Sunset Sound

Overview

Sunset Sound is one of the most legendary recording studios in the world. Founded in 1958 by Tutti Camarata (a Disney music director and accomplished trumpeter), the studio quickly became the go-to facility for artists who would go on to define modern music. The Rolling Stones recorded parts of Exile on Main St. here. Led Zeppelin tracked Led Zeppelin II in these rooms. The Doors, Prince, Tom Petty, Janis Joplin, The Beach Boys, and Van Halen have all left their mark on this place.

What makes Sunset Sound special is not just its history — it is the fact that the rooms still sound as extraordinary today as they did decades ago. The acoustic design has been continuously refined over 60+ years, resulting in spaces that engineers describe as unusually forgiving and musical. Sound just works in these rooms in a way that is difficult to articulate but immediately obvious when you hear the results.

The Rooms

Studio 1

The largest of the three studios, Studio 1 can accommodate full bands and large ensembles. The room has a warm, natural sound with controlled reflections that make it versatile across genres. The control room features a custom console and an impressive collection of outboard gear that the staff clearly takes pride in maintaining.

Studio 2

Often considered the jewel of Sunset Sound, Studio 2 is where many of the studio's most iconic recordings were made. The room has a distinctive sonic character — tight, punchy, and incredibly musical — that has made it a first choice for rock, pop, and alternative productions. It is one of the most in-demand recording rooms in Los Angeles.

Studio 3

A more intimate space ideal for overdubs, mixing, and smaller tracking sessions. Studio 3 offers the same level of quality and attention to detail as the larger rooms but in a format that works well for focused production work.

Pricing & Booking

Sunset Sound operates on a daily rate model, with prices ranging from approximately $2,500 to $5,000+ per day depending on the room and the project requirements. Engineer fees are additional and vary based on the engineer's experience and the scope of work.

Availability is often limited, particularly for Studio 2. It is not uncommon for the most popular rooms to be booked months in advance, so planning ahead is essential. The studio works primarily with established artists, labels, and management teams, though independent artists with the budget are welcome.

For context on how this pricing compares to other options in the area, see our guide to recording studio costs in LA.

Who It Is Best For

• Major label projects with dedicated recording budgets
• Artists seeking the inspiration of recording in historically significant rooms
• Engineers who want access to top-tier vintage and modern gear
• Projects where the recording environment is a key part of the artistic vision

Who Should Consider Alternatives

• Independent artists on tighter budgets
• Artists who record frequently and need ongoing studio access
• Anyone based in Santa Monica who wants to avoid the Hollywood commute
• Projects that can be completed with modern equipment in a well-designed room