FAQ
What is mastering?
Mastering is the final step in the record production process. It is essential to have an objective pair of trained ears carefully review your music before distribution. My work is based on detailed, focused listening in an acoustically treated room equipped with the highest fidelity converters and speakers. I identify any errors that may have been missed during the mixing session, and I am responsible for track sequencing, fades, transitions, metadata, and file formatting. I also offer stem mastering and audio restoration services.
No two mastering engineers are the same because personal taste comes into play while refining the timbre of bass, midrange, and treble frequencies to highlight and enhance musical content wherever possible. Another crucial step involves adjusting the audio level so that playback loudness remains consistent while achieving the optimal balance between factors like dynamic range and sonic power. This is a highly specialized task that requires an excellent listening environment, a range of professional tools, and of course technical knowledge and years of experience.
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When it comes to working with my clients, I believe the mastering process should be tailor-made for each song. I understand that each artist and producer has a unique vision for their music, and my role is to help them realize that vision with the utmost care and dedication. I begin by listening closely to their needs and goals, ensuring a thorough understanding of the sonic qualities they wish to achieve. Communication is key, and I maintain an open line to address any questions or concerns throughout the mastering process. My commitment to quality extends to the tools and techniques I employ. I am always striving for perfection and embracing the latest advancements in audio technology. With every project, I bring the same passion and attention to detail that have defined my career, creating masters that reflect the artist's intention and resonate with listeners worldwide.
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I know that mastering can seem a complicated subject, so I strive to maintain clear communication from the start of the project until you have approved the masters. During that process, you can expect a dedicated and passionate engineer who will go the extra mile to achieve the results you need. So if you’d prefer to work with your mastering engineer directly rather than through a booking manager, contact me.
After receiving your mix, I carefully listen, analyze, and (if necessary) provide constructive feedback to address any quality control issues overlooked in the mixing stage. Together, we'll bring your music to its full potential, and I remain fully committed to your project until you're completely satisfied with the final product. Your art is at the heart of our work, and I am here to ensure it's brought to life with clarity, precision, and a touch of sonic magic.
Once the final master is ready, you will receive a link to download the audio as a high-resolution master, a CD-quality version, and a reference MP3. My turnaround time is typically 1 to 3 business days for singles and 1 to 2 weeks for albums.
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Mastering engineers typically don't mix records, and there are distinct reasons for this separation of roles.
First, maintaining objectivity is crucial. Mastering offers a fresh perspective when a mixing engineer, deeply involved in the creative process, may become too attached to individual tracks, which can make it difficult to provide an objective final touch. Second, I work in an acoustically treated room with mastering-specific tools and equipment to ensure the best possible results. Lastly, having an experienced pair of ears and a skill set dedicated to mastering often results in a more polished and consistent final product.
So while mixing and mastering both play critical roles in music production, they serve distinct purposes. A team of engineers specializing in their respective fields ensures the best outcome for sonic quality and artistic expression.
As such, I am always happy to refer you to some of the many talented mixers I know.
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Mix Buss Preparation
Remove any limiters from the mix buss.
Ensure the mix is not clipping (peaks should stay below 0 dBFS).
Session Settings
Turn off the following settings:
Normalization
Overload protection
Trim silences
Dithering
Do not change the sample rate of your session or upsample the audio.
File Format Requirements
Export your mix as either:
32-bit floating point WAV files, or
24-bit WAV files.
Exporting Your Mix
Perform an offline bounce for accuracy and efficiency.
Double-check the bounced mix to ensure it matches your expectations.
Make sure everyone involved has approved the mix(es).
Reference and Alternate Versions
Include any reference versions of your mix that have been limited or premastered.
Send additional versions such as:
Radio / Clean edit
TV / Performance version
Instrumental
Acapella
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Connect with me through the website contact form or directly at aw@alexanderwright.com, and let's transform your musical vision into reality. Your questions are welcome; I'm dedicated to ensuring you feel fully supported throughout our potential collaboration. You can expect a reply within 24 hours.
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Unlike some industry professionals who obscure their pricing, I believe in honest, straightforward rate structures that respect both the artist and the craft. My pricing model is consistently fair - whether you're an independent artist or working with an established label, you'll receive the same high-quality service at an accessible rate.
Per Song: $100
You will receive a high-resolution master, a CD-quality version, and a reference MP3.
Each Alternate Mix: $25
Clean / Radio edits, instrumental, acapella, etc. Delivered in the same 3 formats as the main mix.
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Alternate Mixes and Pricing
Alternate versions (e.g., instrumentals, radio edits) must be submitted simultaneously with the main mix.
Late submissions of alternate mixes will be charged at the full mastering rate.
Revision Policy
Up to three (3) revisions per track are included at no additional cost.
Revisions due to mix changes requiring re-mastering will be billed at 50% of the initial mastering fee.
Payment Terms
Full payment is required before the commencement of mastering work.
Additional Notes
Please ensure all mixes are finalized before submission to avoid unnecessary revisions and additional charges.
For any questions regarding these terms, please contact me before starting your project.