MASTERING
Mastering is the final stage of the creative process of making a CD, and is the last stage to change/enhance a recording before duplication. Mastering is the process that creates a CD from a selection of recorded songs. The mastering process aims to match the tone, volume and spacing between each song. This is achieved by applying EQ, compression and limiting, using dedicated mastering equipment. One objective of mastering is to make the selection of songs have a unified “sound/feel” as a whole package and from song to song.
Accepted Formats for mastering
The format you should bounce (mix down) your project is a 24 bit stereo WAV or AIFF files at the original session sample rate (that is 44.1, 48, 96). Please remove any peak limiting and any master bus compression and leave 3dB or more headroom so the master fader does clip (no red lights, very bad). Clipping will destroy transients and distort the sound thus compromising your projects fidelity.
Please take the time to ensure you have the correct tracks and correct mix and that they are clearly labelled. The CDs running order needs to be decided before the mastering session. It is also important to take care of your CD prior to the mastering session. Dirt, grease, grime and scratches can waste valuable time before the session starts.
Please phone and speak to the mastering engineer for rates of the mastering session, the price directly reflects the amount of songs.