The Midwest is not exactly the most obvious location for a state-of-the-art audio production facility, but after hearing Steve Richards Mahoney describe his vision for establishing Four Seasons Media Productions (4SMP) in the heart of St. Louis, it makes perfect sense.
Although the facility takes its technological cues from its big-city competitors, Mahoney wanted a more down-to-earth environment for his clients - mainly corporations and advertising agencies. By hiring RBDG to design the technical spaces, Mahoney was assured a fully functional space for a wide variety of recording projects.
"I told Russ Berger to build me two of his finest rooms and an editing suite, and that's exactly what he did. He went beyond my expectations," said Mahoney.
The 8,500 square-foot facility features three technical spaces (two control rooms and an editing suite,) a lounge and various administrative areas. The extensive use of natural light and accents of wood and metal imparts a cozy "vibe" throughout the technical spaces.
Mahoney's commitment to the "best environment possible" is clearly evidenced in the technical spaces. Control One is home to a hand-built API Legacy console with discrete components and includes two isolation booths and a huge producer's desk. To accommodate large tracking sessions, Studio One features a live studio that holds six rack bays of "to die for" hand-picked outboard gear. Further adding to the studio's ambiance is a flood of natural light permitted via clerestory windows punched high into the ceiling vaults.
Control Two is comparable in size to Control One and is outfitted with a "tricked-out" SSL 9000 J series console. Utilizing the latest 5.1 surround sound technology, Control Two is fully equipped for mixing and is currently the only 5.1 studio in Missouri.
Control Three, the editing suite, is equipped with a 24-bit/24-track Pro Tools system and is fully networked with the other rooms.
Mahoney went to great lengths to ensure a high-quality facility. Drawing from his experience as a producer, engineer and musician, he selected the finest in new and vintage equipment. "If it's not here, either I didn't want it or they don't make it," said Mahoney.
That sentiment can be traced to Mahoney's love affair with music. His lengthy career in the music industry fostered an appreciation for the ultimate environment with the best equipment. He's not shy about his long-term goal for 4SMP - to become the studio of choice for recording artists.
"There has been no place to bring them to. It's a traditional market of tremendous music. I just can't understand why the proper combination of serious artist and state-of-the-art facility never came together until now. And here it is."
But having a well-equipped facility means nothing without a quality staff behind the scenes. Mahoney's talent for attracting the "brightest and best" people in the industry that share a common professional philosophy is evident upon entering the door of 4SMP - further illustrating that a helpful service mentality stems from a sincere love and dedication to one's work.