Mastering is the balancing of your final mix into a form that translates as clearly as possible across all sound systems and platforms. In some cases this can be as simple as adjusting the overall level to meet industry loudness expectations, or balancing a compilation of tracks to flow naturally. However, where further alterations are required your music can be processed using a combination of analogue and digital tools to provide you with the most suitable ‘Radio Ready’ mastered version of your music.
Format Options
In addition to the physical mastering of your full resolution audio file (£20 per track), you may also be planning to release or share your music to one or more mediums. Below are some of the format options available. Discounts are available for projects of 3 or more tracks.
Full Resolution 24bit/44KHz WAV file
MP3 file
Streaming Version
DDP for CD Manufacturing
FAQ
Why are there so many different file types?
Although your full resolution master is the most important audio file, depending on where and how you share you music you’ll need to make sure that the format of your file meets the requirements of each delivery method.
Why is the Streaming Version not the same as the Full Resolution file?
The requirements set out by the various streaming platforms are constantly changing, and while the majority of services now allow you to upload high resolution wav files, there are still some adjustments that need to be made to ensure your music sounds it’s best when being streamed. These include adjustments to the average loudness (LUFS), the true peak of each track, and in some cases it’s also worth altering the amount of limiting on a track to ensure it retains natural dynamics.
What’s a DDP?
A DDP (Digital Disc Protocol) is a digital file that can be sent to CD manufacturers if you’re planning a run of CDs. Rather than simply burning the WAV file(s) to a CD and sending this to be duplicated, using a DDP ensures that every aspect of your CD will be identical on every single copy. Duplicating a CD of WAV files can introduce errors or timing differences in the duplication process so it’s highly recommended that you use duplication companies that allow you to submit a DDP image wherever possible.