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Mastering the Final Mix

Enhance, do not fix

Mastering Order

1. Listen & Analyze

  • Check tonal balance
  • Check dynamics
  • Use references

2. Broad EQ Only if Needed

  • Prefer subtle moves
  • Fix mix problems before big master EQ

3. Dynamics if Useful

  • Use light glue
  • Keep punch
  • Avoid solving mix problems with compression

4. Limiter / Codec Check

  • Set final ceiling
  • Preview loudness
  • Check intersample clipping

Loudness Context

Dynamic/acoustic/open mix

-18 to -14 LUFS
-1.0 to -2.0 dBTP
Preserve space, transients, and emotional movement.

Streaming-safe reference

Around -14 LUFS
About -1.0 dBTP
Use as a normalization check, not a required final target.

Modern indie/rock/pop

-13 to -9 LUFS
About -2.0 dBTP if loud
Check limiter artifacts and codec previews before delivery.

Preview/client loudness check

Varies by reference
-1.0 to -2.0 dBTP
Use temporary limiting to audition loudness without hiding mix issues.

Final Delivery

  • Check in mono and stereo
  • Confirm no inter-sample clipping
  • Preview AAC/MP3-style codec distortion when pushing loudness
  • Use broad, subtle master EQ unless a deliberate creative move calls for more
  • Export WAV 24-bit (or project spec)
  • Embed metadata and version naming