Los Angeles has long been a beacon for musicians and artists, offering a plethora of recording studio options.
As a musician or producer, you'll find that each studio comes with its own unique blend of equipment, acoustics, and expert staff to bring your work to life.
Selecting the ideal studio often involves considering the kind of sound you're aiming for and the genre you're working in.
From historical studios that have captured the sounds of legendary artists to modern spaces equipped with the latest technology, LA’s top studios offer something for everyone.
In this article, we will explore some of these top recording studio options in LA.
So without further ado, let's dive right in!
Top Mid-Range Studios
When you're looking to lay down some tracks without breaking the bank, Los Angeles offers a selection of mid-range studios that provide professional quality without the premium price tag. Each studio offers unique services that cater to various recording needs.
The Room Melrose
Address: 4550 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90029
Location:Â West Hollywood, CA
Services: • Recording • Mixing • Mastering
Facilities: • Modern equipment • Isolation booths • Comfortable control room
Notable Clients:Â Up-and-coming indie artists
Booking:Â Advance booking recommended
Situated in the heart of West Hollywood, The Room Melrose is equipped with the latest technology to ensure a high-quality recording experience. Artists appreciate the comfortable control room and the isolation booths that make for an intimate recording session.
Phone: (310) 895-8553
Website: https://theroomstudios.us/
Zoom Recording Studio
Address: 539 S Rampart Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90057
Location:Â North Hollywood, CA
Services: • Live room recording • Voice over • Audio post-production
Facilities: • Spacious live room • State-of-the-art console • Lounge area
Notable Clients:Â Independent filmmakers, podcasters
Booking:Â By appointment
Zoom Recording Studio stands out with its spacious live room that is ideal for full band sessions and ensemble recordings. The state-of-the-art console and outboard gear ensure your project is captured with clarity and precision.
Phone: (818) 806-9891
Website: https://zoomrecordingstudio.com/
Iconic Studios in LA
Los Angeles is home to some of the most legendary recording studios in the music industry. These studios have not only contributed to the production of countless hit records but also boast state-of-the-art recording technology and a rich history.
Record Plant Recording Studios
Address: 1032 N Sycamore Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90038
Built in the late 1960s, Record Plant Recording Studios has hosted a plethora of music legends, including The Eagles, Rihanna, and Kanye West. It's known for its top-notch equipment and its consistently professional audio recording. Plus, no matter which sound engineer you work with, online reviews praise their team.
Location: Sausalito, Los Angeles
Notable Albums Recorded:
Eagles' "Hotel California"
Red Hot Chili Peppers' "Californication"
Phone: (323) 993-9300
Website: https://recordplant.com/
EastWest Studios
Address: 6000 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028
EastWest Studios is renowned for its vintage aesthetic and high-quality acoustics. This studio, formerly known as Ocean Way Recording, boasts industry-leading analog and digital recording gear. You'll walk the same halls as Frank Sinatra and Green Day, recording your sounds in a space designed for sonic excellence.
Location: West Hollywood, Los Angeles
Notable Albums Recorded:
Michael Jackson's "Thriller"
Frank Sinatra's "My Way"
Phone: (323) 957-6969
Website: https://www.eastweststudios.com/
Henson Recording Studios
Address: 1416 N La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90028
Previously known as A&M Studios, Henson Recording Studios stands as not only one of the best recording studios in LA, but also a place of music history with artists like Joni Mitchell and Carole King recording timeless albums within its walls. This studio prides itself on a combination of vintage charm and cutting-edge technology.
Location: Hollywood, Los Angeles
Notable Albums Recorded:
The Carpenters' "Close to You"
Weezer's "Weezer (Blue Album)"
Phone: (323) 856-6680
Website: https://hensonrecording.com/
Rising Stars in the Studio Scene
Los Angeles harbors a continuously evolving music scene, and some recording studios stand out, gaining reputation for their cutting-edge facilities and exceptional services. These newer options are swiftly ascending the ranks.
Mad Muse Recording Studios
Address: 1015 E 14th St, Los Angeles, CA 90021
Mad Muse Recording Studios is an eclectic space that has quickly garnered attention from indie and mainstream artists alike. With its blend of vintage gear and modern technology, you get the best of both worlds. Their equipment list boasts an impressive collection, including a Neve 8068 MKII console and a Studer A827 Gold Edition tape machine. Here's a snapshot:
Console: Neve 8068 MKII
Tape Machine: Studer A827 Gold Edition
Microphones: Variety from classic Neumann U87 to modern Royer R-121
Monitors: ATC SCM25A Pro
Phone: (323) 685-2054
Website: https://madmusestudios.com/
Lion Share Recording Studios
Address: 8255 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90048
Once your project lands in Lion Share Recording Studios, expect to work in a studio that has hosted legendary artists and is known for its top-of-the-line acoustic environment. You are provided with an intimate yet state-of-the-art recording experience catered by their highly experienced staff. Their key features include:
Signature Room: Studio A with custom SSL 4000 E/G console
Microphone Locker: Contains vintage mics such as a Telefunken 251
Outboard Gear: Comprehenders like Tube-Tech CL 1B, EQs such as Pultec EQP-1A
Clientele: Has seen the likes of major names from various genres
Phone: (213) 293-8716
Website: http://lionsharestudios.com/
Multiple-Genre Studios
Los Angeles houses some versatile recording studios, perfect for music artists who cross genre boundaries, and need sound engineers ready for the challenge.
MIX Recording Studio
Address: 539 S Rampart Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90057
At MIX Recording Studio, your creative visions can be realized across any genre.
Key Equipment: MIX boasts a Solid State Logic (SSL) Duality console and a lavish selection of outboard gear catering to the nuances of various music styles.
Notable Artists: This studio has seen the likes of Snoop Dogg and Justin Bieber, ensuring your work is in a space with a history of diverse and successful music production.
Phone: (323) 218-7475
Website: https://mixrecordingstudio.com/
Paramount Recording Studios
Address: 6245 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90038
Your projects find a home at Paramount Recording Studios, a space famous for versatility. They offer an impressive eight recording studios, capable to handle all of your audio recording needs.
Key Equipment: Featuring an SSL 9000 J console, the studio provides top-tier audio quality regardless of genre.
Recording Rooms: Multiple, uniquely tuned rooms are designed to capture the essence of any music style.
Notable Projects: From rock bands to hip-hop icons, Paramount Recording Studios is a staple for artists like Lil Wayne, making it a melting pot for genre blending.
Phone: (323) 465-4000
Website: http://www.paramountrecording.com/
Specialized Studios
Los Angeles offers an array of specialized recording studios, each providing unique sound services tailored to specific needs of artists and producers.
Ice Cream Sound Recording Studio
Address: 453 S Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90013
Specialization:Â Vintage analog gear and modern digital technology
If you're aiming for a classic sound with updated precision, Ice Cream Sound offers a hybrid approach. Their fully-equipped studio caters to both vintage analog enthusiasts as well as artists seeking cutting-edge digital recording.
Phone: (323) 760-7557
Website: http://icecreamsound.com/
Westlake Recording Studios
Address: 7265 Santa Monica Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90046
Notable Clients:Â Michael Jackson, Rihanna, Madonna
With a rich history hosting legendary artists, Westlake is known for top-tier sound and discretion. Your projects benefit from state-of-the-art equipment and acoustically treated rooms that have produced some of the music industry's iconic records.
Phone: (323) 851-9800
Website: http://www.westlakestudios.com/
Brave Recording Studio
Address: 7 W 105th St, Los Angeles, CA 90044
Specialization:Â High-end tracking and mixing facilities
Brave Recording Studio attracts clients who seek clarity and depth in their recordings. They provide a comfortable, creatively inspiring atmosphere ideal for both seasoned professionals and emerging talents looking for meticulous sound production.
Phone: (323) 580-3992
Selecting the Right Studio
When you're on the hunt for the perfect recording space in Los Angeles, it’s crucial to focus on studios that align with your specific needs, appreciate the influence of location, and have a transparent understanding of costs involved.
Assessing Your Needs
Your project is unique, and the recording studio you select should reflect that.
Do you require a large live room for full-band recordings or a more intimate space for solo work? Evaluate the studio’s equipment list and check if they have the gear that fits your technical requirements.
Is the vibe of the studio conducive to your creativity? Some studios with a rich history may offer an inspirational atmosphere that could contribute to your work.
Considering the Location
Los Angeles is vast, and each neighborhood has its own character. Where you choose to record can affect your project in various ways.
Accessibility:Â Is the studio easily reachable for you and your collaborators?
Locale Vibe:Â Does the atmosphere of the neighborhood fuel your creative energy?
Amenities:Â Look for local services such as accommodation, restaurants, or entertainment venues if you plan on extended sessions.
Understanding the Cost
Budgeting is a key factor when choosing a studio. In Los Angeles, the prices can vary significantly based on the studio's reputation, equipment, and facilities on offer.
Studio Rates:
Type of Studio | Estimated Rate |
Project Studio | $200-$400/day |
Professional Studio | $700-$2000/day |
Top-Tier Studio | $2000+/day |
Keep in mind additional costs such as engineer fees, if they're not included in the base rate.
Some studios may offer package deals depending on the length of your booking. Always confirm what’s included in the price to avoid any unexpected expenses.
Technical Equipment
When you choose a recording studio in Los Angeles, it's important to consider the technical equipment available. The gear can greatly impact the quality and character of your recordings.
Analog vs. Digital
Analog Equipment:Â If you prefer warmth and classic sound, you'll appreciate studios equipped with analog gear.
For instance, Sunset Sound boasts a rich history with analog recording, offering a vintage feel that digital technology often tries to emulate.
Mixing Consoles:Â Look for renowned models like the SSL (Solid State Logic) or Neve for impeccable analog mixing.
Tape Machines:Â Bands desiring retro textures might opt for studios with reel-to-reel tape machines, still featured in some of the top facilities.
Digital Equipment:Â Digital recording offers precision and flexibility.
Modern studios like Union Recording Studio integrate high-end digital interfaces and software to capture pristine audio signals.
Workstations:Â Pro Tools is the industry standard, but other digital audio workstations like Logic Pro X are also widely used.
Plugins and Effects:Â Comprehensive digital plugin suites enable a vast palette of sound sculpting possibilities.
Latest Recording Technology
Staying current with technology is a hallmark of the best recording studios in Los Angeles.
Expect to find a vast selection of microphones, from vintage ribbon mics to modern condenser and dynamic microphones for every application.
Studios like Union Recording Studio and Ice Cream Sound Recording Studios also keep up with the latest recording equipment, ensuring a match for your technical preferences and recording needs.
Acoustics and Design
In Los Angeles, the design and acoustics of a recording studio can profoundly influence the sound quality of your production. These elements are crucial for achieving the clarity and precision required for professional recordings.
Room Acoustics
Your experience in a Los Angeles studio will heavily depend on its room acoustics.
High-end studios typically feature carefully designed spaces to control sound reflections and avoid standing waves, which can muddle recordings.
Proper absorption and diffusion materials are used to achieve a balanced sound.
For example, Capitol Studios, with its large Studio A, offers an expansive 2700 square feet of floor space that is acoustically treated to accommodate a full orchestra, ensuring crisp audio capture.
Studio Layouts
The studio layouts in Los Angeles cater to various production needs.
They include isolated booths for vocals and instruments, control rooms optimized for the accurate monitoring of recordings, and comfortable lounges for artists and producers.
The floor plans are meticulously crafted to facilitate seamless workflow and to accommodate different genres and recording styles.
Staff and Producers
When selecting a recording studio in Los Angeles, you should consider the expertise of the staff and producers available. These professionals are pivotal in shaping the quality and success of your music.
Experienced Engineers
Los Angeles recording studios are reputable for housing some of the most skilled sound engineers in the music industry.
These professionals are the technical backbone, ensuring that your sound quality is pristine.
Truth Studios: Here, you might work with a producer-engineer like Nick Breton, who has a track record of turning home studios into professional workspaces.
Union Recording Studio: Known for its reasonable rates, Union Recording offers experienced staff adept in a wide array of music styles. You can even find the option to rent their space without an engineer if you prefer.
Notable Producers
The producers you encounter in Los Angeles studios are often well-respected and have years of experience in music production across various genres.
Sunset Sound: This studio has been a choice for over 50 years, attracting a roster of producers who have worked with a broad spectrum of artists and music genres.
Golden Impala: Situated in Silverlake, this studio may not be as historic as Sunset Sound, but it prides itself on its modern production services, offering both recording and music video production.
Genres and Specialization
Los Angeles is a versatile hub for music production, where studios cater to a wide array of genres.
Your choice of studio should align with your musical direction, ensuring the staff has the expertise to elevate your sound.
Rock and Pop
Sunset Sound has a storied reputation for rock and pop music, having fine-tuned its services over five decades.
You'll find a rich history of legendary albums recorded within its walls, offering experienced professionals adept in these genres.
Hip-Hop and Rap
For enthusiasts of hip-hop and rap, look no further than studios like Truth Studios.
Spearheaded by Nick Breton, this locale is known for its personalized approach to meet the unique needs of urban and rap artists.
Jazz and Classical
While information on jazz and classical-specific studios isn't explicitly detailed in the search results, it's important to note that many recording studios in Los Angeles, given the diversity and adaptability, are equipped to handle these genres as well.
You should consider studios' history with these genres and seek out ones that advertise a classical or acoustic specialization.
Studio Etiquette
In Los Angeles, known for its array of top-tier recording studios, understanding and adhering to studio etiquette is crucial for a productive and respectful session.
Your awareness of the dos and don'ts can vastly influence the success of your recording experience.
Booking and Scheduling
When booking time in one of the best recording studios in Los Angeles, you should:
Communicate clearly about your project's needs, including the number of hours you may require and any specific equipment or setup.
Ensure to book in advance; popular studios often have tight schedules.
Inquire about cancellation policies, as studios may charge for last-minute changes.
Action | Recommendation |
Initial Contact | Provide a detailed project description. |
Confirm Booking | Get written confirmation of dates and times. |
Prepayment | Check if a deposit is needed to secure your slot. |
Session Protocols
During your session at the studio, remember to:
Arrive on time or ideally, a bit early to ensure you can start promptly.
Discuss and follow the studio’s rules regarding eating, drinking, and smoking.
Be mindful of breaktimes and end your session as scheduled to avoid overrunning into someone else's time.
Here is a checklist for a smooth studio session:
____ Arriving punctually
____ Respecting the premises
____ Managing session time efficiently
____ Following studio-specific guidelines
Industry Impact
Recording studios in Los Angeles have been instrumental in shaping the music industry and culture. Their contributions have resonated on global and cultural levels, influencing artists and audiences alike.
Influence on Global Music
Los Angeles recording studios have attracted artists from all over the world, seeking to create music in spaces where history has been made.
Union Recording Studio, for example, is one of the top recording studios, known for catering to a diverse range of genres which has, in turn, contributed to the global spread of various musical styles.
Their significance is underlined by the fact that they provide accessible rates, which encourages a broad spectrum of musical talent to record there.
Another standout, Sunset Sound, has a legacy of over 50 years on Sunset Boulevard. This music studio's client list includes international stars, and its impact extends across pop, R&B, funk, indie, and more, with this diversity reflecting in the global music trends.
Contribution to Music Culture
Recording studios in Los Angeles don't just record music; they contribute to the culture of music.
Studios like Capitol Studios not only offer vast spaces like their 2700 square foot Studio A but are also cultural landmarks themselves. They've hosted orchestras and top-name artists, becoming a part of music history.
Ice Cream Sound Studios is another example of a studio influencing the culture with its focus on creativity and modern sounds, fostering an environment where experimentation is encouraged.
Such spaces shape music culture by giving artists the freedom to innovate and craft new sounds that define contemporary music.
In Conclusion: The 12 Best Recording Studios in Los Angeles
LA's best music recording studios offer varied options suitable for different budgets and artistic visions.
Important studio selection criteria include specialized equipment, space acoustics, and staff expertise.
Studios in LA cater to a diverse range of genres, ensuring that artists can find a suitable match for their sound and style.
Frequently Asked Questions
When diving into the world of music production in Los Angeles, you may have a number of questions about studios – ranging from the most renowned to the investment needed.
This section provides you with answers to some of the most common inquiries.
What are some of the most renowned recording studios in Los Angeles?
Capitol Studios stands out with its rich history of hosting rock and roll legends. Another iconic location is Paramount Recording, known for its state-of-the-art facilities.
Which recording studios in Los Angeles have a history of celebrity clients?
Truth Studios boasts a clientele that includes stars like SZA, while Capitol Studios has seen the likes of Katy Perry and The Beach Boys record in their hallowed halls.
What should one expect to invest for studio time in Los Angeles?
Studio rates can vary widely. It's possible to find some going for as low as $27 per hour without an engineer, but high-end studios with full services can run well into the hundreds per hour.
Can you list a few recording studios in Los Angeles that are considered top-tier for music production?
Union Recording Studio is lauded for its professional atmosphere and high-quality equipment. Third Encore Studios is another premier selection, often chosen by seasoned music professionals.
Are there budget-friendly recording studios in Los Angeles that still offer quality services?
Absolutely. Union Recording Studio, for example, offers rates that can accommodate various budget levels without compromising on service quality.
What types of equipment are essential in a professional Los Angeles recording studio?
A professional studio should be equipped with cutting-edge recording consoles. It should also have a variety of microphones suitable for different applications. Additionally, outboard gear for signal processing and a selection of musical instruments and amplifiers are essential.