FAQs
What is Mastering?
Mastering is the final stage in the recording process. In this stage
the work is prepared for release. If it is an album, it will be EQ'ed
(tonally balanced across all tracks), normalized (adjusted so that
no one song is louder or quieter than the rest), and sequenced (the
songs will be put in order and spaced for track ID's). This is a very
basic definition. Every situation calls for different preparation.
The end result is getting the product ready for commercial consumption.
What is the recording process?
Quite simply the recording process is done in three phases: Tracking, Editing/Mixing, and Mastering. Tracking
is the actual recording phase where the sound is captured. Editing/Mixing then takes the recorded sound and fixes it to be the best version from a performance.
After that, the sounds are then balanced to taste. Finally, mastering is the process
of "polishing" and preparing the product for commercial
sale.
How long will an album take?
This generally depends on two factors, the type of music and how prepared
the performers are. Typically, music that is recorded live only takes
as long as the performance itself, plus mixing and mastering time.
Styles that involve overdubs may take longer from trying achieve a better
take. The typical full length album can range from all the
way from 20 to 100 hours.
What are "overdubs"?
This is where you listen to a prerecorded track and play a new track
along with it. For instance, a singer can listen to the music and
overdub the vocal until it’s as you would like it.
What is pre-production?
Everything that goes into getting
a particular work ready for recording. This would include rehearsing
the parts with the performers, settling on an arrangement, and having
a clear game plan to record with.
What does a producer do and do I need one?
Other than "what is mastering?" this is the most commonly asked question.
A producer is someone who makes sure that the artist’s vision
of his or her sound is realized in the finished product. They also
aid in pre-production preparation and may also secure musicians,
studio time, or a preferred engineer, etc. So, do you need one? In 90%
of situations, absolutely. The price you pay for a producer will be
reflected in less recording time and a more efficient use of it.
