Studio Owner and Head Engineer, Herman “Soy Sos” Pearl, has recorded, created, and performed music for over 40 years. He specializes in hybrid electronic and analog recording, mixing and sound design. Herman has extensive experience in hip hop, reggae/dance hall/dub, house music, contemporary classical, electro-acoustic and experimental music. Herman is a prolific DJ, whose process informs his sound design for dance performance and other music projects. He has recorded and produced work for many artistic practices including dance, visual arts, video, theater, and literature. For an extensive list of clients, check out our Clients & Collaborators page. Herman is the co-founder and co-artistic director of the dance company STAYCEE PEARL dance project & Soy Sos. 

Tuff Sound Recording (TSR) is located in a former industrial foundry in the Lawrenceville neighborhood of Pittsburgh. TSR features high quality analog and digital gear, including a large modular synthesizer system integrated into our workflow. Our close working relationship with Pittsburgh Modular Synthesizers allows us to bring in any modular process, as well as a range of vintage analog synthesizers.

Tuff Sound Recording operates under the umbrella of PearlArts, a dance-focused arts organization that also provides music and media arts programming, where Herman is the co-artistic director. PearlArts offers artistic experiences through creative residencies, innovative collaborations, and a broad range of dance and sound education and outreach opportunities.