Separation mastering
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Separation Mastering is a technique for mastering stereo audio. It involves submitting the final mix from the recording studio as a small collection of separations (typically 4 files, e.g. vocals, drums, bass, remaining instruments). In traditional mastering, the final mix is submitted as one stereo track.
The advantages of separation mastering are threefold:
- The sound of the final master is much clearer and sonically detailed with mix proportions preserved even on projects desiring higher sound levels.
- Creating the final mix in the recording studio becomes much easier because it is not locked - adjustments can be made in the audiophile listening environment of the mastering studio
- The integrity and intent of the artists original mix is preserved even more because balance changes that inevitably occur due to competitive use of mastering compressors and limiters can be put back by accessing the separations. This cannot be done with traditional 2-track mastering, where apparent mixes can change when aggressive mastering levels are requested by the artist, producer or record label A&R.
