Mastering
The last step before release: balance, level, and a finish made for streaming and distribution.
A track is finished when it sounds right everywhere.
Mastering gives the track its final version — the one that will hold up on every platform, on every system, and next to the other tracks in a playlist. Level, tonal balance, dynamics, and one colour shared across the tracks of a project.
We master with platform loudness in mind, without chasing volume. A master that breathes ages better than one that's been squashed. On an EP or an album we also work on how the tracks follow one another and the spaces between them.
A lot of collaborations start with a master. One track, clean foundations, and the rest gets built from there. Eve's first track came to us that way.
Sending the mix
You send the final mix as 24-bit WAV, with 3 to 6 dB of headroom and no limiter on the master bus. We confirm we've got it and agree the timing.
Critical listening
We listen to the mix closely. If something is going to limit the master, we tell you before we treat it: a mix revision is often worth more than a master that compensates.
Processing
EQ, dynamics, stereo image, level. Processing that serves the track, checked on several systems.
Delivery
Masters in the formats you need — WAV for streaming, DDP or vinyl if required — with metadata and ISRC codes if you supply them.
Monitoring
- Neumann KH 310Active three-way monitors
- Zaor Miza Stand V36Decoupled stands
- Beyerdynamic DT-770 (×3)Monitoring headphones
Interface & headphones
- Focusrite 18i2018-in / 20-out interface
The studio grows project by project. When a session calls for a room or an instrument we don't have, we rent what's needed and handle the logistics.
Do you master online?
Yes, most of our mastering is done remotely, with private links to listen to. You deal directly with the person mastering your track, and they do it by hand.
How much headroom should I leave on my mix?
Between 3 and 6 dB, with no limiter or maximiser on the master bus. If your mix is already limited, send an unprocessed version as well.
Do you cut masters for vinyl?
Yes. Vinyl has constraints of its own — level, phase, sibilance, side length — and we prepare dedicated masters when a project is going to be pressed.
How many rounds of feedback are included?
The quote says how many are included. In practice, a master that's been framed properly gets signed off in one or two listens.
Tell us about your project.
We take on a limited number of projects each season. We read everything that comes in.