What We do
Accessible Audio recording and design
We are a boutique recording studio and audio design company situated in Chicago’s historic Pilsen neighborhood.
We embrace an accessible approach to audio recording and equipment design, providing affordable rates for recording sessions, custom audio equipment, and equipment repairs.
We are available for freelance engineer work at other Chicago recording studio locations.
Connect with us:
Services
High Quality Recording / Equipment Within Reach
Custom Audio Recording Equipment
If you’re seeking a unique, one-of-a-kind design, a pair of modules racked from a recording console, or something tailored to your specific needs, Downbeat can assist!
Remakes of Classic Designs
We take pride in crafting affordable, modern versions of classic audio designs, drawing inspiration from the iconic creations of renowned companies like RCA, Western Electric, Gates, Altec Lansing, Collins, and many others.
Tracking, Mixing and Mastering
Our intimate recording studio combines a high-end experience with a relaxed atmosphere. We offer a wide range of premium recording equipment, microphones, instruments, and both digital and analog tape services. We are also available to freelance at other studios.
Sharing of Knowledge
Whether you’re new to audio recording or an expert, we provide an inclusive environment where all skill levels are welcome. We’re delighted to share information, design ideas, and offer advice to everyone with the drive to learn.
Recording Equipment
Tools to unlock your sound
Every aspect of our recording studio can be seen as an instrument. We offer a diverse array of unique equipment and instruments to help you unlock your sound, with experimentation being a crucial part of the creative process.
Equipment
MCI JH-618 Recording Console (customized with Quad Eight / API style preamps and summing)
Sony ES-22T 2 Track 1/4″ Tape Machine
3M M23 4 track 1/2″ Tape Machine
Otari MX 5050 8 track 1/2″ Tape machine
Antelope Orion 32
Preamps:
Gates SA-70 (2)
Gates SA-134
RCA BA-2 (2)
RCA BC-6B (2)
Acme Audio MTP-66
Quad Eight CA-127 (2)
Opamp Labs 360 BM (2)
Compressor/Limiters:
Spectra 1964 C610 (2)
EMI RS124 / Altec 436 (2)
Collins 26J
Federal AM864
Electric & Company EC5B
Hairball Audio 1176 Blue
AudioScape Opto Comp
AudioScape 260VU
Equalizers:
Pultec EQP-1A (2)
Electrodyne 511 (2)
Chandler Limited TG12345 MKIV (2)
Iron Age Audio LH95 (2)
IGS Audio RB 500 ME
Microphones
Ribbon:
AEA R44
Altec 639
Aiwa VM-17
Coles 4038 (2)
Oktava ML-51
Shure 315
Dynamic:
Shure SM57 (4)
Unidyne 57
Electro-Voice RE18
Electro-Voice RE20
Sennheiser MD 421
Condenser:
Chandler Limited TG Type L
Warm Audio WA-67
Custom Gold U67
BeesNeez U87
United Studio Technologies UT FET47
Instruments / Effects
Keys:
Wurlitzer 200
Fender Rhodes Suitcase
Nord Electro 6D
Moog Matriarch
Korg Micro-Korg
Korg Minilogue
Guitar/Bass:
Fender P Bass
Fender Vintera ’60s Jaguar
Fender Strat
Gibson Les Paul Studio
Gibson SG Studio
Misc Japanese Guitars
Drums:
Gretsch Catalina Club Kit
Vintage Zildjian Cymbols
Vintage Ludwig & Slingerland Snares
Amps:
’73 Fender Twin Reverb
Silvertone Twin Twelve 1484
Silvertone Solid State 100
Misc guitar cabs (6×10/2×12/2×10)
Effects:
Elk EM-4 Tape Delay/Echo
Orban 111B Spring Reverb
Pioneer SR-101 Spring Reverb
Many types of effects pedals and brands
Learn more about us:
Empower diversity through creativity
Check out a feature on James’ partner, Stefanie, on Comcast Rise’s “The Road to Rise” at the 6:17 mark.
Stefanie owns Pinky Swear Studio, a small business also based in Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood.
For over 20 years, Stef and James have been creative professionals in Chicago, each owning and growing our small businesses.
FAQs
How do I get an estimate on custom recording equipment?
Please email us with a summary of what you are looking for. We will let you know our availability, expected cost and timelines to complete the custom equipment.
Where can I purchase items from Downbeat?
We have a Reverb.com shop and an eBay store that is regularly updated with items for sale. This includes equipment and parts.
Do you have a public recording space?
At this time we do not. We have a private studio and are in the process of expanding to a larger public facility in late 2024.
What do you charge for tracking, mixing, and mastering?
We prefer to set project specific rates for our time. We are priced fairly and very competitive for the Chicago markets. Tracking costs would be depended on studio space leveraged.
How much does a repair cost?
This is very dependent on the item being repaired, cost of parts and time for engineer to perform repair. We typically charge $75/hr for a repair technicians time.
What sort of equipment will you repair?
We repair a broad range of recording studio equipment in both vacuum tube and solid state designs. We do not offer home stereo equipment or tape recorder repair at this time.
I want to talk shop. How do I get in touch?
Drop us a line via email or Instagram! We love to chat and collaborate on design work. Also be sure to check out our fav online community GroupDIY
Where can I find good audio resources, schematics, parts, etc?
Check out our resources page. We’ll share all our fav sites there!
booking Downbeat stuDio & Design
Ready to book us for your project?
Please email us with the details of your project, including as much relevant information as possible.
Downbeat Studio & Design 