HOW SHOULD I PREPARE MY MIXES FOR ONLINE MASTERING?

It is suggested to use the same bit depth and sample rate of the recording in WAV or AIFF formats. These formats offer high-quality audio resolution and are suitable for mastering purposes.

1. Avoid Limiting/Compression on the Final Mix Bus: When preparing your tracks for mastering, make sure there is no compression or limiting applied to the final mix bus. These processing techniques can alter the dynamics and overall sound, potentially affecting the mastering process negatively.
2. Sending a Reference Mix: If you have already mixed your track with compression and limiting on the final bus, it’s acceptable to provide that version as a reference for the mastering engineer. This allows them to understand your creative intentions and the sound you’re aiming for.
3. Provide an Uncompressed Version for Mastering: However, alongside the reference mix, it’s essential to also send an alternate version of the mix without any limiting or compression applied. This clean and uncompressed version will be used by the mastering engineer to achieve the best possible sound during the mastering process.