If you’ve ever wondered how much do recording studios charge or what it actually costs to book a session, you’re not alone. Many musicians, songwriters, and producers get confused by the different ways a recording studio may price their time. From hourly rates to full-day bookings, understanding how Melbourne recording studios structure their costs can save you time, money, and stress — and ensure you get the best value for your creative session.
Not all studios are created equal, and the type of recording you want to do makes a huge difference. In this article, we’ll explore the pricing models studios use, explain why some charge hourly while others stick to half-day or full-day rates, and give insight into what recording studio rates look like for music-focused sessions like the ones at Moreish Studios.
When looking at recording studios, it’s important to understand that not every studio serves the same purpose. Some studios cater to voice-over artists, minor sound recordings, or Foley work. These places are perfectly suited for short, small-scale sessions — sometimes even just a single hour. They typically have specialized setups for speech or sound effects rather than music.
On the other hand, studios like Moreish Studios are designed specifically for music production. We focus on large-scale recording projects, from full bands to solo artists who need multiple tracks recorded at once. Music studios often have a variety of rooms, acoustic spaces, and equipment options to suit different instruments, vocal ranges, and ensemble sizes.
Key distinctions to keep in mind:
This distinction is crucial when comparing what does it cost to go to a recording studio — the type of studio will heavily influence the rates and booking structure.
Some studios offer hourly rates, which can seem convenient for smaller projects. These are perfect for clients needing just a quick recording, like a short voice-over or a single Foley effect. It allows for flexibility without committing to a full day.
However, for music-focused studios, opening for only an hour or two is often impractical and inefficient. Setting up a full band or session, tuning instruments, micing the room, and adjusting acoustics can take considerable time. To make the most of the studio’s resources and give musicians a productive experience, studios like Moreish Studios typically offer:
These blocks allow artists and producers to focus on creating rather than rushing through setups. Musicians get uninterrupted time to capture performances, experiment with arrangements, and really explore their creative ideas.
At-a-Glance: Recording Studio Booking Tips
Why this matters for rates:
So, how much do recording studios charge? While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, you can generally expect:
| Type of Studio | Typical Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Voice/Foley Studios | $50–$150/hr | Ideal for short sessions or single tracks |
| Music-Focused Studios (Half-Day) | $350–$600 | 5-hour blocks, includes setup, engineer, and room access |
| Music-Focused Studios (Full-Day) | $600–$1,200+ | 8+ hours, ideal for bands, multiple tracks, or complex productions |
Rates vary depending on the studio’s location, the expertise of the engineers, and the equipment available. Melbourne recording studios with specialized music setups — like Moreish Studios — may seem higher in cost compared to smaller voice-focused studios, but the difference lies in the scale and quality of service provided.
When budgeting, it’s also worth considering that larger sessions often save money per track compared to multiple small hourly bookings. Full-day bookings encourage continuity and focus, leading to better performances and smoother production workflow.
If your goal is music production, it’s important to pick a studio that matches your needs:
At Moreish Studios, we’ve designed our space for serious music production, not just voice-overs or short recording gigs. Our setup prioritizes efficiency and creativity, offering spatial options and professional engineering support to ensure every session is productive. That’s why we generally book half-day or full-day sessions, so our clients get the most out of their time in the studio.
When it comes to recording studio rates, the answer isn’t always straightforward. Some studios charge by the hour, while others stick to half-day or full-day rates — and it often depends on the type of work you’re doing. Voice-focused studios may suit short sessions, but music-focused studios like Moreish Studios operate differently to ensure quality, efficiency, and a productive environment for larger-scale recordings.
Understanding the differences between hourly and day rates — and matching your project to the right studio type — can make a huge difference in your music production experience.
Ready to book a session and bring your music to life? At Moreish Studios, Melbourne’s recording studio, we specialize in music production, mixing, and mastering. Whether you’re looking for a half-day or full-day session, we’ll provide the space, expertise, and equipment to make your music shine.
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