One thing that struck me, while this conversation certainly points out the advantages of using a professional recording studio - I hope this does not discourage anyone from running down to Radio Shack and purchase some mic's, cables and software on the cheap. If you have any interest in taking your music "to the next step" - which could be an attempt at pursuing a career either as a performer or a songwriter, or if you just want to critique yourself - it is a worthwhile effort to do it at home.

As I've said previously, I would encourage the use of studios and the professional attention, experience and quality you can receive. However, not everyone is ready for primetime and you can waste an incredible amount of money that could be spent in better areas - pay for some lessons or attending workshops, instrument upgrades, etc.

As I said earlier, I have received a number of CD's that sonically sound awful - home recording gone bad.   At the same time, I have received CD's that are beautifully polished and obviously were expensive to make - by the artist sings off key, the instrumentation and arrangements are weak, and the songs have little redeeming value.   They spent the money before they were ready.

Get some criticism - and not from family or friends.