Send Files Now

Frequently Asked Questions

Download ReadMe PDF

CD meta data input sheet XLS (Excel)

CD meta data input sheet ODS (Open Office)

What the heck is mastering anyway?

Mastering is the final stage of audio production before duplication/distribution, it’s a chance to check that the audio is ready for consumption and fix/enhance the audio for listening in the real world.

Mastering is a bespoke service which is never the same for two pieces of audio. It is usually comprised of two mind sets; firstly the adjustment of the tonal balance, dynamic content and presentation of the source to optimise the audio for playback (this may be purely objective or subjective, most likely a combination of both), and secondly the creation of a production master(s) which is dependent on the output format(s) desired.


How long does it take to get my project mastered?

This is kind of a “how long is a piece of string” question, but I understand that releasing music is complicated so you need to have an idea.

My current lead time is 3-5 working days for a proof, and then 1-3 working days for production master.

Please make sure I know if the job has hard deadlines before accepting and booking in.


Do you do “stem mastering”?

I only work with finished stereo mix-downs unless there is a specialist project where stems are required.


Do you do “vinyl mastering”?

I don’t cut master discs. What I do is called a “vinyl premaster”. This is essential for producing a great cut from your source files.

This is generally the sides of the vinyl in 24 bit, levelled correctly, without any digital loudness processing applied.  A further level of quality control is applied to check for potential issues when taking the source material to the cutting engineer.

This provides the cutting engineer with an optimum source file and avoids sequencing issues.


When do I pay?

Payment is either up front on receipt of a confirmed proof.

Please contact me if you have any further questions.

© Joe Caithness Mastering 2018
Built by Time Travel Opps
Powered by Wordpress