PAYMENT & DEPOSITS

All sessions require a non-refundable 50% deposit at the time of booking to secure session time. Once a deposit is received, the booked date and time are removed from availability.

Deposits are non-refundable under all circumstances.

Remaining balances are due before or at the end of the session.

No audio files, media, or deliverables will be released until full payment is received.

We are moving toward centralized payment methods only. Accepted payment options will be provided at booking. We no longer accept payment through multiple peer-to-peer apps unless explicitly approved in advance.

Personal checks must be approved ahead of time. Any returned check for insufficient funds will result in immediate termination of the session agreement. The client will be responsible for all related fees, collection costs, and legal expenses.

The studio retains ownership of all master recordings until all balances are paid in full. No refunds.

Major label, corporate, and commercial clients may be required to provide a deposit, and a purchase order (PO) to hold session time.

RATES & BOOKING STRUCTURE

Minimum Booking Times

4 hour minimum

These minimums exist to support proper setup, workflow, and professional session standards.

If a client insists on booking below the minimum at DLM, the rate may be increased, subject to availability and approval.

Base Rates

Monk Fidelity

Studio rental without an engineer: Members Only, see Membership page

Studio cost with an engineer included: $75 per hour

DLM Recording Studio

Engineer required at all times. $90 per hour

Rates are subject to change based on engineer, session type, or project scope.

SESSION TIMING

Sessions begin exactly at the booked start time, not when the client arrives.

If a session is booked for 8:00, the clock starts at 8:00.

If technical issues occur that are caused by the studio, that time will not be counted. If schedule availability allows, the affected time will be added back accordingly.

CANCELLATIONS & RESCHEDULING

All bookings require a 50% non-refundable deposit.

If a session is rescheduled at least 48 hours in advance, the deposit may be applied toward a future date, subject to availability.

Cancellations within 48 hours forfeit the deposit.

No refunds are issued after a session has occurred.

CLIENT CONDUCT & STUDIO ENVIRONMENt

We prioritize professional, respectful sessions. The studio reserves the right to refuse service or terminate a session if client behavior is deemed unprofessional, unsafe, or disruptive.

We are selective about the work we take on. Sessions that do not align with the studio’s direction, standards, or environment may be declined.

SMOKING, SUBSTANCES & ALCOHOL

No weapons or firearms are permitted on the premises.

Illegal substances are not allowed anywhere on the property.

Smoking is never permitted in control rooms or live rooms.

All designated smoking areas must be cleaned afterward. Leaving any evidence behind is not acceptable.

Alcohol use must remain professional. Sessions may be terminated if clients appear overly intoxicated or disruptive.

FOOD, DRINKS & CLEANLINESS

Food is permitted only in designated lounge areas.

Drinks must be kept away from studio equipment at all times. Any damage caused by spills or negligence will be charged at full replacement value.

Clients are expected to respect the space and dispose of trash properly.

EQUIPMENT & DAMAGES

Clients are responsible for any damage to studio equipment or facilities caused by themselves or anyone in their party.

Damaged equipment will be billed at full replacement value.

PERSONAL BELONGINGS

The studio is not responsible for lost, damaged, or stolen personal items.

MEDIA RELEASE & PROMOTIONAL USE

By booking a session, clients grant permission for the studio to use their name, image, or short media excerpts for promotional purposes unless otherwise agreed in writing.

The studio will never sell or distribute client music without consent.

FINAL NOTE

Please review all policies before booking. Booking a session constitutes agreement to all terms listed above.

These policies exist to protect the studio, our staff, and our clients — and to ensure a professional, high-quality experience for everyone involved.