Music Industry

16 Best NYC Recording Studios for Rappers, Singers & Bands

14 March 2024 by Gaetano
penthouse studios NYC

There’s no shortage of recording studios in New York City. 

With tons of options available across Brooklyn and Manhattan, it can be overwhelming to choose the right music studio for your session. 

That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best recording studios in NYC to help you find the perfect place to capture your sound.

Whether you’re looking for a state-of-the-art facility, or just a basic control room for tracking and mixing vocals — any of these production studios will get the job done. 

And with some of New York City’s top songwriters, music producers and engineers working out of these studios — you can remain confident that your recording session will be FIRE 🔥

16 Top-Rated Recording Studios in NYC

  1. Penthouse Recording Studios
  2. Platinum Sound Recording Studios
  3. Electric Lady Studios
  4. Threshold Recording Studios
  5. Quad Recording Studios
  6. The Cutting Room
  7. The Engine Room
  8. Mirrortone Studios
  9. Dubway Studios
  10. The Bunker
  11. Timeless Sound
  12. Grand Street Recordings
  13. JAMBOX Entertainment Studios
  14. Jungle City Studios
  15. Power Station Studios
  16. Lounge Studios

1. Penthouse Recording Studios

Penthouse Recording Studios NYC is a world-renowned recording studio that offers an excellent variety of music production services and recording gear to meet the needs of any artist, musician or band. 

The Penthouse is located in the heart of midtown Manhattan — Times Square, and its recording facilities are custom built to perfection. This epic space is part of the historic Music Row at 48th street and 7th avenue. 

What makes The Penthouse unique?

  • Customer Experience – When you call the Penthouse, you speak directly with management. They’ll cater to your every need to ensure you have a phenomenal recording experience.
  • Acoustics – The acoustics are absolutely perfect! The master control room was stripped down and remodeled to make it suitable for acoustic performances. Meticulously tuned for optimal sound quality, this unique environment provides an immersive experience where you can both feel and hear the music in its full glory.
  • Relaxed Vibe – The atmosphere is relaxed and comfortable, with a focus on catering to artist creativity. The staff is professional, friendly and knowledgeable — ensuring that every client feels right at home.
  • A-List Clientele — Da Baby, Meek Mill, Ozuna, Pop Smoke (RIP), DJ Khaled, Jennifer Hudson, French Montana and countless other stars record at The Penthouse. 
  • Stunning Views — The Penthouse is located on the top floor 723 7th Avenue in New York City, providing access to a spectacular balcony view of Times Square directly from the studio!

penthouse rooftop balcony NYC

Pricing

  • Studio Room A — Ranges from $100 – $150 an hour (includes engineer).
  • Studio Room B — $50 an hour (without an engineer). 
  • Engineers — $25 – $75 an hour, depending on your session needs. 
  • Producers — $25 – $75 an hour, depending on your session needs. 
  • Songwriters — $25 – $75 an hour, depending on your session needs. 

Services

  • Recording, mixing and mastering.
  • Songwriting, music production and original compositions.
  • Video production / podcast production. 
  • Showcase and event space.

Equipment

  • Pro Tools HDX system
  • Avodart s3 control surface
  • Vintage and modern microphones, such as the Neumann U87
  • Wide range of outboard gear, and a large selection of instruments.
  • Drums & percussion instruments.
  • Acoustic pianos. 
  • Guitar amplifiers.
  • Cabinets for PA systems.

For a complete list of their gear, contact the Penthouse directly. 

Contact

Address

723 7th Avenue, Penthouse Floor, New York, NY 10019

Location

https://goo.gl/maps/Xkutfpyr5kVtozP47

Business Hours

Open 24 Hours / 7 Days Per Week

2. Platinum Sound Recording Studios

Platinum Sound Recording Studio

Platinum Sound Recording Studios NYC, situated in the heart of Manhattan, is a renowned studio frequented by world-famous musicians such as Chris Brown, Justin Bieber and Lady Gaga. It has been deemed one of the most prestigious recording studios worldwide.

Platinum sound offers three studios: Studio J, Studio K, and the Penthouse — all with different purposes. From tracking vocals to laying down live drums, you can get it done at Platinum sound.

What makes Platinum Sound unique?

  • Reputation – With over 20 years of experience in the music industry, their team of Grammy award-winning engineers and producers will help you create a sound that is uniquely yours.
  • State of the Art – Year after year, GRAMMY winning artists trust Platinum’s luxury recording studio to capture & mix their creativity in stereo and Dolby Atmos.
  • Backed by Jerry Wonda – You know it’s legit when Jerry Wonda is behind the operation. He’s a multi-platinum, Grammy-Award winning musician and producer that’s got credits on countless hit records.

Pricing

Services

  • Recording and mixing.
  • Pre and post production.
  • Videos and interviews.
  • Live music recordings and voiceovers. 
  • Private functions.

Equipment

  • Pro Tools HDX
  • Neve 88R Console
  • SSL Duality Console
  • Avid HD I/O
  • Universal Audio Apollo
  • Neumann U87, U47, and U67 Microphones
  • AKG C414 Microphones
  • Shure SM7B Microphones
  • AEA Ribbon Microphones
  • API 512c Preamps
  • Universal Audio 1176 Compressors
  • Empirical Labs Distressors
  • Lexicon Reverbs and Delays
  • Eventide Harmonizers
  • Yamaha NS-10 Monitors
  • Focal Solo6 Be Monitors
  • Genelec 8040A Monitors
  • Yamaha HS80M Monitors
  • JBL LSR4328P Monitors
  • ATC SCM25A Monitors
  • Yamaha NS10M Monitors
  • Yamaha Subwoofer
  • Avid Pro Tools HDX System
  • Apple Mac Pro Computers
  • Universal Audio UAD-2 Plug-ins
  • Waves Plug-ins
  • Antares Autotune
  • Focusrite ISA Preamps
  • API Lunchbox
  • Radial JDI Direct Boxes
  • Mogami and Canare Cables

Contact

Address

122 W 26th Street, New York, NY 10001

Location

https://goo.gl/maps/w4eRdM1txovsAWrH7

Business Hours

Open 24 Hours / 7 Days Per Week

3. Electric Lady Studios

Electric Lady Studios

In 1970, the legendary Jimi Hendrix and his manager Michael Jeffery founded Electric Lady Studios, one of the first ever recording studios created specifically for rock music. 

Sadly, just a few months after its opening, Hendrix died; however, some of the most renowned acts in rock history such as Led Zeppelin, David Bowie, Stevie Wonder and The Rolling Stones have recorded at Electric Lady. 

In recent years, Electric Lady has been visited by more contemporary artists like John Legend, Alicia Keys, and Vampire Weekend. 

What makes Electric Lady Unique?

  • Historical – It is one of the few remaining analog recording studios in NYC, and has been used to record some of the most iconic albums of all time, including Jimi Hendrix’s Electric Ladyland and John Lennon’s Imagine. 
  • Jimi Hendrix Design – The studio was designed by Jimi Hendrix himself, and offers a unique and eclectic design, with a psychedelic vibe. 
  • Sound Quality – Electric Lady is known for its excellent acoustics and sound quality, making it one of the most well-respected recording studios in the world.
  • Legendary Experience – Even though it’s been around for almost 50 years, Electric Lady still has a cutting-edge sound that appeals to today’s top songwriters.

Pricing

Services

Equipment

Studio A

  • Neve 8078.
  • Yamaha C7 Grand Piano.

Studio B

  • SSL 9000J 80 Channel Console.
  • Yamaha U30a Upright Piano.

Studio C 

  • Neve VR.

Studio D

  • ALTEC 9200 Custom 16 Channel Console.
  • Steinway Model K Vintage Upright Piano.

Contact

Address 

52 W. 8th Street, New York, NY 10011

Location

https://www.google.com/maps/place/Electric+Lady+Studios/@40.7331817,-73.9988868,15z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x0:0xeec21231d7af3c86!8m2!3d40.7332054!4d-73.9988374 

Business Hours

Open 24 Hours / 7 Days Per Week

4. Threshold Recording Studios NYC

Threshold Recording Studios

Threshold Recording Studios is a landmark recording studio located in the Hell’s Kitchen section of New York City. Known for its cutting-edge technology, top-notch facilities, and expert personnel, Threshold studios has produced some of music’s most iconic hits with celebrated artists from around the globe.

Threshold offers a full suite of audio services including recording, mixing, mastering, podcast production, ADR (automated dialogue replacement), voice overs and beyond.

Their state-of-the-art equipment can accommodate any type of project –  ranging from hip-hop to heavy metal and classical compositions.

What makes Threshold Studios unique?

  • Versatility – The studio features a range of different recording spaces, from a large live room to a smaller, more intimate vocal booth.
  • Location – The studio is located in the Chelsea neighborhood, easily accessible by public transportation and is close to many of the city’s best restaurants and shops.
  • Expert Staff – Threshold is staffed by experienced engineers and producers who are committed to helping artists achieve their desired sound.

Pricing

Services

  • Recording, mixing and mastering.
  • Voice overs/podcasts.
  • Educational programming.
  • Songwriting room.
  • Photoshoot and filming location.
  • Original music production.
  • Consultations.

Equipment

  • Neve VR60 console
  • API 1608 console
  • Pro Tools HDX
  • Neumann U87, U47, and U67 microphones
  • A variety of outboard gear from Neve, API, Manley, and more
  • A selection of vintage and modern synthesizers
  • A variety of guitar and bass amplifiers
  • A selection of drum kits and percussion instruments
  • A selection of keyboards, samplers, and sequencers
  • A variety of acoustic and electronic instruments

Contact

Address

517 W 45th Street, New York, NY 10036

Location

https://www.google.com/maps/place/Threshold+Recording+Studios+NYC/@40.7621135,-73.9950132,15z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x0:0x8de345aa01ff07a4!8m2!3d40.7621135!4d-73.9950132 

Business Hours

Open 24 Hours / 7 Days Per Week

5. Quad Recording Studios

Quad Recording Studios

Located in the heart of New York City on 7th Avenue, Quad Recording Studios NYC has been the home to some of the most legendary recordings of all time, including albums by Sam Smith, Dave East, Ne-Yo, Lil Wayne, and countless other stars. 

What makes Quad Studios unique?

  • Star Clientele – Quad arguably has the most impressive caliber of clientele in the music business. Their roster of artists is spectacular — covering every genre from hip-hop, rock, pop, reggaeton, trap, R&B and beyond. 
  • Brand Reputation – Since 1978, Quad is home to the most iconic recordings in music history, including albums by Bruce Springsteen, Madonna, and the Rolling Stones. Quad is equipped with state-of-the-art recording and mixing equipment, and its professional staff of engineers and music producers are top class. 
  • Engineering Team – Quad has access to the music industry’s top mixing and recording engineers, available for a diverse stream of projects — notably, Jonathan “JL” Leyden,  Ryan Potts, Jeffrey “RAMZY” Ramirez, and Corey “Cutz” Nutile.

Pricing

Services

  • Recording
  • Mixing
  • Mastering
  • Production
  • Songwriting
  • Artist Development
  • Film Scoring
  • Sound Design
  • Post-Production
  • Rehearsal Space
  • Instrument Rentals
  • Video Production

Equipment

Studio Q1

  • Neve Genesys Black 64Ch
  • Augspurger technology monitoring

Studio Q2

  • Digidesign D-command 24ch
  • Active DSP Augspurger Vertical Dual 12″

Studio Q3

  • Digidesign D-command
  • Augspurger Duo 8
  • Yamaha NS-10M
  • Bryston 4B SST

Studio Q4

  • Digidesign ICON 32Ch
  • Chandler 16 x 2 Mini Rack Mixer
  • Augspurger Classic Dual 15″

Studio Q5

  • Dual 43” Raven system
  • Augspurger Quattro System

Contact

Address

723 7th Avenue, 10th Floor, New York, NY 10019

Location

https://www.google.com/maps/place/Quad+Recording+Studios+NYC/@40.7598492,-73.9838705,15z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x0:0xd0b9763b5c926502!8m2!3d40.7598492!4d-73.9838705 

Business Hours

Open 24 Hours / 7 Days Per Week

6. The Cutting Room

The Cutting Room

The Cutting Room Studios (located in downtown New York) is renowned for its top-notch facilities and world-class sound. The Cutting Room has an impressive 20+ year track record in the music industry, having collaborated with renowned artists, music producers and engineers from all around the world.

What makes The Cutting Room unique?

  • Sound Mastering – In-house mastering engineer, Tony Gillis (Prince, Jay-Z) will master your track to perfection, ensuring radio-ready quality. 
  • Great Management – The Cutting Room isn’t some corporate studio. It’s managed by David Crafa, a former engineer and producer turned studio owner — he runs the business with passion and takes pride in offering a top notch customer experience for all clients. 

Pricing

Services

  • Recording/Mixing.
  • Music production.
  • Mastering.
  • ADR/Voice over.
  • Podcasts/Audio book.

Equipment

Studio A

  • 48 Channel Solid State Logic Duality Console
  • Yamaha C5 grand piano with Disklavier/midi capability
  • ADAM Audio S5X-H Mains
  • Genelec 1031A, Yamaha NS10 and Adam S3X-V monitors.

Studio B

  • Neve 8816 Summing Mixer.
  • Pro tools HDX system.
  • Tannoy 15 DMT II mains.
  • Genelec 1031A’s, Yamaha NS10s and Adam S3X-V monitors.
  • Avalon VT-737, Focusrite Red 1 four channel preamp, and Tube Tech CL-1B.
  • Yamaha C5 Grand Piano (MIDI Capable).

Contact

Address

14 East 4th Street, #602, New York 10012

Location

https://www.google.com/maps/place/The+Cutting+Room+Studios/@40.728007,-73.993482,15z/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x0:0xe89714d9d20a05f7?sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjhus2UipL7AhW5RvEDHbfOC-sQ_BJ6BAhdEAU 

Business Hours

Open 24 Hours / 7 Days Per Week

7. The Engine Room

The Engine Room

The Engine Room is famous for its audio mastering capabilities and star-powered roster of A-List artists that love to record there. Located in the historic financial district of New York City, this music studio is a hidden gem that doesn’t disappoint. 

What makes The Engine Room unique?

  • Audio Engineering  – The Engine Room arguably has the best roster of music engineers you’ll find in New York City. 
  • Sound Mastering – Their audio mastering capabilities are no joke. Check it out. 

Pricing

Services

  • Recording
  • Mixing
  • Mastering

Equipment

Contact

Address

42 Broadway, 22 Floor, New York, NY 10004

Location

https://goo.gl/maps/J875QbBA2GUi2HqW7

Business Hours

Open 24 Hours / 7 Days Per Week

8. Mirrortone Studios

Mirrortone Studios

Mirrortone is unquestionably one of the top music studios in NYC. They don’t just cater to the major record labels and big-time artists, but also to independent musicians. 

What makes Mirrortone Studios unique?

  • Raving Reviews – They are rated 4.9/5 stars on Google, with nothing but positive remarks and satisfied clients. 
  • Podcast Audio – They offer some serious podcasting audio services, and are home to some of the highest rated podcasts across various topics like business, sports and entertainment. 
  • Founding Management – This studio is managed by a team that cares. And it shows in their online reviews and ratings. 

Pricing

Services

  • Mixing
  • Mastering
  • Recording
  • Original Compositions
  • Sound Design
  • Podcasting
  • Film Scoring

Equipment

  • Trident 65 Analog Console
  • Dynaudio BM5A MKII Monitor Pair
  • Wharfedale Valdus 200 Monitor Pair
  • JBL LSR 2300 Monitor Pair
  • Universal Audio Apollo 16
  • Universal Audio Apollo Twin
  • Universal Audio 4-710D
  • Ableton Live 10 Suite
  • Sibelius 5,6,7,8
  • Saffire Pro 14
  • Saffire Pro 10
  • Neumann TLM 103
  • Shure KSM-141 Stereo Pair
  • AKG P170 Small Diaphragm Condenser Pair
  • AKG D112
  • Rode NT1A Large Diaphragm Condenser Pair
  • Shure SM57 (10)
  • Shure SM58 (10)
  • Electro-Voice RE20
  • Electro-Voice RE320 Electro-Voice 635A
  • Sterling Audio ST31 Shotgun Condenser
  • Superlux CM-H8A Large diaphragm condenser
  • Studio Projects B1 Condenser Microphone
  • UAD 1176
  • UAD LA-2A
  • UAD LA-3A
  • UAD API Vision Channel Strip
  • UAD Little Labs VOG
  • UAD Ampex ATR-102
  • UAD Precision Maximizer
  • UAD Helios 69 EQ
  • UAD Roland RE-201 Space Echo
  • UAD EMT 140 Plate Reverb
  • UAD Pultec Pro EQ
  • UAD Fairchild 670 Compressor
  • UAD RealVerb Pro
  • UAD Pultec EQP1A
  • UAD 610-B Tube Preamp and EQ
  • UAD Precision Mix Rack Collection
  • UAD CS-1 Channel Strip
  • Ampex 601 Tube Preamp (Vintage 1950s)
  • Alesis Midiverb II
  • BBE 822A Sonic Maximizer
  • Joe Meek VC6Q British Channel Strip
  • DBX 166XL Compressor Limiter/Gate
  • Digitech RDS 7.6 Digital Delay Sampler (Original Vintage)
  • Digitech DSP 128 Signal Processor (Original Vintage)
  • Digitech DSP 256 Multi-Effects Processor
  • Digitech ISP 33 Smart Shift Intelligent Pitch Shifter
  • Lexicon MX200
  • Symetrix 501 Peak-RMS Compressor/Limiter (Stereo Pair)
  • Symetrix CL-150 Fast RMS Compressor/Limiter
  • MOTU Midi Timepiece AV
  • Orban 674a Vintage Stereo Parametric EQ
  • Lamb Laboratories PML 420 4-Channel Mixer (Vintage)
  • REALISTIC SA-1000 Vintage Amplifier

Contact

Address

146 W 29th Street: Suite 11R, New York, NY 10001

Location

https://goo.gl/maps/gRWxnCfcYkQQ7hqY9

Business Hours

Open 24 Hours / 7 Days Per Week

9. Dubway Studios

Dubway Studios

Dubway Studios is an impressive facility that offers a mezzanine studio plus several main floor studios. Their portfolio represents projects across TV, film, gaming, internet, podcasts and beyond. 

What makes Dubway Studios unique?

  • Unique Offerings – Dubway goes far beyond vocal tracking. They have a unique mix of services, ranging from dolby atmos mixing to podcast production. 

Pricing

Services

Equipment

Contact

Address

14 East 4 Street, Suite 602, New York, NY 10012

Location

https://goo.gl/maps/t2iT9JjSLoeBdStu6

Business Hours

Open 24 Hours / 7 Days Per Week

10. The Bunker

The Bunker Studios

The Bunker recording studio, located in the heart of Williamsburg, Brooklyn is not to be underestimated. I have personally recorded there and it was a wonderful experience. 

What makes The Bunker unique?

  • Affordable – Their prices are a bit more manageable than most recording studios based out of midtown Manhattan. 

Pricing

Services

  • Recording
  • Mixing
  • Mastering

Equipment

Contact

Address

400 S 2nd Street, Brooklyn, NY 11211

Location

https://goo.gl/maps/6YxJ56DaJAHxJ8NJ6

Business Hours

Open 24 Hours / 7 Days Per Week

Honorable Mentions

11. Timeless Sound

12. Grand Street Recordings

13. JAMBOX Entertainment Studios

14. Jungle City Studios

15. Power Station Recording Studio

16. Lounge Studios NYC

How to Choose the Right Recording Studio

When it comes to choosing a recording studio, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind:

Location

You’ll want to choose a studio that’s conveniently located for you. If you’re based in New York City, most recording studios are in Manhattan. But if you’re willing to travel to Brooklyn or Queens, you might find a better deal elsewhere.

Budget

How much are you willing to spend on your project? Recording studios can vary widely in price, so it’s essential to know your budget before you start looking. Check out how to build a home recording studio, and compare the overall cost.

Genre of Music

What type of music are you recording? Some studios specialize in certain genres, so you’ll want to ensure the studio you choose is a good fit for your project.

Experience

How experienced are the engineers at the studio? You’ll want to ensure they have experience working with the type of music you’re recording.

Equipment

What kind of equipment does the studio have? This is important if you have specific requirements for your project.

References

Does the studio have any references from past clients? This can give you an idea of what it’s like to work with them.

Once you’ve considered all of these factors, you’ll be able to narrow down your choices and find the perfect recording studio for your session. 

Gaetano is a Miami, FL 🌴 based songwriter, music producer and growth marketer. As he grinds through the music industry, Gaetano is documenting his experiences and sharing his story through his brutally honest articles.

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