Studio 101 - Part 20: Furnishing the Studio

After spending the last few months talking about the loudest part of our studio (the monitor speakers), we are going to talk about the quietest: your studio furniture. I know many engineers that will gladly pay thousands of dollars for high-end monitors, a tricked-out computer, and a rack of processors, but then set it all up on an old door and two sawhorses!

If you are serious about your studio craft, you spend a lot of time in the studio: trying different record-ing techniques, tweaking mixes and perfecting final masters. A key to putting in these long hours in the studio is comfort and ergonomics. You will never get a great mix if your back is sore, your feet are asleep, or you can’t reach any of your gear. Your investment in quality studio furniture will likely outlast almost any electronic gizmo you might purchase!

Over the years, I have personally spanned the whole range of studio furniture. Sometimes I depended on sawhorses, while other setups had bespoke system desks. I recently updated my studio to include a made-for-the-studio desk and ergonomically sound chair; combined with a few other pieces, it’s been a life-changing experience. Let’s look at some of the major components, and talk to some of the furniture designers to get their take on the creation of a great working environment.