Mastering
The last step before release: a sound that is consistent from track to track, holds up on every system and sits at the right level for each format.
Overview
Stereo and stem audio mastering
Mastering happens once the mix is approved. It fixes the last tonal imbalances, adjusts dynamics, makes the tracks of one project consistent and prepares files for each format's requirements: streaming platforms, downloads, CD, vinyl or radio.
We master in a dedicated, quiet room with full-range monitoring and a short processing chain. The goal is not to make a track "as loud as possible" but as good as possible: clear, balanced, at a level suited to its style and destination.
Mastering can be done remotely: you send your mixes, we send back the masters with an explanatory note. You can also attend the session at the studio.
How it works
Step by step
Receiving the mixes
You send your mixes as 24-bit WAV files, with no limiter on the master bus, plus any references.
Listening and diagnosis
We listen to everything and flag any issue best fixed in the mix (sibilance, excessive low end).
Mastering
Track-by-track processing, then setting the order, gaps and fades for multi-track projects.
Delivery
High-resolution and 16-bit / 44.1 kHz WAV masters, with ISRC codes embedded if you provide them.
Stereo or stems?
Stereo mastering works on the final mix file. It is the most common option, suitable whenever the mix is finished. Stem mastering works on four to eight track groups (drums, bass, instruments, vocals…). It leaves more room to correct a balance, for example a vocal that sits slightly too far back, without going back to the mix.
If you are unsure, send us the stereo mix: we will tell you honestly whether stems would help.
Levels and platforms
Streaming platforms normalise playback volume: a track mastered very loud will simply be turned down, having lost some of its dynamics along the way. So we aim for a level consistent with the style, controlling true peaks to avoid distortion after encoding.
We explain these ideas in detail in the article Loudness and LUFS for streaming. For radio or sync, we can produce specific versions to the broadcaster's specification.
Vinyl and CD
Vinyl has its own constraints: centred low end, controlled sibilance and a limited playing time per side. We prepare a dedicated version, with separate files per side, and liaise with the cutting plant if needed. For CD, we deliver a DDP file containing the track order, gaps, ISRC codes and EAN barcode.
These formats are listed in the quote and only charged if you ask for them.
Transparency about the result
With each master we include a short note: what we changed, why, and any reservations. One revision is included. If the mix has a problem that mastering cannot fix cleanly, we tell you before invoicing so you can correct it at the source.
Preparing your files for mastering
For mastering in good conditions, send WAV or AIFF files at 24-bit (or 32-bit float) at the mix sample rate. Leave about 3 to 6 dB of headroom below 0 dBFS and disable your master-bus limiter, unless it is an integral part of the intended sound: in that case, tell us and include a version without it.
Specify the track order, the gaps you want between songs, any crossfades and ISRC codes if you already have them. One or two reference tracks whose sound you like help us understand your intention, without trying to copy them.
Delivery formats
Depending on your project, we deliver a digital master for streaming platforms (24-bit WAV), a 16-bit / 44.1 kHz version for CD manufacturing and, if needed, a master suited to vinyl pressing, whose constraints (mono low end, controlled sibilance, side length) are different. Metadata and ISRC codes can be embedded on request.
One round of revisions is included. If the mix itself needs rework, we will tell you frankly: mastering cannot fix everything, and it is better to go back to the mix than to stack processing.
Attending the mastering session
You are welcome to attend the mastering session at the studio in Lyon. We listen together on the main monitors and then on smaller speakers, to check how the master translates to everyday systems. Attending is not required: most clients receive the masters remotely and send their notes by e-mail. If you attend, allow about one hour per three or four songs, including listening and adjustments.
What is included
- Track-by-track mastering
- 1 revision included
- High-resolution and 16-bit / 44.1 kHz WAV masters
- True-peak control for streaming
- Explanatory note attached
- Embedding of supplied ISRC codes
Rates
| Option | Included | Excl. VAT | Incl. VAT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mastering — per track | stereo, 1 revision | €65 | €78 |
| Stem mastering — per track | up to 8 stems, 1 revision | €110 | €132 |
All rates: Rates page. Booking, cancellation and withdrawal terms: Terms of service.
Frequently asked questions
Mastering
What level should I aim for on Spotify?
There is no single number. We choose a level suited to the style and check how it sounds after normalisation. See our article on loudness.
Can you master a track mixed elsewhere?
Of course; that is most of our requests. Leave 3 to 6 dB of peak headroom and remove the limiter from the master bus.
How long does it take?
Allow 2 to 4 business days for a track or an EP, a little longer for an album with a vinyl version.
Do you provide ISRC codes?
No, they are assigned by your distributor or the relevant agency. We embed them in the files if you send them to us.
A project to record in Lyon?
Tell us about your project: we get back to you with a proposed slot and a written quote, with no obligation, within one business day.