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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.
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