You might think that the mixing of the separate audio tracks might be the last step in getting your product ready for CD replication but the recording as a whole needs to mastered well in order to produce the best quality sound. The mastering process is the last chance you'll get for any creative input. Once you have your master disc you can then print, replicate and put it on the market.
The process of mastering a CD actually involves several steps. The first step is putting the songs, or tracks at this point in the correct order. The length of time between the songs is also adjusted, along with the editing of the songs. If you have secret or unlisted songs then these are added at this point as well.
There are several different methods you can use to master a CD. One option is to send the mix to a professional engineer who specialises in mastering CDs and DVDs. Most professional musicians take this route.
Mastering engineers will usually have their own facilities and require much less equipment than a full blown sound studio. Their gear is specifically designed to getting the most accurate playback of your mix so any errors can be detected and fixed.
Using your own home computer with some mastering software is another option you could consider. This option is normally more realistic for unsigned artists or musicians who are just starting out with their music. Depending on the software quality and skill of the individual doing the mastering, the CD may turn out perfect or it may sound very unprofessional.
Online CD mastering services are now available with the advancement of Internet technology. This is a very convenient option which can easily be done from your home. To do this, you'll need a high speed Internet connection.
Free mastering is of course the cheapest way to go when you need to master a CD, Artists and musicians could choose to make use of free mastering software for demos and other earlier recordings to send to a major record label. It could be an excellent way of generating interest in their work.
The difference in quality between recordings usually comes down to the mastering. All the music you hear broadcast over the radio has certainly been professionally mastered in order to give listeners the best quality sound.
While you can master using free programs on your computer, a professional CD mastering engineer is normally the best way to do business if your band is looking to make a profit from your music.
The process of mastering a CD actually involves several steps. The first step is putting the songs, or tracks at this point in the correct order. The length of time between the songs is also adjusted, along with the editing of the songs. If you have secret or unlisted songs then these are added at this point as well.
There are several different methods you can use to master a CD. One option is to send the mix to a professional engineer who specialises in mastering CDs and DVDs. Most professional musicians take this route.
Mastering engineers will usually have their own facilities and require much less equipment than a full blown sound studio. Their gear is specifically designed to getting the most accurate playback of your mix so any errors can be detected and fixed.
Using your own home computer with some mastering software is another option you could consider. This option is normally more realistic for unsigned artists or musicians who are just starting out with their music. Depending on the software quality and skill of the individual doing the mastering, the CD may turn out perfect or it may sound very unprofessional.
Online CD mastering services are now available with the advancement of Internet technology. This is a very convenient option which can easily be done from your home. To do this, you'll need a high speed Internet connection.
Free mastering is of course the cheapest way to go when you need to master a CD, Artists and musicians could choose to make use of free mastering software for demos and other earlier recordings to send to a major record label. It could be an excellent way of generating interest in their work.
The difference in quality between recordings usually comes down to the mastering. All the music you hear broadcast over the radio has certainly been professionally mastered in order to give listeners the best quality sound.
While you can master using free programs on your computer, a professional CD mastering engineer is normally the best way to do business if your band is looking to make a profit from your music.
About the Author:
This article has been written by the author, Alex Blaken. Should you require any more CD Mastering please visit his CD Mastering Engineers resources!
