Studio A features a newly renovated control room, now equipped with a cutting-edge 72-channel Neve 88RS console with Encore automation, further elevating the space’s capabilities for today’s creative demands.

As one of the two original studios at Ardent’s Madison Avenue location, which opened in late 1971, Studio A has been the backdrop for countless iconic sessions. It has hosted many of Ardent’s most esteemed clients, earning its reputation as a true hub of musical innovation.

The live room in Studio A remains the largest recording space at Ardent, measuring 24’ 9” x 38’ 10”, with soaring ceilings and three well-appointed isolation booths. The design provides both ample space and excellent sightlines, offering a comfortable and inspiring environment for musicians and producers alike.

In 1989, the legendary Tom Dowd worked alongside John Fry to refine the acoustics of Studio A’s live room, tailoring it to Dowd’s exacting standards. This collaboration was pivotal in transforming the space into the sonic masterpiece it is today. Since then, the room has hosted an array of timeless recordings, retaining its original acoustic integrity and character.

The control room of Studio A has seen several evolutions over the past five decades, with numerous upgrades and mixing desks throughout its storied history. In 2023, the control room underwent a significant revision, incorporating modern acoustic sensibilities and a suite of world-class monitoring systems, including Bowers & Wilkins, ATC, Trinnov, and McIntosh, ensuring the highest level of accuracy for mixing and production.

From the European-inspired tiger maple and mahogany woodwork to the Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired artisanal lighting, Studio A offers an environment that is both elegant and inspiring. It also features a private, connected indoor lounge and an outdoor patio, providing a welcoming and comfortable space for artists to relax and recharge during their creative process.