Mastering
Mastering is a separate process from the mix which involves making the file fit for distribution. The aim with mastering is to set the correct levels for the intended playback system and bringing a tonal consistency across a collection of songs for release. Mastering can be focused for Online Streaming services or for physical medium like CD or Vinyl.
At AMPS we specialise in mastering for Streaming, using Apple MFIT (Mastered for iTunes) standards, align with the guideline for your specific distributor. We can master a single track an EP or an entire album.
Mastering demystified
Mastering is the last stage of the production process before distribution.
On single track the ideal is to create a competitively loud and tonally consistent master that competes with tracks of a similar genre.
Across a body of work, Mastering ensures the same consistency across the whole collection, regardless of where each contributing track was produced, recorded or mixed. The mastering process can also involve the final album sequencing and the embed the artists import meta data onto the file.
Mastering Services
Multitrack Mastering: send a group of tracks to ensure your release has a consistency in tone, (brightness and warmth) volume and dynamics to ensure your body of work sounds like you
Album sequencing: When an album is finished the order of the songs and, and spacing between the tracks ads to the overall experience of the piece. Album sequencing is an additional service that the artist signs off on before creating a master file
Redbook Mastering: The essential CD standard for disk manufacturing
Mifit mastering: Mastering that is especially suited to the Apple Music Standard. Works great for all the streaming services.
Meta data encoding: ensuring the right details are on the file/disk. Track names, track number, publishing info, ISRC codes.