Hidden Gems: Meet Dan Achin of Right-On Studios

Today we’d like to introduce you to Dan Achin.

Hi Dan, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Hello, I’m Dan Achin, owner and operator of Right-On Studios, which I started in the summer of 2025 after experiencing firsthand the shortage of “lockout”-style monthly rehearsal spaces in North County San Diego.

I grew up in Omaha, Nebraska, where my musical journey began at age 10 with the saxophone in school band. By 17, I’d picked up the drums and started performing in local punk and metal bands. In my 20s, I was active in Omaha’s eclectic underground scene, performing regularly as both a saxophonist and drummer across genres like jazz, ska, metal, and punk. Many of those performances took place at The Cog Factory, a cornerstone of Omaha’s DIY culture and a launchpad for Saddle Creek Records artists like Bright Eyes, The Faint, and Cursive. That community not only shaped my musical style but also gave me a grassroots understanding of how creative spaces can bring artists together.

After relocating to San Diego in 2000, I immersed myself in the Southern California lifestyle and punk/hardcore scene, staying active in the local music community ever since. I currently play drums in Corporate Citizen (melodic hardcore, since 2017) and Sign of the Horns (post-metal/groove metal).

My roots in Omaha laid the foundation for both my creative and professional journey. These lifelong experiences—spanning cities, genres, and creative communities—form the cultural and artistic backbone of Right-On Studios. With over 30 years as a performing musician and a parallel 27-year career in the technology sector, I bring a rare blend of creative insight, passion, and operational expertise to this venture.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Like most people, my journey hasn’t been without its challenges. I left behind a close-knit music community, along with friends and family, to move to San Diego—a city I had never even visited before. Even though I’ve been in the San Diego are for 25 years now, there are still parts of the Mid-West that I miss. Starting over in a new place is something many can relate to: building new connections, finding your footing, and holding onto your passion through the uncertainty.

On top of that, launching a rehearsal studio business while working a demanding leadership role at a cybersecurity company brought its own set of obstacles. Finding the right commercial space that could handle the noise without causing issues with neighbors or landlords was harder than expected. Leasing options were limited, so I had to pivot to purchasing property—an entirely different challenge involving financing and real estate.

Securing funding to purchase the studio building required me to clearly communicate a detailed vision that blended my technical background with my music experience, which helped me connect the dots for lenders about why this business could thrive.

Balancing everything takes discipline and patience, and I’m sure many people juggling multiple responsibilities understand that struggle. But every challenge has been an opportunity to learn and grow, and I’m excited to keep building a space that supports musicians and the local music community.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Right-On Studios?
Right-On Studios is building North County San Diego’s premier creative hub for musicians, artists, and creators of all kinds. We provide professional, flexible rehearsal spaces designed to meet the needs of everyone from emerging talent to seasoned professionals. Starting with monthly and hourly rehearsal room rentals, we’re focused on delivering exceptional sound and comfort that help artists perform their best.

While audio and video recording studios are planned for the near future, our initial priority is creating a welcoming, well-equipped environment where musicians can rehearse and connect. What sets Right-On Studios apart is a deep understanding of the creative process, grounded in years of experience both on stage and behind the scenes.

As a longtime drummer and musician who’s played in many bands, I’ve been part of close-knit music communities, and now I’m excited to bring that same spirit to North County San Diego. Having built relationships locally and recognized the need for quality rehearsal spaces, I’m committed to creating a space that supports artists’ growth and fosters a sense of community.

We’re proud of building a brand that balances professionalism with passion—where every detail, from acoustics to atmosphere, is designed to help artists feel at home and inspired. Whether you’re preparing for your next show or just jamming with friends, Right-On Studios aims to be your creative home base in North County.

Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
Wow, this is a great question. Lots of things make me happy—from spending quality time with my wife Suzie and my 11-year-old son Davis, to performing live with my two bands, to setting and achieving my goals. I also find peace and joy in camping and spending time at the beach, where I can disconnect from the daily grind and recharge surrounded by nature.

Pricing:

• Hourly Pricing will range from $27 – $37 per hour with a 1-hour minimum
• Monthly prices will start at $450 per month for a 10′ x 10′ room and increase based on square footage.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://rightonstudios.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rightonstudios.ca/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rightonstudios.ca