How Long Does Mastering Take?

Jan 26

One of the most common questions artists and producers ask is: how long does mastering take? The answer depends on several factors, including the type of project, the format requirements, and the level of revision needed. Understanding the process helps you plan your release schedule and communicate effectively with your mastering engineer.

1. Turnaround Times

Here is a clear guide to my typical turnaround times:

Singles: up to 5 business days
EPs: up to 7 business days
Albums: up to 2 or more weeks

These timelines include critical listening, tonal adjustments, dynamics control, and ensuring your music is ready to play confidently according to its intended balance, level, and impact.

2. Scheduling and Intake Forms

Turnaround time depends not only on the scope of the project, but also on when the intake form is submitted. Submitting the intake form as early as possible allows me to plan around your mix completion date and reserve time on the calendar.

If the intake form is submitted in advance, I can pencil your project in for the day after your mix is scheduled to be ready, which often allows for a faster turnaround. This is especially helpful for singles and time-sensitive releases.

If the intake form is submitted at the same time as the finished mix, scheduling becomes subject to current availability. In those cases, mastering begins when time opens up, and turnaround may be later than the standard estimates listed above.

Planning ahead with the intake form ensures clearer deadlines, smoother scheduling, and more predictable delivery.

3. The Workflow for a Single Track

Even for a single track, mastering involves several steps:

Critical listening of your submitted mix
Tonal balancing and EQ adjustments
Dynamics control and loudness optimization
Checking translation on different playback systems
Quality checks for technical requirements such as peak levels, phase, and file format

Providing a well-prepared mix helps ensure a smooth process and can sometimes speed up delivery.

4. Full Albums or Multi-SONG Projects

Mastering a full album requires more time because:

Each track must be individually evaluated
Tracks must be sequenced and spaced consistently
Tonal balance and dynamics must be cohesive across the entire project
Multiple delivery formats may be required (streaming, CD, vinyl, high-resolution digital)

This is why albums generally require two or more weeks for mastering.

5. Revisions and Feedback

Revisions are part of the process. After the first version is delivered, you may request:

Minor EQ or dynamics adjustments
Volume changes for platform-specific loudness targets
Revisions based on how the master translates on other systems

Most projects allow for one or two rounds of revisions within the stated turnaround times. Additional revisions may extend the schedule and budget.

6. Factors That Affect Mastering Time

Some factors can make mastering take longer or shorter:

Quality of the mix: Properly balanced mixes with headroom reduce mastering time
Number of tracks: More tracks require additional evaluation and sequencing
Delivery formats: Multiple formats or special requirements add steps
Technical issues: Clipping, distortion, or inconsistent levels may require extra communication

Summary: What to Expect

Singles: up to 5 business days
EPs: up to 7 business days
Albums: up to 2 or more weeks

Mastering is both a technical and creative process. Providing clear, well-prepared mixes and allowing the appropriate amount of time ensures the final master translates properly, preserves dynamics, and honors your musical vision.