From Analog to Digital: The Enduring Legacy of Murray Hill Studios

From Analog to Digital: The Enduring Legacy and Future-Forward Focus of Murray Hill Studios

In the ever-evolving world of media production—where platforms shift, formats multiply, and audience expectations grow more sophisticated by the day—some institutions stand the test of time by staying rooted in craft while embracing innovation. Murray Hill Studios in New York City is one such standout, with over four decades of experience navigating—and often leading—the transformation of video production, from the analog era to today’s digital frontier.

Humble Beginnings and a Visionary Founder

Founded in the late 1980s by Marc Wein, Murray Hill Studios—known by many simply as MHS—was born from a strategic consolidation of audio-visual service companies. Initially focused on tape-based linear editing and duplication services, MHS quickly grew into a trusted production partner for a wide range of industries.

The studio made a pivotal move in the early 1990s, relocating from Columbus Circle to its current home in a historic pre-war brownstone on 35th Street in the Murray Hill neighborhood—the original home of Court TV. That relocation marked more than a change of address; it signaled a new chapter in the studio’s evolution, enabling expansion into full-service broadcast and digital video studio production.

Pioneers of Broadcast Innovation

Long before virtual/remote media production via zoom and other platforms became the norm, MHS was at the forefront of satellite media tours, live shots, and remote broadcasting, connecting public figures, celebrities, and experts to audiences nationwide and beyond. As online video emerged, MHS embraced streaming and real-time digital distribution with enthusiasm and expertise—recognizing early that video was no longer confined to television.

When the pandemic forced a sudden industry-wide pivot to remote workflows, Murray Hill Studios was ready. Already experienced in decentralized production, MHS rapidly expanded its virtual capabilities using platforms like Zoom, Teams, WebEx, StreamYard, and Vmix. The result? Flawless virtual roundtable discussions, hybrid events, and media tours with real-time two-way video interaction—a once-cost-prohibitive feat in pre-pandemic broadcasting.

Why Professional Video Still Matters

While smartphones and consumer editing tools have made video creation more accessible, the gap between DIY and professional has never been wider. In today’s content-saturated environment, audiences are increasingly discerning. They can instantly detect the difference between a hastily assembled clip and a polished, story-driven production.

MHS brings decades of technical expertise and creative insight, offering clients more than just equipment. The team knows how to shape abstract ideas into compelling visuals that work across platforms. Whether it’s a training video, a pharmaceutical CME module, a fashion shoot, or a corporate keynote live stream, professional quality and consistency are non-negotiable—and that’s exactly what MHS delivers.

MHS removes friction from the production process. Clients benefit from a single point of contact, a cohesive creative vision, and streamlined workflows that ensure brand alignment and top-tier production value across every deliverable.

Their facilities are equipped with everything you’d expect from a high-end studio: full lighting and camera setups, control rooms, green screens, teleprompters, fiber internet, client green rooms, and more. But it’s the people behind the tech—from experienced producers and videographers to editors and audio engineers—that make the real difference!

A Star-Studded Track Record

Over the past 40+ years, Murray Hill Studios has built relationships with some of the most respected names across industries. The client list includes Oprah Winfrey/HARPO Productions, Carnegie Hall, IBM, ABC, NBC, WNET, President Barack Obama, Martin Scorsese, and Halle Berry, as well as countless corporations, educators, law firms, and nonprofits.

No matter the client or budget, the MHS approach is the same: understand the goal, tell the right story, and execute it flawlessly.

Looking Ahead: Innovation Built on Experience

As media continues to evolve—bringing with it interactive content, AR/VR, and AI-assisted editing—Murray Hill Studios remains focused on what has always mattered most: clear messaging, storytelling that connects, and flawless execution. These foundational values are what give new tools their power—not the other way around.

In an industry obsessed with trends, MHS proves that lasting impact comes from mastering the craft and staying curious about the future. It's more than just a studio; it's a living history of how stories are told and shared—and a trusted partner for whatever comes next.

Jahaneen Johnsen