Our Recording ServiceS

Recording Services In Pittsburgh, PA

Beginning with recording, proper mic placement and pre-amp pairing to dialing in the source tone, every step before the audio even gets recorded is taken to ensure the starting sound is the highest quality it can be. Once the sound is dialed in, the goal is capturing a great performance. It doesn’t matter if you’re a seasoned pro or this is your first time. Patience is a virtue in the studio and I’m here to make your recording process as comfortable and stress-free as possible. Whether that be through one full runthrough, punch-ins, or composite takes, the goal remains the same: produce the best performance possible.

Recording Services In Pittsburgh, PA FAQS

What types of music do you record at Very Tight Recordings in Pittsburgh?

We specialize in high-energy and dynamic genres like rock, metal, punk, hardcore, grindcore, and indie, but we also regularly work with singer-songwriters, folk musicians, acoustic artists, and even acappella performers. Pretty much anything under the “rock” umbrella. The studio setup is extremely versatile and can record quiet, intimate instruments as well as crushingly loud guitar, bass, and drums.

Do you offer live band recording sessions or independent instrument recording?

We offer both. The studio is built with isolated recording in mind but also configured to support full, live band recording. With isolated soundproof rooms, visual line-of-sight between musicians, and the ability to communicate easily and clearly between all performers, we’ll capture any type of performance with clarity and authenticity.

Why come to Pittsburgh to record?

We really focus on dialing in tone at the source. Unlike studios that rely heavily on digital editing or a fix it in post mentality, we emphasize capturing great tones during the actual performance. This approach — paired with over 20 years of experience and a massive gear collection — makes us one of the most unique and “swiss army knife” type studios you’ll ever record at.

What equipment does a band need for recording?

Bring as much or as little of your gear as you’d like. If there are tones, amps, drums, or whatever specific to your rig that you’d like to capture, bring it with you. If you’re looking to try out an amp or sound that you don’t have access to, you’re welcome to use anything here at the studio. Musical equipment at Very Tight is available for clients to use at no additional cost.

What equipment is available for artists during sessions?

The studio is equipped with 50+ microphones, 30+ amplifiers, 4 full drum kits, 11 snares, 20+ guitars, dozens of cymbals, and tons of pedals. Check out the gear page here for a full list

Who handles the recording sessions at Very Tight Recordings?

All sessions are led by Matt Very, the owner and lead engineer. Matt brings two decades of engineering experience to every project and works closely with each artist to capture their sound and vision for the project.

Do you work with first-time recording artists?

Absolutely. We’re down to work with seasoned veterans and newcomers alike. We love helping new artists take their first steps in the studio. Throughout the recording process, we encourage you to ask questions and take in the entire experience. Most people will go on vacation more in their life than they’ll step foot in a recording studio!

How should I prepare before coming in to record?

First off, rehearse your songs and know them like the back of your hand. We are here to record your music, so you ought to know your music. If you have any demos or previously recorded material, please share that prior to recording. Also note any tone, drum, or production references and share them as well ahead of time. This helps with our process of selecting microphones, pre-amps, and any other related outboard gear.

What’s included in a typical recording session?

Sessions include setup, mic placement, tracking, playback reviews, editing, and any other engineering work needed throughout the session. You’ll work directly with Matt Very to make sure your sound is YOUR sound.

Do you give creative feedback during the recording process?

If you ask, we’ll certainly give input. One of Matt’s strengths is helping shape the creative direction of the song with honest, constructive ideas and production.

Can you provide musicians to play on my track?

Yes, we have access to a network of talented musicians who are more than willing to provide guitar, drums, bass, vocals or other instrumentation for your songs. Please inquire prior to your session about booking session musicians.

How do I book a recording session or a tour at Very Tight Recordings?

Email us at info@verytightrecordings.com or call us at 412-530-5151 to discuss your project and schedule a time that works for you.

Let's Talk

If you want to book a session, schedule a tour, drop me a line, or whatever, inquire here.

For other inquires, please email at: info@verytightrecordings.com.

    
 
 
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   Half Normal 
 July 6, 2022.
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I was totally blown away with the attention that Matt gave our project.  We hired him to mix a record we tracked ourselves, and he took it to a place beyond what I expected the material we gave him to be capable of achieving.  Nicest dude ever and a true professional.  Totally made us feel like the stuff our tiny band made was important, worked within the scope of our prejudice, and delivered to us an output that made a bunch of tracks sound like songs.  Highly recommend.
  
 
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   Zack Waters 
 February 6, 2022.
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This place is incredible. Matt is a master in audio production. His attention to detail, professionalism, knowledge, and passion for music make him unmatched to other studios in the area. Just a really down to earth and nice guy to work with who will push you to be your best in a constructive way. He takes the time to understand what makes you music great and brings out the best in every genre.

The setting itself is relaxed and creative in nature. Very clean, and well built to suite audio production. Nice big live room, vocal booth, and recording booth. All deliberately constructed to be as sonically sound as possible.

Matt has an amazing selection of new and vintage amplifiers and cabinets for guitar and bass to really dial in the sound you’re looking for. A large selection of snares and percussive instruments. Endless microphones. A great pedal selection, and even a baby grand for your pianist.

Overall our experience here was amazing. Professional quality audio, a very affordable price, and the knowledge and company of an awesome guy!

I highly recommend!
  
 
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   John Kenn 
 February 5, 2022.
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Matt at Very Tight is absolutely the right choice if you're looking for amazing sound quality that won't drive your band into debt. Super knowledgeable and fun to work with, you won't regret it
  
 
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   Alex Brewer 
 January 23, 2022.
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My band recently recorded here and we were thoroughly impressed. The gear selection he has at his disposal is amazing and suitable for any genre of music, all at an affordable rate. I highly recommend going through him for any recording you need to do!
  
 
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   Leo 
 December 7, 2021.
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I've been working with Matt for the better part of 2 years now, and have had nothing but positive experiences. Very Tight is hands down the best studio in Pittsburgh. He makes every instrument shine, including mine (drums). I cannot recommend his services highly enough.
  
 
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   Edward Banchs 
 November 17, 2021.
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This was our first time working with Matt. Our band, Negative 13, felt right at home with him as he enabled us to feel comfortable not only recording, but also talking to him. He was gracious with our questions and concerns and very assiduous with our music, even suggesting a few ideas that carried our recording to level that exceeded our expectations. We are looking forward to working with him again!
  
 
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   Sarah Halter 
 September 3, 2021.
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Matt is a very experienced and personable engineer. His mixing and mastering skills are top notch! I highly recommend him if you are seeking any recording, editing, mixing, and mastering services.
  
 
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   Mark Dempsey 
 August 16, 2021.
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Matt Very is an engineer who has full mastery of the studio he designed and constructed himself. The gear in his studio is high quality, but the man behind the soundboard is really top notch.
  
 
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   Jason Kaminski 
 June 16, 2021.
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dedicated, knowledgeable, and professional. Matt is the best and I would highly recommend working with him.
  
 
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   LIFEGUARD 
 May 25, 2021.
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Having worked with Matt in the past, I knew taking our new project to him for Mixing/Mastering would be a professional and objectively positive experience.

Matt has a keen ear to make an artist’s imagination reality for their sound. In conjunction with years of experience, Matt brings professional-grade equipment with a professional-grade attitude; understanding artists’ wants and needs no matter their style/genre.

The quality matched with professionalism and cooperation with artists makes Very Tight Recordings an obvious choice for Mix/Master services, as well as recording and other production. 5 stars, we highly recommend you consider Very Tight for your next project!

-Elijah/Jake
Lifeguard