Find Your Answers
I know you might have some questions before we work together, and that's totally okay! Below, I've answered some of the most common questions I get about mixing and mastering, so you can feel informed and confident in your decision. From file prep to turnaround times, this FAQ section should cover most of the basics. If you still have questions, don't hesitate to reach out!
What are your rates for mastering?
For a stereo master, I charge € 75 for indie artists/bands and € 135 for major label artists/bands.
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A stem master, with up to 8 stems, is priced at € 120 for indie artists/bands and € 240 for major label artists/bands.
A stem master, with up to 8 stems, is priced at € 120 for indie artists/bands and € 240 for major label artists/bands.
How do I prepare my files for mastering?
Headroom and Processing: Ensure your final mix has sufficient headroom (it should peak around -6 dB). Please bypass any mix bus or stereo out processing that's not crucial to the sound, such as limiters, maximizers or compressors that are primarily increasing loudness. Make sure your signal isn't clipping. Please export your final mix at the same sample rate you have been recording and mixing in.
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Stem Mastering: If you're submitting stems, please ensure each stem includes all essential processing, including any (master) bus effects you mixed through and that are integral to the sound (with the exception of limiters, maximizers or compressors as mentioned above). Label each file clearly, and make sure all stems are the same length, so they align perfectly when imported into the DAW.
Stem Mastering: If you're submitting stems, please ensure each stem includes all essential processing, including any (master) bus effects you mixed through and that are integral to the sound (with the exception of limiters, maximizers or compressors as mentioned above). Label each file clearly, and make sure all stems are the same length, so they align perfectly when imported into the DAW.
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File Format: Export your files as a WAV or AIFF file.
File Format: Export your files as a WAV or AIFF file.
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Reference Tracks: Provide at least one reference song you like that meets industry standards for mastering and is similar in genre, sound, style, and instrumentation to your track. This will help guide your master. You can also include one of your own previously mastered songs as a reference. If you have additional references, feel free to send them as well. WAV files are preferred, but Spotify links are also acceptable.
If possible, include a rough master of your track — this could be your or your mixing engineer's best attempt at mastering the song.
Reference Tracks: Provide at least one reference song you like that meets industry standards for mastering and is similar in genre, sound, style, and instrumentation to your track. This will help guide your master. You can also include one of your own previously mastered songs as a reference. If you have additional references, feel free to send them as well. WAV files are preferred, but Spotify links are also acceptable.
If possible, include a rough master of your track — this could be your or your mixing engineer's best attempt at mastering the song.
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Additional Information: Include details such as the tempo and key of your song in the file name or in a separate text file. If you have any additional notes or instructions, please provide them in a text file as well.
Additional Information: Include details such as the tempo and key of your song in the file name or in a separate text file. If you have any additional notes or instructions, please provide them in a text file as well.
Can I have feedback on my mix?
When you book a mastering session with me, detailed mix notes are always included. If needed, I'll provide suggestions on how to enhance your mix to ensure the best possible master.
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If you're only looking for mix feedback, I offer that service separately for € 20 per mix. Should you later decide to book a mastering session for that mix, I'll reimburse the feedback cost from the mastering rate.
If you're only looking for mix feedback, I offer that service separately for € 20 per mix. Should you later decide to book a mastering session for that mix, I'll reimburse the feedback cost from the mastering rate.
What is stem mastering?
Stem mastering is a more detailed approach to mastering where I work with grouped parts of your mix—like drums, vocals, background vocals, bass, keys, guitars, etc. — rather than a single stereo file. This allows for greater control to refine balance, depth, and clarity while staying true to your original mix, blurring the lines between mixing and mastering.
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This method is also ideal for artists and producers who have taken their mix as far as they can but need a little extra help getting it over the finish line.
This method is also ideal for artists and producers who have taken their mix as far as they can but need a little extra help getting it over the finish line.
Can I get revisions on my mastered track?
Yes, each master includes 2 revisions at no additional cost. Any extra revisions are priced at € 20 per revision.
Which genres do you specialize in?
I focus on indie pop, singer/songwriter, and acoustic genres. While those are my go-to genres, I'm open to many styles, so feel free to reach out.
How long will it take you to finish my master?
Typically, your mastered track will be ready within 2 to 4 business days. If you have a specific deadline, please let me know, and I'll do my best to accommodate it.
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Need it faster? Express mastering is available for an additional fee — just reach out!
Need it faster? Express mastering is available for an additional fee — just reach out!
I'm unsure who to choose as a mastering engineer. How can I be confident in my decision?
Choosing the right mastering engineer can indeed feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to trusting someone with your personal art. To help you feel more confident in your choice, I offer a free stereo master for first-time clients.* This allows you to experience my work firsthand without any initial commitment and see how I can enhance your music.
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Feel free to reach out and ask for it. I'm here to ensure your music sounds its best and I'm excited to potentially work with you!
*One stereo master per first-time client.
Feel free to reach out and ask for it. I'm here to ensure your music sounds its best and I'm excited to potentially work with you!
*One stereo master per first-time client.