I always send my music through an easy mastering routine. It’s like a last quality check and actually a very enjoyable process as well. Because it gives me the satisfying feeling that i really did the best i can to beautify the track and make it sound right…
No matter what genre, master your stereo mixes! Walking this extra mile is really worth it.
You might ask if it is really necessary to push your beautiful ambient track through a mastering routine. Maybe you think it’s a nerve-wracking and super tricky thing to do. And maybe you believe all the scammy talk about mastering witchcraft plugins and the stupid “Do it like a Pro” BS.
Mastering simply means you’re listening to the final stereo mix with refreshed ears and a clear mindset, to find weak spots, apply some tasteful polishing and make sure the track meets technical requirements.
Also, the general workflow is always the same, no matter the genre:
- Check the stereo file for errors, drops, clipping.
- Read the stats to learn about the levels, headroom.
- Simple effect chain: EQ, Stereo Enhancer, Limiter
- Optional: Multiband Compressor, Saturation
- Listen very closely, apply subtle changes
- Take your time, but decide quickly
I demonstrate all of that in my video, check it out:
If you want to listen to the final EP “Linger” that contains 3 nice Ambient Guitar Improvisations, read this: Linger