We're often lead to believe that the implements in our studio -- our gear, as it were -- were the most important part of our sound. Of course, deep down, we know that not the biggest issue. Unfortunately, when it comes to who's got superior sonics, the elephant in the room tends to be the room itself. With that in mind, allow us to introduce the big-gamesman himself, John Storyk.

Mr. Storyk's storied career in architectural acoustics began with his work on Electric Lady Studios, a job for which he was recruited by none other than Eddie Kramer and Jimi Hendrix. Between then and now, John has designed over 3,000 recording and listening facilities. We spoke with him at the most recent AES about his company -- the Walters-Storyk Design Group -- and about the current state of studio affairs; marvel with us as he righteously drops the term "fungible."