Your time in the studio
If you’re singing to backing tracks, we recommend allowing around an hour per song. This gives us time to help you settle in, capture your best performance and create a finished recording to take home.
We’ll start with a warm-up to your chosen track while we get your headphones sounding just right, so you can hear yourself clearly and feel comfortable.
Next, we’ll record a first run-through. You can then join us in the control room to listen back. It’s a great way to get used to hearing your recorded voice and discover what’s working well. We’ll offer friendly guidance along the way, so you’ll know what to try on your next take.
By now, those first-time nerves have usually started to fade! We’ll record another two or three takes, then listen together and choose your favourite moments to bring into the final version. Don’t worry if you miss a word or hit a wrong note—just keep going. We can usually use a section from another take or record that little bit again.
Once you’re happy with your performance, we’ll make any tuning adjustments and finishing touches, then mix your song and give you both a high-quality WAV file and an MP3 copy.
You’re welcome to bring someone along to share the experience. Watching a song come together can be just as fascinating as being behind the microphone!
If you’re recording more than one song, you’ll already know the routine, and can settle straight into the next one.
1. What does a recording studio gift experience include?
An assisted session with an experienced producer, backing tracks and an extensive range of studio instruments. Tuition is available if you'd like it, and you leave with MP3 and/or WAV files of your finished tracks.
2. Do I need to be a professional singer or musician?
Not at all. We welcome beginners, enthusiasts and professionals alike. Our producer tailors each session to your comfort and goals.
3. How do I redeem my gift voucher?
Simply contact us on the contact form or by email to studio@offbeat.co.uk or phone on 0131 556 4882 to arrange your preferred date. Vouchers are valid for 12 months from the date of purchase.
4. Can I bring someone to watch or join in?
Yes, guests are welcome. Many people bring a partner or friend for support or to sing together. Your voucher includes two people singing.
5. Can I choose the song I record?
es. Backing tracks are included from a huge library of songs. Or bring your own music, backing track or ideas, and we'll handle the rest professionally in our Royal Mile studio. You will leave with an mp3 and wav file of your recording after the session
6. I am not experienced in singing unaccompanied to a backing Track. Is that a problem?
Not at all. We can add a guide vocal for you to sing along with, and remove it once your vocal is recorded.
7. Does it include session musicians?
For this service please contact us at studio@offbeat.co.uk - we can provide it for full production but it's not included in this package
8. I don't play an instrument, is that a problem?
No. We work with many singers, and even lyricists, who don't play an instrument. Just let us know what you'd like to achieve when you redeem your voucher.
9. I'm really nervous about performing, can you help?
Absolutely. It's our job to put you at ease, and almost everyone leaves surprised at how relaxed and confident they felt.
10. Do you provide backing tracks and can you send them in advance of my experience?
Yes. They're included, and we're happy to send them in advance so you can practise.
11. You have limited availability for these experiences. What does that mean?
Offbeat is a working broadcast studio, so we schedule a maximum of four to six experiences each month around our professional sessions. Vouchers are valid for 12 months, and it normally takes two to four weeks to arrange your session, so it's worth booking early.
12. Is there disabled access at the studio?
Unfortunately not. The studio is on the top floor of a historic Royal Mile tenement.
