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Complete Guide to Preparing Your Track for Mastering

Choose Your Reference Track Wisely

  • Pick a professionally mastered track from your genre
  • Similar instrumentation will yield better results
  • Avoid tracks with vastly different arrangements
  • Pro tip: Use a reference from the last 5 years for modern sound standards

Mix Preparation Is Key

  • Aim for a balanced mix where all elements sit well together
  • Clean up unwanted noise, clicks, and pops
  • Check phase correlation between stereo channels
  • Listen for harsh frequencies that might get emphasized
  • Pro tip: If you can't hear your lead elements clearly in the mix, they won't translate well in mastering

Technical Requirements

  • Upload lossless audio files (WAV/AIFF/FLAC)
  • Keep peaks around -6dB for optimal headroom
  • 44.1kHz/24bit or higher resolution
  • No clipping or distortion on any tracks
  • Pro tip: Dithering isn't necessary - our mastering engine handles this automatically

Master Bus Preparation

  • Remove all mastering-type processing (especially limiters and heavy compression)
  • Disable any peak limiters
  • Double-check that no plugins are accidentally left active
  • Pro tip: Save a separate copy of your mix specifically for mastering

Final Checks

  • Listen on multiple systems (monitors, headphones, car)
  • Check mix translation on small speakers
  • Ensure low-end is controlled and defined
  • Verify stereo balance is consistent
  • Pro tip: Take a 24-hour break before final export to catch anything you missed

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

  • Over-compressed mixes that leave no dynamic range
  • Excessive bass that masks other frequencies
  • Heavy limiting that will compromise the mastering process
  • Using MP3s or other compressed formats
  • Reference tracks from completely different genres

Remember

Great masters start with great mixes! Our mastering engine is designed to enhance your music, but giving it the best possible input will always yield better results. Think of it like a chef - they can make good food with average ingredients, but give them premium ingredients and they'll create something extraordinary!

Need help or have questions? Our support team is here for you!

Pro tip: Always keep a backup of your original mix files. While our process is non-destructive, it's just good practice!