Preparing a mix for mastering is a crucial step to ensure the best possible results. Here are some detailed steps to prepare your mix effectively:
Finalize your mix :
Balance levels: Ensure all elements in your mix are balanced (vocals, instruments, effects, etc…).
Stereo image: Check for a balanced stereo field, avoiding excessive panning or phase issues (you can use the free plugin Voxengo Correlometer). Phase correlation should stay between 0 and +1. Out-of-phase material can be due to multiple microphones placement, timing error or abuse of stereo widening effects.
Remove unnecessary elements: Check for unwanted noise, clicks, or pops.
Leave headroom :
Target level: Keep the mix peaking at around -6 dBFS to -3 dBFS. This leaves enough headroom for mastering adjustments and prevent clipping.
Avoid clipping: Ensure no tracks or buses are clipping.
Processing on the master bus: Remove any limiters as it is destructive and nothing good can be done after its use. If there is other bus processing (EQ, compression), you can let it engaged if it fits your track’s aesthetic and doesn’t harm it.
Maintain dynamics :
Avoid over-compression: Do not over-compress or squash the mix. Preserve dynamic range for a more impactful master.
Check automation: Ensure volume and effect automations work seamlessly.
Export at high quality :
Bit depth: Export at 24-bit integer (with dithering applied, ideally TPDF) or 32-bit floating-point (with no dithering applied) for optimal quality.
Sample rate: Use the sample rate of your project (e.g., 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz, or higher). Avoid upsampling or downsampling.
File format: Export as a WAV or AIFF file. These are preferred for mastering due to their uncompressed quality.
Provide reference materials :
Reference mix: You can include a reference mix to show your preferred sound. If you used a limiter, you can send this version as a reference for loudness.
Reference tracks: You can also provide tracks that capture the sonic quality you’re aiming for.
Label your files clearly :
Include metadata: Name files with descriptive labels (e.g., “01 – SongName – Mix_v1”).
Communicate with your mastering engineer :
Discuss goals: Share your artistic vision, production and mixing method, and any specific requirements (e.g., loudness, tonal adjustments, particular noise to not remove).
Provide notes: Include details like the intended release format (streaming, vinyl, CD) and any notes about the mix.
Conclusion :
Before sending your mix to the mastering engineer, ensure you are fully satisfied with it. Address any issues during the recording or mixing stages whenever possible. If you encounter challenges, don’t hesitate to communicate with your mastering engineer to find the best solution. A clean, dynamic, and well balanced mix allows mastering to bring out the best in your music.
