AUDIO MASTERING
Mastering is the important final step in music production after mixing. With experienced ears, high quality analog gear, and a deep love for music, I'll give your final mixes volume, detail, smoothness and balance. Below is some of what will happen during the mastering process.
DYNAMIC SHAPING
Using the highest quality analog and digital compressors, I'll improve the thickness and punch of your mix. Subtle details are given space and clarity while more present sounds are controlled so that they sit comfortably in the mix. I'll also transparently increase the volume of your album to give it more presence and a commercial ready quality.
HARMONIC SWEETENING
Most people work in the digital domain these days. While convenient, it can tend to leave mixes sounding somewhat thin. My tube boxes and harmonic enhancement gear will give your music analog warmth and richness.
EQUALIZATION
With tube and solid state equalizers, I'll shape the frequencies of your individual songs in order to create continuity between tracks. I also surgically address any individual frequencies that need attention. This will give your album the smoothest and most consistent sound possible.
EDITING + SEQUENCING
I will make any song transitions and fades you'd like in order to give your album the flow and sequencing you desire.
MATERIAL PREPARATION
Please read the following tips on preparing a mix for mastering. These guidelines are useful things to keep in mind in order to achieve the best possible mastering result.
LISTEN CLOSELY
Mastering brings out a lot of detail, which in some cases, can reveal artifacts or errors that are hiding in your mix. Give your final mix a close and attentive listen on your highest quality listening device. This will give you a chance to catch any subtle things you might want to correct before sending your audio in.
TURNAROUND
Mastering orders are usually completed a few days to one week from when the material is supplied. This varies depending on my booking schedule. Specific turnaround can be confirmed during our initial communication.
COMPRESSION
Try not to apply too much compression or limiting to your final mix. Make sure to leave at least 3-6 dB of peak headroom in your mix so that I'll have space to work with. If you deliver an overly compressed mix, there will be much less that can be achieved. I'm not saying not to use compression, as it's vital to a great mix, just don't over do it.
FILE TYPE
24-bit WAV or AIFF audio files are preferred. If you've been working in another resolution, send me those mixes and I'll take care of the file conversion.