The DARC recording studio is available to rent for Extended Access members to use for all their audio needs. The recording studio consists of two adjoining soundproofed spaces, the dialog booth and the control room. The recording studio is furnished with an ergonomic desk chair, a large desk surface and fitted with an iMac computer with audio and video editing software, audio interfaces, display options, microphones, headphones and surround sound speaker capabilities. This is a specialized space with an expected competency level to use and operate.
As of April 1, 2025, DARC’s control room and dialog booth can be booked at an hourly rate of $8.00; a minimum booking is 2 hours. If you don’t use the full time, you will still be charged the time you booked. If you’re running late for your booking you may not be able to stay later. This helps us keep our Recording Studio well-maintained, clean and available when our members need it.
Members are welcome to book full days, prorated to $50. After-hours will continue to be a flat rate of $30, whether you work 2 hours or 9. When booking the After-hours block, you’ll be required to perform our after-hours rules and security procedure. Fees must be paid in advance of all bookings. We cannot guarantee a quiet environment after 5pm due to Club SAW’s activities.
Organizational Members do not have access to post-production facilities such as the Recording Studio. Any arrangements to use these spaces must be agreed upon with the Executive Director and/or the Technical Manager. The rates for these facilities are generally 2.5 times the Extended Access hourly rate, or subject to an MOU based on the project’s budget. (i.e Extended Access member pays $8/hour, Org member pays $20)
We host recording studio orientation sessions based on member demand. Please keep a lookout for the next scheduled training. If you’re not sure which studio to use or if you need access to the control room, just let us know your goals. We’ll guide you to make the most of your recording session.
Extended Access members who have been determined to not meet DARC’s technical skill requirements to operate the recording studio alone must hire a DARC technician. DARCtechnicians have been trained by DARC technical staff (in addition to other accrediations) in expertly operating the recording studio. Producing members cannot use their own technicians unless those technicians have been trained and or approved by DARC technical staff. DARC technicians are to be paid a minimum of $35/hr for their services.
The recording booth is a non-rectangular space shaped to cut down on the possibility of standing waves, and features treatment to control the amount of reflectivity on the walls and ceiling. The control room has also been constructed to reduce standing waves, and has been treated to control diffusion and reflectivity to help ensure a clear monitoring environment. There are shared windows between the two room and lines running from one room to the other for mic inputs, headphone feeds, talkback and other connections. Essentials members can book the recording booth alone for simple recording projects.
There are two audio interfaces, a Focusrite Clarett 8PreX and a Focusrite Clarett 8Pre, for a total of 16 X analog (XLR) inputs and 16 X (1/4″ TRS) analog outputs. The interfaces are connected through an ADAT light pipe, allowing for sample rates of 48kHz and are connected to the computer using Thunderbolt 3.
Additional gear available for recording sessions:
Additional mics and recorders available to book at no extra charge:
Recording studio bookings are available to Extended Access members only. Essentials members can book the recording booth alone for simple recording projects. If you’re a member, please let us know your desired block booking time and provide us with information about your project so that we can assist you in the best possible way.
For any general inquiries, please don’t hesitate to email us at tech@digitalartsresourcecentre.ca.
Cancellations must be made 48 hours in advance. Members will be billed the total rental price if less than 48 hours notice is given. In addition, if a member does not show up for their booking, a no-show penalty fee of $30 will be charged.
67 Nicholas St, Ottawa, ON K1N 7B9