What mastering does for your music
Mastering is the final step before your music reaches listeners. It takes your finished mix and optimises it for release, ensuring it sounds clear, loud and balanced on every playback system.
At Studio 22 Southport, mastering is handled by Mitch Collinge, a producer with over 14 years of experience and a publishing deal with Kobalt/Kosign. Every master is done by ear, not through automated presets.
Every master includes
- EQ adjustments to balance the frequency spectrum
- Compression and limiting to control dynamics
- Loudness optimisation for streaming platforms (Spotify -14 LUFS, Apple Music -16 LUFS)
- Stereo enhancement where appropriate
- Quality checks across multiple monitoring systems
- One revision included
Same-day mastering available
Need your master urgently? Mention it in your message and same-day turnaround will be prioritised at no extra cost.
How to send your track
File requirements
Send your final stereo mix as a WAV file at 44.1kHz/24-bit minimum. Leave around 1dB of headroom. Do not apply a limiter to your mix bus unless intentional.
Upload
Upload your file via Google Drive or WeTransfer after booking. Include reference tracks and notes about desired loudness or tonal balance.
Delivery
Your mastered file is delivered as a high-resolution WAV, ready for upload to DistroKid, TuneCore, CD Baby or any distribution platform.
Why professional mastering matters
Streaming platforms normalise loudness. A poorly mastered track will sound quieter and less impactful next to professionally mastered music. Platforms like Spotify, Apple Music and Tidal each have their own standards, and a good master works across all of them.
Online mastering from anywhere
You do not need to be local. Upload your mix and receive your master back, typically within 24 hours. Artists from across Merseyside, Liverpool, Manchester and throughout the UK use Studio 22 Southport for online mastering.
Common questions about mastering
What is the difference between mastering and mixing?
Mixing works with individual stems. Mastering works with the finished stereo mix. If you need both, the mix and master package at £120 per track is best value.
Should I master my own music?
A fresh pair of experienced ears catches issues you have become deaf to. At £40 per track, professional mastering is one of the most cost-effective upgrades to your release.
Can you master an album or EP?
Yes. Mastering ensures consistency across all tracks. The same £40 per track rate applies.
How quickly will I get my master back?
Standard turnaround is within 24 hours. Same-day mastering is available on request at no extra charge.