Vocal Recording: Capturing the Nuance of the Human Voice
We focus on capturing every breath and emotional shift to build a vocal track that serves as the core of your composition. Experience a precise recording process in the quiet environment of our Yokohama studio.
Vocal recording is more than simply documenting a voice; it is the critical process of translating a song's message to the listener. At Berungrid, we combine a focused acoustic environment with technical direction to ensure artists can perform with confidence and clarity.
Our vocal booth is engineered with specific absorption and diffusion treatments to eliminate unwanted reflections, allowing us to capture a "pure" vocal signal. By utilizing high-end tube microphones, we preserve the rich harmonic content often lost in home recordings, resulting in a sound with natural depth and warmth.
The Recording Process
Consultation and Setup
We review the song concept, the desired vocal texture, and reference tracks. To ensure a smooth session, we optimize the guide melody and tempo settings before the artist enters the booth.
Microphone Selection
We select the microphone and preamp based on the voice type and musical genre. The placement of the pop filter and the distance from the capsule are finely adjusted to manage dynamics.
Tracking and Take Management
The engineer monitors waveforms and levels in real-time to prevent clipping while maintaining optimal gain. We record multiple takes to gather the necessary material for a cohesive final track.
Data Organization and Backup
All recorded takes are labeled and organized. An immediate backup is created, and the files are prepared for delivery or the next stage of production, such as mixing.
Who This Service Is For
Berungrid's vocal recording is designed for creators who require a professional standard of sonic clarity. This service is particularly suited for the following needs:
- Singer-songwriters seeking a dense, clear vocal sound suitable for commercial distribution.
- Artists who have reached the limits of home recording and require a controlled acoustic space to capture "air" and presence.
- Voice-over artists and podcasters requiring high-purity narration without ambient noise.
- Performers who need professional level management and technical direction during the session.
- Groups recording complex chorus arrangements and harmonies that require efficient track management.
Studio Workflow
Our priority is to provide an environment where artists feel at ease, allowing for natural expression. The booth is designed for comfort, with a monitoring system that ensures seamless communication with the control room.
During the session, the engineer meticulously checks for lip noise or unwanted plosives. We adjust the headphone monitor balance—the ratio between the artist's voice and the backing track—in real-time to support pitch and rhythmic stability.
To maximize efficiency, we establish a plan for which sections require the most focus, ensuring that the available time is used effectively to achieve the desired result.
Client Preparation
To achieve a high-quality result, preparation is essential. Please provide the following items before your scheduled session:
- Backing Tracks: WAV format (44.1kHz/24bit or higher recommended), containing all instruments except the vocals as a stereo file.
- Tempo Information: Accurate BPM (beats per minute). Please notify us in advance if a click track is required.
- Lyric Sheets: A clear text document of the song structure. This allows the engineer to manage takes more efficiently.
- Reference Tracks: Examples of the vocal texture or mood you wish to achieve.
For detailed instructions, please refer to our Preparation Guide for Recording.
Deliverables and Formats
Following the session, we deliver data in formats that allow for high flexibility during the subsequent mixing phase:
- Multitrack WAV Files: Uncompressed files of each individual take (24bit/48kHz or 96kHz).
- Stem Data: Grouped files for main vocals, doubles, and backing harmonies.
- Recording Log: Engineer notes indicating the preferred takes for each section.
Further details on delivery can be found in the File Formats and Delivery guide.
Timeline and Scheduling
Data organization and delivery are typically completed within 3 business days after the session. For urgent projects, please consult with us in advance to discuss accelerated timelines.
Clients who utilize Berungrid for both recording and mixing benefit from a more streamlined schedule, as there is no need for external data transfer between different studios.
What Is Not Included
This service focuses specifically on the recording process. The following items are not included in the standard vocal recording rate:
- Pitch and Timing Correction: Detailed editing using Melodyne or Auto-Tune.
- Mixing and Mastering: Effect processing and final loudness adjustment. Please see our Mixing & Mastering service.
- Songwriting and Arrangement: Creation of melodies or backing tracks.
- External Studio Fees: Costs associated with facilities outside of the Berungrid studio.
Pricing
Vocal recording is billed at an hourly rate, which includes both studio usage and the services of a professional engineer.
| Plan | Unit | Price (Incl. VAT) | Price (Excl. VAT) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Rate | 1 Hour | €65 | €59.09 |
Prices include 10% VAT. A 30% deposit is required at the time of booking. Cancellations are free up to 3 days before the session. For more details, please see our Terms.
Frequently Asked Questions
I am not a professional singer; will the engineer help me?
Yes. Our engineers provide both technical and psychological support to help artists relax and deliver a strong performance. We are happy to record as many takes as needed to reach a result you are satisfied with.
How long do you store the recorded data?
We maintain a studio archive of your session data for up to 12 months. This ensures that if you lose your files or decide to record additional parts later, the original material is available.
How many songs can I record in one hour?
This depends on the length of the song and your level of preparation. If fully prepared, it is possible to record one main vocal track per hour. However, for projects involving harmonies or multiple takes, we recommend booking 3 to 4 hours.
Can you handle pitch correction after recording?
Pitch correction is not part of the recording session. However, we offer detailed pitch and timing adjustment as part of our separate Mixing & Mastering plan.
Giving Shape to Your Voice
We record your musical vision with technical precision and sonic clarity. Visit the Berungrid studio in Yokohama to start your next project.
Book a SessionTo explore our other capabilities, please visit the Services Overview.