This place is sorta small but it packs a punch. It has some unique memorabilia and good photo ops…read moreand a whole lotta history. Our guide was very funny and knowledgeable (and he's a musician to boot!). We did the tour and the upstairs part has a recreation of the Dewey O DJ booth which is very cool. There is even a "smash" hit record on the floor in the booth! Inside museum cases are some original equipment and posters, etc. of some of the greats signed by Sun Studio. The downstairs recording studio (still in use daily) is timeless with an original microphone and the piano that the greats once played while recording. . We got to pose with the microphone and see lots of real equipment actually used by the likes of Elvis, Sam Perkins, Jerry Lee Lewis, Johnny Cash, etc. And of course, some of the original recording equipment used by founder Sam Phillips. The gift shop and small bar up front are a great touch both before and after the tours. Don't miss this legendary place.

For anyone who finds this post, a mere speck amidst an ocean of reviews, I need you to understand…read moresomething. This is one of the greatest tours I've ever taken! For context, you have to comprehend that I've visited 82 countries, all seven continents, and countless museums and historic sites around the globe! I don't bestow these compliments lightly, because the unfortunate side effect of all that travel is that I've become almost impossible to impress. But on a rainy Saturday afternoon while walkin' in Memphis, I strolled into Sun Studio for the first time, a place I'd never visited despite a half century of living in Tennessee. It was long overdue! I entered at 10:15 a.m. shortly after the studio opened, showed my voucher that I had purchased on their website, and signed up for the 10:30 a.m. tour. And it's one of the best things I've EVER seen on all my travels which is saying something!! You can feel the spirit of rock and roll here, expertly told by our guide Krista! It really gets in your soul once you listen to the stories, hear the musical excerpts, and realize the hallowed ground upon which you stand. What other museums in Memphis lack, Sun Studio more than makes up for with just one upstairs room of exhibits that are pivotal to the development of modern music. I won't give everything away so that you're motivated to take the tour yourself. But you'll learn how Sam Phillips founded the record studio, how a broken guitar in Mississippi led to the birth of a revolutionary sound, the legendary bands who recorded here and those who were inspired by the record label. Don't miss the original neon sign from Sun Studio and a radio station set rescued from an abandoned hotel! And of course, you'll learn how a teenaged Elvis pad a few dollars for a recording session, and the employee who vouched for him before Sam Phillips realized he was the future of music! You'll also see the active studio downstairs where hundreds of legendary acts have recorded, where the same floor and acoustically designed ceiling haven't changed since the '50s! Even the same microphone that recorded all of these icons still stands in the room, perfect for tourist photo ops! Please take this tour in your lifetime!! Don't wait as long as I did!!

All I can really say about Ardent is that I have been depressed since I have left! This is a…read moremusical mecca for me! Some of my all time favorite records were made here.. Big Star, REM, the Replacements, Booker T. and the Mg's, Cat Power, White Stripes, Dylan, Zep, Mr. Hayes, Primal Scream, and now a record I'm producing by Christopher the Conquered. I had the opportunity to tour the facilities twice before deciding this is where I wanted to record the record. Nothing like getting a tour from John Fry the guy who started Ardent way back in the 60's and also was a big part of recording those Big Star records mentioned above. All of the studios are capable of hosting and mixing any kind of musical act you throw at them! The best thing about Ardent besides the amazing staff is how it's built around a little court yard that is open air, so you can walk outside and grab a breath of fresh air and not feel like your in box for 10 hours strait! It's a genius design and the best I have ever seen in a recording studio. We were recording in Room A, with master engineer Adam Hill, who is one of the hardest working guys I have ever met.. He get's amazing sounds, is always up for a great joke, and knows the history of the studio and rock and roll and is quite the good story teller! I got to talk a little bit about how great the staff is, always making sure you have what you need weither is back ground singers, beer in the fridge, or you need someone to go grab you a record from the store down the street! They are the best! Also such and honor to get to chat with Jody Stephens the drummer of Big Star who also works there! And I also got to hear him practice in Studio B one day! AMAZING! ANYWAY I COULD GO ON FOREVER ABOUT THIS PLACE, It's the best! and I'm excited to get back there and mix our record we started! Keep up the great work ARDENT YOU ARE ONE OF A KIND!

Ardent Studios is fantastic. I could be mistaken, but I believe they're the only recording studio…read morein Memphis that's still operational that offers tours. Regardless, it's definitely not to be missed. For starters, it's free. The tour itself is free, they have their own parking, which is also free. You really can't beat that. Throughout the studios are lots of memorabilia related to the studios. Lots of gold and platinum records of artists who recorded there, photos and articles pertaining to the studios, even some awards (as in Grammys, etc.). And of course, there's lots of framed records all over the walls of what seems like basically every album ever recorded at Ardent over the years. I don't mean it in a bad way, as no matter who you like, you'll be happy. You also of course get a tour of the studios from an actual guide. You get to see their studios, actual studios people still use if they come and book some time in the studio. To me it's so awesome to think of how many bands have been in each room over the years, especially the older studios. You can see the infamous studio that Big Star used for much of their recording and also see photos from their old location before they moved to their location on Madison. What I really enjoyed too was aside from the walk down memory lane and seeing these historical rooms, I loved being able to see the mix of new and old equipment at the mixing desks. Most use ProTools now, but they do still have analogue so you can see what recording studios used to look like. ;) And everyone is very friendly! You don't feel rushed at all (the tour should talk an hour, tops) and the guides are happy to answer any questions you have. They know everything. It's so worth taking the tour!

Royal Studios gives you chill bumps as soon as you walk through the door, but feels like home at…read morethe same damn time. Meeting and working with Boo is a huge honor and opportunity. I look forward to making timeless music with him and his sons. Hopefully sooner than later. Their equipment is great and some of it is original. That information alone is amazing. The track room is spread out well to give artists the chance to really shed their skin and dig deep, while maintaining that professionalism with a hard working production team sitting in one chair. Boo you told me you'll never be able to fill your father's or grand father's shoes. But you have. You just don't know it yet brother. Much love and respect from this side. We're nowhere close to done. Thank you Royal Studios and everyone else involved.

This place has vibe for days. Killer sounds, great people, and rich history. If you have the…read morechance, you should record here. Memphis soul.

I had an amazing experience here. The staff is so helpful and pleasant and I love the concept of…read morejust going there to listen to records. This is a cute date or self care idea if you want something cheap, laid back and relaxing. Just be present and listen to good music in a tranquil environment.

I love the Memphis Listening Lab. The entire concept is truly unique. They have an impressive…read morecurated collection of vinyls with over 75,000 pieces of different media. The initial collection was started by John King, a Memphis native that founded Ardent Records with ties to the music scene as a musician, promoter, and more. This is a legendary establishment. Quite frankly, a gem that should be preserved. Every time I visit, I try to donate to their cause. I hope to one day contribute to their collection by donating vinyls as well. With so many available options, some respectable relics, some new, as a listener there will be no problem finding something to enjoy. If you're new to the Listening Lab, I recommend asking the vinyl conservator for guidance. Be sure to have in mind what you'd like to listen to, perhaps even ready for a recommendation too! The VPI players are EXTREMELY high quality and deserve the highest care for preservation of this beautiful facility. They even have a dedicated sound room for the ultimate hi-fi experience. The listening space is beautiful, with great views and comfortable seating. Overall, it's a magnificent and top-notch establishment. I love coming here and dedicating a moment or two to a listening experience.

American Recording Studio is a legendary gem in the heart of Memphis and is a place of Soul, Blues,…read moreRock & Roll, Country, and Hip Hop. That is very hard to find all in one place. Jason Gillespie is the Head of Production and Engineering and not only does he have 20 + years of experience in the music industry, he is a super nice and an overall great guy. Daniel Williams recorded me and I allowed their intern to sit in on my session because I flew in from LA, and they both were inspiring me as I was inspiring them and that's such a great feeling. Even better their intern, KC Nash is also a song writer and artist, and we became friends and are collaborating on few records here. The legendary DJ Spanish Fly came in and sat in my session and Daniel gave him an amazing tour and he fell in love with the equipment, ambiance, and sound quality. As did I. However, I have known about this place for a number of years. But this was the first time I had the opportunity to book a couple blocks and bring some new ideas to life. Hopefully if everything goes well, I'll help add some plaques to their wall. I'm very proud to call this studio, my go to studio in the city of Memphis. Much love and blessings to everyone involved in the hard work and determination to build this place, keep it up to date, and make moments last forever.

Amazing Studio , first and only free standing purposed built studio in Memphis. Equipped to handle…read moreany serious to simple recording projects. Also fantastic for tracking & transferring files to your project studio or Home studio so you can mix on your own rig . The in house Engineers are consistent in mixing , mastering , tracking for Major Record labels to Independent labels. The history here is a who's who of every genre of music ever to be recorded from Rock , Metal, Rap , Hip Hop, Country, Electronic, Alternative, Classical etc. Its also equipped for pre production, post mixing & mastering for 21st century video & movie, surround sound & Dolby post productions in Studio B. The Studio is Engineer friendly for those who want to have access to one of the finest ( Sound Stage ) floated suspension floors & natural Echo Chambers in the world. Soundtracks from the studios past includes Butch Cassidy & The Sundance kid , to featured music on the sound track " "Once Upon A Time in Hollywood " ARS can go from vintage to the latest technology available. You can travel & have no worries of carrying gear. Bring your Gutiars ,Drumstcks & the studio will have you covered with more software than you can wrap your head around & just want remix some of your past recordings from yesteryear The studio also is great place for younger artist to get there start & if you call with the studio will work with you to get you started. Some great features IMO is access to instruments that would take a lifetime or two to aquire .Many Bands broke thru here such as the White Stripes " Red Blood Cells " It also has the distinction of the last Studio of # 1s of " Back in Memphis" by Elvis Presley & Vegas to Memphis produced by Legendary owner Chips Moman & Don Crews & The Memphis Boys !! Many well known STAX Artists after STAX closed in 1975 ,completed their albums using the studio. What can I say as a caretaker of this historical Landmark . Everyone should record here at least once in there life time. When you walk thru the doors you know your in the presence of a time when only the best of the best could record here. Many acts from around the world send there music to be mixed & mastered or travel thousands of miles to get the Memphis Sound & enjoy some of the finest BBQ in the world & see the sights & sounds of world famous Beale Street Graceland, Sun Studios, Peabody Hotel & enjoy the beautiful parks on the Mississippi River . Contact on Facebook or AMERICAN-RECORDING-STUDIO.COM

Young Avenue Sound is as good as it gets! The quality of the finished product was extremely…read moreprofessional and is a true example of memphis music. The equipment is pristine, and you can count on the crew to get the type of sound you are looking for. Young Avenue's "Studio A" is now specializing in recording talented kid bands from all around Tennessee. I would definitely recommend this studio to anyone who wants to be treated like family, and create a superb sound.

From the owner: Young Avenue Sound is a resource for professional audio services, in a relaxed, supportive…read moreenvironment. We offer acoustic excellence and a knowledgeable staff, delivered with a combination of care and high standards that contribute to a uniquely satisfying experience for our clients. You can expect the highest quality results whether your project involves a single song, and entire album, a spoken presentation, a jingle and everything in between.

I was new to Studio Recording but Spook put me at ease. He also has a book, "Wit Da Shit", out…read morewhich sounds lit so I had to cop it. Love that he's multifaceted. I definitely will be patronizing our Good Bro again.

Trone is the best , great business man , overall stand up guy , & a man of many talents ! Between…read morebeing an author , producer , artist , & owner of his own cleaning business & personal properties, this guy has always put us onto new opportunities , and is the best person to deal with when doing business in the Memphis area!

Sam Phillips left son Studios in 1960 and opened his own recording studio around the corner. It's…read morestill standing and it's in use today. In 2000, the A&E produced a 2 hour documentary, Sam Phillips: The Man Who Invented Rock 'n' Roll, for the award-winning Biography series. Scott Bomar, the Emmy-winning and Grammy-nominated producer, engineer & musician now manages Phillips Recording has fully restored the console, which is in use as the main board at the studio.

Really awesome, urban venue! BYOB. Parking can be a little tricky, but its fine and a great time!read more

I did a tour of the studios and learned the state-of the-art complex at Made in Memphis…read moreEntertainment is one of the most advanced studios in the world. The $5 million, 16,525-square-foot studio was built by Songwriters Hall of Fame recipient and Stax Records legend David Porter. The designers say every inch of the facility is made for pristine sonic output. The complex has pre-production rooms, writing rooms, and the wood on the studio walls and ceilings are not for decoration; they're sound diffusers. British studio designer Michael Cronin made studios A, B and C totally different from one another to create different sounds. Studio B room has a different dimensional structure than A and C so you can get a specialized sound depending on which room you go into. They used a very technical analysis to calculate how long/wide the rooms had to be, the ceiling height, all of that was factored into it. Cronin used mathematics to optimize sound and the doors are specialized to seal out noise. Even the floors are cool. They poured a new slab with eight inches of concrete on top of a spring system and the ceilings are decoupled from the roof. You could turn the volume up in Studio A and that room could start vibrating, but you could walk down the hall and you wouldn't be able to discern the sound or the movement. There's a step-and-repeat to take a selfie in the hallway. You must check out this studio. Super amazing experience.