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Would anybody like me to master their track?
Would anybody like me to master their track? I've been out of it awhile and am looking to test my ability. EDM is preferred of course, and I will need to hear the mixdown prior to you sending me the high-resolution wave file, just to check levels and listen whether it's ready for mastering. First come first serve really, and depending on how things go I might be open to doing more. Make sure the level is kept well below clipping and bypass any mastering effects you may have. Then just send me an MP3 sample or post here.
UPDATE:
Please follow these simple steps:
- Ensure any master effects are bypassed and the mix level peaks well below clipping (I prefer at least 6 dB of headroom, i.e. a maximum peak of around -6.0 dB - don't normalise the file after rendering).
- Send me a ~190 kbps MP3 preview so that I can check the levels and listen whether it's ready for mastering; we can make any necessary changes at this stage. Of course, you can bypass this step if you're confident your mix is ready.
- Render a high-resolution WAV file of your track typically at 44,100 Hz, 32 bit float. If this option isn't available, use 24 bit. If you're looking for a slight, possible increase in quality (that is if you think your mix utilises frequency space above 22,050 Hz), you can render at 96,000 Hz or anywhere in between, but please check this has worked OK because sometimes it can mess any timings up.
- Please check the rendered file doesn't clip.
- Compress it with .7z, FLAC, RAR or ZIP. I can't stress this option enough, as it not only saves bandwidth but also ensures a 1:1 copy due to error checking.
- Upload it to a site such as MediaFire (preferred) or WeTransfer, unless you can provide your own hosting.
- Turnaround will be a couple of days, and I'll send you a preview first before sending the 16 bit file, as well as a 24 bit version if required.
About the mastering process:
I use a range of plug-ins to deliver a clean, professional master. You can expect your sound to be balanced, polished, sound more consistent, warmer, and least of all louder. I don't partake in the loudness war but I will push your track as far as it will go, all while retaining pristine dynamics.
A typical mastering project will consist of:
- Fine-tuning the frequency balance using linear-phase equalisation.
- Using compression to optimise and tighten the dynamic range.
- Using shaping or colouring EQ to further enhance the sound.
- Using harmonic excitation to add warmth and sparkle.
- Widening the stereo image.
- Fades and offset correction.
- Limiting for maximum loudness.
Your master will be processed at 96,000 Hz, floating point, and will be resampled and dithered to 44,100 Hz, 16 bit. I use Dynaudio near-field monitors, AKG studio headphones, and a larger home theatre setup for monitoring.
Samples:
Marcel Woods - Cherry Blossom (Magnetic Vision Remix) (please contact me when the link expires)
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Put an end to the loudness war. Don't limit or compress your mixdown until mastering; leave the master channel alone.
Contact me for mastering.
Last edited by Atlantis-AR on Jun-15-2011 at 19:47
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