The final season is upon us. The cyphers are coming to a close over the next year. The studio is still open we just are closing the book of Marsten House Cyphers. Will you be making an appearance in the final season? #marstenhouse #marstenhousecypher #phillyhiphop #phillyrap
After 15 years of the Marsten House Cyphers, Ethan and I have decided it’s time to bring them to a close. Not because we stopped loving them, but because we love them too much to let them fade out. The energy is still there. The love from the fans is still there. And that’s exactly why we want to go out on the highest note possible. These cyphers gave us stories, memories, lifelong connections, real friendships, real brotherhood. There’s nothing that can truly replace the magic of the Marsten House Cyphers, but we owe it to the people who believed in us to give this book a proper ending. We never wanted this to end with a whimper. So one last time, for y’all, we’re doing a final season, ending it with a bang in December, and premiering a documentary about the cyphers, the Philly scene, the behind the scenes moments, and most importantly, how friends like Rich Quick, Hefty, Draper, Ircasim, and so many others we lost changed our lives forever. One last run. Y’all ready to rock with us once more?
Jack Steinman From shredding guitar riffs at age 8 to mastering the art of production, Jack blends deep musical roots with cutting-edge sound design to bring your vision to life. With a background in sound recording and music production, Jack has honed his craft across genres—from the raw energy of rock and metal to the pulse of hip hop and the textures of electronic music…
Liam Gardner- I’m a recording and mixing engineer with a deep passion for the raw energy and texture of 90’s music—alternative rock, punk, metal, and golden-era hip hop are where I feel most at home. If your sound lives somewhere between Soundgarden and A Tribe Called Quest, or you’re chasing that kind of timeless character, we’ll probably click.
From the start, I’ve focused on working closely with bands and vocalists to capture performances that feel honest, gritty, and alive. Whether it’s huge guitar tones, driving rhythms, or soulful vocal takes, I’m always chasing the emotional core of the music—not just how it sounds, but how it feels.
I never want someone to hear your record and think, “they sound better live.” My goal is to make sure that same energy, spirit, and imperfection that makes a live performance unforgettable is right there in the recording.
Let’s make something that sounds like you—honest, unpolished, and alive.
Ray Riley is a seasoned producer-turned-engineer with a deep understanding of what artists need—because he’s one himself. As a working musician and DJ, Ray has had his music played at major events including conventions, raves, and concerts across the country. His production credits include placements with acclaimed hip-hop artist Mega Ran (over 2 million streams) and the J-Rock cover band Otaku Ongaku (over 1 million streams). Comfortable across a wide range of genres—especially hip-hop, rock, and EDM—Ray brings both technical expertise and creative instinct to every session.
Klutch +10 Year Veteran Engineer & Producer
When it comes to nailing the industry sound you are contending with the best. An experienced engineer is the only option. Get full, wide, and deep, broadcast ready records with clarity. Klutch is a professional engineer who mixes with the heart of an artist, dialing in every detail from start to finish.
Quote – “Artists create the picture, Engineers Enhance the Vision.”
Credits: Kendrick Lamar, Popp Hunna
Nick Koch With nearly a decade in the studio and a lifetime spent immersed in music, Nick Koch brings more than just technical know-how—he brings feel. Known for his hands-on, no-BS approach, Nick pairs a blue-collar work ethic (honed from years in construction) with a deep love for sound that spans hip-hop, R&B, punk, hardcore, metal, and folk.
Whether you’re chasing raw grit or radio-ready polish, Nick knows how to meet artists where they are and elevate the energy without losing the soul. He’s not just hitting record—he’s listening, offering direction when needed, and making sure your session works for you. Artists trust him to capture the urgency of live performance with clarity that hits hard.
At the end of the day, Nick’s here to help you make something real—something that sounds like you.
Steve Sxaks With over 20 years in the music industry and 18 years behind the console, Steven Andrew Boehm—professionally known as Steve Sxaks—brings a rare combination of experience, artistry, and technical expertise to Marsten House Recording, which he has proudly co-owned for 16 years. A voting member of the Recording Academy and holder of a Master’s in Music Technology, Steve has worked across genres and platforms, from fronting Philadelphia’s hardcore band Fruit Punch to producing solo work featured in film and television. His passion for music extends into education, having taught audio engineering at both the high school and college levels for over a decade. At Marsten House, Steve blends creative vision with professional precision, making the studio a trusted home for artists ready to create something timeless.
Ethan Mintz Co-Founder, Engineer & Producer
Marsten House Recording
Voting Member, The Recording Academy
Since co-founding Marsten House Recording in 2009 with Steve Sxaks, Ethan has been a driving force behind the studio’s growth into one of Philadelphia’s most respected and versatile creative spaces. As an engineer, producer, and voting member of the Recording Academy, he brings a seasoned ear and a deep commitment to quality, collaboration, and community.
Over the years, Ethan has recorded artists across nearly every genre—from hip-hop and hardcore to indie and experimental—but he’s always gravitated toward heavy music. Not just heavy in sound, but in emotion. His true niche lies in capturing music that carries weight—music that says something, that leaves a mark.
While he’s often behind the scenes, Ethan thrives in systems and operations, keeping the engine of Marsten House running with intention and precision. As the studio’s manager, he focuses on building a process-driven, reliable space where artists and engineers can do their best work. These days, he’s more selective about the sessions he takes on, choosing passion projects that resonate on a deeper level. Still, staying connected to the creative process—especially through mixing and production—is something he’ll never fully let go of.
For artists looking to bring their vision to life with authenticity, clarity, and impact, Ethan offers not just experience—but trust, intuition, and a genuine love for the work.
OUT NOW ON THE MARSTEN HOUSE YOUTUBE IS THE NEW @modernculturephl IN HOUSE SESSIONS! Click the link in the bio go watch like and leave a comment letting them know how dope they are and who we should have in next! #marstenhouse #marstenhouserecordings #marstenhousestudio #inhousesessions #livemusic #phillylivemusic
One more day till @modernculturephl In House Session drops! Also they will be playing a show at @theyard_ambler tomorrow as well! Who will be there? #marstenhouse #marstenhouserecording #marstenhouserecords #marstenhousestudio #modernculture #inhousesessions #livemusic #phillylivemusic
