1. Have Your Songs Prepared.
This one goes without saying, but you'd be surprised. You and
your band should be able to play through every song you plan
on recording, and play through it well. Time spent working out
arrangements in the studio is valuable time you can be using
to add overdubs and other little things to make your songs
shine!

Also, keep in mind this: if you're using any sequenced parts or
electronic instruments, make sure you've got those parts
arranged and pre-recorded before you enter the studio. The last
thing the engineer has time to do is wait for you to remember
how your electronic arrangement goes.

2. Hangovers Are Bad.
Sure, getting into the studio is a great time, and it's definitely
cause for celebration, especially if it's your first album. But
trust me on this one: lay off the alcohol, drugs, and late-night
partying before getting into the studio. A lot of younger bands
are more into the "scene" than they are making the actual
record, and that's unfortunate. And remember, always respect
studio house rules on booze.

Come to the studio well-rested and ready to work. If you're a
singer, rest your voice, drink plenty of water (including room-
temperature water when you're in the studio -- ice is bad for
vocal cords!).

3. Always Use New Strings & Heads.
Guitarists & bassists, listen up. Bring new strings to the
session, and don't cheap out, either -- go with good quality
strings. Your recording quality will suffer with old strings,
and no, I don't care if that's the sound you're going for. You'll
thank me later.

Drummers, bring new heads -- and make sure they're tuned
right on your kit -- and new sticks. And for everybody? BRING
SPARES! You don't want to be holding up the session
because you needed to send your girlfriend out to Guitar
Center for you.

4. Know Your Sound, But Be Realistic.
Make sure your producer/engineer understands what sound
you want, but keep in mind, they can't exactly reproduce
another album's recording conditions for you. Just because
your favorite band's drum tracks sound a certain way doesn't
mean yours can -- that is, unless you use the same drummer,
same kit, same room, same mics, same everything.

Bring some examples of styles you'd like to see reflected in
your work to your producer/engineer ahead of time, and let
them explain to you how they can split the difference to help
your project come out as close to what you want, and
remember: individuality IS a good thing!

5. Know When To Quit.
Adrenaline runs high in a situation like a recording studio,
especially when you're racing to beat the clock to save money.
But knowing when to quit can be really helpful, too.

The longer you push your ears, and longer you physically
continue to perform, you'll get tired and thus your performance
will suffer. It's better to know when to walk away for the day,
and come back the next day refreshed and ready to go. It's
not failure, it's making the best of your time. Your producer
and engineer are susceptible to fatigue, too; keep them in
mind when trying to fit in a marathon recording session
with your band.