Preproduction & Preparation Checklist for the Studio (For Audio Engineers & Artists)

At Still Sound, we’ve created a quick checklist of the things we like to know before a session. This helps us maximize efficiency in the studio, save valuable time, and ensure you get the best results for your investment.

Below you’ll find the checklist, followed by explanations for why each point matters.

✅ The Checklist

• Artist names (band members + instruments)

• Instruments list + priority order (acoustic/vocals usually first)

• Reference tracks & sound goals

• Demo recordings

• Full song list

• Song structures (optional, but helpful)

• Final arrangement confirmed

• Written lyrics

• Song tempos / BPM

• Guide / scratch tracks

• Session schedule

• Anything that can be recorded outside the studio

Why Each Point Matters

🎵 Artist Names (Band Members + Instruments)

The first step to great communication is knowing who’s who. Even a simple band often has 4+ members, and with so much technical detail to track during a session, names can slip. We sincerely apologize in advance if we ever forget—but having names paired with instruments makes communication far smoother.

This ensures everyone feels properly accommodated, respected, and welcomed, which leads to a better creative atmosphere. (it's also a lot better then calling everyone mr <instrument> all day.

🎸 Instruments List + Priorities

Not all instruments need the same studio attention. While full-band “live” recordings can work, prioritizing acoustic instruments and vocals usually yields the best professional results.

Focus first on instruments that are hard to record at home (e.g., drum kits). Many electric instruments can be handled with DI and reamping, or even programmed if budget and time are tight.

💡 A good musician can play everything. A great musician knows when to be selective!

🎧 Reference Tracks & Sound Goals

Studios are designed for professional sound, but not everyone hears things the same way. Bringing reference tracks makes it easier for engineers to match your vision and deliver the sound you’re aiming for.

🎤 Demo RecordingsDemos show how far you’ve developed your sound during rehearsals and songwriting. Share what you like, and highlight what’s missing. This feedback guides the recording and mixdown process more effectively.

📋 Song ListProvide a clear list of songs to be recorded, with instruments per track if possible. This helps engineers plan session flow and make sure everything fits within the booked time.

🧩 Song Structures (Optional, but Helpful)

Having structures written out (verse, chorus, bridge, etc.) helps engineers know what’s coming and reduces confusion. Not all songs follow standard patterns, so a simple outline can save time.

🎼 Final Arrangement

Recording time is too valuable to rewrite songs in the studio. Small tweaks are fine, but full rearrangements waste time. Also, note any extra layers to be recorded beyond the live parts (harmonies, pads, extra percussion). Communicating this upfront avoids delays

✍️ Lyrics Written Out

Printed lyrics help both the artist and engineer. This prevents mistakes during takes, especially when doubling or stacking vocals.

⏱ Song Tempos / BPM

Write out tempos—especially if there are tempo changes. Every second counts in the studio; having BPMs ready means more time for performance, less time for setup.

🥁 Guide / Scratch Tracks

Simple scratch tracks (clicks, MIDI drums, rough takes) don’t need to sound perfect. Their purpose is to keep everyone locked in on tempo and key. They’re quick to make and invaluable during tracking.

📅 Session Schedule

Sessions run smoother with a realistic schedule. Talk it through with your engineer/producer to make sure expectations align.

Even “simple” parts can take longer than expected—a solo might take an hour, not 15 minutes. Better to plan for that upfront than lose recording opportunities later.

🏠 Anything That Can Be Recorded Outside the StudioWith today’s technology, some parts can be recorded at home without losing quality. Guitars, bass, and synths often work well this way, especially when using DI + reamping later.

⚡ Tip: Reamping can take hours depending on genre (e.g., math rock, indie, synth pop), so planning ahead is crucial.

Final ThoughtsPreparation is the key to making the most of your studio time. By handling the details upfront, you save money, reduce stress, and give yourself the best chance at capturing inspired performances.

At Still Sound, we’re here to help you every step of the way—so when you walk into the studio, you can focus 100% on the music.