Questions & Answers
In an attempt to save everyone some time and effort here’s a list of a few of the most commonly posed inquiries. Don’t see an answer to your question here? Send a quick message via the booking form and I’ll get back to you as soon as I can.
What are your rates?
A:Check the booking form for rates.
How much will it cost to record an album?
A: That depends on how prepared you are, how long the album is, how elaborate the production is and how meticulous you are. Most albums are done in 10-30 days including mixing.
How do you decide what projects you’re going to work on?
A: Friendship, fun, and creativity are my priorities. So, my own band, friends’ bands, and repeat business get first dibs, followed by anything I think will be fun and exciting to work on. Any time left in my schedule after that will be filled by mix-only projects, demos, etc.
How far in advance do you book?
A: Typically 4-5 months for both recording and mixing.
Is mixing included in the price?
A: No. Mixing is the same rate as recording and you need to book time for mixing as well as recording even if you don’t plan to attend mixing. Most album mixes recorded at God City take 3-5 days for the full album. Mixing recordings tracked at other studios usually take 1-2 days longer.
Can we master our record at God City?
A: No. Among other things, mastering is a second opinion on the mix. I believe mastering should always be done by a dedicated mastering engineer and in a different space than the mix to remove any unwanted bias due to the room or the ears of the engineer. Mastering should be arranged by the client. Some frequently recommended mastering studios include westwestsidemusic.com, audiosiege.com, and magnuslindberg.com
Can you mix records recorded at other studios by other qualified engineers?
A: Yes, but I need to approve of and be in touch with the studio you’ll record at before you begin tracking.
Can you provide a place to stay?
A: Yes, as of 2014, God City has an apartment above the studio available to rent at additional cost. There are 4 bunk beds, a full kitchen, bath and living room available. The studio is located in downtown Salem with many amenities available within a short walk.
We’re unable to come to Salem to record, can you come to us?
A: While I prefer to track in my own studio, it is possible for me to work elsewhere. I do require that I mix at my own place, though.
You mixed my record last month, but now our label wants vocal up, instrumentals, acappellas, stem mixes, etc. Can you send those over?
A: No. I mix on analog gear, so I cannot recall previous mixes without building a new mix from scratch. If you need ancillary mixes, please decide that in advance and book an extra day to do them.
Do you offer internships?
A: No, not at this time.
Is God City available to freelance engineers?
A: Not at this time.
Who else has recorded here?
A: Check out the client section of the website.
What is there to do around here?
A: Here’s a big list of accommodations in the Witch City.
Can we invite some friends to the studio to hang out with us?
A: We’d appreciate it if you’d avoid that. God City is not a big place and it gets cramped quickly with extra people around.
Where did you come up with the name “God City”?
A: It’s the title of a Soul Side song.