ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the critical point of completing the mix and moving towards mastering, that is, it considers the crucial process of ‘signing off’ a mix and reaching agreement between stakeholders that a song is ready for mastering. The discussion draws on the experience and expertise
of a number of award-winning mix and mastering engineers through direct discussion and interview, particularly with respect to methods and contemporary practices that are common at the mix-completion stage. The mix and mastering engineers contributing to this chapter are George Massenburg, Mandy Parnell, Ronald Prent, Darcy Proper and Michael Romanowski, whose professional insights give a firsthand reflection on best practice for finalizing the mix and handing over to mastering.
