When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Second Take Sound
Why Second Take Sound is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Second Take Sound is a top-tier recording studio located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, known for its Grammy Award-winning quality and professional environment that draws musicians, producers, and audio engineers alike. Founded by Reed Turchi, a seasoned musician and producer, the studio offers a wide range of audio services including recording, mixing, mastering, podcast recording and filming, audiobook recording, voiceover work, and even film location and editing. The studio stands out due to its history rooted in genuine musical passion and community engagement, originally born from a mobile recording setup and evolving into a fully equipped space valued for creativity and technical excellence. With two fully outfitted studios, including the flagship Studio B which features a Rupert Neve 5060 center piece and ATC SCM12PRO monitors, Second Take Sound provides an outstanding acoustic environment for vocal overdubbing, mixing, and mastering. The studio fosters an inclusive, educational atmosphere by partnering with local schools and audio engineering programs to offer internships, while paying staff fair living wages. Designed as a welcoming creative hub, it is open to outside engineers and projects, making it an ideal place for artists and audio professionals to collaborate and create high-quality work.
Here's what people think of Second Take Sound
As of recent, Second Take Sound holds a 5-star rating based on 11 reviews.
Client reviews consistently praise Second Take Sound for its exceptional audio quality and professional, welcoming atmosphere. Positive reviews frequently highlight the expertise and passion of the staff, particularly Reed Turchi, and the superior sound clarity achieved through their state-of-the-art equipment. Users also appreciate the studio's flexibility and transparency, noting the honest feedback and willingness to work within various budget ranges. Another recurring commendation is the studio's willingness to support emerging talent through educational internships and its community focus. On the downside, some reviews suggest occasional challenges with booking availability due to high demand, and a few clients mention the need for clearer communication during complex project coordination, although these critiques appear minimal compared to overwhelmingly favorable responses. Overall, the review consensus is a strong endorsement of Second Take Sound’s quality, creativity, and client-service approach, making it a reliable and inspiring environment for both new and experienced audio professionals seeking excellence in their projects.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Walter Fancourt
Recording with my man Reed at Second Take Sound was truly a dream come true. Cutting a record in Manhattan is already special in its own sense but this studio takes it to another level! It was a fun, laid back experience from beginning to end. Can’t wait to get back in there!
Hannah Rubashkin
Second Take Sound hosts great shows and produces beautifully engineered music in any and all genres. Reed is a wonderful artist in his own right and will take great care of your music as he would his own. The space is well appointed and centrally located, and you won’t regret working with them, wherever you are in your record-producing, or listening, journey.
Kate Welsh
In addition to having topnotch equipment (including a beautiful piano), this is a great creative space: comfortable, surprisingly spacious, and impeccably designed. It's really conveniently located, too. A gem to have in the middle of Manhattan. Reed is organized, efficient, and kind, with a great sense of humor to boot. And, as a talented musician himself, he has a great way of shepherding creative work into the world. Can't wait to be back.
Sujae Jung
Me and my trio had a live recording/concert at the Second Take Sound studio last December and we are incredibly happy with the outcome which will be released in a few months! The sound quality is amazing and the mixes and masters of the recordings were done very precisely by an experienced engineer. The studio has a very nicely tuned grand piano and everything was well prepared and supported for the recording session.
Maja Lukic
This is a gorgeous creative space—it’s spacious, laidback, and beautifully designed. I have had the pleasure of attending fantastic shows here and recording a project with friends—the sound quality is astonishing. I can’t wait to be back. Reed is knowledgeable, creative, diligent, and a truly delightful collaborator. He is a brilliant musician and writer himself and brings a high level of care and intention to all creative projects.
How to reach Second Take Sound
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Why Second Take Sound may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Second Take Sound with your friends?
Gathering your friends at Second Take Sound is an exceptional way to combine creativity, entertainment, and social connection in a unique, inspiring environment. This Grammy-winning, artist-owned recording studio located in Midtown Manhattan offers more than just a place to make music; it is a state-of-the-art, welcoming haven designed to spark collaboration and shared experiences. Whether your group is musically inclined or simply looking for a memorable gathering spot, Second Take Sound’s vibe—rooted in artistic passion and high-quality craftsmanship—makes it ideal for fueling synergy among friends. With multiple recording spaces, soundproof rooms, sophisticated equipment, and an atmosphere that celebrates the timeless art of sound creation, it creates an immersive experience unlike any typical meetup. Plus, the studio’s professional yet approachable staff ensure a smooth experience, guiding you through available services and settings that cater to your group’s interests. Whether hosting a casual listening event, a podcast taping, or even a live album release party, Second Take Sound’s versatile spaces offer both privacy and community, making it a stimulating epicenter for people looking to rally around shared creative energy.
What activities can you do at Second Take Sound?
Second Take Sound is not just a recording studio; it is a multi-functional venue equipped to support a variety of activities perfect for groups of friends or family meetups. The core offerings include recording, mixing, and mastering music with top-tier equipment such as a 32-channel API 1608 console and a Steinway Grand Piano housed in a 400-square-foot live room with four isolation booths. These facilities create exceptional opportunities whether you want to record a group jam session, a podcast episode, or even an audiobook in a professional environment. Beyond the technical side, the studio hosts listening events, VIP meet and greets, video shoots, and photo sessions, allowing your group to engage in immersive and diverse activities. The venue also supports film location shoots and audio-visual productions, accommodating groups interested in creative projects beyond just sound. Additionally, there is a spacious, light-filled lounge area and kitchenette for relaxation and socializing. Outdoor areas and restrooms contribute to making the space comfortable for longer visits. This blend of professional-grade equipment and flexible spaces makes Second Take Sound an ideal spot to gather for a creative day or evening where everyone can participate or just enjoy the ambiance.
Why is Second Take Sound perfect for group meetups?
Second Take Sound’s carefully crafted environment and versatile offerings position it as a premier location for group meetups, enhancing both camaraderie and creativity. Each recording space is fully soundproofed with adjustable lighting, allowing groups to customize the atmosphere according to their mood or activity. The large live room and isolation booths encourage interactive sessions where participants can experiment with sound individually or collaboratively, making it optimal for musical ensembles, podcasters, or other creative teams. The artist-owned nature of the studio means the operators genuinely understand and prioritize client needs, providing flexibility and personalized service that larger corporate studios may lack. The studio’s reputation reinforced by Grammy-winning projects and prestigious clientele adds a layer of prestige and inspiration to any gathering, motivating your group to explore their creative potential within a respected space. Moreover, the availability of additional services like remote recording and mixing facilitates continuity for groups wanting to continue work outside of physical visits. Combined with comfortable amenities like a lounge and kitchen, this makes Second Take Sound a place where groups can seamlessly move between productive work and relaxed interaction, strengthening bonds through shared experiences in art and sound.
How does Second Take Sound’s location enhance your meetup experience?
Situated in the vibrant heart of Midtown Manhattan, Second Take Sound benefits from one of the most dynamic neighborhoods in New York City, which significantly elevates the meetup experience. Midtown offers an energetic yet accessible urban backdrop filled with dining, entertainment, and cultural attractions, so your gatherings can extend before or after your studio time to explore local eateries or landmarks. The studio is conveniently located with easy access to public transit, making it simple for friends and family coming from different parts of the city or beyond to converge effortlessly. The metropolitan environment also complements the studio’s vibe—being in a bustling arts and media hub contributes to a sense of connection to a larger creative community. This accessibility paired with Midtown’s iconic status in NYC offers not just a physical space for your meetup but an inspiring contextual experience. Whether your group is coming for a special project, a celebration, or just a fun afternoon, the location injects an urban vitality that blends perfectly with Second Take Sound’s modern and artistic interior.
What unique features make Second Take Sound stand out?
Second Take Sound distinguishes itself not only through its high-caliber technical offerings but also through its commitment to creating a human-centered, artist-first space. Unlike large commercial studios, it is independently owned and artist-driven, enabling more flexible booking options and personalized attention that prioritize client vision and comfort. The presence of vintage and cutting-edge equipment, including the revered Studer A827 2" Tape Machine alongside digital consoles, provides a rare mix of classic analog warmth and modern precision. The studio’s multi-use spaces adaptable for recording, live events, video production, and photography offer diverse experiences for groups with varied interests. Its history of serving celebrated musicians, producers, authors, and even the United Nations Climate Week speaks to its stature as a trusted creative site. Additionally, the studio keeps the facility impeccably clean and well-maintained, showing professionalism and care that benefits every visitor from beginners to seasoned professionals. This unique environment that blends artistic heritage, technical excellence, and client-focused service makes Second Take Sound not just a recording location but a creative home for groups looking to share meaningful moments.
How can groups plan their visit for maximum enjoyment?
Maximizing your group's enjoyment at Second Take Sound involves leveraging its variety of spaces and services to tailor your meetup around your goals and interests. First, engage with the studio’s helpful booking staff to understand available rooms, equipment, and any technical assistance you may require, such as having a staff engineer for recording sessions. Consider the size and purpose of your group—for example, whether you want a casual listening party, a rigorous recording session, or a laid-back video shoot—then select studio spaces accordingly. Plan activities around the lounge and kitchenette for breaks and socializing, using the indoor and outdoor areas to create a comfortable flow throughout the visit. The studio’s multiple isolation booths and a large live room enable simultaneous activities if your group is large or has split interests. It’s also valuable to explore add-ons like podcast filming or voiceover services for a creative twist on your gathering. Lastly, because the studio is located in Midtown, allocate some time either before or after your session to enjoy local dining or entertainment, turning your meetup into a full-day shared occasion. Thoughtful preparation ensures that all members of your group find the experience engaging, productive, and fun.
What should you expect from the staff and atmosphere at Second Take Sound?
Visitors to Second Take Sound can expect a warm, professional, and artistically supportive atmosphere that fosters both creativity and comfort. The staff are known for their expertise and attentiveness, helping not only to manage the technical side but also to create an inviting environment where guests feel valued and encouraged to explore their creative ideas. Because the studio is artist-owned, there is a genuine understanding of the creative process and the occasional unpredictability it involves, which is reflected in their flexible, people-first approach. This supportive ambiance helps reduce the stress often associated with studio sessions, making it easier for groups to relax and enjoy their time together. The interior design balances sophisticated studio technology with a cozy, light-filled lounge space and tasteful décor, contributing to a focused yet pleasant vibe. These factors combine to make every visit to Second Take Sound feel less like a business appointment and more like a creative retreat where friends can come together to produce, perform, and celebrate sound.
How can Second Take Sound accommodate diverse group sizes and interests?
Second Take Sound’s multiple fully equipped studios and versatile spaces allow it to accommodate groups of varying sizes, from intimate gatherings to larger parties. The main live room, spanning 400 square feet, is ideal for full bands or sizable ensembles needing room to move and collaborate, while the four isolation booths support smaller breakout sessions or individual recordings without sound bleed. This configuration enables multiple simultaneous uses, meaning a group can split between recording, podcasting, filming, or simply relaxing without interference. The flexibility extends to the type of projects as well, given the studio’s capabilities for music, podcasting, voiceover, audiobook recordings, and film editing. Such diversity means that whether your group is focused strictly on music production or eager to try different creative mediums, everyone can participate or engage at their comfort level. Additionally, for groups with mixed proficiency, the presence of experienced engineers to assist or lead sessions can help beginners feel supported while giving professionals the resources they need. This adaptability to different group dynamics and interests makes Second Take Sound a uniquely inclusive place for creative meetups.
What makes hosting an event or party at Second Take Sound special?
Hosting an event or party at Second Take Sound transforms a typical social gathering into an immersive audio-visual experience that your friends and family won’t soon forget. The studio has a proven history of hosting not only album release parties and listening events but also VIP meet and greets, video shoots, and photo sessions, which means your event can have a creative edge no matter the occasion. The soundproofing and adjustable lighting create an intimate yet professional atmosphere suitable for both high-energy celebrations and more relaxed gatherings centered around music appreciation or creative showcases. The availability of a lounge and kitchen area adds comfort and convenience, allowing guests to mingle and refresh throughout the event. With its award-winning reputation, unique equipment, and flexible spaces, Second Take Sound elevates any party by providing both world-class technical capabilities and an inspiring environment that invites your guests to engage actively with the art of sound. Whether you want to celebrate a milestone, unveil a new project, or just enjoy time with loved ones surrounded by creativity, this venue adds an extraordinary dimension to your gathering.
How does Second Take Sound support creativity beyond just recording music?
Second Take Sound champions creativity in many forms beyond traditional music recording, making it a hub for diverse artistic and storytelling projects. The studio offers podcast recording and filming services, allowing creators to produce audio and video content in a professional setting. This expands the possibilities for groups interested in storytelling, interviews, or creative discourse. Additionally, the studio supports audiobook recording and voiceover work, appealing to writers, actors, and narrators who want high-quality sound production to bring their projects to life. The facility’s role as a film location and its film editing capabilities further diversify its creative scope, offering groups a chance to engage with visual media alongside audio production. This breadth of services means that Second Take Sound encourages multidisciplinary exploration, making it ideal for groups with varied talents and interests to collaborate and learn from one another. The inclusive and resource-rich setting fosters creativity everywhere from sound to sight, enhancing the overall experience for any meetup aimed at collective artistic expression.