What exactly is mastering music? In essence, it is about improving the sound of your music. And balance is the ultimate goal of a great master. But what exactly is ‘balance’? Three significant aspects dominate the mastering process regarding music and sound. The three regions of balance are as follows:
- Frequencies
- Image in Stereo
- The quantity (and loudness)
This article will explain what mastering box is in music, the distinction between mixing and mastering, and teach you how to master a recording in seven phases.
The process of optimizing the sound quality of a final mix so that it sounds good on a wide range of audio playback systems is known as mastering. It also comprises preparing the master for the various distribution channels. We’re talking about dithering, sample rates, file formats, and other export options according on the distribution type. Mastering may be broken down into seven steps. However, each mastering engineer has hidden tactics on their sleeve to give the master a particular touch. A well-balanced track that sounds fantastic in a range of sound systems – and is in the proper format – is the product of a terrific master.
Even though many mixing and mastering processes are similar, they are two distinct beasts that demand separate approaches.
- Individual track channels are processed.
- Equalization, compression, and effects are used.
- Making all sounds sound good together.
- Preparing the track for mastering.
Mastery Entails
- Finishing the final mix.
- Effects are being applied to a single file.
- Creating a balanced final track.
- Preparing the track for distribution.
The distinction between mixing and mastering box is that mixing involves processing individual channels, but mastering involves processing the entire mixdown or one audio file.
A track must pass through seven steps. Their sequence, however, may differ amongst mastering engineers. Some people add processes or apply other approaches to boost the master’s quality even further.
Let’s take each of the seven steps one at a time.
· Restoring Audio
The audio restoration process involves repairing and eliminating undesirable noise, pops, and clicks in the final mix. Audio issues might become evident when we start boosting master levels with compression and making frequency adjustments with equalization. That’s why it’s a good idea to get this out of the way as soon as possible. Before you boost the lovely portions of the mix, remove the unpleasant bits.
· Equalization
Equalization is used to produce a balanced master while correcting the various frequency ranges. If the lower frequencies are overwhelming the mix, a boost in the higher frequencies may be required. Additionally, subtractive equalization work as usual. This entails reducing harsh or overpowering frequencies. A combination is rarely ideal. And equalization is fantastic for achieving superb balance, with equal quantities of power at the low and high end.
· Enhancement of Stereo
Stereo augmentation is modifying stereo speakers and headphones to represent the relationship from left to right. Because humans only have two ears, we spend most of our time listening in stereo, which involves employing left and right speakers to combine distinct audio mastering information. In addition, we use stereo augmentation in mastering to broaden or restrict certain frequencies. Keeping the lower frequencies limited for focus and tightness is a typical approach. Higher frequencies might have a larger frequency range. A good stereo picture is essential for creating a beautiful master. And, with stereo enhancement, you may make particular modifications to each frequency band. Stereo enhancement also entails making your stereo image look excellent and extensive. A substantial sound stage makes the music sound better and more spectacular.
· Formatting
Your final master’s format, as well as a few other variables, will alter depending on how you wish to publish your music. For example, most online streaming services, including iTunes and Spotify, now accept a mastering standard of 16-bit 44.1k in.wav files.
That implies you may export music for streaming in the following format:
- 44100 sample rate
- WAV (Waveform Audio File) format
- Depth of 16 bits
Band camp and Sound Cloud are a little different in that they allow you to download 24-bit tracks. A greater bitrate can also help with mp3 conversion. You may export music from Band camp and Sound Cloud to:
- 48000 sampling rate in WAV format (and over)
- Depth of 24 bits
You now understand what mastering is and the distinction between mixing and mastering. You’ve also learned about the seven typical steps to mastery. And, maybe more crucially, the steps to become a great master. Remember that balance is the key. It’s all about improving on an already excellent mixdown.
Volume and dynamics must be balanced with compression, loudness, frequencies, and stereo imaging. As a result, a fantastic master sounds just as excellent on AirPods as on a high-end club sound system.
