Why have your songs mastered?

At MagasMIX, we listen critically to each track to assess its specific needs. There is no predefined approach to the mastering process -- every song has a unique personality. The mastering engineer brings fresh and objective ears to your project and works to bring forth and intensify the essence of the music while maintaining your original vision. The mastered tracks will have a greater sense of depth, presence, and power and will provide a more engaging and pleasurable listening experience.

How do I transfer my songs and receive the mixed/mastered versions?

You can submit your files and mixes using our online upload utility, or by using a secure FTP account hosted on our server. When your masters are ready, we will provide a direct download link or place them on your FTP account.

In what format should I send my songs?

For best results, submit your tracks in WAV/AIFF or other full-resolution audio format -- not mp3, wma, m4a, etc. Send only the final stereo mixdown for each song and not the individual instrument tracks. Please ensure that there is no digital clipping on the mixes. A resolution of 24-bit is recommended, even if you recorded your project at 16-bit resolution. Use the native sample rate used for recording/mixing your project (typically 44.1kHz) in order to avoid unnecessary conversions.

Can I send a reference song along with my own tracks?

Yes, you are welcome to send a reference mix from another artist to provide an idea of the kind of tonal balance or loudness you would like for your own music.

Should I apply any post-processing to the final mixdown?

Any processing applied to your mixes (or effects on the master bus) limits the options available during mastering. Any processing intended to increase overall loudness should be left for mastering. In other words, do not normalize, compress, or limit your stereo mixes before sending. An exception to this guideline is if mix compression is part of the sound you are trying to achieve (e.g. compressor pumping or a particular tonal color you like).

Can I compress the files to reduce upload time?

Yes. There are programs like WinZip and Winrar which can perform lossless compression of your audio files. These programs can reduce file size to around 50-70% of the original size. Do not use MP3, OGG or other such compression schemes as they will result in a significant loss of audio quality.

What if I don't have access to a fast internet connection?

You may send your material through the mail - we can also return the mastered files to you via mail. Please contact us for mailing instructions.

Can mastering fix a bad mix?

Mastering enhances a mix, however do not expect to have ultimate results in a very very bad mix. For example, if your mix quality is A, it will become A+ material when it's mastered, but if its quality is D the mastered outcome will be D+.

If you have any other questions, feel free to contact us. We will be happy to answer all your questions.