ABSTRACT
When engaging in any audio process, the scope of the inputs and outcomes must first be fully comprehended. Much of the work in creating an excellent master is in the effort put into the previous parts of the production process. Without a great musician and performance, without a skilfully crafted song that is sonically well recorded and effectively mixed, the mastering process cannot deliver a superlative outcome. There is a transition in focus of the skills required for those different parts of the production process. In the beginning, this is distinctly creative, and it ends with physical manufacturing or digital delivery, which are both highly technical. Mastering clearly sits at that end of the spectrum, making the goals of mastering and mastering workflow distinct from the other parts of the production process. Essentially, the most crucial goal in mastering should be making a master ‘fit for purpose’, meaning it will sound balanced on all playback systems and be appropriate for the restrictions of the delivery formats – ultimately, mastered.
