Frequently Asked Questions

Generally speaking, mastering is composed of three discrete processes:

• Mastering is ensuring there are no errors by use of quality control.

• Mastering is objectively fine-tuning the program audio.

• Mastering is assembling the required files for distribution.

Mastering is the last stop your record makes before it’s released into the world. It’s the last chance to get everything right and to make it the best version it can be. These finishing touches are my specialty and my passion. Your record deserves nothing less.

I wrote an article that provides more detail about what mastering is.

I pride myself on being fair and transparent regarding rates.

Click here to view my current rates.

The first step is to read my article on preparing your mixes/files: The Engineer's Guide To Preparing Your Mixes For Mastering.

Then, if you’re ready to work together, the next step is reaching out. I look forward to hearing from you!

Or if you are ready to start the process you can begin by filling out my intake form - and I will get back to you shortly to talk about your goals and expectations!

Just a quick note: Since a master is only as good as its mix, I’m more than happy to provide mix feedback before mastering to single out any potential issues.

Well, my approach is to listen. I listen to the artist’s vision, I listen to the mixed record, and I listen to find where there might be a disconnect. Then, I get to work.

I use my tools to round the sharp edges, boost the low points, and make micro and macro adjustments to give a sense of completion, consistency, and unity to your record with just the right amount of loudness, dynamics, and vibe.

The moves I make might be incremental, but they are impactful. And, you can rest assured I won’t make changes for change’s sake.

So, what makes me different?

I am different because I listen to make sure I achieve the artist’s vision. I listen to make sure the audience will feel that intent and excitement. I listen to provide feedback and ensure that the mix is complete. I listen to guide the process of refining and finishing the record.

As a former artist, producer, recording studio owner, and mixing engineer, I get what you’re going for and what you need to get there; I’ve been there before.

For digital/streaming mastering, you will receive 16 and 24-bit/44.1kHz files, as well as a PQ Sheet.

For formats like vinyl and cassette, you will receive one file sequence for each side at 24-bit/44.1kHz or higher, as well as a PQ Sheet.

If you are pressing CDs, you will receive DDP 2.00 image files (if ordered) or 16-bit/44.1kHz files.

If there is another format or something else you require, just ask!

It depends, but generally singles will take up to 5 business days. Albums can take 3 weeks or more depending on my workload and how much advance notice I am given.

Please let me know if you have an impending deadline and I’ll do my best to accommodate it. I usually can.

Transparency and planning ahead is always appreciated. No matter what, I’ll set clear expectations about timing and let you know if anything changes. I’m known for being timely without sacrificing quality.

No. But sometimes, yes.



I include two revisions in the base fee. However, a lot of folks I work with don’t end up needing revisions because I make sure I understand exactly what you’re going for upfront. I take the time to get to know you and the music so the mastered record is typically pretty close to final. Therefore, if you have a revision idea I am more than happy to tweak the master. Typically revisions have more to do with adjusting the spacing between tracks than the actual sound. If we are going beyond two revisions for the sound, it’s likely the mix needs to be revisited.

If you decide to revisit your mixes and send me new files to master, there will be extra fees. Contrary to what some people think, I can’t just drop in the new mix file and apply the same mastering settings. Trust me, I wish it was that simple.