Q. What format do you need the tracks in?

A. The highest resolution format that the mixes exist in. Commonly that will be 44.1khz, 24 bit .wav or .aif but any combination of bit depth and sample rate is possible. The important thing is that the highest quality files that exist are chosen. Please, no MP3s, WMAs, or similar!Equally, I do not require any project files, stems or separates. That would be mixing, not mastering. Please see “What Is Mastering?” above for a more detailed explanation.

Q. Should I use a limiter/other mix buss processing on my mix?

A. It really would be helpful to all involved if you didn’t use a limiter on your mix. If a limiter is on the mix the potential of the mastering process to improve the sound of the mix is severely hampered. Please refer to “What Is Mastering?” above for further info and a more detailed explanation.

Q. How much will it cost?

A. See Rates for a detailed breakdown.

Q. How long will it take?

A. It varies, but on average it takes around 30-45 minutes per track, including sequencing. Singles might take a little loner.

Turnaround times vary depending on the current workload so please get in touch for a quote.

Q. What is the difference between a DDP and CDR master?

A. DDP fileset is a digital image of an audio CD, with all CD Text, ISRC codes and track timings embedded exactly as a master CD. It is my preferred method of delivery as there is 0% change of error. DDP player software will be included with all DDP masters so you can check the master yourself. You can burn a CD from within this software if you wish.

Should you prefer a physical CDR, or if the plant you are pressing the CDs at does not accept DDP, I can provide a fully error checked CDR master, along with a detailed error report, on Taiyo Yuden Gold media.

I always recommend DDP if possible as it’s cheaper for the client and more reliable, but rest assured that any CDR master you request will leave the studio without errors.

Q. Why aren’t my CD’s track names showing up in iTunes/Windows Media Player?

A. Unfortunately iTunes and most other software does not read the CD Text that is embedded in CDs. It relies on an online system called Gracenote which pulls information about the CD from the internet. Once registered with Gracenote the CD will show up in all media players. For more information on how to do this please see the FAQ on Gracenote’s website.

Q. Will you make changes if I am not happy with the master?

A. Yes, within reason I will be happy to make as many revisions as you require at no extra cost. We’ll just have to trust each other on what constitutes “within reason” but most problems tend to be sorted out with one short revision.