Both the mixing process and the audio mastering process begin with clearly defining the goals of the final project. This includes discussing the character and vibe the artist wants to achieve, understanding the intended audience, and outlining the final delivery format—whether for CD, vinyl, streaming platforms, radio, or digital stores like iTunes. Bringing in outside reference tracks during mastering is encouraged, as it helps focus the direction of the record where words alone may fall short.

While the tools used in professional mastering may seem specialized, they share much in common with the everyday gear used in mixing. Techniques such as intelligent equalization, compression, and limiting are central to the mastering process, but the adjustments are usually refined and subtle. The goal of music mastering is always to enhance clarity, balance, and impact without altering the artistic vision.

At each stage, the mastering engineer considers key questions:

  • Does the music better convey the artist’s intention after mastering?

  • Will the average listener experience greater clarity, balance, and depth through additional mastering treatment?

  • Is the objective of the producer, mix engineer, and artist more effectively delivered through the mastering process?

In the end, audio mastering ensures that a recording translates well across all playback systems and provides the polished, professional sound expected in today’s music industry.

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Using a mastering console is a key part of the audio mastering process, allowing the mastering engineer to audition each piece of analog signal processing in the chain. This critical step makes it possible to compare the original mix with the mastered version, ensuring that every EQ adjustment, compressor, or limiter is enhancing the music.

While mixing focuses on balancing instruments, vocals, and effects within a single track, mastering is about the overall balance of the complete project—whether that’s an album, EP, or single. A professional mastering session brings consistency in tone, punch, clarity, and volume from track to track, so the entire release translates well across different playback systems.

The final loudness depends on the delivery format and audience. Modern CD mastering often pushes tracks louder than past releases, while streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube normalize playback levels. A skilled mastering engineer takes into account label requirements, genre standards, and commercial competition when setting the final volume.

Other essential steps in mastering include sequencing (determining track order), as well as fade-ins and fade-outs. These choices shape the flow of the album and should always be finalized after processing.

Once the project is fully mastered and sequenced, it is prepared for delivery in the correct formats—whether high-resolution WAV files for distribution, vinyl masters, CD pre-masters, or optimized files for streaming services.

CD Duplication / Replication

  • 44.1kHz 16bit WAV Files

    • Embedded with Album Information (Song Title, Song Artist)

  • Includes all CD Text data

  • DDP Image Disc

    • This is the preferred method of delivery for a CD duplication/replication facility

    • Includes all CD Text data

  • PQ Sheet

    • PDF of all CD Text, ISRC data, UPC/EAN

Digital Delivery / Internet

  • 44.1kHz 16bit WAV Files

  • Hi-Res 24bit WAV Files (in the native sampling rate)

Upon request, high-quality MP3 files (320kbps stereo) and Mastered for iTunes files can be provided. For Mastered for iTunes the final distributor will need to be a certified iTunes content provider.

Vinyl

  • Hi-Res 24bit WAV Files of Side A sequence and Side B sequence

  • PDF of Song Order and Timing