United Sound Systems

Recording and mastering studio founded in 1937 by violinist and sound engineer James V. Siracuse (1903-1988) in Detroit, Michigan, USA. For the associated label, see United.

It moved to its current location at Second Avenue somewhere during the 1940s. United Sound Systems first independent and full service major recording studio in the United States, and hosted sessions for such acts as Isaac Hayes, Funkadelic, Bob Seger, and The Dramatics, among others. Berry Gordy recorded his first songs here and before the installation of a mastering lab at Hitsville USA Studios, Detroit, this is the place where many Motown records were cut. In 1972 Stax producer Don Davis purchased the studio. The studio slid into decay in the late 20th century and eventually closed in 2006. After being abandoned for a long while, it was purchased by postal worker Danielle Scott and after several years of restoration reopened in 2014. After being threatened by a planned highway expansion, it was designated a historical district in 2015 after efforts from the Detroit Sound Conservancy nonprofit, which took its home in the building. It operated as both a museum and recording studio until it was put up for sale again in 2018. A year later it ws purchased by the Michigan Department of Transportation with the intention of moving and preserving it.

Also appears on releases as:
- United Sound
- United Sound Studios
- United Sounds Studios
- United Sound Systems Recording Studios
- United Sound Stystems, Inc.
- United USS

Known engineers: Ed Wolfrum (chief), Mike Iacopelli, Dave Palmer, Jim Vitti, Ron Murphy, Greg Ward, Ken Sands, Jerry Estes, Tom Garbe.
Studio manager: Chynita Richards (after 2014)