Break down the costs of a session. Why do some studios cost $50/hr and others $500?
When comparing studio rates, you're paying for three main things: The Room, The Gear, and The Personnel.
The Room: Acoustic treatment is expensive. A room that sounds 'flat' and trustworthy for mixing costs thousands to build. Soundproofing (isolation) is even more expensive. If a studio is in a noisy area but dead silent inside, you are paying for that construction quality.
The Gear: A single vintage microphone can cost $15,000. Large format consoles like an SSL or Neve cost as much as a house. When a studio charges premium rates, it's often to cover the maintenance and acquisition of this legendary equipment.
The Personnel: This is often the hidden variable. A $50/hr studio might be run by an intern or a student. A $150/hr studio might come with a seasoned engineer who can make you sound 10x better in half the time. Never underestimate the value of a fast, talented engineer—they can actually save you money by finishing the song quicker.
Hidden costs to watch for: Hard drive fees, piano tuning fees, and overtime rates. Always ask for a 'lockout' rate if you plan to book 10+ hours multiple days in a row; most studios will offer a discount for bulk time.