The Sound Issue 2016 Studio Focus: Damien Gerard Studios

Answered by: Marshall Cullen, producer and owner

Studio address: 174 Mullens St, Balmain

How long has the studio been running? Since 1985. First location was in Ultimo, then two years within Festival Studios in Pyrmont, now in Balmain since 2002. So 31 years.

What makes your studio different? Two main things. The engineers are extremely experienced and have worked across pretty much all genres. Secondly we are told by clients it's like a big friendly version of their own 'muso's loungeroom'.

What's your favourite piece of equipment you have in the studio? The 1985 Vintage Analogue console. It's an old Soundcraft 2400, hasn't missed a beat since day one and seems to sound better with age. The Eurythmics famously used this board in the UK.

Do you find you specialise in specific genres? Pretty much all genres that use real instruments are our specialty. Rock, metal, indie, folk, blues, bands of all kinds but not hip hop or total electro-pop.

Who have been your favourite artist(s) to come in? Recently Big White 'cause they are just great guys and really know how to have fun while in the studio but still get a top result. So many others, we love our clients.

What do believe has been the most well produced album of 2016 so far? Sarah Blasko — Eternal Return. Such a great merge of old '70s synths with Pro Tools and modern recording techniques. Bourke did a great job — he has come a long way since starting at DGS.

What services does your studio offer? Recording, mixing, mastering, manufacture (CD and vinyl), digital distribution (via Foghorn), publicity, tour management and live sound.

Do you prefer analogue or digital? Both are great and the best use is to combine - so for example track to 2" tape, then transfer to Pro Tools and mixdown through an analogue board.

Who would be your dream artist to have record/rehearse in the studio? Paul McCartney.