New York City, a pulsating hub of creativity and culture, is home to an impressive array of recording studios that cater to both seasoned artists and emerging talents.
With its rich musical heritage, NYC has been a birthplace for numerous legendary recordings and artists. To this day, New York recording studios continue to uphold this prestigious legacy.
Whether you're an independent artist looking to lay down your first tracks, or a professional seeking state-of-the-art production, NYC's best recording studios offer a diverse range of services to bring your music to life.
From affordable spots that provide great value without sacrificing quality, to the luxurious facilities that are frequented by Grammy award-winning musicians, the top recording studios in NYC have something for everyone.
So without further ado, let's explore the top recording studios in NYC!
The 12 Best Recording Studios in NYC
New York City's vibrant music scene is home to an array of top-tier recording studios. Whether you're looking for state-of-the-art equipment, iconic history, or affordable spaces, NYC's studios cater to every need.
Best Manhattan Recording Studios
When it comes to recording studios in Manhattan, there are several options to choose from. Here are three of the best studios in Manhattan that you should consider for your next recording session.
Power Station (Formerly Avatar Studios)
Location: 441 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019
Power Station, formerly known as Avatar Studios from 1996-2017, is one of the most well-known recording studios in Manhattan. The New York studio has been in operation since 1977 and has hosted some of the biggest names in music, including Bruce Springsteen, Lady Gaga, and Madonna.
The studio features a large live room, several isolation booths, and a wide selection of vintage and modern gear. Power Station is a great choice for any artist looking for a professional recording experience in Manhattan.
Website: https://powerstation.nyc/
Phone: (212) 765-7500
The Cutting Room Studios
Location: 14 E 4th St # 602, New York, NY 10012
The Cutting Room Studios is a popular recording studio located in the heart of Manhattan. The studio has hosted some of the biggest names in music, including Lady Gaga, John Legend, and Sting.
The Cutting Room Studios features a large live room, several isolation booths, and a wide selection of vintage and modern gear. The studio is known for its professional, yet relaxed atmosphere and is a great choice for any artist looking for a high-quality recording experience in Manhattan.
Website: https://www.thecuttingroom.com/
Phone: (212) 260-0905
Quad Recording Studios NYC
Location: 723 7th Ave 10th floor, New York, NY 10019
If you are still looking for the right recording studio in Manhattan, look no further than Quad Recording Studios. Conveniently located in Midtown Manhattan, this recording studio has worked with top-notch artists like Post Malone, Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, and Lil Wayne.
Online reviews mention that their studio engineers are also talented music producers who can adapt your project on the fly based on your desired sound.
When it comes to New York recording studios, they are certainly not the cheapest, but their high-quality equipment and service keeps them busy as a premier recording destination in NYC.
Website: https://quadnyc.com/
Phone: (212) 730-1035
Best Brooklyn Recording Studios
If you're looking for a recording studio in Brooklyn that can help you produce high-quality music, you're in luck. Brooklyn is home to some of the best recording studios in NYC, and we've compiled a list of the top four for you to consider.
The Bunker Studio
Location: 400 S 2nd St, Brooklyn, NY 11211
The Bunker Studio, located in Williamsburg, is a popular choice for musicians looking for a high-quality recording experience. The studio features a spacious live room, a comfortable control room, and a wide range of equipment to choose from.
The Bunker Studio has worked with many well-known artists, including Animal Collective, Battles, and Deerhunter. Like most recording studios, they also offer a high-quality music production studio for mixing and mastering all of your sounds.
Website: https://www.thebunkerstudio.com/
Phone: (929) 234-8534
Mansion Recording Studios
Location: 413 Broadway, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Mansion Recording Studios, located in Bushwick, is another great option for musicians looking for a professional recording experience. The studio offers a wide range of services, including recording, mixing, and mastering, and features a large live room and comfortable control room.
Mansion Recording Studios has worked with many well-known artists, including Jay-Z, Beyoncé, and Kanye West, among others.
Website: https://www.mansionstudiosnyc.com/
Phone: (212) 287-5799
The Brewery Recording Studio
Location: 910 Grand St, Brooklyn, NY 11211
The Brewery Recording Studio, located in Williamsburg, is a state-of-the-art recording studio that offers a wide range of services, including vocal and instrumental recording, mixing and mastering, and production and composition.
The studio features a spacious live room, a comfortable control room, and a wide range of equipment to choose from. The Brewery Recording Studio has worked with many well-known artists, including The Black Keys, Vampire Weekend, and Norah Jones, among others.
Website: https://www.breweryrecording.com/
Phone: (844) 717-2739
Black Diamond Studios
Location: 58 N 9th St Unit 139, Brooklyn, NY 11249
Black Diamond Studios, located in Park Slope, is a boutique recording studio that specializes in working with independent artists and bands. The studio offers a wide range of services, including recording, mixing, and mastering, and features a comfortable control room and a spacious live room.
Black Diamond Studios has worked with many up-and-coming artists, including The So So Glos, The Men, and Parquet Courts, among others. Online reviews commend their equipment and engineers, along with the atmosphere and cleanliness.
Phone: (917) 446-3093
Other Top NYC Recording Studios
If you're looking for recording studios in NYC that are not located in Brooklyn or Manhattan, there are certainly other great options to consider.
Five Star Studios
Location: 110-60 Dunkirk St, Queens, NY 11412
Fiver Star Studios is one of the best New York recording studios, Located in Queens, they offer affordable rates for original music production, vocal tracking and recording, album cover photo shoots, and of course; mixing and mastering services.
Online reviews commend their state-of-the-art equipment and the work ethic and effort from engineers as "going above and beyond." With over 4,000 independent musicians who have recorded at this location, you can know you'll receive a high-quality product when you record your next project here.
Website: https://fivestarstudios.nyc/
Phone: (718) 454-1518
RaMed Studios
Location: 92-22 Guy R Brewer Blvd 2nd floor, Jamaica, NY 11433
RaMed Studios is a professional recording studio located in New York City, but more specifically, Queens. They offer a wide range of services, including recording, mixing, mastering, and production.
Their studio is equipped with high-end equipment, including an SSL mixing console and a range of microphones from brands such as Neumann and AKG. They also offer music production services, including beat-making and songwriting.
Website: https://www.ramedstudios.com/
Phone: (646) 818-5731
Electric Lady Studios
Location: 52 W 8th St, New York, NY 10011
Electric Lady Studios is a legendary recording studio located in Greenwich Village. The studio was founded by Jimi Hendrix in 1970 and has hosted some of the biggest names in music, including Led Zeppelin, The Rolling Stones, and David Bowie.
Electric Lady Studios features a large live room, several isolation booths, and a wide selection of vintage and modern gear. The studio is known for its unique, creative atmosphere and is a great choice for any artist looking for a truly iconic recording experience in Manhattan.
Website: https://electricladystudios.com/
Phone: (212) 677-4700
Jungle City Studios
Location: 520 W 27th St, New York, NY 10001
Located in Chelsea atop an eleven-story building, Jungle City Studios is one of the top music studios in New York. The studio owner and founder, Ann Mincieli, has worked with some of the biggest names in music, including Alicia Keys and Jay-Z.
Jungle City's Penthouse Studio East can accommodate any project, offering a large live room, several isolation booths, and a wide selection of vintage & modern gear.
The studio is known for its warm, inviting atmosphere and is a great choice for any artist looking for a comfortable, creative space to record in.
Website: https://junglecitystudios.com/
Phone: (646) 476-2684
Platinum Sound Recording Studios
Location: 122 W 26th St, New York, NY 10001
Platinum Sound Recording Studios is a world-renowned recording studio located near Times Square. They have worked with some of the biggest names in the music industry, including Jay-Z, Beyoncé, and Rihanna.
Their studio boasts state-of-the-art equipment, including a SSL 9000 J mixing console and a range of microphones from brands such as Neumann and AKG.
They offer a range of services, including recording, mixing, mastering, and production. However, their rates are higher than other studios, so they may not be the best option for artists on a budget.
Website: https://www.platinumsoundny.com/
Phone: (212) 265-6060
Overall, these twelve recording studios offer high-quality services and equipment. Depending on your budget and needs, one of these studios could be the perfect fit for your next recording project.
Affordable Recording Options
When you're looking for cheap recording studios in NYC, you might think that affordability comes at the expense of quality. However, many studios offer competitive rates without sacrificing the tools you need to create great music.
Pirate Studios NYC stands out with their innovative approach to providing high-quality recording spaces that won't break your budget. They offer multiple locations across the city, ensuring convenience no matter where you're based.
Locations: Gowanus, Bushwick, Ridgewood
Features: Over 30 creative spaces, ideal for producers, rappers, and songwriters
If you need a space that is both affordable and comfortable, consider Dubway Studios. They have maintained a high Google rating and are praised for their professionalism, making them a reliable choice for your project.
For those who prioritize not only cost but also the flexibility of the rental period, music studio rental in NYC options can cater to various scheduling requirements.
You can book sessions by the hour or day, depending on the studio, providing a customizable solution to suit your project's needs.
Premier Recording Equipment and Facilities
When you search for a top-notch recording studio in NYC, you're looking for the crème de la crème in both equipment and facilities.
NYC’s finest provide you with nothing short of excellence.
For example the Penthouse Studios, offers exclusive access to the only SSL 9000K-series recording console in New York City, ensuring your recordings are of the highest quality.
Music Studio NYC settings are known for their dynamic monitors and the latest in digital audio workstations.
High-Quality Equipment: Expect nothing less from leading NYC studios, such as unrivaled recording consoles, microphones, and outboard gear.
Software and Tools: Cutting-edge studios provide the essential Final Cut Pro software tools, among others, required for sophisticated editing and mixing.
Versatile Recording Spaces: Studios like Mirrortone studios cater to various artists, from Grammy winners to emerging talent, by offering a versatile space that accommodates any musical need.
Among them are spaces that have earned five-star ratings, like Threshold Recording Studios, whose staff commitment and experience reflect in the quality of the provided services.
Studio Services and Amenities
When looking for recording studios in NYC, you'll want to consider the variety of services and amenities they offer to complement your recording experience.
Here are some features you might expect:
Recording Gear: High-quality microphones, mixing consoles, outboard gear, and digital audio workstations are standard in many New York recording studios. Penthouse Recording Studios takes pride in their extensive selection suited for all artist needs.
Production Services: Many studios provide music production services, including track mixing, mastering, and sometimes producing from skilled industry experts.
Additional Facilities: Look out for vocal booths, live rooms, and isolation booths, essential for capturing pristine sound.
Instruments & Amplifiers: Studios like Threshold often have a collection of instruments and amplifiers, such as the 7' Baldwin Grand Piano, for your use.
Comfort and Convenience: Studios may offer lounge areas, kitchen facilities, and sometimes accommodations for those long studio sessions.
Additional Services: Some recording studios in NYC expand their offerings to include vocal coaching, music marketing, and other artist support services like CD duplication.
Booking and Scheduling
When planning to book a session at a recording studio in New York, it is essential for you to be aware of the varying demand and protocols each studio has.
Most facilities offer online scheduling, but for specific needs or questions, contacting the studio directly is advisable.
Preliminary Steps:
Research: Explore options to identify the best recording studios in NYC.
Budget: Consider how much you're willing to spend, as rates can vary significantly.
Schedule Your Session:
Advance Booking: Aim to schedule weeks ahead, as top studios fill up quickly.
Session Length: Studios typically book in blocks (e.g., 4, 8, 12 hours).
Pro Tips:
Weekdays vs. Weekends: Weekday sessions may be easier to book and sometimes more affordable.
Deposit: Be prepared to pay a deposit to secure your slot.
Cancellation Policy: Clarify this upfront to avoid any unexpected fees.
During your prep, ensure you have all your materials ready and that you're clear on the services you require.
Whether it's music studio rental in NYC or a more extensive production need, being well-prepared is critical for a successful recording session.
Remember, punctuality is key—time is a valuable commodity in the studio.
In Conclusion
NYC is a premier destination for recording artists, offering a variety of top-rated studios.
There are affordable and high-quality recording options available to suit different budgets.
Studios in NYC provide excellent equipment and amenities, coupled with professional services for a comprehensive recording experience.