Ok, so you have scheduled time at recording studio there are several things you can (and should) do in advance.

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1. Reference Material

It is important to know where this process is taking you. How would you like the finished project to sound?
If you are unsure, it may help if you select several albums you particularly like, in a similar musical genre; albums that portray the sound of the drums, vocals, guitars, overall sound, or even things such as effects and ambience. They can be used as a reference you can turn to while creating your unique sound.
Everyone in the creative process should contribute their thoughts. It is amazing how ideas about how the finished work should sound can vary. It is not a bad thing to have different ideas on the project but it is important to agree on the direction before you start recording. This assures a solid group aiming for a common goal. Reference albums also help the engineer choose different gear, mics, and techniques to achieve your desired sound

2. Pre-Production

Pre-production is one of the most important aspects of planning a session.  It is during this stage that melodies, arrangements, instrumentation, structure, and key are fleshed out.  Typically, the more completed a song is before entering into the studio, the better the recording process is likely to go. You want to be happy with your arrangements, before the session, not after you’ve already recorded several instruments. Careful pre-production lets the session be about tweaking things to perfection.

3. Practice

The less takes needed to get a part recorded, the more time available for exploring effects gear or new ideas.  Practice, Practice, Practice!

4. Chat

Talk with the engineer about workflow and techniques they use.  Even if you have recorded before, you could find a new or different way of doing things that works better for you. If this is your first time in studio, knowing in advance may help alleviate some of the jitters. Will all the musicians play together? Maybe some live recording then overdubs? All overdubbed? There are many different methods used.  Which one fits your project best?

5. Instruments and Gear

After a great musician, the next most important things are quality instruments and backline.  Good instruments sound good.  If you don’t have great equipment, consider borrowing it or renting. It is not that expensive; think of all you’ve invested in time and effort to get to this point.  If you want that "Marshall sound", well, a Fender is probably not going to get you there.  Also, it is important that equipment works correctly. We know a thing or two about repairing equipment, but this really eats into the studio time, and disrupts the creative flow.  Remember to bring all the things you own that might be needed to get your sound. If you have it, bring it. It is a lot easier to decide not to use something, than wish you had brought it.

6. Spare Parts

Always bring spares, from strings and drumsticks, to batteries, cables, drum heads…anything that could break or wear out.  We keep some things on hand, but those strings from Australia?, probably not. You don't want a session to come to a halt over a $3 9v battery.

7. Be Creative

The recording studio is a creative place, with a lot of gear you may not have at your disposal every day.  The fact that you have thoroughly planned everything out, doesn´t mean you should be afraid to try things out. Many times, new ideas or sounds will come up.  Explore them.

 

 

460 Sound wants to help make the most of your studio time and, more importantly, for you to enjoy your experience.