The warmth and character of classic vintage equipment with the convenience of today’s digital systems located in downtown Halifax, Nova Scotia.
The warmth and character of classic vintage equipment with the convenience of today’s digital systems located in downtown Halifax, Nova Scotia.
Meet the Team
Lil Thomas has extensive knowledge in the theory of operations and practical applications of professional recording consoles, studio design and miking techniques. He is also experienced with all types of digital and analogue recording equipment, hard disk recording and editing, midi sequencing and all aspects of post-production. In 2005, Lil began teaching at the Centre for Arts and Technology and was promoted to department head of the Audio Engineering Program the following year. This title has led to a management and consultation role in the studio, allowing Lil to foster the talents of main engineer Darren Van Niekirk. Lil is a five-time ECMA winner.
Darren van Niekerk began working at The Sonic Temple as an assistant in May 2003, following his graduation from NSCC’s Recording Arts Program. Since that time he has established himself as the studio’s house engineer, honing his skills on countless recording projects spanning many genres in both digital and analogue environments. With a handful of ECMA and Music Nova Scotia nominations under his belt, Darren continues to refine his approach to the studio with a respect for modern production techniques while maintaining an organic feel and tone.
Mike Hastings is originally from Winnipeg, Manitoba, and moved eastward to pursue an audio engineering career. Continuing his audio studies at The Centre for Arts and Technology, he received the IDEALS achievement award for highest standings in their twenty-one month Audio Engineering course. With almost a decade of experience composing and producing instrumental music in various genres from Hip Hop to Hybrid Orchestral music, Mike brings a strong technical and musical background into the studio environment. In addition to working with artists as a producer, recording and mixing engineer, Mike has experience providing sound design for T.V. and internet media as well as several years of teaching college-level audio engineering courses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find you?
We are located at 1674 Hollis St., Halifax, NS.
What are the parking options?
Parking is available across from the studio between 9am and 4pm, or after 6pm. There is also paid street parking and an indoor parking garage one block south of the studio.
What kinds of services do you offer?
We offer a variety of music recording services, including multi-track recording, production-based recording, live off the floor, or any combination thereof. We also provide pre- and post-production services. You can see a more complete list under the “Book an Appointment” tab above.
Why go to a recording studio, when I can record and mix my tracks at home?
Three words – location, equipment, and experience. The Sonic Temple has been purpose-built and designed to provide a professional recording environment at all levels of production. We offer a wide variety of gear for producing and processing music exactly the way you want it. And our engineers have all been professionally trained and have decades of experience in the production and engineering field. We are an Award Winning Studio that has been providing service to the music and film industry for over twenty years.
What is the rate per hour of studio time?
For standard recording sessions (which includes working with the engineer and full access to studio equipment), our rates are as follows:
2-4 hours: $80/hr
5-8 hours: $70/hr
9-12 hours: $65/hr
What types of music do you record?
Pretty much anything! Just book a consultation with us to get started.
Are tours available?
Absolutely. Please contact Lil at info@ thesonictemple.ca, or fill out our form for a free 30-minute consultation.
What is included in a consultation?
The free 30-minute consultation is your opportunity to come and see the studio, sit down and talk with Lil Thomas about your project, and listen to his suggestions based off over 40 years of experience. Be sure to bring a demo tape!
I play an instrument and/or sing, but I’m not in a band. Can you recommend other artists I can work with for this project?
No problem! We work with a wide variety of artists at the studio, many of whom freelance as studio session musicians that can be available for projects like yours.
Is the studio sound-treated?
We have incorporated several types of acoustic treatments in the control room, including bass traps, diffusers, and an assortment of absorption panels. These measures are designed to compliment the natural acoustics provided by the 200-year-old brick and wood used in the original building.
How long does it typically take to finish a project?
You’re probably sick of hearing “it depends on many different factors, type of project, etc…”, so here’s an estimate:
On the low-end, if you’re a group of trained musicians used to working together, putting together a track or two without too any surprises, you can potentially finish in a day or two of intense work.
On the other hand, if your band is relatively new and your have a number of complex tracks to record, your project could take you several weeks, months, or even longer.
We highly recommend prepping as much as possible beforehand – figure out your song arrangements and tempos, decide on whether you want a click or drum track to play to, have a warm-up session first, etc. The more prepared you are, the quicker the setup and the fewer takes you’ll need to produce that chart-topper!
Can I bring guests to the recording session / event?
Yes, as long as they respect the professional recording environment. Concentration and focus is important to maximizing your efficiency, so keep that in mind when deciding who to bring.
Can I bring my own gear?
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own equipment. You may also consider trying out the wide variety of classic professional quality equipment available at the studio – no extra charge. Check our equipment list for more information.Other than instruments and audio equipment, is there anything I should bring for the recording session / event?
It depends at least partly on your process, but here’s a few suggestions:
Pre-recorded digital files
Production reference tracks
Hard drive for transfers and backups
Notebooks of ideas, lyrics, etc.
Water and snacks to help keep the momentum of the creative flow
Can you record on location?
The studio recording equipment is installed in place and is not mobile. There may be exceptions to provide remote recording services based on what can be supplied and/or co-ordinated with the client.
Do you offer live streaming or video recording options?
Yes, we offer live stream and video options through a 3rd party provider. We would be happy to discuss your project and advise on the best course of action for your requirements with a free 30-minute consultation.
I have some additional questions. How should I get in touch?
You can contact us at info@ thesonictemple.ca.