Frequently Asked Questions
What is Metalworks Studios?
Metalworks Studios is a professional recording, mixing and mastering facility located in Mississauga, Ontario, serving artists, producers, musicians and labels from across the Greater Toronto Area and beyond. Founded in 1978, Metalworks has grown into one of Canada’s most recognized recording facilities, combining world-class rooms, equipment and technical expertise with a comfortable creative environment.
Can independent artists book Metalworks Studios?
Yes. Metalworks Studios works with everyone from independent artists and first-time recording clients to established musicians, producers and major-label projects. You do not need to be signed to a record label or have previous studio experience to book a session.
What recording services does Metalworks Studios offer?
Metalworks offers professional recording, mixing, mastering and related audio production services. Our studios accommodate projects ranging from individual vocal and instrumental sessions to full-band recording, large ensembles, mixing and mastering. Different rooms are available depending on the size, technical requirements and budget of the project.
Which Metalworks studio should I book?
The best studio depends on what you are recording and how you want to work. Metalworks has multiple purpose-built rooms with different, recording spaces, consoles and equipment. Our studio manager can recommend the most appropriate studio for your project based on the number of musicians, instrumentation, workflow and budget.
Can I record a full band at Metalworks Studios?
Yes. Metalworks has recording spaces designed to accommodate full bands and multi-instrument sessions. Depending on the studio selected, musicians can perform together while instruments and amplifiers are isolated as needed, allowing the energy of a live performance while maintaining control over the individual recordings.
Can I record live drums at Metalworks Studios?
Yes. Our recording rooms are designed for professional acoustic recording, including live drums and percussion. Room selection, microphone choice and placement can be tailored to the sound of the project, whether you are looking for a tight, controlled drum sound or a larger, more ambient recording.
What microphones does Metalworks Studios have?
Metalworks maintains an extensive professional microphone collection suitable for vocals, drums, guitars, acoustic instruments and other recording applications. The collection includes classic and modern microphones from leading manufacturers, including highly sought-after vintage models.
What is the best microphone for recording vocals?
There is no single microphone that is best for every singer. A microphone that sounds exceptional on one voice may not be the right choice for another. Our engineers can select and audition microphones based on the individual vocalist, musical style and desired sound. Clients do not need to choose a microphone before arriving at the studio.
Does Metalworks have vintage microphones and analog equipment?
Yes. Metalworks maintains a collection of professional vintage and modern recording equipment, including microphones, microphone preamps, compressors, equalizers and other analog equipment. Equipment availability can vary by studio and session, so clients looking for a particular piece of equipment should mention it when booking.
Do I need to bring my own recording engineer?
No. Metalworks can provide experienced professional engineers for recording sessions. Artists and producers who prefer to work with their own engineer are welcome to bring them and we will provide a studio assistant.
Can I bring my own producer or engineer?
Yes. Outside producers and engineers regularly work at Metalworks. Our staff can assist visiting engineers with the studio and technical setup as required.
Can I just book the studio and produce the session myself?
Depending on the room and requirements of the session, different booking arrangements may be available. Contact our studio manager with details about your project and intended workflow and we can recommend the appropriate setup.
Does Metalworks offer professional mixing?
Yes. Metalworks provides professional mixing services for projects recorded both at Metalworks and elsewhere. Mixing can combine analog and digital processing depending on the engineer, studio and requirements of the project.
Does Metalworks offer mastering?
Yes. Metalworks provides professional mastering for singles, EPs, albums and other releases. Projects do not need to have been recorded or mixed at Metalworks to use our mastering services. Mastering is completed in Studio 5, our dedicated Mastering room.
Can I send my music to Metalworks for mixing or mastering without coming to the studio?
Yes. Many mixing and mastering projects can be completed remotely. Files can be delivered digitally and the finished material returned electronically, allowing clients outside Toronto—or outside Canada—to work with Metalworks without attending the session in person.
Can I attend my mixing or mastering session?
Yes. If you would like to attend, mention this when contacting the studio so the appropriate session can be arranged.
Does Metalworks work in Dolby Atmos or immersive audio?
Metalworks offers immersive audio capabilities. Studio 6 is equipped with a Dolby Atmos 9.2.4 setup.
Can Metalworks help me if I have never recorded in a professional studio before?
Absolutely. You do not need to understand microphones, consoles, signal chains or recording software to make a professional recording. Tell us what you are trying to accomplish and our staff can help determine the appropriate studio, engineer and session requirements.
How much does it cost to record at Metalworks Studios?
Rates depend on the studio, engineer, length of the session and requirements of the project. Because every project is different, contact our studio manager for current rates and an estimate based on what you would like to accomplish.
How much studio time should I book?
That depends on the project, number of musicians, amount of material and how prepared you are before the session. If you are unsure, tell our studio manager what you plan to record and we can help estimate an appropriate amount of studio time.
How should I prepare for a recording session?
Please make sure instruments and other equipment are in good working condition. Bringing reference tracks or examples of the sound you are trying to achieve can also be helpful. If your session has unusual technical requirements, discuss them with the studio in advance so everything can be prepared before you arrive.
Where is Metalworks Studios located?
Metalworks Studios is located at 3611 Mavis Road, Unit #3, Mississauga, Ontario, L5C 1T7, conveniently located in the Greater Toronto Area.
How do I book Metalworks Studios?
To discuss a project or book a session, contact Metalworks Studios at booking@metalworksstudios.com or 905-279-4000. Tell us a little about your project, what you plan to record, your preferred dates and any specific requirements, and our studio manager can help determine the best studio and session setup.
