Mastering is a process of taking a mix and preparing it for the distribution. This is a post audio production job that unifies the sound of the track; maintain the consistency of every song in the album, and prepare it for the distribution. This is the final step of post-production where an audio engineer balances the sonic element of a track and optimises it for different media formats. In this article today a brief discussion will take place on Stem mastering.
What is Stem Mastering?
This job is different than two tracks stereo mastering. It uses a group of instruments like keyboards, guitars, bass guitars, drums and even vocals. In typical electronic style, stems might be sub bass, bass, drums, lead synth 1 and 2, effects sweeps etc. This process allows audio engineers to optimise and enhance the set of instruments in a mix. Producers or artists can hire professional music mastering engineer for this post production job that increase the dimension and depth of a master and increases the sonic result.
It is important to understand that the job is not mixing. Mixing only uses send automation, tuning, heavy fader etc. On the other hand, stem mastering uses occasional automation. It allows the audio engineer to target dynamic adjustment, uses of EQ and more.
When Stem Mastering Is Needed?
There are two main reasons when artist or producers might need this service.
Reason 1: If there is any issue with the mix then, producers might need this service to fix that. Sometimes an artist may feel like the vocal must be a bit louder or the bass is obstructing the mid too much. It is always suggested to fix this issue with recording the part again but sometimes it not possible. In that case, artist and producers can hire stem mastering engineer for fixing these types of issues.
Reason 2: Sometimes there is no problem with the mix but the audio engineer thinks that it is needed to feed the stems with the tools he has.
How to Choose the Best Mixing and Mastering Studio:
Music producers and artists can use their local connection to hire a service provider. But it is always a better option to appoint someone who offers online mixing and mastering services. It helps you to manage your project better. On the other hand, clients can also check out their previous job at their online gallery. It helps them to take a better decision. Consider the below factor before choosing an audio engineer:
- The credential of the engineer
- His experience and previous track record
- The quality of equipment and equipment and acoustics
- Clients' review and rating
- Reasonable pricing
- Quality of client support and service team
Bottom Lines:
So this is all about stem mastering. Hope the article was helpful. If the readers have any queries about this process, they can feel free to ask their question by using the comment box below.
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