5 tips to save time and money in the recording studio

So you've got this new song that'll make you finally blow up. Every part of your body is telling you that this is the one and that there's no coming back after the release. The last step is to come down to the studio, play it as good as you can, and let the engineer do his magic. Sounds simple, doesn't it?



Just in case the reality is a bit different, let's take a look at some of the steps you should follow to make sure that you make the most out of your studio time and that the session turns out to be a success.

1. Know the song

All of the things I will write about are quite important, but this one might just be the most vital. You have to KNOW THE SONG YOU'RE ABOUT RECORD. Sure, a bit of improvisation here and there might help you, but it is crucial that you know the song inside out. Make sure you've mastered every single bar and that you're comfortable starting halfway through different parts of the song, it will come in handy while overdubbing. There's no point in playing the song from the very beginning just to record the bridge. Time is money when it comes to studio sessions and you don't want to wear yourself out too quickly.

2. Come equipped

Bring references and all the equipment you need. If you want to record a certain instrument a certain way, it's always better to start adjusting the sound at the source. The engineer can try to replicate the sound using various microphones types and experimenting with the placement. It is going to save you time, so you can record just a bit longer. Don't forget to bring any hardware that has a significant impact on the way that you sound. It might be that pedal that completely changes the timbre of your guitar or your favourite trash mic that makes your vocal original and lets you cut through the mix just the way you like it.

3. Come rested

The last thing you're going to want to hear after a long night out at your local pub are going to be those harsh, abrasive cymbals when the drummer can only play loud and louder. While most adults need about seven to nine hours of sleep every night, nobody has time for that, but make sure you get enough rest to be able to play your part the best way you can. Keep in mind that most likely this is going to be performance people will know you from.

4. Bring food

Stock up on everything you might need during your recording session. Bring something that'll be sufficient for however long your session is and something that will keep you going. It can be as little as an oat bar and a coffee. With that being said, make sure you stay hydrated. Water is great, but if you need an extra kick, go for a sugary isotonic drink. You don't want the rest of the band to wait until you figure yourself out. The last thing when it comes to food is don't make a mess. Show respect for the people working at the studio, whether it's the owner who paid for that carpet that'll absorb all the crumbs from your cookie or the assistant that'll have to clean up after your session. Believe me, starting a career in music is not easy, there's no need to make it any harder.

5. Block the distractions

Yes, that means turn your phone off if you can't stop looking at it. Or that extra friend that knows nothing about the recording process and has to go smoke every five minutes. You can leave him out too. This is the time to focus on the music and make sure the song is recorded perfectly. It is going to make your and the engineers' life a whole lot easier.

These are all the important things you should consider before coming to the session. Whether you like it or not, they will have an impact on the way your material is recorded and the quality of the final product, so make sure you're prepared for everything before your next visit to the studio.