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Mastering since 2006, we master and restore your song with analog hi-end outboard equipment and impeccable acoustics!
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Mastering in over 50 countries and well over 30.000 productions, as well as multiple chart positions.
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Our mastering engineers are personally available to advise you on all important mastering questions.
Mastering(audio masteringor e-mastering) is the final stage in the processing chain after recording and mixing (mixing)in the recording studio before the audio material or track is released, or the tracks go to the pressing plant for further processing.
Of course, we also accept other projects and recordings for Online mastering , ensuring the highest analog sound quality with top customer service and personal guidance from our engineer.
Mastering is primarily an enhancement of the mix of a song, where the engineer, in the mastering studio, attempts to represent the sound of the track as accurately as possible on various playback systems (such as radio, hi-fi systems, smartphones, or streaming platforms). The track's frequency response, mono-compatibility and dynamics are taken into account during mastering. The goal in mastering should be to tonally match the result after the mixing of the title, as well as adhering to technical specifications for the release of music and recordings. It can also contribute to making the sound of different songs on an album more cohesive.
GOAL OF MASTERING?
The goal is to enhance the track or recording of the music using dynamics processors, equalizers, filters, or psychoacoustic devices so that it sounds "good" on as many playback sources (e.g., stereo system, headphones, etc.) as possible. The sound and tone should remain as consistent as possible. In the mastering or audio mastering process , the emphasis is on a sonically balanced frequency spectrum , good mono compatibility , and a well-balanced stereo image in the track. Depending on the need, volume adjustment, jitter elimination, or the addition of fades can also be performed.SECURE YOUR ANALOG MASTERING NOW
MASTERING FAQ FOR AUDIO MASTERING
THE STEPS TO A GOOD SOUND WHEN MASTERING ARE THE FOLLOWING
- Brainstorming,
- Composing, Producing, Recording, Shooting
- Mixdown,
- Master or Mastering.
As a final step in the processing chain, special attention must be given to the audio master in the studio. Being a mastering engineer is a profession and by no means a hobby. In addition to understanding technical measuring instruments, spatial conditions must also meet certain specifications and standards to be able to master professionally. Even the listening environment has to be checked and adjusted according to specific DIN norms, allowing the engineer to extract the best sound for the audio recording of the music using their equipment. As an engineer, one needs a broad knowledge of acoustics, physics, and a good technical understanding.
THE WORK PROCESS IN MASTERING
In the master process, the mastering engineer typically receives a mix of the track as a stereo file, which they import into their Digital Audio Workstation (DAW). During this stage, they get an overview of the soundas well as the technical and musical condition of the song.
After the initial assessment of the audio material, it is cleaned of technical errors and unwanted frequencies (e.g., from the recording). Subsequently, if necessary, dynamic reductionis performed to achieve competitive loudness.
After the dynamics have been adjusted, the material is subjected to musical mastering, which ensures that subjective perceptions of individual elements or passages acquire their own sound character. This can be done with tube devices or other special hardware. "Saturation“ is one of the different stylistic devices to express a musical mastering .
SOUND IN MASTERING - DESIGN POSSIBILITIES
- Stereo Mastering (Processing of a stereo mix) Stereo mixes)
- Stem Mastering (Processing of subgroups such as drums, vocals, guitars)
- M/S Mastering (Processing of mid and side signals separately, done in an M/S matrix )
- Streaming Mastering (Specifically tailored for streaming services)
- Vinyl Mastering (Mastering with specific specifications for vinyl production)
- DDP Mastering (Creation of a DDP image for delivery to the pressing plant)
- Reference Mastering (Professionally adjusted version to the genre and frequency response of a reference track)
- Emastered (Term for traditional online mastering)
- AI Mastering (Mastering through artificial intelligence. Providers like Landr, Emastered, etc., use algorithms and presets)
Mastering is thus the final creative stage of audio post-production before the song is distributed.
WHY IS MASTERING IMPORTANT?
DIGITAL CONTEXT OF MASTERING
With the increasing digitization and greater acceptance of streaming platforms such as Spotify, iTunes, Amazon Music, etc., the requirements for audio material are changing. Due to various end devices and internet speeds, streaming platforms convert audio into various output formats. This is done to provide the listener with seamless audio playback and good sound quality. Through this conversion, the frequency response of a piece often changes. In online mastering, these conversion-related changes to the audio quality of the song are minimized.MONO-COMPATIBILITY IN MASTERING
Another aspect is mono-compatibility, which is particularly crucial when the listener is using a smartphone or another playback device with only one speaker. If insufficient attention has been paid to mono-compatibility during mixing, half of the song may be lost. Especially with drums or the kick drum, inadequate mono-compatibility can lead to significant loss of audio quality and ruin the entire song. In our Würzburg mastering studio , which is particularly crucial when the listener is using a smartphone or another playback device with only one speaker. If insufficient attention has been paid to mono-compatibility during mixing, half of the song may be lost. Especially with drums or the kick drum, inadequate mono-compatibility can lead to significant loss of audio quality and ruin the entire song. In our tonality in real-time.For a good sound of your music, it's essential to note:
For a balanced sound of your song, the mixdown is primarily responsible. Thoughts like "we'll fix that in mastering" or "the mastering engineer will save it" are entirely wrong approaches.
TECHNICAL MASTERING
This is done using analysis tools, metering, and one's hearing. Broad knowledge is already required here to assess the audio correctly. Subsequently, the song is processed with various processors such as a compressor, EQ, de-esser, or other hardware or software. This aims to achieve as balanced a frequency response as possible in the audio material.
ERROR REDUCTION IN MASTERING
Errors like digital clicks, unwanted noise, static noise or overcompression can be reduced or completely eliminated. The sound is then put into the desired output format. Typically this is 16 bit Wave at 44,1 khz sample rate. This is common for CD production. A 24 bit wave is generally used when streaming music. We tell you how a master or emastered works in detail in our mastering blog.
MASTERING OPTIONS
After the mixing process, mastering can be categorized into two types: technical Mastering (creation of the glass master by the engineer for CDs, or the matrix for vinyl records) and musical- and premastering (Track processing of the mixdowns and preparation for technical mastering).
HOW IMPORTANT IS ACOUSTICS IN THE MASTERING STUDIO?
WHAT ARE THE BEST MASTERING PLUGINS?
So, are there ultimate plugins for mastering?
No! Each song is different in its frequency response, arrangement, played harmonies, and its mix. Different manufacturers build different types of plugins, and their sound characteristics often differ completely or in certain aspects from other manufacturers.What plugins do you need for mastering?
In general, it is advisable to use the following plugins in the studio: – Equalizer – Compressor – Limiter – Stereo Enhancer (optional) – Maximizer (optional) – Reverb (optional) More than these are not needed for good and high-quality mastering on the plugin side. Much more emphasis should be placed on room acoustics and monitoring conditions in the studio, as decisions made by the engineer should work independently of room and monitoring medium. It is advisable to focus on fewer different plugins initially and instead explore the individual characteristics of those plugins currently in use. We recommend comparing different equalizers or compressors with the same settings to find the right plugin with the required tonal color or neutrality for each track. This requires a broad knowledge of music editing. There are tracks where one plugin works with a specific setting, and for another track, it may prove to be unsuitable. For example, the use of a tube compressor in an electronic track lacking warmth might be the right choice, while in a rock track that only needs a little more transparency and airiness, it could be counterproductive.OUR MASTERING CUSTOMERS
Top mixing and mastering studio! The boss, Chris, is super friendly and accommodated all my special requests... excellent results. I can highly recommend it to anyone, regardless of the music genre!
WHAT IS ONLINE MASTERING?
online mastering refers to the mastering of music tracks that is conducted over the internet. In online mastering, the music tracks are typically submitted in digital form and processed by a professional mastering engineer who has the necessary knowledge and skills to optimize them.
The music pieces are submitted in digital form and edited by the mastering engineer.
Online mastering is a convenient way to master music tracks, as they do not need to be taken to a recording studio. However, it is crucial to choose a professional mastering engineer who has the necessary knowledge and skills to optimize the music track to the best possible extent.
WHAT IS PROCESSED IN ONLINE MASTERING?
Basic Tasks in Online Mastering
In online mastering, final inconsistencies in the sound and dynamics of the music are addressed to give the track or album the finishing touch in terms of sound. For example, clicks or unwanted noises that have crept in are eliminated or reduced, frequency ranges are equalized, and the level of a song is balancedto make masked instruments audible againdue to a flawed mix. Depending on the quality of the delivered mix of the track, changes in the stereo image are made. This provides the sound of the song with a balanced spatiality and more depth . For instance, the unwanted resonance frequencies of a guitar in the song can be significantly reduced .Tools in Online Mastering:
- Equalizer: Optimization of the frequency spectrum and highlighting/suppressing desired or undesired frequencies to ensure a balanced range in the sound.
- Compressors: Damping unwanted signals and reducing excessive dynamics for an exciting and balanced sound experience.
- Limiter: Dynamic accentuation and highlighting of weak signals in the audio due to over-compressed tracks to create a varied dynamic range.
- Expander: Widening the stereo image to create a spatiality that suits the song atmosphere.
"Peak-Studios - One of the top addresses in the Republic!"
WORK PROCEDURE ONLINE MASTERING
In the master process, the mastering engineer typically receives a mix of the track as a stereo file, which they import into their Digital Audio Workstation (DAW). During this stage, they get an overview of the soundas well as the technical and musical condition of the song.
After the first evaluation of the audio material, it is cleaned of technical errors and unwanted frequencies . Subsequently, if necessary, dynamic reductionis performed to achieve competitive loudness.
After the dynamics have been adjusted, the material is subjected to musical processing, which ensures that subjective perceptions of individual elements or passages acquire their own sound character. This can be done with tube devices or other special hardware or software. "Saturation“ is one of the different stylistic devices to express a musical mastering .
IS ONLINE MASTERING INSTANT MASTERING?
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ONLINE MASTERING AND AI MASTERING?
WHAT IS DIGITAL MASTERING?
CAN MIXING AND MASTERING BE DONE AT THE SAME TIME?
WHAT IS APPLE DIGITAL MASTER?
which,as the name suggests, allows playback without any loss of quality in the encoding process - it is lossless and provides high-quality reproduction for the listener.
WHAT IS CD MASTERING?
STEM MASTERING – PROCESSING GROUP TRACKS IN THE MASTER
Usually, the consolidated stereo track of a mix (mixdown) is edited by the mastering engineer . However, there are different approaches to achieving the desired outcome. Another option is stem mastering, where the song is initially divided into several submixes (Subgroups) , such as individual instrument groups, vocal groups, and rhythm groups, and then processed in the mastering studio.
This way, the mastering engineer in the studio gains a detailed overview of the song's structure in the mix and better control over the relationship of various components and parameters of the song (vocals, main instruments, and rhythm). Another advantage of stem mastering is the ability to create an instrumental and a performance version of the track, which can be released as an additional bonus or used for live performances. The quality difference can have a very positive impact on the sound.
WHO SHOULD GET AN ONLINE E-MASTER?
Peak-Studios is the right contact for audio technology and audio mastering.
WHY AI-MASTERING IS NOT THE RIGHT CHOICE?
Your upload to Peak-Studios
Step 1 - Selecting the service
First select the desired processing type and then the service. You can find a price overview on our Prices page.
Step 2 - File-upload or quote
You have the choice of uploading your audio files direkt or later known as Alternatively, you can also request a non-binding offer Request.
Step 3 - Upload, project description, data entry
In the next step, you have the choice of uploading your audio files directly , or requesting a quote. If you decide to upload later, you will receive a separate upload link after booking. a separate upload link.
Help and information
If you have any questions about data delivery or the production process, you can find all the information you need in our FAQ section, or download our guide Click HERE .
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- Personal Contact - We are here to assist you with advice and support for all production-related questions.
- Over 20 years of experience - Benefit from the experience of the first online audio service provider in Europe.
- Highest quality standards - Convince yourself of top-notch quality on all levels.
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Gladly again.
.... + very tasty coffee:-)
Chris welcomed me very warmly and explained everything really well.
The recordings turned out mega crazy.
Many thanks to Chris.
Update: I've now had my third track mastered by Chris and I'm once again completely thrilled with the result! Simply amazing when you hear the mix that was sent for mastering in A/B comparison with the mastering from Peak Studios! The money is absolutely worth it because you get a result that sounds incredibly good on any system, in the car, on headphones or other sound transducers! That's what I call professional! My unconditional recommendation is still: Peak Studios 👍
Review (December 23.12.2024, XNUMX): I received my Christmas present from Chris today - once again an excellent master, even though I wasn't expecting it until the beginning of next year! With his outstanding service and the impeccable sound quality of his delivered works as well as his absolutely professional way of working, it is always a pleasure to complete a project with Chris! I can benefit from his helpful tips again and again and therefore know what I can do differently or better next time when mixing. That is invaluable to me! I am already looking forward to the next project and the collaboration with Peak Studios 😉
The experience that Chris brings with him is clearly noticeable. He has a feel for details and knows how to bring out the best in the sound of our music. The result has exceeded our expectations - the EP sounds fantastic and professional.
We can recommend Peak Studios and Chris to anyone looking for a competent and dedicated music production partner. Thank you for the great work!
Thank you for enriching the music scene with so much heart and expertise. Highly recommended!"
Peak Studios can definitely be recommended.
Wonderful workflow and contact between studio and musicians. They take all changes made by the musicians into account, but at the same time give a professional opinion from a sound engineering point of view. We will definitely have more songs mixed at Peak Studio, as they not only offer quality, but also extremely pleasant and relaxed communication.
And most importantly, great sound!!!
Coordinating with Chris was a lot of fun and always went super quickly! His support with exporting the stems was also great. I had some difficulties integrating the effects on the Aux/Sends. Great experience and I'd love to do it again soon!
Sin duda ha conseguido sacar lo mejor de las pistas que le envié. An authentic MASTER!!!
The quality is always great and the cut is available 1-2 days after recording.
The collaboration has been going on for 1 year and has always been extremely satisfactory.
The studio itself is superbly equipped and offers a pleasant atmosphere that encourages creativity and productivity. Chris always takes the time to listen to individual requests and to ensure that you are completely satisfied with the result. He has a great feel for sound and always brings out the best in every recording.
Whether for professional recordings or private projects, I can highly recommend Peak Studios and Chris. Thank you, Chris, for the fantastic collaboration and the unforgettable moments in the studio. I'm already looking forward to many more sessions!