There are no "dumb" questions! The more you know, the happier you will be with the end result. Remember, we are here to make recording your music a fun and satisfying experience.

How long does it take to record a song/album?

Project time depends on many variables including style, complexity of instrumentation, and the recording's final use—a guitar and vocal song demo will take a fraction of the time that a densely arranged & textured song destined for radio airplay will need. Our pre-production phase is where musical direction and identity is initially discussed. You tell us what you're hearing in your head, and that becomes the launching point for selecting a sonic palette that best complements your songs.

The main factors that determine how long a project will take are:
    • Song length
    • Musical style
    • Number of instrumental parts
    • Amount of editing required
    • Mix complexity
    • Mastering requirements

Every project is unique and we can guide you through the entire process. Once we're able to discuss the scope of your project with you we can provide an estimate of the time involved to complete it.

Can I play my own instrumental parts? What if I don't play an instrument?

Whatever you're comfortable with. Of course, any of Saga Recording's instruments (see equipment) are at your disposal during recording, and we are able to play any additional instruments needed for your project. If you're primarily a singer, that's fine, too...we can build the entire musical track around you.

What kind of songwriting and co-writing services do you offer?

Saga Recording's emphasis on working with other singer/songwriters comes from our love of great songs. As an artist you want to share your thoughts and feelings with others through the songs you create, and if needed, we are willing to work with you to explore the best way to communicate those ideas and emotions so they will be understood and felt by the listener.

Owner Michael Nowak is an accomplished ASCAP-affiliated songwriter who learned first-hand from the best while living in Nashville—lyricist and Berklee College professor Pat Pattison, Jon Ims ("She's In Love With The Boy"), and Hugh Prestwood ("The Song Remains the Same"), among others. If you have any songs that you're having trouble finishing, either musically or lyrically, Michael is available to help you complete them before recording.

What if I don't live near Vancouver?

Our reputation and expertise have brought artists from around the world to record at our studio. We can accomodate out-of-town artists in ways that will minimize your need for travel, many times only requiring a single trip to Vancouver. We will go through all the same pre-production planning and preparational steps with you that we take with local artists, except it will be by phone and email.

Once initial production decisions are made, basic rhythm tracks can be provided for you to practice with if desired. When you are rehearsed and ready for recording, we will schedule a studio lockout for your time in Vancouver. It can be done in a single visit over the course of two or three days, depending on how much needs to be recorded, or can be spread out over a few separate trips. After your parts are finished all remaining work is sent to you in the form of regular project updates, right up to final mix approval. Each project will have its own unique requirements, but we will do whatever it takes to make it all go as smoothly as possible for you.

Do you offer mastering services? What is mastering?

Yes, Saga Recording can master your recordings. Mastering is the final process after music is mixed down to prepare it for whatever media it will be reproduced on. Typically, fine EQ and compression/limiting is applied to ensure the music plays back correctly on all kinds of systems, from small computer and car speakers to large home stereo systems. Mastering also makes sure the digital files are in the correct format for error-free replication at the manufacturing plant.