How to Prepare Your Mixes for Mastering: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Ensure Proper Mixing
Before mastering, make sure your mixes are well-balanced, with no excessive clipping, distortion, or over-compression. A clean mix provides a solid foundation for the mastering process.
2. Export in High Quality
Export your mixes in a high-resolution format (preferably WAV or AIFF) and maintain the original bit depth and sample rate of your recording. This ensures the mastering engineer has the best source material to work with.
3. Leave Headroom
Ensure your mixes have enough headroom to accommodate the mastering process. Leave around -3dB to -6dB of peak headroom to prevent clipping and allow the mastering engineer room for adjustments.
4. Provide an Un Limited Version of The Mix
Please provide two copies of the Mix. A reference mix version, (the mix as the client has been hearing it), and a un limited version, where any final mix bus limiter has been removed. If possible please label these LIM and UN LIM
5. Provide Reference Tracks:
If you have specific sonic characteristics or reference tracks in mind, provide them to the mastering engineer. This helps communicate your vision and preferences for the final master.
6. Communicate Your Vision
Clearly communicate your artistic intent, highlighting any specific elements you want to emphasise or address during the mastering process. This ensures the mastering engineer understands your goals.
7. Include Notes and Guidelines
Attach any additional notes or guidelines regarding your mix, such as preferred song order for an album or specific instructions for individual tracks. Clear communication enhances the collaborative process.
8. Check for Errors
Listen to your mixes for any potential errors or anomalies, such as clicks, pops, or unwanted artefacts. Fixing these issues at the mixing stage ensures a smoother mastering process.
9. Avoid Normalising
Avoid normalising your mixes before exporting. Normalisation can alter the dynamic range and affect the mastering engineer's ability to make precise adjustments.
10. Submit Multiple Versions
If possible, submit multiple versions of your mix, such as vocal-up, instrumental, or alternate arrangements. This provides flexibility during mastering and ensures you have versions suitable for various purposes.
11. Collaborate with the Mastering Engineer
Maintain open communication with the mastering engineer. Discuss your expectations, preferences, and any specific concerns you may have. Collaboration enhances the likelihood of achieving the desired final result.
Can I request revisions after receiving the mastered tracks?
Yes, we provide standard revisions as part of our service. If you have specific adjustments or feedback, we'll work closely with you to ensure your complete satisfaction.
How do I submit my tracks for mastering?
You can easily submit your tracks through our online platform. Once you create an account, you'll find a simple and secure way to upload your files. Detailed instructions will guide you through the process.
What is the difference between stereo mastering and STEM mastering?
Stereo mastering focuses on the overall mix, optimising the entire track. STEM mastering takes it a step further by allowing us to fine-tune individual elements within your mix, providing greater control and customisation.
What payment options do you accept?
We accept various payment methods, including credit cards, PayPal, and other secure online payment options. Payment details will be provided during the submission process.