First, make sure that you have listened to your mix several times and that you are happy with its present state.

Be aware that incorrect level differences between separate instruments (Or parts) including vocals, are too difficult and sometimes impossible to fix during mastering.

Not even the best mastering tools in the world will turn a bad mix into a great one. So, if the sound of the mix doesn't stand already on its own, that's a telltale sign that your music won't benefit very much from the mastering process. Read more.

That said, it doesn't mean that we can't give you a mix sounding better, we always guarantee that (see 'Terms').

Next, check levels :

Make sure your mix has NO DISTORTION & Make sure your output levels are not LOUD!

The example below is best applied to 24 bit audio files.

The stereo signal (1) on the left, has average levels at about -12dB and thus, has plenty of headroom for us to do our magic (Best for mastering).

The stereo signal (2)  at 0dB, it doesn't clip, but there is hardly any headroom for us to work with (Mastering benefits are limited).

The stereo signal on the far right (3) is at above 0dB and clips the meter (the initial stage of distortion).

That's not ideal for professional mastering, especially because it's not the peak, but the average sum levels (of the L + R channels).

We reject mixes with excessive clipping like this.

Next, check format:

Resolutions accepted: 32, 24 bit and 16 bit (Which is definitely OK).

Sampling rates accepted: 192, 96, 88, 48 and 44.1 kHz (CD quality)

File Types: we prefer WAV but accept AIFF and SDII format.

Be aware that the higher the resolution and sampling rate, the longer the upload time (Between 8 to 30 minutes each song depending on your connection speed).

MP3 Format.- Mp3 is a lossy and compressed file and thus, not ideal for mastering. If you want to supply us with Mp3 audio files anyway, make sure that they are coded at least at 192 Kbit/sec (stereo) and at 44.1 kHz.

FYI, there are several free programs to convert CD to WAV: e.g. Switch for Windows, see www.nch.com.au/switch, or SoX Wrap for Apple/Macintosh, see www.waveformsoftware.com/SoX_Wrap/soxwrap.htm

If you can't use our online service and prefer to send by mail, we also accept audio CD, CD24 audio, DAT, DAT-24 formats.

Tapes: 2 Trk 1/2", 2 Trk 1/4", 4 Trk 1/4" (30, 15, 7.5. 3.75 i.p.s.). Extra charges apply, call for a quote.

Finally, cassettes can be also enhanced through mastering, but should only be used if there is no other recourse (Because you lost the master).


table of contents

If you upload:

1 mix, is ready next business day.
2 mixes usually in 2 business days
3 mixes in 3 business days
 4 to 9 mixes will usually take 5 to 7 business days.
10 and more mixes usually takes 10 business days.
Disclaimer: The table above is not guaranteed turnaround time. Mastered mixes maybe rendered ready for download earlier or later than what is stipulated and depending on our work schedule.

It means that a mix, has a well balanced harmonic and frequency spectrum within the 3 major densities (Low, mid-range & high end). Their frequency transients are not overshooting the normal limits, allowing for higher overall output levels without compromising dynamic range.

Our mastering process checks the alignment on 30 frequency bands which is a higher standard for most mastering facilities, and although good  frequency alignment and harmonic balance does not guarantee a great  sound, it is necessary for accomplishing the best mastering results.

All audio is digitized on ProTools HD or 24 Mix TDM System with DSP by:

Focusrite,
Lexicon,
TC Works and
Waves mastering tools.
Avalon

Superb A/D converters by:
Apogee,
SONY DMX -R100 A/D/DA
Other Conversions by:
MasterLink ML9600,
Tascam DA-45HR 24 bit,
Panasonic 20 bit,
Marantz CDR610 MKII,
Sony DAT machines,
Playwrite CD recorders.

Genelec

Your music is handled with care.

table of contents