Stephen Wilmans is a music producer and owner of a private recording studio. In the following article, Steve discusses the industry shift – smaller, more private studios gaining popularity for artists over larger facilities, why the move has happened and the benefits of working with a smaller studio.

At its humblest, the music studio dates back to the 19th century, and ever since it’s been revolutionizing the way artists and producers create their tracks. What started as a way for musicians to create the best possible representation of live performances has culminated in individuals writing record hits from their private studios.

Whether at home on a laptop or in the starstruck-inducing huge recording studios, the advancement of music-related technology has allowed almost anyone to create songs they’re proud to put their name too. And while such technology used to be costly, causing many to travel miles to large studios, it’s now much more affordable, reintroducing small, private music studios that bring serious benefits. Grab your 4 channel wireless microphone system and let’s get started.

The Benefits of Going Small

Making a name in the music industry can be as cost-effective as utilizing a small, privately owned recording studio.

Wilmans says that despite the seeming impossibility of the fact, big name stars frequently utilize smaller scale studios to create their hits due to the ample advantages afforded by these facilities.

Flexible Scheduling

Although large studios typically boast multiple rooms, they tend to be packed to the brim with bustling artists, producers and staff. Thus, snagging a spot in a coveted room can be near-on impossible.

Wilmans explains that this is where small establishments can save the day.

Those not owned by large music conglomerates tend to have a clearer schedule than studios that show up on the “best in the city” list. But that doesn’t mean they have lower-quality equipment. In fact, it’s usually quite the opposite.

Privately owned studios take pride in their facilities, allowing artists to find a time slot to work their magic in a wonderfully well-equipped environment.

Personalized Experiences

Steve Wilmans notes that large studios constantly deal with countless requests for those whose names are well and truly in the limelight. As such, artists aren’t given the personalized experience they deserve. After all, there’s only so much one establishment can do to please the people.

Smaller studios, on the other hand, don’t have this struggle. With a shorter (but just as mighty) clientele list, private facilities have the time to respond to all requests with the dedicated and passion they deserve.

Comfortable Environments

And what do personalized experiences lead to? More comfortable environments for the artist and their producer(s).

Steve Wilmans says that it’s no secret that comfort equals creativity. While getting outside of comfort zones generates raw material, it’s being inside the comfort zone that allows the ideas to flow freely and form into something magical — i.e., the musician’s next big hit.

Affordability

While cost may not be an issue for those who’ve already made it, artists who are trying to break into the scene benefit massively from the affordability of privately owned small studios.

Of course, every recording facility sets their own prices. But, generally speaking, studios that aren’t as large are kinder to bank accounts.

Developing Unique Sounds

Naturally, Stephen Wilmans explains that artists can develop unique sounds in big studios. However, there’s always a worry in the back of their minds about cost per hour and the inconvenience of someone barging in right when they’re finding their flow.

With intimate studios and the comfort they afford, they are less likely to be interrupted, giving them ample time to hone (or find) their style.

Big-Time Artists, Small-Scale Studios

Stephen Wilmans notes that the benefits of the rising popularity of smaller, privately owned studios are innumerable, but modern-day artists aren’t the only ones to recognize that. In fact, plenty of ultra-famous musicians have made hits from the peace and tranquility of small-scale facilities.

Believe it or not, The Beatles and their producer, George Martin, produced some of their biggest hits in small studios. In fact, they were one of the sixties’ pioneers to use the ever-advancing studio technology in a wholly creative manner.

King Tubby, the creator of dub music, was famed for utilizing smaller facilities, too. As the technology continued growing, he used a lesser-known studio to add intense audio manipulations to reggae tracks, creating a niche for himself.

Evidently, small studios equal huge successes.