing the album.

So. When considering whether you need to head to a big or small studio, ask what you want of the project. Is this for a jingle, band, music bed, etc.? Do you want more or less time to tweak your music? Do you like being broke?

To find lists of cheap studios around your area, hit up craigslist.org and head over to the musicians section.