The Mastering Engineer's Objective.
The mastering engineer's objective, is to produce masters that sound their best on the widest variety of playback systems.
It's the ultimate mastering test, and it must be accomplished while preserving the musical intent of the artist/producer/label.
Mastering engineer, Bob Speer, pays close attention to detail, and has been achieving this objective consistently since 1985.

Mastering Will Optimize The Loudness Potential Of A Mix.
All recorded music has a loudness potential (limit), that's determined by the elements in the mix.  When the loudness potential
of a mix is exceeded through over compression/limiting, the sound begins to deteriorate.  When mastering a project, mastering engineer, Bob Speer, will achieve as much level as possible without exceeding the loudness potential of the mix.  This will avoid degrading the sound and provide a good balance of level vs. dynamic range.  Bob understands that some clients are interested in a loud master and are willing to sacrifice dynamics for a loud CD.  When requested, Bob will comply with the client's request.

Mastering Is About Making The Best Possible Impression.
CD Mastering enhances the presentation of a mix so it makes the best possible impression on the listener.  Making the best possible impression is important for radio airplay, music sales, and advancing a music career.

Disc Quality & Guaranteed Red Book Masters.
CD Mastering is about disc quality and Red Book compatibility, as well as enhancing the presentation.  Our total commitment to quality Guarantees our Red Book masters will meet the requirements of CD replicators.  Each master we produce is tested for accuracy before it leaves our facility.  The benefit to you...no rejected masters...no production delays!

Mastering Includes (But Is Not Limited To) The Following:
   · Check each song for tonal balance.  Apply corrective EQ as needed.
   ·  Adjust overall level to commercial standards consistent with good dynamics.
   ·  Insure a consistent level from song to song.
   ·  Signal processing (compression, EQ, etc.) as required.
   ·  Stereo imaging/widening (usually only when requested).
   ·  Resequence songs when requested.
   ·  Spacing between songs adjusted for proper timing.
   ·  Noise (tape hiss, clicks, pops, etc.) removed from songs when possible.
   ·  Clean the beginning and end of each song as needed.
   ·  Remove noise from spacing between songs.
   · CD Text and ISRC Codes can be encoded on the CD.  Client must provide this information when submitting project.
   ·  Assemble and burn final masters to Red Book specifications (required by CD replicators).

Turn Around Time, Test CD, And Client Approval.
Clients will receive a "test CD" when mastering has been completed.  That should be approximately 14 days after we receive
the project.  Of course, that can vary slightly depending on current workload.  The test CD provides clients with the opportunity to approve the master, or request changes.  Clients will receive two change requests free of charge.  If additional changes are requested, a nominal fee will apply.

What Do Clients Receive After Approving The Test CD?
   1. A replication master (sealed in a jewel case to prevent disc contamination) and a reference CD.
   2. A master track log (cue sheet) required by most CD replicators.
   3. Liner notes indicating track times, etc.
   4. An error report indicating the quality of the replication master.

The replication master and the reference CD are both made from the same master file.  The reference CD is provided for general playback and for burning copies for band members, friends, family, etc.  The reference CD enables the replication master to remain in pristine condition until the time of replication.

Have A Question About Our Mastering Service, Or Mastering In General?
Feel Free to Contact Us.  You'll receive a prompt, friendly response.