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  Mastering for Digital, Vinyl, Streaming​ & CD​

Mastering is the final step in the recording chain, giving your project a consistent, polished, and professional sound. We’ll talk to you about what you want to get out of the mastering process and determine the best way to get you there. Then, we’ll assess your mixes and let you know if we have any questions or concerns.

Sound Affair uses analog playback through the Focusrite Blue Mastering system (not digital plug-ins), so all our mastering is analog. We can make the process completely analog by first laying back your tracks to tape. Or, we can work directly from your audio source.

Many of the same functions that are used in mastering Digital, Streaming and CD. Vinyl manufacturing requires a master lacquer for each side. Mastering the album and cutting the lacquer are the first steps in the pressing process and the last chance in post-production to make your music sound its best. We also cut one-off records to preview how your master lacquer will sound or for use in club play.

Most importantly, all mastering is done in a balanced listening environment.

This will provide the accuracy necessary to create a master that will sound great anywhere.

Details, details . . .

    Mastering for Digital 

  • Tape layback (if applicable)
  • Raise the albums over-all level to professional standards
  • Fix minor mix deficiencies
  • Add bass, high end, or other EQ as needed
  • Eliminate noise and clicks between tracks
  • Real-time phase and polarity check of left and right audio channels
  • Bass management and optimization
  • Compression and limiting
  • Stereo enhancement
  • General assembly – includes fades in and out, cross fades, track sequencing, and spacing
  • Real-time block error check and analysis of masterdisk
  • Add ISRC codes for digital distribution
  • Add CD text

    Mastering for Vinyl

  • Tape layback (if applicable)
  • Raise the albums over-all level to professional standards
  • Fix minor mix deficiencies
  • Add bass, high end, or other EQ as needed
  • Eliminate noise and clicks between tracks
  • Real-time phase and polarity check of left and right audio channels
  • Bass management and optimization
  • Compression and limiting
  • Stereo enhancement
  • General assembly – includes fades in and out, cross fades, track sequencing, and spacing
  • 7”, 10”, or 12” master
  • Reference acetate or dub plate (available as an add-on)
  • Records cut while-you-wait

For rates or more information about mastering for CD, Vinyl, iTunes, Streaming and Digital Downloads, contact us by phone or email, or to request our studio brochure and rate card. For faster service, fill out the Request a Quote form here.

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