Mastering FAQ



What Is Mastering?

In the recording studio, you record one song at a time, and the focus of the recording or mixing engineer is to make each song great. The result, however, is generally a collection of songs that all peak at different levels and may have different EQ's. When mastering, a mastering engineer unifies the CD by using EQ, compression, and other dynamics processing to give it a consistent sound from song to song. In addition, mastering can raise your album's overall level through the careful use of compression, so your album can compete with any major label album. The audio mastering engineer also ensures that your music will sound great - whether it's being played through a car stereo, a portable CD player, or a top-of-the-line stereo system. In CD Mastering, the sound of your CD will be optimized, making it sound punchy, warm, and full, while raising the overall level (volume) and highlighting details that aren't already apparent.


What should I expect from mastering?

The most important and obvious answer is: It should sound undeniably better than your original mix. It should have improved sonic qualities consistent with the style of the artist. And it should sound like a cohesive finished project, with no songs sounding out of place or quieter than another song on the CD.


I'm not completely satisfied with my mix. Can you change the mix in mastering?

The answer is yes, though there are limitations. Thru enhanced detail thru mastering may already alleviate some of the mix problems and give more clarity, without taking special care to address certain mix problems. If elements still seem hidden, certain measures can be taken to bring up vocals, or any other instrument in the mix. In order for it to sound natural though, these level adjustments can only be taken to a certain extent. If you have very specific ideas on what needs to be changed in you mixes, please feel free to send us a detailed list of specific areas that need work, and we will be glad to help. Major issues should of course, be dealt with at the mix stage, we understand though, that this is not always possible. For ideas on how to get your mixes sounding better check out our Tips Section.


What should I do to my mix before its mastered?

We have several articles you can read to learn what you can do to get a better mix in our Tips Page. Some links to other articles from various engineers are listed there as well.

Make it sound as great as you can, making sure the different mix elements are mixed as close to what you want as you can get. The best mix usually is balanced and consistent from lows to highs. Don't try to peg your meters at 0, or "slam" the recording. About -2 or- 3 dB is fine. Allow us to ensure the final product is loud, without killing all of your dynamics. Also don't over-compress, or run through a finalizer or harmonic enhancer such as a BBE or aural exciter, these are unchangeable and are mastering elements. Watch for overly sibilant "S's" or hi-end elements. Leave the final enhancements to us at mastering. Over-processing or trying to sound mastered at the studio usually creates problems that are difficult or impossible to correct.


Is mail-in mastering a good idea?

Mail-in mastering, or mastering via FTP is not as scary as it may sound, and is not a non-negotiable 'take it or leave it' mastering approach. Truthfully, most mastering sessions are un-attended sessions, even if a client happens to be near the studio. This is usually because it tends to be more effective, and less wasteful of client time, to just let our engineers try and get the songs where they need to be. This does not mean a client does not give input, if your uncomfortable with just letting us go at it, were fine with that. You can give us a few CD's that have the sound you’re looking for, or after hearing a sample, let us know if you feel it’s too bright, too dark, whatever you don't like about it and we'll address those issues. The point is our engineers are capable of trying to take your mixes sonically wherever you want them to go. We know how to get those sounds you’re looking for, and instead of twiddling your thumbs for hours while we get things right, we can simply send you samples of where the mastering is taking your project. That way you can do a side-by-side comparison with fresh ears, on a familiar sound system, and make sure the project is moving in the right direction.


How does the FTP system work and what are the benefits?

• The Benefits - The most obvious one is the fact that you won't have to ever leave the comfort of your home. You get to take advantage of Golden Track Mastering from anywhere in the world, and it saves you money! You don't have to pay shipping costs or worry about addresses, and it makes the mastering process that much faster too! Your files will get here in minutes, and we can get started on them as soon as possible, making it great for artists with a pending deadline.

• How it works - We have made our system as simple and convenient as possible for our clients. Once we have discussed the details of your project, we will give you a unique login name and password. To login you simply enter our homepage and enter your information in the 'login' boxes at the top of the page. You will then be taken to our online file upload page, where you may be prompted to download a quick JavaScript plug-in to use our application. This does not download an application to your computer, it simply allows you to use our system, just click 'Yes' or 'Run' to approve the plug-in. Then you simply click the 'Add' button to select which files you would like to upload. Once you've selected your files, click 'Upload' to send them to us. We will notify you when the masters are complete, you then can login using the same name and password we assigned you before to download your files. Select the files from the list at the bottom of the page, and click 'Download' to receive your now mastered tracks. Feel free to call us if you have any other questions about our files upload system.
How long will it take to master my project?

Mastering an average album can take up to one week. If you have a deadline, or you would like us to rush a project, we can do that as well, though the rates will increase slightly. Please call us for details if you think you might need a project rushed.