FAQ

I'm in a hurry to get my record mastered, how quickly can I get it back?
In almost all cases, I can have the songs ready for you within 48 hours of receiving your CD/files, and typically I will get you a sample mastered mp3 to approve within 24 hours. You can receive high-quality MP3s or WAV files immediately after the master is complete in your own private folder on my website. I will also mail you a master CD. I ship first class free of charge, but if you'd like to upgrade to a faster shipping, that is fine too!
How much input do I have on the way my master will sound?
When you send in your songs, I'll ask you if you have any preferences in terms of EQ or overall sound. As I master your album, I will upload mp3 samples for you to check out so you can provide feedback and tell me if everything is sounding exactly as you want it. Your master isn't considered finalized until you have approved it and it sounds exactly the way you want!
What are the services you provide in the mastering process?
I will compress your songs to make sure your album is at standard CD volume, EQ the songs to make your mix sound brighter and fuller, and set up track transitions and any special requests you may have regarding fades or post-mix editing. In general, I will make your mix sound as good as it can sound and most importantly, make sure that YOU are happy with it!
What is the best way to send you my songs?
The fastest and simplest way is by using my FTP. I have set up an FTP server so that artists can simply upload their songs to me. This eliminates the delays associated with sending CDs through the mail. I have also received damaged CDs from the post office on a couple of occasions, so the FTP would help solve that problem too. If you're not familiar with uploading files, you don't even need a fancy FTP program - anyone with Internet Explorer can upload to my server quite easily - I can just send you the login information and some very simple instructions. But if you'd rather not FTP the songs, you can always just send a CD in the mail!
In what format do you prefer to receive the songs?
For ease and quality, it's best if you can send WAV or AIFF files, stereo interleaved at a minimum of 16-bit, 44.1KHz. If, however, that's not possible for some reason, I can deal with just about any format.
How loud should my songs be when I send them in for mastering?
It's best if your mix is uncompressed and peaks at about -3 to -4 dB. If your songs are louder than that, there will be very little head room to work with EQ and compression.
Can you master my record for vinyl instead of CD?
Absolutely - I do plenty of vinyl releases. While we'll need to pay attention to taming some problem frequencies to better accommodate vinyl pressing, you can rest assured that the final product will maintain all of your dynamics and sound great when you get your records made.
Why should I get my record mastered?
Mastering will quite simply improve sound of your record and help to polish your finished product, no matter how it was recorded. It doesn't matter whether you spent all your show profits and then some to splurge on a good studio, or if you recorded at home with Garage Band, or even if you just threw a few microphones into an old 4-track while you played live in your own basement. Getting your tracks mastered by an experienced engineer will ensure that your album sounds professional and cohesive, and that you are getting the best possible sound out of your recording.