Recording Studios for Hire in London

Your Guide to Hiring Recording Studios in London

London is home to one of the world’s most popular music studios – the famous Abbey Road – where many legendary bands have recorded their music. With such a vibrant music foundation, it’s no wonder that recording studios can be found all over the city, not only in Westminster, but also in the other artistic districts of the city. Be part of the phenomenon and hire a recording studio or rehearsal studio in London today. Let there be music!

How to Search for a Recording Studio in London

There are a few things you should think of before you start looking for your dream recording studio in London. We made a list of elements to consider that will help you find exactly what you need:

• The cost – Is the recording studio priced per hour, per day or per session? At some venues, recording studio prices are discounted if your hire lasts for several days. Another idea for cheap recording studio hire is choosing off-peak hours or week-days  when the hire fees are much lower. With Tagvenue, it’s absolutely possible to hire a budget-friendly recording studio in London.
• The location – Think about how much time it will take for all the performers to get to the recording studio. If your band members live in different parts of London, or even around the UK, it’s best to choose a recording studio that’s close to a major transport hub.
• Studio equipment – Make sure the workstation provided with the recording studio meets your requirements. Check if you can easily transfer tracks to the formats you need. If you’re going to need some instruments, microphones, or studio gear, ask the music studio managers if they can provide it either included with the studio or for a flat hire.
• Catering – Are there any tasty food joints nearby? When in the middle of the creative process, there’s no time to waste. Some recording studios in London are able to provide catering for you, if that’s more convenient.
• Breakout area – Recording sessions can be quite intense, so make sure the recording venue has a space that allows you to rest a little bit. Occasionally taking a break during your studio sessions will make your performance better in the long run.

Top 5 Types of Sound Studios Available in London

Whether you’re looking for a well-connected studio in the city centre, or looking to get inspired in London’s cultural districts, such as Camden or Hackney, here’s our list of the 5 types of recording studios that are available for hire:

• Music studios - London offers an abundance of music studios to record your own songs, music demos, and voice-overs. With Tagvenue, you can browse through music studio offers in every price range - from small studios, to high-end facilities.
• Podcast studios - Podcasts have become an extremely popular medium in the UK over the last few years. Since then, many podcast studios for private hire have opened all over the city.
• Photo and video studios - If you need a backdrop for a video recording, there’s dozens of small studios ready to host your artistic endeavours!
• Blank canvases - These creative spaces can serve many different purposes, depending on what type of recording you need to make. They come in a variety of sizes and prices, so you’ll be able to find the perfect one for your needs.
• Rehearsal halls - Many dance studios, small theatres, and creative spaces dedicated for rehearsals will gladly open their doors for you and turn into studios. They’re usually bigger, open spaces great for video recording, music videos, art performances and rehearsals.

How to Record a Demo With Your Band in London

If you feel ready to take your band or music project to the next level, you need to record a demo so record labels can check out your music. Here are our top tips for a successful demo session:

• Secure a recording studio. When you have a few great songs ready to record, you should start looking for a music studio. In order to impress a record label, you’re going to need that quality sound you can only achieve in a soundproofed room. Set your budget for a music studio hire - it’s a good idea to spread your recording process over a few days so that you’ll be able to rest between shorter demo sessions.

• Make it count. Do your best to be well-prepared for your studio sessions. Rehearse the songs with your band so that you won’t need to repeat different sections too many times. Be well-rested for the day of the session in order to put on a good performance for the demo.

• Stand out. Record labels get dozens, if not hundreds of submissions every day. You will have to be creative not only with your music, but with the format and packaging. A nice CD box can make a night and day difference when it comes to getting noticed by a renowned record label.

How to Rock the Recording Session

So you've booked your dream studio time in London, and the excitement is buzzing! But before you crank up the amps and unleash your inner rockstar, remember that a recording studio is a professional environment with its own type of etiquette. With proper use of the studio, your session will definitely be smooth and productive!

Punctuality is Paramount:  Treat studio time like gold, because it is!  Arriving late not only disrupts your session but disrespects the engineer's schedule and potentially throws off other bookings. Aim to arrive at least 15 minutes early to settle in, tune the instruments, and discuss the session plan. 

Respect the Gear:  Studio equipment is often high-end, delicate, and expensive. Handle everything with care, avoid roughhousing or dropping cables, and never eat or drink near the equipment. If you're unsure about how to use something, ask the engineer for guidance. Remember, you're responsible for any damage caused by negligence!

Mind the Volume:  While expressing yourself musically is encouraged, be mindful of volume levels, especially in shared studio spaces. Excessive noise can disrupt other sessions and damage equipment. Utilise headphones for personal monitoring whenever possible, and keep conversations during breaks to a reasonable volume. 

Communication is Key:  Clear communication with the engineer is crucial. Discuss your goals for the session beforehand, share reference tracks, and express your ideas clearly. Be receptive to feedback and suggestions, and don't hesitate to ask questions if something is unclear. Remember, the engineer is your partner in achieving the best possible recording.  

Clean Up:  Respect goes beyond the equipment. Leave the studio as you found it - tidy up any used instruments, cables, and personal belongings. Dispose of trash properly, and make sure to clean up any spills or messes. This shows appreciation for the space and the staff.  

Bring essentials: Make sure to bring any necessary items for the recording session, such as sheet music, lyrics, or any specific instruments or equipment that you need. It's also a good idea to bring water or snacks to keep yourself hydrated and energised throughout the session. Being prepared will help ensure a smooth and productive recording experience. 

By following these simple guidelines, your recording session will be more organised and efficient. Remember, professionalism and respect go hand-in-hand with unleashing your musical creativity in the studio. Now, go forth and rock on!

Your Guide to Recording Studio Lingo

Stepping into the world of these studios can be overwhelming, especially with all the technical jargon and lingo that is commonly used. From ‘analogue warmth’ to ‘pro tools session’, technical terms fly around, leaving first-timers unsure of what they're paying for and how to achieve their desired sound. Fear not, aspiring artists! This guide will demystify common recording studio jargon, empowering you to navigate the studio experience with confidence.

Analog vs. Digital: This fundamental distinction refers to the recording format. Analog captures sound waves continuously, like a vinyl record's groove. It's often praised for its ‘warmer’ tone, though digital recording has come a long way in replicating that warmth. Digital recording, on the other hand, converts sound waves into binary code, allowing for precise editing and manipulation. Both formats have their pros and cons, and understanding the differences will help you make informed decisions during your studio sessions. Studio facilities may offer both options, allowing you to choose based on your sonic preferences and project budget.

Live Room vs. Control Room: Imagine a glass wall dividing the studio into two distinct spaces. The live room is where musicians perform, capturing their instruments and vocals with microphones. They are designed to control acoustics, minimise unwanted reflections, and ensure clean recordings. The control room houses the engineers, who operate the recording equipment, mixing console, and monitors. They monitor the live sound, adjust microphones, and modify the audio using various processors and effects. Through speakers or headphones, they interact with musicians and guide the recording process.

Session Fees vs. Hourly Rates: Studio pricing can be confusing, so understanding these terms is crucial. A session fee is a fixed price for a block of recording time, usually several hours. It's ideal for projects with a clear plan and timeline. Hourly rates charge you for each hour of studio use, including setup, recording, and breakdown. This suits more flexible projects or those unsure of their exact needs. At Tagvenue, you can also find recording studios with a daily hire option, which allows for longer recording sessions and is potentially more cost-effective for projects that require extensive time in the studio. 

Gear Talk: London’s recording spaces boast an array of equipment. Pre-amps boost the microphone signal, essential for capturing strong and clear vocals. Compressors control dynamic range, making quiet sounds louder and loud sounds quieter. Equalisers (EQs) adjust specific frequencies, sculpting the sound of each instrument. Reverb adds depth and ambience to recordings, creating a sense of space.

Mixing vs. Mastering: Recording captures raw sound, but mixing brings it to life. The engineer balances individual tracks, adds effects, and creates a cohesive soundscape. Mastering polishes the final mix, ensuring consistent quality across different listening platforms. While some workspaces offer bundled services, others specialise in specific stages, so understanding these distinctions helps you budget accordingly.

Punch-ins, Comping, and Editing: Punch-ins allow you to re-record specific sections without redoing the entire track. Comping involves choosing the best takes from different recordings for each section, creating a flawless performance. Editing involves manipulating the recording digitally, such as removing unwanted sounds or adjusting timing. These techniques ensure your final product is flawless and professional.

The recording studio is your creative canvas. By understanding the lingo and communicating effectively, you can translate your musical vision into a stunning reality. Don't hesitate to ask questions and express your preferences. With knowledge and collaboration, your recording journey will be both enriching and rewarding.

FAQs about Recording Studios in London

Which areas in London have the best recording studios?

You can find music and recording studios all over Greater London. In North London, Dalston, Tottenham, and Islington have plenty of options for affordable music studios and blank canvas spaces. The city centre is also full of great music studios in many price ranges. Neighbourhoods such as Soho and Westminster have a large variety of studios for hire.

How much does it cost to hire a recording studio in London?

For London recording studios that charge by the hour, expect rates between £20 and £70. A full day recording venue hire can reach up to around £500+. Keep in mind that some professional studios include all the equipment in the price, while others charge additional fees for some of the facilities. If you're looking for cheap studios in London, make sure you check all the details, consider the less popular neighbourhoods, and are flexible with the timing! (All data from Tagvenue.)

What gear should I expect in a London recording studio?

A well-equipped studio will include a main workstation for mixing your audio in real time, a soundproof studio booth for clean-sounding vocals, and many different microphones, instruments and any studio gear you would need during a session.

What are some of the best recording studios for hire in London?

• AIP Studios - based in the appealing Isle of Dogs, this music studio offers you the best and highest quality equipment for your recording sessions.
• BonaFideStudio - located in Muswell Hill, North London, BonaFideStudio offers a great studio workspace of musicians and producers.
• Fiction Studios - a music recording studio full of character, suitable for bands and solo musicians alike. Located in Holborn, right in the heart of the city.
• Mavro Worldwide Studios - just a quick walk from Southwark Park, Mavro Worldwide Studios provides a marvelous recording studio space, along with the services of a professional recording engineer.