Frequently Asked Questions
Mixing & Masting
1. What services do you offer?
Soundmonk Studios provides mixing, mastering, audio editing, vocal cleanup, production support, and select audio post-production services.
2. How do I get started?
Submit a project inquiry through the website. Once project details are reviewed and approved, a deposit invoice will be issued and onboarding instructions will be provided.
3. What file formats do you accept?
WAV files are preferred. 24-bit or 32-bit float files exported at their original sample rate are recommended whenever possible.
4. Do you accept Logic, Pro Tools, or Ableton sessions?
Whenever possible, consolidated audio files are preferred to ensure compatibility and efficient workflow.
5. How many revisions are included?
Most projects include 2-3 rounds of revisions depending on scope.
Additional revisions may be available for an additional fee.
6. How long does mixing take?
Most single-song mixing projects are completed within 3–7 business days after all files have been received.
7. How long does mastering take?
Most mastering projects are completed within 1–3 business days.
8. Do you offer attended sessions?
Services are currently provided remotely unless otherwise arranged.
9. Can you work with demos?
Yes. Many projects begin as demos, rough mixes, or partially completed productions.
10. What if I am not sure what my song needs?
That is completely normal. Reference tracks, notes, and a conversation about your goals can help determine the best approach for the project.
11. Do I retain ownership of my music?
Yes. Clients retain full ownership of their music and intellectual property.
12. What payment methods do you accept?
Invoices are processed electronically and may be paid using available payment methods listed on the invoice.
13. Do you provide instrumental or acapella versions?
Additional deliverables may be available depending on project scope and should be discussed prior to project approval.
14. What genres do you work with?
Soundmonk Studios primarily works with independent artists across alternative, hip-hop, experimental, psychedelic, electronic, singer-songwriter, and genre-blending projects. The focus is always on serving the song rather than a specific genre.
Post Production
1. What kinds of audio does Soundmonk Studios work with?
Soundmonk Studios™ specializes in spoken-word recordings, including podcasts, interviews, documentary dialogue, voice-over narration, lectures, and institutional media. The focus is on improving clarity and intelligibility while preserving the natural tone of the voice.
2. What does audio cleanup and restoration include?
Typical cleanup work may include:
-
reducing background noise or hum
-
managing room reflections and echo
-
removing clicks, pops, and mouth noise
-
balancing levels between speakers
-
preparing audio for podcast, film, or broadcast delivery
Each project is approached carefully to improve clarity without over-processing the original recording.
3. Can you completely remove background noise?
Not always. Audio cleanup can significantly reduce many types of noise and distraction, but results depend on the quality of the original recording. The goal is to improve intelligibility and listening comfort, rather than artificially isolating the voice in a way that introduces unwanted artifacts.
4. What types of recordings benefit most from cleanup?
Many recordings today happen outside traditional studios. Cleanup can be especially helpful for:
-
remote podcast interviews
-
documentary field recordings
-
university lectures or interviews
-
voice-over recorded in untreated spaces
-
older archival recordings
5. How long does a project typically take?
Turnaround time depends on the length and condition of the recording. Short spoken-word projects are often completed within a few days, while longer or more complex projects may require additional time. Timing will always be discussed before work begins.
7. What do you need from me to begin?
Most projects start with:
-
the original audio file(s)
-
a brief description of the project
-
the desired deliverable format (podcast, film, voice-over, etc.)
If helpful, Soundmonk Studios can review a short sample and advise on what improvements are realistic.
8. How does payment work?
Small projects may require payment in advance. Larger projects typically begin with a deposit before work starts, with the remaining balance due prior to final delivery.
Monthly retainer services are billed at the beginning of each month.
9. Can you review my audio before I commit to a project?
Yes. When possible, Soundmonk Studios™ can review a short sample of your recording and provide guidance on what improvements are achievable.
11. What if my recording isn’t perfect?
Many spoken-word recordings are captured in real environments rather than studios. Cleanup and restoration can often improve clarity significantly, even when recordings contain noise or acoustic challenges. The goal is to reduce distraction and help the voice remain clear and understandable for listeners.