I have released 3 cd's comprising my 50 copywrited, original songs. My first effort, in early 2012, was a learning experience and left me wanting to do a professional, fully produced effort. I could have gone to any one of a number of recording studios in San Diego. I interviewed 3 different studios to find the perfect fit for me. I needed a consummate pro, an engineer that would not just let me record my music wrong, but who would help me, encourage me, hold my hand and make me do the songs as many times as required to get them right. I needed a sound engineer that would double as a co-producer. Richard Livoni, the owner of Blitz Recording Studio in San Diego, was referred to me by a high school friend/professional musican who knew of his work. My friend said Richard has amazing creative talent, unparalleled ears and a real knack for getting the best out of musicians and the music. Not only that, Richard came recommended as a fantastic guitarist and percussionist. All this was an understatement. Richard was all of the above and way, way more. Richard helped me assemble an all star band of touring and studio musicians of the highest caliber for my 2012 double cd containing 33 songs, and my recent June release of 17 new songs. I was stretched by Richard during the process, to the point that I reached my best. It wasn't easy. In fact the process, although being two of the most fun and rewarding experiences of my life, was frustrating and difficult. As a former major league baseball player and Stanford graduate, I am attuned to sacrifice, dedication, hard work, frustration, and relentless devotion to getting it right. No pain, no gain. I wanted Richard to be critical and demanding of what he perceived was my best. We were a team, we did it and we produce a solid product our first cd together and a great radio ready product a few months ago. As an aside, during the recording of our first cd together, I performed solo at the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame. I have played gigs in Las Vegas and in the western US and Alaska. After recording guitar, ukulele and vocal tracks under Richard's guidance and tutelage, and after watching him interact with the world class musicians that backed me on cd's 2 and 3, my eyes just would get wider and wider watching as Richard worked his magic, mixing the music as we completed each musicians's part. He then playied lead guitar with his Strat, vintage Gibson acoustic, slide guitar, dobro and pitched in with great vocal harmonies. And all my music was set to Richard's fabulous and creative percussion talents. In summary, Richard has one of the best sets of ears in the industry. To watch him mix tracks is a thing of beauty. He just plainly hears things nobody else hears. Even the professional musicians defer to Richard's judgment when it comes to sound. He can take a raw rookie like me and, if you are willing to listen, take constructive criticism and work at your music, create a wonderful music project. Genre is not important. He can do jazz, country, folk, rock, blues, hip hop, rap, etc. My music is cross genre and Richard was great across the spectrum. Ok, do you get it? This guy is the best. Price is attractive. He is not a make work guy, but if you are willing, he will make it as good as you want it to be, given your abilities and those of your surrounding musicians. He can be the just the sound engineer or you can enlist him to be a co producer, musician and vocalist. I read another review that panned Richard. All I can say is my experience was nothing but great. I would encourage anyone and everyone who is considering getting into the recording studio to get your act together BEFORE you go to the studio and start the meter............It's no fun for the recording engineer or the musicians to toil through lightly rehearsed tunes. Get your songs tight, then schedule time with Blitz Recording Studio. You and your music will be better for it. read more

Blitz Recording Studios and Richard Livoni (owner, engineer, producer) are two secret gems of the San Diego music scene. I've recorded in several different studios around San Diego over the last 3 decades, but I have come to call Blitz Recording Studios my "home." We've done everything there from the whole band recorded live, to piece by piece recordings, to acoustic sessions, and always, (always!), the finished product is crystal clear and professional in every element. Richard's impeccable ear and artistic skills, (from his own impressive musical career and decades of recording work), are invaluable assets to any musician. He always knows just how to capture the sound I'm looking for, and when I only have a vague notion of what that sound should be, he switches to his "producer" hat and helps create just the right arrangement. I also marvel at Richard's speedy and deeply technical skills on ProTools. As someone who started recording back in the days of "reel-to-reel," I am always amazed at the things ProTools can do, and Richard's mastery of it. The bottom line with a recording is to come out of the studio with tracks that match your vision for what you thought your music could be. With Richard, you will meet or exceed that vision. And though that's "only" the all-important finished product, recording with Richard, from the comfortable atmosphere of the studio for playing and recording, to his happy and encouraging demeanor, and, (small thing, but important to me), ease of buying snacks at the little market across the street), it is always also a fun and rewarding experience. Whether you're a solo artist or full band, and really pretty much no matter which style of music is yours, I highly recommend Blitz Recording Studios. read more

What it do baby! This is AR's Business Review on San Diego's Hot and not so hot spots! When you look at the building you initially think "wow this is small and looks old". After you actually enter the building your body and mind become excited as your thoughts run wild. There is artwork on every wall showing music or inspirational photos allowing the artist to feel comfortable and at ease. In the engineers room there is a nice couch which is great for people not recording who want to check out your session live. This is one of the better recording studios in San Diego in regards to price and overall quality in the works. Richard has over 30 years in the Music industry and engineering experience. He has a keen ear for the sound and is willing to help you out when needed. This is a service but it hardly feels that way, the experience was more of a friendship feeling after leaving the establishment. I have been to Blitz for more than 10 sessions and plan on returning. If you're in the San Diego area near hillcrest or Downtown then you should check out Blitz Recording. You must call and set up sessions before hand. Check out my work with blitz recording at this link: www.reverbnation.com/ararogantrios Check out Blitz website link: http://www.blitzrecording.com/ By Appointment: (619) 260-0837 Location: Blitz Recording Studios (619) 260-0837 blitzrecording.com 3051 Reynard Way, San Diego, CA 92103 Costs: $30-$50 Experience: 5 stars Equipment: Pro tools Sound: All Genres read more

I am a singer/songwriter and I have been going to Blitz Recording Studios for over a year now off and on working on a personal music project. I have worked with other small studios but, Blitz is my favorite. What makes the experience worth the time and investment is Richard. Richard is more than a top knotch Producer and Engineer with a golden ear, he is a first class musician, vocal coach and overall musical mentor. It only took me one visit to be hooked on his style, creative inputs and positive influence. I walked in the door with a notebook full of guitar tabs, melodies and lyrics and now I am close to finishing an entire album. We have worked songs in several genres to include rock, alternative rock, and Americana. Richard is about 75% of my band in the studio while i play acoustic guitar, harmonica and sing, he plays everything else to include electric guitar (killer riffs), bass guitar, mandolin, keyboard and with the aide of Pro Tools drums and other percussion instruments. I have been very satisfied with our collaboration at every level. The studio is well equipped and has all the latest toys, gadgets and software upgrades. If you are looking for a music professional who will be honest with you and help guide you to the best sound or vibe you are looking for, I would recommend giving Richard a try. read more

I have recorded 5 full length albums with Richard at Blitz Recording Studio, two of which were released on a European label and sold thousands of copies. The studio is well equiped and is always kept up to date with the latest software, plugins etc. The studio is neat, organised and always has a good vibe. Richard is a total proffessional and works quickly, wasting no-one's time. He is also a multi instrumentalist with a great set of ears and will notice things and make suggestions to improve either your song's arrangement or your performance. I came across this page accidentaly whilst googling something related and was surprised by the review by Diane S. below. Richard is always enthusiastic, supportive and encouraging in his approach to pull the absolute best performance out of the musicians. That said, he does not suffer fools to easily. If he actually did tell you your material was not really music and was just trash...then it most probably is. Better you heard it sooner rather than later. Richard WONT just take your money and record you if you are not ready to be in the studio yet, simple as that. read more

When I first walked into Blitz Recording, I had a hard drive full of half finished songs that were started at an amateur home studio in Linda Vista. At that time, I was truly frustrated, as I had met with several other studios in the city to see what could be done to fix and finish this record. Of all the places I went too, Richard was the only one that gave me honest and constructive feedback, which was exactly what I needed to hear. Over the course of many sessions, Richard was able to take my broken project files and turn them into actual broadcast ready recordings. Through watching him work his magic behind the board and listening to his constant and creative feedback, he taught me the fundamentals of making a great sounding recording and pushed me to become a better artist. When the time comes for me to set forth on the next album (and it's coming soon); I will surely be heading back west to work with Richard once again! read more

I don't know where these haters are coming from, but let me tell you what I got - Richard is a delight to work with and to hang with. He's an ace with ProTools, he works fast, and with great musical perception and common sense. These are rare and valuable traits and I appreciate him and his business! If you need mixing and mastering and have your stuff together, you can get dream results for a bargain. I'll be back again and again. If you are a unprepared delusional dreamer with no understanding of the art, craft, and business of music (like it sounds like these yelp haters are) then no studio can make you feel and sound like a "star". Sorry! Richard cares about his work and is not there to hussle amateurs of their money. So if he says you're not ready for his services, you probably aren't - so consider that a kindness! He's being honest and saving you $! read more

Ok, if you are serious about getting a good product, then put on your big boy pants and go see Richard at Blitz Studio. He's honest and knowledgeable. If you want to have someone tell you how great you are, then call your mom. If you want someone to be honest with you and steer you in the right direction, call BLITZ! Music is a tough industry. Mediocrity reigns. Don't just produce another mediocre project that sounds OK. Go see Richard at BLITZ and tap into decades of experience as an engineer and as a performer. Learn from someone who knows what it takes to be great. Learn to accept direction and critique so YOU can be better than you ever thought! Plus he has some great stories to tell, all while flying away in the console working his magic. To prove that I am an actual customer, Richard knows me as Tommy (drums). Rock On, Richard! read more

Have recorded at Blitz Studios various times over the years and I have never been disappointed with the final product. The studio has a great atmosphere to create and record music. Richard, is extremely knowledgeable in recording and in the music industry in general. He has a good ear for music, he will give you his opinion and or ideas to improve the material you come in with. Richard is a great guitarist too. Expect to be challenged and be prepared, come in ready to go, new strings, song arrangements, etc... or he will throw your ass out! Great location, you can get snacks, cigarettes and beer right across the street. read more

I just finished up the second album that I have recorded at Blitz Recording Studios. I'm thrilled with how the songs have turned out. I was able to do the entire album within budget and feel that every penny was well spent. Richard Livoni is a fabulous engineer/producer/artist to work with. He knows how to bring out the best in an artist, and how to get the most out of the equipment and ProTools software. I recorded at three other studios here in San Diego prior to recording at Blitz Studios. Recording at Blitz far exceeded my previous experiences. I'd highly recommend that you choose this studio for your next project!! read more

I hope this bastards out of business now what a puttz dude thinks he's mut lang hardly more like would you like some coffee with your donuts sir or welcome to Walmart! Boomers always so selfish! He's damn sure a Trumper or a influenced by one maybe he's a great pig just caught him when I was feeling frustrated & he didn't care I just do my own production & music now I told need anyone to hold my hand never had a man help me probably never will Alpha Alpha or alph alpha either way it's healthy Take Care Sir Richard Dick Blitz Hell awaits those who piss on the youths gone wild !! read more

I just finish recording my second CD in Blitz Recording Studio and I couldn't be more pleased with the results. Richard Livoni is a master with the controls and he makes you feel at ease from the first moment you meet. His best quality is his ear! He finds the smallest "clicks" that always happens during a recording. He delivers a beautiful clean recording for you and your fans to enjoy forever. Book your recording time today! Thank you Richard for "Wednesdays at Shooter's" and "Ayer y Hoy", two wonderful CD's that are selling very well. Ossie read more

Blitz Recording Studios is awesome! The engineer is also an on the spot producer (fixing mistakes, adding effects, giving ideas on how to make the recording more interesting, etc.) while you're in the recording process (as opposed to waiting until after the recording has taken place). This maximizes your time and saves you money. He does the mastering as well. You can walk out of there with a complete project. I give Blitz studios a 10 out of 10! read more

This review is a long time coming . Richard Livoni is a master at his craft. He works efficiently and is always ready with constructive criticism. As a musician, he has a keen ear and a creative flair other sound engineers lack. I have had two sessions with this gentleman. I am completely satisfied with the results. I have every confidence in him to make my next effort equally rewarding and musically enjoyable. Victor Pinzon read more

Thanks to all for another great day at Blitz Recording Studios. We are making an old time blues record. I trust that we are in good hands with Richard Blitz. He is easy to work with and he will work with you to get what you want. It is all about the music here and that is a great place to start and end with. This is an experience I am glad that I am a part of. Deep Down With Eric Freeman and friends is something special. Zachary Cole read more

This guy knows what he doing when it comes to music engineering! He has turned all my tracks into something amazing super proud of the work he does. He is amazing talented at his craft, pricing is reasonable and scheduling is within a timely manner, he works with tons of artists and vocalists for shows/movies/albums ect, he will push you to do your best. Very fun times in the studio read more

This is probably the worst recording studio that I've been too. First off the place itself is just unprofessional and the owner Richard is horrible his attitude is garbage never met someone so rude in my life and highly expensive for the crap music he produces i suggest another recording studio if you're not trying to wast money and time. Not a hater just stating facts. read more

Great atmosphere, state of the art technology, very cool vibe! This is a great place to express your musical and artistic creativity. You do your art, Blitz takes care of the technical part of getting you an awesome sound. They have a fantastic selection of vocal mics. Blitz is just a perfect combination of cool vibe, laid back and high quality. read more

Richard Blitz has a terrific ear, tons of great samples, and knows how to get a great-sounding recording out of his clients. My band has recorded about 20 songs with him and he did a great job. His criticism is a little harsh sometimes, but it's all about getting a good end-result. Highly recommended. read more