Mastering. So what is it, and why do we need it? Usually, a mixed song sounds good on its own or on a particular set of speakers.
Unfortunately, it can lack that special something when listening across different devices or when stacking up against popular/commercial recordings. A mixed song can also appear inconsistent with the remaining tracks in a release. In the mastering process, we can add loudness, brightness, low end, width, energy, and excitement to your final mix, to counteract any weaknesses. Furthermore, we can make EPs and LPs sound consistent when listening from song to song. Listeners will enjoy your music across several devices without having to adjust levels and EQ.
In the following video, Reuben Cohen plays and critiques the mix of ‘Happy’, delivered by Leslie Brathwaite. He explains how he wishes to enhance the track, discusses the gear, and shows you how he mastered the record. This should give you a good idea of what it is we do.
Details About Our Service
- We can provide feedback on your stereo mixes before initiating the mastering process;
- If we can’t improve your mix, we’ll not accept the assignment;
- If you wish to know what we did, please ask us;
- We charge $50/song;
- Typically, the process involves EQing, compressing, limiting, multi-band processing, mid/side and stereo width adjustments, de-essing, de-noising, reverberation treatment;
- We will require a WAV or AIFF file for each song;
- You will get 3 free revisions;
- If you provide us with reference songs, we’ll try our best to match the given character;
- Or do you wish to leave it open-ended? We’ll use our trick box to perform our magic according to our judgement.
Read more about the mastering process on Izotope’s official site.
In this final video, iZotope Education Director and professional mastering engineer Jonathan Wyner explores mixing and mastering levels. He focuses on the value of leaving headroom in your mix and what sound levels to pay attention to while mixing. He also stresses the importance of comparing the sound level of your reference tracks to your mix so you can get the best results in your final master.
What are you waiting for?
Tell us about your project here.
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