Mastering software and plugins

This article is intended to provide guidance on how to select the best audio mastering software.

Digital mastering. Is it possible?

Mastering is the process that requires more precision and delicacy, so you can be whoever think that can not be done via software. In another article we discussed that although the plugins may not have the characteristic sound of analog processors, they can do a good job. Moreover, the software’s ability to record, mix and playback audio of the highest quality, is more than proven by its use in first-line studies.

There are reputable engineers wich use software when mastering, since the important thing when getting a good sound is the engineer’s skill and experience, accompanied by both a good listening room as good speakers.

What must software have for mastering?

The features that must have the mastering software are summarized below:

• An awful lot of effects, but at least a good mastering eq, a mastering limiter/compresor, and an stereo image tool.
• Playlist creation to play the disc as it will be at the end.
• Compliance with the Redbook standards with edition of parameters, for future mass duplication.
• Automation of volume, effects and fades, to standardize unevenness and to make correct songs “ins” and “outs”.
• Measurement functions for peak, RMS, DC offset, etc …
• Ability to work in Mono-Stereo mode to work independently with Mono channel (M = L + R) and Stereo (S = LR)
• Offline effects and batch application for routine tasks that affect all the songs from the same work.

Software available

On the market are programs dedicated to mastering, which we cite a few examples: Wavelab, DSP-Quattro, Bias Peak, Apple Waveburner, Master Valve Audio Labs, Roxio Jam and Audiofile Engiering WaveEditor.

Another possibility is using a multitrack program which include mastering among its features, such as Magix Sequoia, Magix Samplitude, Sony SoundForge or Presonus Studio One

It is also possible to use any multitrack for mastering, and then use a mastering tool only to create the CD.

Mastering Plugins

Most programmers include among their products plugins packages dedicated to mastering. These plugins are usually placed one after another to get the desired string, but there are some plugins that already include a chain of mastering effects, such as IK Multimedia T-Raks and iZotope Ozone. They usually include presets that can provide a starting point for our work.

Do not forget that the mastering is a process that seeks the greatest care of sound and transparent as possible, so that must be carefully chosen to work with plugins by many tests and paying close attention to our ear.

Conclusion

We have seen that if it is possible to do digital mastering, as there is diversity of software, whether dedicated or not, that have the necessary functions and plugins designed for tat job.