Mastering questions
A few answers to the questions that usually come up before sending a record for mastering. If something here does not cover your situation, please contact me.
Mastering
What is mastering?
It is the final creative listen before release. The work is small musical and technical decisions that help the mix translate, feel consistent, and arrive in the right formats without losing its character.
Will mastering fix my mix?
It can help a strong mix feel finished, but it is not a replacement for mixing. If something really can only be addressed in the mix, I will get in touch with you.
Should I read anything before booking?
How It Works and What to Send contain useful info for you. Have a quick read of these before you start your mastering session.
Booking
How do I book a mastering session?
Use Start a session to tell me about the release. I will look over the quote to make sure everything is good, and will then confirm the session. You will receive a confirmation email with a link back to your private project page.
When do I pay?
Payment is taken before mastering starts. Once I have confirmed the quote, you can click the PAY button on your private project page.
How long does mastering take?
Standard turnaround is 7 days. Express turnaround is 2-3 days, charged at £10 extra per track, subject to availability.
Do returning clients get a discount?
Returning clients receive an automatic discount when booking with the same email address as their previous session. The discount is shown on the estimate form.
Review
How does review happen?
When the first master is ready, you receive a private Samply approval link. Listen on speakers you trust, and tell me if anything needs changing. Samply is for approval listening only - final files are delivered to your project page after approval.
Are revisions included?
Yes. Unlimited mastering revisions are included because the aim is to get the record exactly where you want it to be. I want you to feel good about sending it out into the world.
What if I send a new mix after mastering starts?
A new mix is treated as a new source file rather than a revision. That does not mean it is a problem; it just needs me to start over.
Where do final files appear?
Final files are delivered through your private project page after approval, separate from the Samply listening link.
Formats
What files are included as standard?
The base mastering cost includes 24-bit/high sample rate WAV files for most digital distribution, 16-bit/44.1k WAV files for CD Baby digital distribution, and reference MP3 files.
Is DDP included by default?
No. DDP is a £30 flat extra cost.
What is a DDP image?
A DDP image is a production-ready CD master with running order, pauses, track IDs, ISRCs, UPC, and CD-TEXT where supplied.
Can you prepare vinyl masters?
Yes. I can create a vinyl master for you no problem. This costs an extra £10 per track.
How long are final files available?
Download and back up the final files once they are delivered. I keep project archives where possible, but long-term file storage and urgent later retrieval cannot be guaranteed.