Frequently asked questions
Format, limiter, headroom, stems, revisions, lead times, albums, Atmos on headphones. Short answers to the questions that come up most often.
What format should I send for mastering?
We recommend an uncompressed WAV file, ideally 24 bit or 32 bit float, at the project's native sample rate.
Should I remove the limiter from the master?
Not systematically. If the limiter is part of the sound you have approved, we can work with it. Where it mainly serves to raise the level, we prefer to also have a less limited or unlimited version, so we can compare the two and keep more latitude.
Should I aim for −6 dB of headroom?
No. There is no universal rule requiring −6 dBFS of headroom before mastering. What matters is that you send a clean, unclipped mix that represents the sound you want.
Should I send stems?
Not for classic stereo mastering. Stems are useful when separate treatment of certain groups is genuinely required. We therefore ask for them case by case.
How many revisions are included?
Two revisions are included in our service. They allow the result to be adjusted from your feedback after listening.
What happens if I am not happy with the result?
Mastering is collaborative. Revisions allow the result to be adjusted from precise feedback. Where a problem comes from the mix itself and cannot be cleanly corrected in mastering, we tell you, so as not to degrade the result by trying to compensate for an inadequate source.
How long does mastering take?
The lead time depends on the nature of the project, the number of tracks and the studio's workload when the project is taken on. A precise lead time is therefore confirmed at the time of order.
How do you work on an album?
An album is not treated as a mere succession of independent tracks. Each track is mastered individually, but the whole is also considered a coherent project: relative levels, dynamics, spectral balance, sonic colour and continuity between tracks are checked at album level.
Can an entire album be delivered in Dolby Atmos?
Yes. For Dolby Atmos Music distribution, tracks are delivered individually as ADM BWF files, in line with the platform's or distributor's specifications. Consistency between tracks and their synchronisation with the stereo versions are checked before delivery. Apple in particular requires a separate ADM BWF file for each track of an album.
Can an Atmos mix made on headphones be professional?
An Atmos mix made exclusively on headphones does not guarantee a fully professional result. It is technically possible to compose or work an Atmos mix on headphones, but that listening mode has limits: the binaural render does not exactly reproduce how sound is perceived in a real room, nor all the acoustic interactions of a speaker system, and the perception of spatialisation varies between individuals and systems. A final check on a calibrated speaker system, for example 7.1.4, therefore remains essential.
What do you check before delivering an Atmos master?
We verify in particular the ADM file, its duration, its sample rate, its loudness, its True Peak, the binaural render metadata and the downmix settings. We also carry out a listening check in the Dolby Atmos workflow to verify the consistency of the render before delivery.
Going further: what to send, loudness and streaming, delivering in Dolby Atmos.
A project in mind?
Send us a few words about your tracks, we will get back to you with a tailored quote.
Contact us