Sound Stages for Rent in New York City, NY

Sound Stages Rental Guide

Here at Tagvenue we know what matters. And when you search the web for the best sound stages New York City has to offer - we try to deliver just that. A sound stage is not a typical studio, in a way it’s a harder location to find, because every sound stage can be a studio, but not every studio a sound stage. But today you’re in luck because we have been on the lookout for ideal places just for you. Check out our list of things to remember before renting, as well as our recommendations and a few other small tips we managed to find to help you on your booking journey. 

Things you should know before renting a sound stage in New York City

Get all of your things in check. How much money do you have for this project? How much time is it going to take? What cast and filming crew do you need? Which equipment is necessary to make it all work? You could also think about which materials can be cut, and which cannot. In this case, the things which you are able to scrap should be filmed last. Just in case you run out of time. You don’t want to miss filming anything important that has to make its way into the movie. List all the essential questions and have the answers ready before you even think about booking.

Time is money when you’re renting a sound stage. Make sure you’re not wasting any of that by fixing up the equipment before you go inside. Of course, we mean your own equipment, if you have any. All of your own gear should be ready to go once you start. There could be a possibility to come and tweak the equipment on set before, or on the day of the film shoot. Contact the manager to ask about this option. Apart from the equipment, all of your crew should be fully briefed and know all the details so they can get going straight away. Stick to this golden rule, and you’ll have one less thing to worry about, and more money in your pocket.

Multitasking is a money and a time saver as well. When renting a sound stage, the venue could offer you to rent more than one if they are in the same building. Usually, if two sound stages are next to each other, they cannot be simultaneously in use. So the owner is not able to rent it to anyone else. In this case, you could be able to negotiate a discount for the second room. If this is not an option, you can also try to divide the stage and shoot different parts of the film at similar times. For example, if you prepare the stage for two scenes, you may be able to shoot one right after the other. Instead of changing the whole stage decor to shoot the following scene. Use the space and time of your film shoot well.

Don’t forget about insurance. Check what it covers, and what it does not. Make sure you, your crew and your clients are safe. If anything was to happen to anyone on set, the repercussions could be disastrous. While we’re on this topic. Make sure to read your studio contract thoroughly and probably a couple of times more. Is everything clear and are all the critical points listed? What happens if something gets broken, is set on fire or if damage is done by something out of your control? If you have any questions or concerns, then ask the person you are signing the contract with, and don’t write your name under anything that you are not prepared to take full responsibility for. 

You may be asking yourself what equipment should a sound stage have?

It would be good if you had someone knowledgeable about the subject on set, and reading the options available beforehand. Your lighting director should have a look into the offer for sure. Lighting grips, soft boxes, ring lights, key lights, fill lights, background lights… in general there’s a lot of lights. Other than that, floor/wall/ceiling outlets, HDMI connectivity, heating, ventilation or air conditioning. Does the studio have any special effects equipment like a green screen, wind or fog machine, or a cyclorama?

Those can be considered as basic equipment. You can also check if there is any support service like a control room or a rehearsal space. Are there any dressing rooms, spaces for your crew to do hair and makeup? And if you decide to stay for the whole day - is there a kitchen for your staff to make something to eat? 

Check these sound stages in New York City:

• Sound Stage 1 in Greenpoint Brooklyn
• Studio B at Contra Studios Manhattan
• Studio 5 at FD Photo Studio in Houses
• Studio 2 at Soho Studios - the 9 Studios NYC in Koreatown

Now with all of this information, you should feel more ready to book one of the best sound stages New York City has to offer.

FAQs about Sound Stages in New York City, NY

What’s the difference between a studio and a sound stage?

A sound stage is very similar to a studio. A studio can be defined as a place for filming, with different apparatus like lighting and backdrops inside. The same can be said for a sound stage, with the difference that it is soundproof. You can record audio here without having to worry about outside noise.

Should I choose a sound stage or a studio for my production?

It depends if you’re planning to add audio in post-production in a recording studio, or if you’d rather record the sound at the same time of your film shot. When you have to add some sound effects, scene noises or when you need to record dialogue simultaneously with the film, it may be better to shoot in a soundproof studio. Otherwise, you’re probably set filming in a standard studio.

How much does it cost to use a sound stage in New York City?

The rental prices for sound stages vary. Affordable studios start from around $70 to $120. If you can afford to splurge more, then there are options of around $1500 to $6000 per hire fee.

Which districts in NYC offer the best sound stages?

The two most popular areas with sound stages are Manhattan and Greenpoint Brooklyn. Make sure to check out these areas and book the perfect sound stage for your film.