| Mastering |
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The final and perhaps most subtle aspect of the recording process, mastering involves refining a completed mix and preparing the project for CD replication. It should be noted that professional mastering studios are, in general, completely separate enterprises from recording and mixing studios, utilizing different monitoring systems and hardware costing into the tens- if not hundreds- of thousands of dollars. If your project has an unlimited budget and is going to be released on a major label, then by all means, stick with a professional mastering engineer and studio! If your project is an independent release with a limited budget, then you may wish to consider this service as a less expensive alternative. The mastering process involves several steps, the first being achieving an appropriate spectral balance within tracks. This could possibly involve the subtle use of EQ and/or compression in order to maximize dynamics, fill bass response, or tame transient material. The next step is leveling individual tracks' perceived loudness relative to each other, and according to the order in which they will occur on the final project. Once the correct program order and levels have been established, the tracks are assembled in a CD authoring program, assigned track numbers, gap information, and ISRC codes (if necessary) before being burned to CD. |
Being somewhat of a specialty endeavor, the process of mastering also involves the use of special tools. Along these lines, I am pleased to offer the use of several high quality digital processors, including a few different linear phase equalizers and multi-band compressors, which are some of the cleanest and most transparent mastering tools available. The use of these processors ensures that the general tonal quality of a completed mix is left intact while simultaneously achieving ideal spectral balance and dynamics within program material. Other processors, such as the Manley Massive Passive mastering EQ, are capable of adding subtle and desirable color to program material through the use of passive, analog circuits and tube gain stages. Finally, maximum levels are achieved through the use of either the Waves L2 or Massey L2007 digital mastering limiters. Decisions about which of these tools are used in the mastering process are determined primarily by the demands of the program material in question. Once all processing has been completed, tracks are assembled in BIAS Peak Pro 4 and burnt to compact disc according to standard, "red book" format. If you have a project that needs mastering, and would like to hear a free demo excerpt of what mastering can do for your mix, please do not hesitate to contact me to arrange for a free demo. |
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