Tiny Telephone is $350 a day, first engineers are an additional $200 (although a few are more, please ask) a day. These prices are inclusive, the only additional cost will be overtime for your engineer (if you go over), and tape. We don't have a card rate (i.e., a higher rate for labels and wealthy clients), and we don't discount time. Floating fees and improvised pricing have alienated musicians from recording studios.
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Outside engineers are welcome, but you'll need a second engineer ($100 a day) for some of your booking.
2. How do I get there?
We are located in San Francisco's Mission district. Here's a google map and detailed directions to get you on your way. Please remember we're on the Mission side of HWY 101, not the Potrero Hill side. It's a good idea to have our number with you: 415 642 1970.
3. Where do I send the $ for deposits?
To confirm days on our overworked calendar, we need to get a $100 deposit (payable to John Vanderslice) for each day booked. Days can't be confirmed until receipt of cash unless prior arrangements are made. Please send to:
John Vanderslice
PO Box 460818
San Francisco, CA 94146
4. What's the cancellation policy?
After you confirm days with a deposit, we need two calendar months notice to release days without penalty. If you cancel days within two calendar months you will lose your entire deposit. Tough love!
5. Where do I get tape? And what kind should I get?
New tape: We recommend Media Distributors, they sell tape wholesale and will deliver to Tiny for free (min order $150, M-F 9:00 to 5:00). Please ask your engineer about brand preferences and quantity, and remember to call ahead if you're starting on the weekend.
Media Distributors
415-321-5939
M-F 9:00 - 5:00
Ask for Cullen or Mona
Used tape: Tapetape.com, ask for Bill. Please ask your engineer about brand preferences and quantity. Please have this shipped to you 3 weeks prior to your session. Please don't ship to the studio.
6. Who is responsible for piano tuning?
The client is solely responsible for piano tuning. It's frequently moved and treated, both of which knock the C3 out of tune. We'll gladly have you in a few days before your session to check the tuning. If the piano is central to your project, we strongly encourage you to book the tuner for the day of your session. He has keys, so he can start well before you load in. Try to book him in advance.
Piano tuner: Israel Stein, 510 558 0777
7. Where should I stay if I'm from out of town?
There is only one place that makes sense for people on a budget: Elements Hotel/Hostel. Private rooms for 2 people are $60-$90. Nothing fancy, but the rooms are simple and clean. Plus, the location is perfect; it's a 15 minute walk from Tiny Telephone.
8. What else should I know?
• Questions about the session, start time, preproduction, etc., will be handled by your engineer.
• Here's a floor plan of Tiny Telephone.
• We have Ritual Coffee, a good assortment of teas, a fridge, coffee maker, spring water, and a microwave. Think of the possibilities.
• There are unlimited options for food in the area, including many who will deliver.
• Making records is not easy; I've been there and I want to make your experience here productive and meaningful. If you have any problems/concerns please contact me directly. Thanks.