The Real Deal on Being a Recording Engineer

No heroes, no assholes – just solid advice on making great records and keeping clients happy. Here’s what you need to know.

Before Anyone Hits Record

• Get the details: goals, timeline, budget
• Know what gear you need
• Plan your setup time
• Be clear about costs

Running the Session

Show up early. Studio’s clean. Gear’s ready. Then:

• Give a quick tour
• Keep water handy
• Know where to grab food
• Talk like a human, not a gear manual
• Keep things moving

Time Is Everything

• Map out your session timeline
• Build in breaks
• Leave room for surprises
• Be upfront about schedule changes

The Technical Stuff

Keep your space pro:

• Maintain your gear
• Keep it clean
• Back up everything
• Update your software
• Monitor calibration is key

Document everything:

• Track sheets
• Signal paths
• Plugin settings
• Mic positions
• Special tricks

The Business Side

Have clear policies on:

• Cancellations
• Payment
• File delivery
• Revisions
• Backups

Money matters:

• Professional invoices
• Track what you spend
• Get deposits
• Price fairly
• Account for overhead

When Sh*t Happens (Because It Will)

Common issues:

• Sessions running long
• Gear problems
• Creative differences
• Budget talks
• Performance challenges

Stay cool and:

• Focus on solutions
• Have backup plans
• Communicate early
• Write everything down
• Know when to ask for help

Keep Growing

• Learn new tricks
• Network
• Join the community
• Document your work
• Get testimonials

Be a Pro

Remember:

• Keep client info private
• Know local resources
• Offer helpful ideas
• Follow up after sessions
• Stay positive

Your rep isn’t just about the sound – it’s about how you handle people, time, and problems.

Want to start engineering? Join our community of freelance engineers or book time in our studios. We’re here to help you grow.

More is more. There’s enough to go around when we collaborate and share.