Introduction
Preparing and exporting a mix for mastering is a crucial step in the music production process. It ensures that the mastering engineer has the best possible material to work with, which can significantly impact the final quality of the track. Below is a comprehensive guide on how to prepare and export your mix for mastering.
1. Finalize the Mix
Before you even think about exporting your mix, ensure that you are 100% satisfied with how it sounds. Double-check the balance between the instruments, the effects, the panning, and ensure that every element sits well in the mix.
Check Headroom and Levels
Headroom: Ensure that the mix’s peak levels are not too high. A good rule of thumb is to keep the peak levels between -6dB and -3dB. This provides the mastering engineer with enough headroom to work with.
Average Level: Also, check the RMS or average level of your mix. It shouldn’t be too loud; otherwise, it will limit the mastering engineer’s ability to enhance the track. (Recommended a -20db RMS at the loudest part of your track)
Bypass Master Bus Processing
Remove any compression, limiting, or EQ from the master bus. The mastering engineer will take care of these processes during mastering. If you have used these effects to shape the mix’s sound, make a note of the settings and communicate them to the mastering engineer.
Check the Start and End Points
Ensure that there is a small amount of silence at the beginning and end of the track. This helps to prevent any abrupt starts or cuts when the track is played.
Export in High Resolution
When exporting your mix, choose a high-resolution format. Ideally, you should export in the same resolution as your session. For example, if your session is 32-bit/48kHz, export the mix in the same resolution.
• File Format: WAV or AIFF
• Bit Depth: 24-bit (minimum)
• Sample Rate: 44.1kHz or higher (preferably the same as your session)
• Dither: Turn off any dithering options if your DAW presents them during the export process.
Naming and Organizing
Name the file clearly, and include the song title and your artist or band name. If you are sending multiple tracks for an album or EP, include the track number in the file name.
Exporting Stems (Optional)
If the mastering engineer or the project requires stems, export individual groups of instruments (e.g., drums, bass, guitars, vocals) in addition to the full mix. Ensure that each stem starts at the same point in time so that they align correctly when imported into a new session.
Create a Text Document (Optional)
Create a text document with any notes, references, or specific instructions for the mastering engineer. Include information about the master bus processing that was applied during the mix, if any.
Zip and Send
Place the exported audio file(s) and any text documents into a folder. Compress the folder into a ZIP file and send it to the mastering engineer using a reliable file transfer service or by using our Studio file delivery system
By following these steps, you ensure that your mix is in the best possible shape for mastering, which will ultimately contribute to a better final product.
