*This link will also expand rapidly, so check back often.

Q) All of my compact discs vary in volume, some drastically, from one to another. What gives? I should have my CD mastered as loud as possible, right? (editors note…this being the biggest question/complaint bar none!)

A) Ah, the volume wars, a source of much misconception and debate! Ok, I'll try and sort this out. Don't be too concerned, with the overall maximum volume from one CD to another. See, here is how it works. Let's say you have a CD of band "a", and it happens to be a lot louder than your CD of band "b". Oh my, you say…I turn up my stereo to "1", and band "a" is just poundin' down the walls, but when I play band "b", I find that I have to turn up my stereo to "4, or even 5" to get the same volume…Obviously band "a" is better, since it produces way more volume, right?.....WRONG!!!.....See, here's the scam that you are unaware of: Since band "a", is so compressed, limited, and drastically pumped up, it simply maxes out your stereo system earlier on, that's all. Since band "b", is not so over compressed and limited, it takes a little more twist on the ole' volume knob to match level with band "a". See, your stereo has a set amount of volume it can produce, no more or less. So if you play a really loud CD, it just reaches the stereos limit quicker than a quieter CD. Another way of looking at it…band "a", might blow the roof off at "1", but that's about all she's got…the more you turn it up, the more distortion your stereo will produce.
Band "b", however, requires you to go up to "4, or 5" let's say, to reach the same volume as band "a". Your stereo isn't fooled however…it just maxed out at a later point. So, playing a really compressed CD won't make your system louder…it will be loud early on, and just distort that much quicker. Conversely, a lower compressed CD, won't magically reduce your stereo's power. It will just max out, and distort at a later setting of the volume knob. Now, of course, a properly mastered CD should have some volume and kick, but not at the expense of other more important points, such as audio quality, integrity of the original recording, and reduced listener ear fatigue. A balance is required between, volume, punch, and a pleasurable listening experience. Ultimately, mastering volume is a personal choice, but please educate yourself on both sides of the topic, before you jump on the bandwagon of never ending volume wars! See the "mastering resources" link for great books on the history of this debate.

Q) Can I master my music myself…and if so, what's the benefit of coming to you?

A) The short answer…yes, you can master your own work, IF, you have the proper tools, skills, and ears to do so, BUT, the reason you should have a mastering engineer is this: The mastering engineer has NEVER heard your music before, so, upon first listening, he or she will get an accurate first impression. That, in and of itself, is priceless, as it gives an unbiased, and objective perspective on the overall presentation. The mastering engineer's fresh ears, will hear what the consumer will hear, as well as utilizing all of the skills and tools, to optimize that "first impression" that can draw or alienate your listening audience. You see, you have "lived" with your recording for so long, that your ears have developed a certain bias if you will. For instance, certain things that you feel need tweaking, that are driving you mad, might be clouding or masking that obvious mid spike, let's say, that you have become numb to, and simply missed. This is not an insult to your ears, or skills as an artist. Obviously, it's YOUR creativity we are working with here, which is a result of YOUR hearing. It's the UNBIASED ear you need now. Remember, we hear what the audience will hear. It is our AUDIOPHILE expertise you need now, not studio expertise.

Q) How do I get started with you?

A) First, read the information provided for you. Then, once you have a working knowledge of what we do, as well as a good idea of what it is that you require, please call, or e-mail so we can discuss the details. Remember, this is customized work, so we definitely need to discuss your needs!

Q) Is there a fee for consultation?

A) No, there isn't. We WANT to first listen to your work, and determine if we can serve you. If we can, then we can discuss business. If not, we will advise you on what can be improved on your mix, to optimally prepare it for mastering. Remember, both of our reputations are at stake here. It is our ethical duty to accept your business, ONLY if we can be of quality service. Your satisfaction is our best advertising.

Q) Can my band and I sit in while you master?

A) Unfortunately, we do not conduct open mastering sessions. The reason is that it distracts the mastering engineer, which invariably affects the quality of YOUR music. This is extremely detailed work that requires the focus of distraction free concentration, in which solitude provides.

Q) Do you master in surround?

A) At this time we do not. That is an entirely different game, with an entirely different protocol. We will venture into surround mastering in the future, when the opportunity for growth and expansion presents itself.

Q) Can you duplicate my finished master?

A) We can make short run duplications on "burnable" media (CD-R or DVD-R), but no, we do not offer the actual professional dupliaction/replication service that a duplication/replication facility provides. We are a dedicated mastering house primarily. You would be better suited to utilizing the services of a dedicated duplication/replication plant if you are looking for mass duplicating/replicating, as well as packaging. These facilities specialize in mass duplication/replication, of just about any quantity and packaging imaginable, for great prices too!

Q)What is a safety seal and why do I need it?

A)Please follow the link provided below.

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