It’s finally happened… You own TOO MUCH studio equipment and it doesn’t fit on that desk anymore!
I guess that’s why a professional recording studio usually has at least one studio desk that can support all of that gear. It just really depends on HOW much and WHAT kind of equipment it has.
For example…
- Rack-Mount Effects
- Mixing Consoles
- Keyboard Controllers
- 88-KEY Keyboard Controllers
- Speaker Monitors
- Computer Screens
The list goes on, so you understand that each studio is different.
Maybe you just need a desk with a tray that can support a 49-key USB/MIDI keyboard controller… Maybe it’s got 88 keys and you also have a set of speaker monitors you’d like to support.
What about those of us with a massive collection of rack-mount effects, is there a studio desk for that?
You’ll see learn that there’s a studio desk for EVERY situation and of course, every budget.
But first, let’s try to understand what YOU need out of your studio desk. Let’s get started…
- What you WANT vs What you NEED
- Where do you get a studio desk?
- Buy it used! Why not?
- Get inspired by looking at other studios
- 1. Quick Lok Z-726 – Best Studio Desk for DIY
- 2. On-Stage WS7500 – Best Studio Desk on a Budget
- 3. Output Platform – Best Entry-Level Studio Desk
- 4. AZ Studio Workstations Spike 88 – Best Studio Desk for 88-Key Keyboards
- 5. AZ Studio Workstations Summit – Best Sit-Stand Studio Desk
- 6. AZ Studio Workstations Apex – Best Studio Desk for rack Effects
- 7. StudioDesks Harmony Series – Best All-In-One Studio Desk
- 8. StudioDesks Enterprise Electric – Best Studio Desk… period.
- Summary: 8+ Best Studio Desks for Music Production & Sound Design
What you WANT vs What you NEED
We all want that really cool-looking studio desk that costs a fortune… I know.
However, are you really going to use everything the workstation has to offer? For example, here are some particular uses you might need to consider…
- Do you need space for a keyboard controller?
- Do you need space for an 88-KEY keyboard controller?
- Do you need space for rack effects?
- How many speaker monitors do you plan to have on the desk?
- How many screens do you plan to have on the desk?
These are all important questions to ask yourself because when it comes to studio desks, there aren’t any one-size-fits-all solutions.
I wouldn’t want you to spend a fortune only to realize that you didn’t get what truly needed.
Where do you get a studio desk?
Okay, so you can definitely find yourself a desk at Ikea or on Wayfair and convert it into a studio desk.
BUT, you also have manufacturers who specialize in studio desks and workstations…
- Output
- AZ Studio Workstations
- StudioDesks
- Zaor
So, what’s the advantage of going with one of these studio desks?
Well, what it’s going to cost you (for the most part) might seem like a HUGE disadvantage. However, workstations made specifically for studio use DO have advantages…
- Cable management
- Space for rack effects
- Sturdy keyboard trays (that are big enough for 88-key keyboards)
- Industrial-grade construction
In other words, it’s definitely worth it if you want something that’ll last.
Also, it’s for your recording studio. If you treat it like a business, you need to think of it as one and invest money where it counts.
Studio desks aren’t necessarily a priority, but they’re certainly important!
Buy it used! Why not?
If you’re looking to save A LOT on your studio desk, buy it refurbished, second-hand, etc…
Your local classifieds (Craig’s List, Kijiji, etc…) might have what you’re looking for, BUT your best bet will most likely be Facebook Marketplace.
You can also take a peek on Reverb, but it most likely WON’T be local.
To save even more money on your studio desk, you’ll definitely want to avoid shipping costs!
Get inspired by looking at other studios
Before rushing into anything, make sure you’ve got an idea of what your studio should look like.
You think it might not make a difference, but the way your studio FEELS is more important than you think. Remember, we’re trying to create an experience for creative individuals…
You can get an idea of what YOU like by consulting Pinterest boards and Reddit groups.
1. Quick Lok Z-726 – Best Studio Desk for DIY
The Quick Lok Z-726 was actually my first “legitimate” studio desk.
Now, you’re probably wondering… HOW can this 2-tier keyboard stand be used as a studio desk? Well, I think I explain (and demonstrate) pretty well in THIS VIDEO.
I just got the idea one day and BAM!
You just need to get a plank of wood, MDF, etc… from the hardware store, cut it to the size you need and that’s it.
Later on, I found out that On-Stage made a similar product that you can purchase pre-made.
So, I guess I wasn’t completely in the dark here!
However, this studio desk configuration is definitely for the minimalist. You’ll need to have a setup pretty similar to MINE if you want this to work.
It’s definitely the most affordable way to get started though!
Price
200$
Pros
- It’s one of the most affordable option on this list
- It’s easy to assemble and dissassemble
- It’s heigh is adjustable
- It can support an 88-key keyboard controller
Cons
- It’s not 100% sturdy, so expect some wobbling
- You definitely won’t have lots of desk space
Final Thoughts
Of course, I didn’t mention that this studio desk can be used as a sit-stand desk. The Quick Lok Z-726 is height adjustable so you can make it suit your needs.
However, you might feel like you don’t have enough desk space at some point.
If you want to learn how to build your own diy studio desk with the Z-726, then you’ll find everything you need to know by reading THIS article.
It’s a great workstation if you’re just getting started, but it definitely looks like what it is… A modded 2-tier keyboard stand (not that there’s anything wrong with that!).
2. On-Stage WS7500 – Best Studio Desk on a Budget
The On-Stage WS7500 is also a 2-tier keyboard stand in disguise, but I have to admit this one looks much more like a studio desk.
However, the keyboard tray is definitely NOT suitable for an 88-key keyboard controller.
That being said, the WS7500 is better for beatmakers and/or bedroom producers. It’s got more desk space than the Z-726 because you’ve technically got 3-tiers instead of 2.
BUT, you could use the desk part to put an 88-key keyboard and the keyboard tray to put your mouse and keyboard.
In that way, it can perhaps be a little more efficient than the Quik Lok!
Price
280$
Pros
- It’s one of the most affordable option on this list
- It’s easy to assemble and disassemble
- It can be expanded with the On-Stage WSR75000 and WSC7500
Cons
- It’s keyboard tray can’t support an 88-key keyboard controller
- It’s height isn’t adjustable
Final Thoughts
I only found out about the WS7500 recently, but I don’t necessarily regret going with the Quick Lok Z-726. It works just as well and costs much less.
I’m also surprised that the WS7500 cannot adjust its height.
If you decide to go with it, just make sure that the chair you’ll be using IS adjustable.
It definitely doesn’t look like something you’d see in a commercial recording studio, so it’s definitely much better suited for a small home recording studio.
More specifically, studios that don’t use 88-key keyboard controllers.
3. Output Platform – Best Entry-Level Studio Desk
That’s right, Output doesn’t just make awesome plugins and software instruments!
Recently, they also started producing some of the most elegant studio furnishings I have ever seen. Best part, the price is actually kind of reasonable (still expensive though).
That being said, the Platform isn’t the most expensive option on our list.
It comes WITHOUT a keyboard tray by default, but you can add one for an additional cost.
Price
700$-950$
Pros
- It’s the most affordable PROFESSIONAL studio desk
- It’s keyboard tray is adjustable (height/extension)
- It can support an 88-key keyboard controller
- It has a bit of rack space
- The wood finish looks great for a rustic-look
Cons
- You’ll have to pay for shipping costs
- It costs extra to have a different finish/colour
Final Thoughts
I think the Platform is a great studio desk for most intermediate-professional music producers!
It’s got a fair amount of desk space, a bit of rack space and an adjustable 88-key keyboard tray.
If aesthetics are important to you though, just keep in mind that you’ll be paying extra for anything other than the natural wood finish.
Even then, if you don’t like the rustic-look… The Platform probably isn’t for you.
4. AZ Studio Workstations Spike 88 – Best Studio Desk for 88-Key Keyboard
Now, we’re getting into some serious studio desks and workstations.
The Spike 88 (and Spike-NR 88) definitely appeals to me on multiple levels. For starters, it has somewhat of a vintage-look and the colour choices are perfect for any studio.
You can choose between neutral (black, white) and wood (melamine) finishes.
You can also choose whether or not you need rack space.
That’s essentially what the Spike-NR 88 is (the NR stands for “no rack”). However, both models are excellent for keyboard-based studios with heavy 88-key keyboard controllers.
The keyboard tray is rock-solid and so is the rest of the workstation!
Price
1,150$-1,300$
Pros
- It has a 2-year warranty
- It can support an 88-key keyboard controller
- It looks great in any studio because of the neutral colours
- It’ll definitely fit the look of a studio with vintage gear
- Assembly and disassembly is relatively easy
- You can finance the purchase through Affirm
Cons
- It’s on the pricier side (but it’s still reasoonable)
- You’ll need to pay for shipping
Final Thoughts
If the Output Platform doesn’t fit your aesthetic needs, then the Spike 88 from AZ Studio Workstations should definitely do the trick!
That being said, the Platform and the Spike 88 are almost identical.
The real difference is that the Spike 88 is a bit bigger, looks more professional and has neutral options when it comes to colours. AND of course, we’re comparing rustic vs vintage.
So, definitely put it up against the Platform and see which desk id right for your studio.
5. AZ Studio Workstations Summit – Best Sit-Stand Studio Desk
So, we now know it’s possible to make a diy sit-stand studio desk with the Quick Lok Z-726.
BUT, what about a professional sit-stand studio desk?
If you thought that regular sit-stand desks were expensive, wait until you find out how much the Summit AZ Studio Workstations costs!
However, it’s definitely worth it if you want a sit-stand desk that’s not just a table.
Price
2,000$
Pros
- It has a 2-year warranty
- It has basic cable management
- It can support an 88-key keyboard controller
- It’s height can be adjusted (sit-stand)
- Assembly and disassembly is relatively easy
- You can finance the purchase through Affirm
Cons
- It’s definitely on the pricier side, so worth thinking twice about
- You’ll need to pay for shipping
- The height adjustment is manual, not mechanical
Final Thoughts
Working too many hours in front of a screen is bad enough!
If you’re sitting down for too long, that could also be quite detrimental for your posture. So, a sit-stand studio desk will definitely pay for itself in the long run.
However, you need to ask yourself if the Summit is really worth the hefty price tag.
Personally, I would rather go with a diy sit-stand studio desk like the one I made with the Quick Lok Z-726 and here’s why…
If you’re running a commercial recording studio, chances are you’ll be sitting down when you have artists and musicians around.
That being said, sit-stand studio desks are better for a home recording studio
So, there’s really no need to dish out thousands on a sit-stand studio desk.
6. AZ Studio Workstations Apex – Best Studio Desk for Rack Effects
If you’ve got a rack, then AZ Studio Workstations has got the perfect studio desk for you!
The Apex will definitely set you back, but if you can afford rack-mount effects you’re most likely used to that kind of pressure. Either way, you can still finance it with Affirm.
What I really like about the Apex is that it has two additional pull-out trays on each side.
That’s great if you’re using multiple USB/MIDI keyboard controllers.
It’s also a great studio desk if you’re using a large screen or multiple large screens. You’ll have plenty of space for larger speaker monitors and maybe a second set if you want!
It’s a little much for me, but maybe the Apex is the right workstation for your studio…
Price
2,800$
Pros
- It has a 2-year warranty
- It has cable management
- It can support an 88-key keyboard controller
- It has an abundance of rack space and desk space
- Assembly and disassembly is relatively easy
- You can finance the purchase through Affirm
Cons
- It’s definitely on the pricier side, so worth thinking twice about
- You’ll need to pay for shipping
Final Thoughts
Do you really need such a massive studio desk?
If you’ve got rack-mount effects lying around all over the place, then maybe it’s time.
Of course, you can just as easily get a “regular” studio desk and get your racks on the side. BUT, you’ll definitely be saving with an all-in-one studio desk.
If you want everything in the same workstation, the Apex from AZ Studio Workstations will enhance your workflow.
Just imagine, everything in reach without ever needing to get up!
7. StudioDesks Harmony – Best All-In-One Studio Desk
StudioDesks is definitely known for making epic studio desks.
However, they’re also known to cost a fortune! That being said, we’re actually starting with one of the most affordable series they make; the Harmony series.
So, you still get the luxury and quality of a StudioDesks workstation at a reasonably high price.
In this case, the Harmony provides everything you’d need from 88-key keyboard support, cable management and rack space.
Would I choose it over the Spike 88 by AZ Studio Workstations?
Personally, I prefer the look (and price tag) of the Spike 88, but maybe you’re looking for something that has a modern-look?
Then, the Harmony series is for you!
Price
1,500$
Pros
- It has a 2-year warranty
- It has advanced cable management
- It can support an 88-key keyboard controller
- Assembly and disassembly is relatively easy
- You can finance the purchase through Affirm
Cons
- It’s definitely on the pricier side, so worth thinking twice about
- You’ll need to pay for shipping
Final Thoughts
Personally, I would compare the Harmony series with the Spike 88.
It’s really just a question of aesthetics here because both of these studio desks use the same materials. The Harmony series has a bit more infrastructure for rack-mounts, but that’s it.
You’re basically comparing vintage-look with modern-look.
Also, the Harmony series’ top shelf can be adjusted. It’s not that much of a big deal, but it might be useful to get your speaker monitors to the perfect height.
8. StudioDesks Enterprise Electric – Best Studio Desk… period.
It’s clear that the Enterprise Electric from StudioDesks isn’t for a home recording studio.
It’s definitely the most expensive studio desks on this list, BUT with very good reason. It’s almost like purchasing a vehicle and the quality standard is just as high.
I highly recommend the Electric Set instead of the regular Enterprise Set.
For starters, it has a pull-out keyboard tray instead of a separate keyboard stand. It also has the ability to adjust its height using an electric motor (from 27 – 47 inches).
That being said, the Enterprise Electric is definitely the superior sit-stand studio desk.
I’d definitely go with one of these workstations instead of the Summit by AZ Studio Workstations.
Price
2,500$ – 4,000$
Pros
- It has a 2-year warranty
- It has advanced cable management
- It has rotating speaker stands
- It can support an 88-key keyboard controller
- Assembly and disassembly is relatively easy
- You can finance the purchase through Affirm
Cons
- It’s definitely on the pricier side, so worth thinking twice about
- You’ll need to pay for shipping
Final Thoughts
When it comes to studio desks, the Enterprise Electric by StudioDesks has got to be the best.
The design is modern, but the construction is built “like they used to”.
It’s also the most customizable studio desk on our list, so it’s perfect if you really want to get something that fits your exact needs.
The only thing it doesn’t have is plenty of rack space.
However, you can actually purchase the “Full Set” bundle which includes a rack.
BUT, you can always purchase more on the side if needed!
Summary: 8+ Best Studio Desks for Music Production & Sound Design
We went from a sub-200$ a 3,000$+ studio desk, so we’ve definitely seen it all.
Of course, we all want to impress our clients with a massive studio desk (and all that gear we bought), but how much is too much?
After reading, I’m sure you have a better idea of the studio desk you’ll be pursuing.
It might not be the right time for it today, but there’s a workstation here for every level!
Just remember what you truly need a desk for (besides to impress)…
- Rack-Mount Effects
- Small-Large Keyboard Controllers
- Mixing Consoles
- Speaker Monitors
- Multiple Screens
So, which studio desk will YOU choose? Let us know in the comments!
Also, feel free to ask your questions and share some photos of your recording studio!
Sources
https://www.reddit.com/r/MusicBattlestations/
https://www.quiklok.com/product/z-726-keyboard-stand/
https://on-stage.com/products/view/12503
https://output.com/products/platform
https://azstudioworkstations.com/products/spike-88-keyboard-studio-desk
https://azstudioworkstations.com/products/summit-sit-stand-keyboard-studio-desk
https://azstudioworkstations.com/products/apex-studio-workstation
https://shop.studiodesk.us/collections/enterprise-series
