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Here are some of our most common questions:

 

I own or have a friend with a home studio. Why should I come to you?

 

  • Home studios are everywhere. Many of the artists that record here have tried home studios.   Most come here because they simply are not getting the results they want.  
  • Home studios are a great tool, especially when preparing for the studio, but they usually lack fundamentals needed to make a professional recording such as:

    • Acoustically designed and treated rooms
    • Professional Quality Equipment and Microphones
    • Years of experience

  • A professional produced album is going to stick out in a pile of home recordings.  It could give you the competitive edge you need to get noticed.
  • Make your recording experience something to remember and something to be proud of. We have helped in the process of millions of records sold. We can help you get the sound you are looking for. We do this every day.


How much does it cost to record?

 

  • Studio Time is charged hourly available by appointment.
  • Please call for a quote

 

Do you offer Block Rates?

 

  • Yes we have blocks in several sizes, please call for a custom quote
  • We sometimes offer 8 hour late night blocks for $300.00. This special rate only applies to blocks between 11pm and 7am and is based on availability.

 

What are your rates for Mastering?

 

  • Attended sessions are $50 an hour
  • Unattended sessions are $50 per song or $400 per album (up to 80 min)

 

I found a studio with a cheaper rate, what’s the difference?

 

  • We recommend you take a tour of any studio you are considering for recording.  Listen to some music that has been done there.  Your recording is a representation of your art to the world, you should be proud of it.
  • The price of studio time varies a great deal in Pittsburgh. We offer very reasonable rates for the service and quality you will receive.  A comparable studio in a larger city could cost several times as much.
  • We here at Mr. Smalls Recording and Mastering have invested a great deal into our rooms and equipment to create an optimal recording environment. These factors make a huge difference in your final product.  This is generally not the case with cheaper studios.
  • Mr. Smalls Recording and Mastering has a strong reputation, built by hard work and great sounding recordings. Your project is also a representation of us. We want it sound great as much as you do.
  • Remember you get what you pay for

 

I am on a tight budget; can Mr. Smalls help me?
  • Yes, we work with all budgets. Give us a call and we can talk about different options to make your recording project both affordable and something you can be proud of.


Is Mr. Smalls Recording and Mastering a digital or analog studio?

 

  • Trick question, we are both.  We use a combination of vintage and modern analog microphones and recording equipment with Pro Tools HD as our main recording format.  Pro Tools is widely accepted as the industry standard for professional recording.
  • We also offer analog tape mastering.  We have an Ampex ATR 800 ½ inch two track tape machine to add that analog tape warmth to your final master.

 

What other services does Mr. Smalls Recording and Mastering offer?

  • Live Recoding
  • Production
  • Original music and beats
  • Commercial add production
  • Voiceovers
  • Format transfers
  • Audio Restoration
Do you charge for set up?

  • We encourage you to show up 15 minutes before your scheduled time to bring in your gear and start to set up
  • We start to put up microphones and set up our equipment .
  • The session begins at the scheduled time

 

When do I pay for session and what payment types do you accept?

 

  • Payment is expected at the end of every session unless prior arrangements have been made.  A $100 deposit is required for new clients to book time.  Please note that all digital data, and hard drives will remain on Mr. Smalls’ premises until the balance is paid in full.
  • We accept : Cash, Visa, Master Card, Cashier’s Checks, Personal Checks

 

How do I book a session or tour?

 

 

Can I just stop in for a tour or a recording session?

 

  • All studio time and tours are by appointment only.  Chances are there will be someone recording if you just stop by.  We cannot take time out of their session to talk to you and show you around. 

 

How long does it take to record?

 

  • Every project is different based on style of music, number of musicians, how well you are rehearsed, and the overall goal of the recording.
  • Give us a call to set up a free tour and consultation so we can discuss your needs and goals specifically. Let our experience help guide you to as you approach your recording project.

If I recorded my project at home can you help me mix it?

 

  • Yes, though we would rather be involved in the project earlier to help you foresee things we have discovered through years of experience.

I did not use Pro Tools can you work with my files?

 

  • We can import almost any file type into our system. 
  • There is sometimes audio file preparation you need to do of before you come in.  Give us a call and we can discuss it.

What happens if I need to cancel my session?

 

  • We understand that unforeseen events can happen but all sessions are considered confirmed & billable within 48 hours of the session start time. Cancellations need to be made at least 48 hours in advance or your deposit will be forfeited. 

Are there any additional fees I should be aware of?
  • Music CD's are $2.00 each
  • Data CD's are $5.00 each
  • Data DVD's are $15.00
  • Hard Drives - call for price
  • Storage of your project on our hard drives after project completion $25.00 per 10 GB
  • Mr. Smalls recommends you purchase one hard drive for your project and one for backup.  We do not assume any liability for information left on our drives.