Frequently Asked Questions

  • Mastering starts with deep, focused listening to understand the intent of the record. From there it's a balance of empirical data and emotional insight, technical precision and quality control, catching what could cause problems downstream as much as shaping the sound. If there are mix issues worth addressing before we start, I'll flag them. Getting that foundation right is part of the process.

  • Yes. A significant portion of the work that comes through here is submitted directly by mix engineers, either on behalf of their clients or as part of an ongoing studio relationship. If you have notes, alternate versions, or specific technical requests, send them along with the files. The more context the better.

  • The quickest way to get on my schedule is to complete the intake form. I cannot begin work without it. Even if mixes are still in progress, submitting the form early helps secure your place in the queue and ensures we can meet your timeline.

    But in general:

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

    Plan accordingly.

    If you have a specific or urgent deadline, please let me know. I can usually accommodate, and there is an option on the intake form to request rush service when time is tight. If my schedule allows, I will prioritize the project.

    Clear communication and planning ahead are always the best approach. I will set expectations before work begins and keep you updated if timing shifts for any reason.

  • I like to be transparent with the money stuff. My 2026 rates are posted here, and if you’d like a tailored quote for your project, please fill out my intake form. It’s quick, and helps me get you a price fast.

  • No. But sometimes, yes.

    I include two revisions in the base mastering fee. In practice, many projects are approved without needing them, largely because I spend time upfront understanding what you are aiming for. Before any work begins, I listen carefully to the mix, review references, and make sure I have a clear sense of your intent and priorities.

    When revisions do come up, they are typically small refinements such as track spacing, sequencing, loudness, or subtle shifts in tone or impact. If a project starts to require multiple rounds of sound-related changes, it can be a sign that something in the mix itself may need adjustment. In those cases, I am always happy to offer guidance on what to address before moving forward.

    If you decide to send an updated mix after mastering, just know that a new session will need to be created from scratch. Mastering isn’t a one-size-fits-all preset I can simply drop a new file into. Every mix is unique (no matter how minute the change is) and calls for a fresh approach. I also run a full round of quality control on any new mix, and that takes time.

    The goal is always clarity and efficiency. I want the final master to reflect your intent with confidence.

    For tips on preparing mixes to minimize revisions, see Mix Preparation and File Delivery for Mastering.

    • 32-bit float WAV or AIFF preferred, 24-bit acceptable

    • Export at your native sample rate

    • No dithering before sending

    If you have questions about a specific deliverable format or stem configuration, reach out before submitting.

  • Attended sessions are available for select projects, are priced separately, and are subject to schedule availability. Reach out before submitting to discuss whether it makes sense for your project.

  • Mat LEF-ler SHULL-min
    /mæt ˈlɛf.lər ˈʃʌl.mɪn/

  • You can call it whatever you want. I love vinyl and you do, too. That's what matters. We can love it together.

    However, in both casual and professional conversations, especially in the music industry, "vinyl" is treated as an uncountable or mass noun, similar to how you would refer to "furniture" or "equipment."

    Personally, I consider vinyl an adjective, mostly. So the singular would be a "vinyl record". And the plural would be "vinyl records".

    Sometimes I use it as a noun. For example, "Let's go shopping for vinyl." I would never say, "Let's go shopping for vinyls." The plural is inferred.

    There you go, and knowing is half the battle.

  • Mastering is the process of finalizing music by delicately balancing art and science. It relies on empirical data, collected through technical analysis, and emotional insight, steered by intuition and a deep connection to the music. Great records are born from a balance of both.

    Generally speaking, mastering is composed of three discrete processes:

    • QUALITY CONTROL to identify and correct errors

    • FINE-TUNING to optimize the program audio objectively

    • DELIVERABLE ASSEMBLY to prepare the required files for distribution

    Mastering is the last stop your record makes before it’s released into the world. It’s the last chance to get everything right and to make it the best version it can be. These finishing touches are my specialty and my passion. Your record deserves nothing less.

    Learn more about mastering in What Is Mastering? | Audio Mastering Explained.