How many hours to record a song

[mikeh]

When recording, how much time do you budget per song? I normally tell clients to allow 6-10 hours per song as follows:

2 hrs - Backing tracks (guitar, bass, drums, etc)
2 hrs - Overdubs (solos, second guitar, etc)- if needed
2 hrs - Vocals
2 hrs - Mixdown
2 hrs - Other (25% budget allowance for unknowns)

We all know recording always takes longer than expected and I'll be the first to admit on my own material I spend too much time in search of the perfect sound/take/mix. However, for a contracted project I don't think 10 hrs per song is excessive (and I work pretty fast). The songwriters or bands I record always seem to think a finshed 2 track takes 2-3 hrs.

Am I off base or what?

 

[bvaleria]

The formula that ALWAYS works for me - take your best estimate, then DOUBLE it! Works without fail...

Bruce

 

[JC Lives]

Is the band prepared

Your formula might come close if the band is totally prepared. If the band has never recored in a studio before, you will need a lot more time. If the band has not practiced their parts or knwo what they are doind, you will need a lot more time. I would consider a time & material basis making sure that if extra time is required due to issues with you or your equipment, that they should not be charged for that.

 

[T.J.Hooker]

Depends on you

"if extra time is required due to issues with you or your equipment, they should not be charged for that."

That is a givin my friend. I would say that it all depends on the situation at hand. As "jclives" was saying "IS THE BAND PREPARED ?" also, what is the performer looking to achieve ?
All big factors if you ask me. Only you know how fast you can work, and what your limitations are. ya know ?
DUDE, T.

 

[mikeh]

Thanks for your replys. I was asking as a personal point of interest regarding hours others spend on projects (understanding the are dozens of variables). I completely agree with each of your comments. I always go with a time and material basis (and normally spend more hours than I actually bill for). Only once has someone been seriously unhappy with the final cost, and I ended up writing off a few hours to keep the peace.

I just find it interesting that so many people have such a limited and unrealistic concept on the amount of time it takes to record/mix. I just try to be very selective regarding what projects I accept, who I allow in my home (studio) and hopefully in the end, can be proud of the final product.