Soul Sound is a passion project of Lebanese singer and songwriter Aziz Abdo. "I wanted to create a professional studio set-up in a space that will allow me to further my skills and talent – and take my musical career to the next level," he explains. "I wanted to give a ‘facelift’ to today’s typical music studio in Dubai, since most of them are located in remote areas or have an old, worn out feel. I want to provide an experience, making it an ‘instagrammable’ space which can inspire musical artists and influencers, and turn it into the most visited and travel-worthy destination. Having a passion for both musical technique and powerful technology, I wanted to democratise the creative process – allowing anyone to have access to everything that they would need to create music."

To achieve this, Abdo turned to audio engineer Hosni Abu Zahra to help him create the best possible recording environment. Abu Zahra has a deep understanding of acoustics, which when combined with his technical expertise, led to an exacting standard being set for the recording setup.

The solution features a pair of 1234s as the main studio monitors complemented by a pair of 1032 nearfield models. Low frequencies are handled by a 7382 subwoofer, with a supplementary pair of 8030s employed as nearfield monitors at the secondary listening position for guests in a separate area away from the main mix position.

With the control room used as a single space to handle mixing, recording and mastering, the use of GLM calibration software has been key to the project. "GLM changed my life by fixing the frequency curve where needed," states Abu Zahra.

The end result is something that both the owner and the designer are very happy with. "I’m extremely happy, as I have personally planned each and every corner of the studio," reflects Abdo. "Being a music artist myself, I kept in mind what would create a positive working environment to help musicians feel at ease in the studio and keep the mood upbeat. This helps to keep momentum, and keep the artists focused. Plus working in a high-quality studio that has the latest technology allows musicians to be innovative and experimental."

With Soul Sound now open for business, Abdo feels that the new facility has lived up to his initial dream. "We have created a state-of-the-art recording space – with hi-tech equipment that meets international standards – right in the heart of glamourous Downtown Dubai. I want this to be the go-to recording studio that allows young artists to experiment with their music."