StudioPros

The icing on the cake, the lighting on a painting, the toppings on the salad, the shine on your shoes, the cream in your coffee, the finishing touch.  Yeah, yeah, yeah.  We’ve all heard mastering described by these analogies by our more audio literate friends.  But what does mastering REALLY mean?

I get this question often as the head of production at Studio Pros.  Clients are often asking what the difference is between mixing and mastering.  Sure, they understand it’s a step that needs to be taken in order to achieve the “broadcast quality” final production they’re looking for.

So let’s get down to the source of the matter, once in for all.  What is the actual process of creating a radio ready professional master?  I interviewed Studio Pros’ head mastering engineer, who has worked with clients ranging from Kelly Clarkson, Michael Jackson, One Republic, and Carrie Underwood as well as received 7 Grammy Nominations (yes, I love to brag about him) to explain to the less technically inclined what he does to make our songs sparkle. (more…)