How Much Recording Time Do I Need?

Studio Time Calculatora helpful tool created for musicians and songwriters to estimate how much time they'll need in the studio and plan the number of days to book for a successful recording session.

The Studio Time Calculator is your go-to planning tool—designed to help artists, musicians, and producers estimate how much recording time they'll need and how many studio days to book for a smooth, productive session. Whether you're tracking a single or laying down a full EP, this tool takes the guesswork out of scheduling.

🎧 How Much Recording Time Do I Need?

It’s one of the most common questions we get: “How much time should I book in the studio?” Whether you’re a first-time artist, podcaster, voice actor, or an experienced band prepping an EP, understanding how much time you actually need is essential—for your workflow, your budget, and your final result.

Recording music or media takes more than pressing ‘record.’ Knowing what goes into each session helps you plan smarter, avoid surprise costs, and make the most of your time in the studio.

🎬 What Does Studio Recording Time Include?

Your session includes more than just tracking. Here's what a typical session may cover:

  • Setup & Soundcheck – Mic placement, software configuration, gear prep

  • Pre-Production – Finalizing song structure or script, gear setup

  • Tracking – Actually performing and recording takes

  • Reviewing – Listening back, making creative or technical decisions

  • Adjustments & Retakes – Fixing issues, refining performances

  • Breaks – Trust us, they matter

No one nails it all in one take (and if they do… we’re impressed). Recording is a process—even for pros.

🛠 Factors That Affect Recording Time

  1. Project Type A solo track takes less time than a full band arrangement. Voice-overs and podcasts vary too—each format has different recording needs.

  2. Preparation Artists who come in rehearsed generally record faster and need fewer takes. Preparation is the ultimate time-saver.

  3. Complexity A simple acoustic song is quicker than a multi-layered electronic track or film score. More instruments = more time.

  4. Sound Quality Goals Want that pristine, professional sound? Expect to spend more time dialing in the mix and mastering.

  5. Studio Setup Technical prep, mic selection, software routing—all add to your time, especially if there are issues to troubleshoot.

  6. Experience of the Performer Seasoned artists tend to record more efficiently. For newer performers, we factor in coaching and warmups.

⏱️ How to Estimate Your Time

🎵 Musicians

  • Single Song (Basic Demo): 3–4 hours

  • Single Song (Polished Mix): 4–6 hours

  • EP (4–6 Songs): 20–30 hours

  • Full Album: 50–100+ hours, depending on complexity

🎙️ Podcasts

  • Standard Episode (1 hour): 2–3 hours total

  • Add time for interviews, multi-hosts, or post-production needs

🗣 Voice-Over

  • Short Clip (5 minutes): 30–60 minutes

  • Commercial VO may require multiple takes, tones, and revisions

🎯 Wrap-Up

No matter your project, planning ahead can save time, reduce stress, and keep you on budget. Talk with your engineer, define your goals, and always build in a little buffer.

Still unsure how much time you need? Reach out—we’re here to help craft a session that fits your style and schedule. You can also use our Studio Time Calculator to help here