
Richard Shultz - Owner & Chief Engineer
Richard Shultz, better known as Slick, is a skilled engineer, producer, and mixer known for his versatility and commitment to quality across every stage of the music production process. He first discovered his love for beat-making and recording in 1999 while experimenting with the Sony PlayStation game “MTV Music Generator.” That creative spark led him to build a makeshift recording studio in his mother’s attic and launch a label under the name “O.T.T. Records.”
Driven by his passion for audio engineering, Richard attended The Institute of Production and Recording from 2009 to 2011. He earned an AAS degree in Audio Production, Engineering, and Post Production and became Pro Tools Operator Certified. While studying, he learned from respected industry professionals including Steve Hodge, Kevin Bowe, Dick Shopteau, Walter Chancellor, Jr., and Andrew Lucas.
Over the years, Rich has produced, recorded, and mixed for local, regional, and nationally known artists such as Mod Sun, B-Rolla, Joe B., Wah Wah Watson, DJ500Benz, and Phoenix the Misfit. His talents also extend into sound engineering for film and television.
In 2015, Rich opened The Sound Box Recording Studio in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, which has since evolved into a premier creative hub for artists of all genres. His studio is a fully integrated, patchable facility equipped with Universal Audio Apollo x8p interfaces, a Rupert Neve Designs Portico II Master Buss Processor, Dolby Atmos headphone monitoring, and a robust personal monitoring system across all rooms.
As head engineer, Rich continues to push the boundaries of studio innovation. He runs Pro Tools Studio and utilizes a hybrid analog-digital workflow that includes high-end outboard gear, summing, and advanced mastering techniques. In addition to music production, Rich has launched podcast services, developed subscription-based booking models, and is actively expanding his business offerings with plans that include a record label and strategic business scaling.
With more than 100 artists under his belt, Rich is respected not only for his technical expertise but also for his forward-thinking approach to the future of audio production.
