Instrument & Band Recording

Recording sessions at Quemadozone are built upon spatial design intended to support the performer's natural delivery. With a dedicated configuration comprising a live room, a vocal booth, and a control room, we allow for precise control over the balance between instrument isolation and collective cohesion. Since our establishment in 2018, we have provided a technical environment where tube microphones and nearfield monitors are used to pursue specific musical textures and sonic clarity.

For band recordings, our studio accommodates up to 6 musicians simultaneously, making it suitable for standard lineups of drums, bass, guitar, and keyboards, as well as small chamber ensembles. The integrated acoustic treatment reduces unwanted reflections while preserving the inherent resonance of the instruments. By collaborating closely with the musicians to determine the most effective microphone placement, our engineers ensure that the resulting tracks maintain flexibility for the subsequent mixing phase.

Who Is This Service For?

This service is designed for bands, singer-songwriters, and producers who require sound pressure and atmospheric depth that cannot be achieved in home recording environments. It is particularly suited for instruments requiring significant space, such as full drum kits, or ensembles that prioritize the "live feel" of musicians playing in the same room. Additionally, we work with production companies creating commercial music for advertisements or game soundtracks who require high-fidelity source material.

The Recording Process and Engineering Role

At Quemadozone, the engineer functions as a sound designer rather than a simple operator. Prior to recording, we request reference tracks to select the appropriate equipment, such as specific tube microphones. During the session, the engineer monitors for technical issues like clipping or phase cancellation while maintaining a professional environment that reduces performer stress. This ensures a smooth communication flow between the control room and the live room, optimizing the session's efficiency.

Client Preparation Requirements

To ensure a productive session, we ask clients to prepare the following: a clear song structure (chord charts or demo recordings) and a finalized track list. This preparation reduces setup time and allows more focus on the performance. Furthermore, please ensure all instruments are maintained, including fresh strings and proper tuning, as adjustment time during the session is billable. For detailed financial planning, please refer to our guide on session budgeting.

Deliverables and File Formats

Following the session, clients receive their data in high-resolution WAV format (typically 44.1kHz/24bit or 48kHz/24bit). The delivery package includes:

• Multitrack data: Individual files for each instrument (stems).
• Rough mix: A basic balance adjustment for immediate review.
• Session notes: Documentation of take numbers and technical settings.

This format allows for flexible editing if you choose to perform mixing at another facility or utilize our mixing services.

Deadlines and Scheduling

Data delivery is generally completed within 3 business days following the session via secure cloud storage. If you have an urgent deadline, please notify us in advance. Regarding scheduling, booking changes or cancellations are permitted free of charge up to 7 days before the session date. Cancellations made after this period are subject to fees as outlined in our terms of use.

What Is Not Included

The basic recording rate does not cover the following services:

• Songwriting, composition, or arrangement suggestions.
• Sourcing or payment for external session musicians.
• Extensive editing (such as full-track pitch correction or timing quantization).
• Final mastering (please see our mastering service).
• Physical media delivery (CD-R or hard drive costs).

Custom quotes are available for those requiring these additional options.

Pricing Calculation and VAT

Fees are calculated based on studio occupancy and engineering time. All listed prices are in Euros (EUR). As the services are provided in Japan, a 10% consumption tax (VAT) is added to the net price. For example, the standard rate is the net price plus 10% tax. For B2B transactions, payment is due within 14 days from the invoice date.

Detailed Service Inclusion

The following items are specifically included in this recording service:

• Full access to the Live Room and Vocal Booth.
• Professional microphone setup and level management by the engineer.
• Use of studio-owned tube microphones and outboard gear.
• Real-time monitoring via nearfield monitors.
• Digital backup of recording data (stored for 12 months).
• Basic track organization and standard file naming.

For detailed consultations or to book a session, please use our contact form. You can also explore our other recording options in the services overview.