Studio Quote Builder

Turn recording, mixing, studio hire and musicians into a clear quote with a deposit and terms. Export as a PDF. By Music Manager Resource.

Studio Quote Builder is part of the Studio section of Music Manager Resource.

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Why a written quote helps

A clear quote does more than give a price. It sets out what the client is getting, stops small misunderstandings from becoming big ones and makes you look organised. It also gives you something to point to when a project starts growing. If a four-song EP turns into six songs, it is easy to see that the job has changed and the price needs to change with it.

What to include

List each part of the job on its own line: recording days, mixing per track, mastering, studio hire, session musicians, editing and travel. Say what the rates are based on, such as a day of a set number of hours. Note what is not included, how many rounds of changes are covered and how long the quote remains valid. Costs you pay on the client's behalf should be easy to see.

Deposits

A deposit protects your diary. Once dates are held for one client, you are turning away other work. The amount is up to you and depends on the size of the job. Say whether it comes off the final bill, and what happens to it if the client cancels. Many people also hold on to final files until the balance has been paid, so make that clear in your terms.

Tax

Leave the tax boxes empty unless you are registered to charge a tax such as VAT. Rules and thresholds depend on where you are and what you earn, so ask an accountant if you are unsure. Keep your own records of quotes and income, as you will need them later.

How to use this tool

Enter your details and the client's, then add lines with the quick buttons or a blank row. Choose your currency, deposit and terms, and export a PDF. You can save it to your account. Once the client says yes, use the Invoice Generator to bill them, and consider our practice contracts to learn what a full agreement would cover.