What mastering does here
Mastering sets level, tonal balance and sequence for release. Single track €72, album up to twelve tracks €295, DDP option €45 (incl. 21% VAT). We work from your approved mix; no recording in this step. Coordinator Sanne aligns format with your distributor or plant when you note it at booking.
Default digital master
You receive 24-bit WAV at the agreed sample rate (often 48 kHz for video and modern streaming; 44.1 kHz for cd-like workflows). File names include title and track number. Avoid re-dither chains: keep master WAV as source and make copies for upload.
Streaming services normalise themselves (many targets around −14 LUFS). We master musically, not to chase one number; we still watch true peak so transcoding rarely clips.
Need multiple variants (clean edit, radio edit, extended)? Agree before the session; extra versions may bill as separate items. Sync clients sometimes want instrumentals without vocal — plan that with the mix stage.
AAC, MP3 and hi-res
On request we supply AAC or mp3 for preview or promo — derived from master, not a substitute. Hi-res (96 kHz) only when mix and project support it; no pointless upsampling from 44.1 kHz sources.
Instrumental, acapella or TV mix only when mix and rights allow; mention before mastering so sequence stays correct.
DDP for CD plants
DDP (Disc Description Protocol) is a folder with image and metadata for CD manufacturing. Our DDP option €45 includes ISRC fields you supply; we do not invent codes. Check track order, gaps and CD-text before approval — later changes count as a new round under terms.
EU plants usually accept DDP; always verify their upload portal.
Vinyl pre-master
Vinyl needs different limits: less extreme mono bass, careful sibilance and side length. We deliver vinyl pre-master WAV plus brief notes on suggested side split. The cutting lathe does the physical cut; they may have own specs — send them before the session.
No playtime guarantee without your side A/B minutes; long albums need tighter grooves and affect level.
Listen to test pressings on a turntable you trust; digital preview does not replace physical interaction. Surface noise is part of the medium; mastering reduces risk but never removes it entirely.
Metadata and rights
ISRC, UPC/EAN and credits are entered at your distributor; we can embed ISRC in DDP. Songwriters and producers you declare per your contracts. Neustonorix B.V. does not acquire rights to your music; see terms and conditions and disclaimer.
Samples or covers: clear licences before release; mastering does not fix that.
If you release through a Dutch or EU aggregator, keep a local copy of the upload receipt and the exact file hash you submitted, so you can prove which master went live if a platform swap occurs.
Quality check before release
- Listen on headphones and speakers.
- Check start and end for clicks; fades as agreed.
- Compare to reference for consistency across album, not just loudness.
- Download within 12 months; backups are yours.
Album loudness uneven? Submit the full album for €295 instead of separate masters.
From mix to master in the chain
Mix not finished? Read stems for mixing guide and book Mixing with 2 revision rounds. Re-record vocals via vocal preparation guide and Vocal recording.
Order mastering: Mastering, questions via [email protected] or 020 248 3164. Site cookies: cookie policy or .
