Frequently Asked Questions

Due to nowadays digital distribution process and in consequence of having so many different platforms with different audio codecs & loudness normalization process and targets;
Streaming Optimization is required in order to have your music translated well to your listeners via those different platforms.

We took the time to search and index technical data about the majors streaming distribution platforms (e.g. Spotify, YouTube, Itunes, Tidal) including when available :
Their Loudness Normalization Process
Their Loudness Normalization Target Level
Their conversion codec(s)
The BitRate Type of their codec(s)
The BitRate speed of their codec(s)
The best format they recommend
… (Feel free to join the community and asks some tech if you want to learn more about this ! )

We carefuly analyzed the data of the different platforms to come with a standard for streaming optimized content called Ð Quality:
Format : .wav/.aif
Bit Depth : 24 bit
Sample Rate : 44100Hz/48000Hz
Loudness Integrated : -12 LUfs (+/- 4LUfs)
Loudness True Peak : -1 dBTP (+/- 0.3 dBTP)

Following your request, the option Streaming Optimization may also include up to 2 customization for specific platforms (if you wan’t a master fully optimized for Spotify or Tidal specs for example).

Stems Mastering consists in sending over your main Groups/Buss instead of your stereo mixdown.

We usually ask for the following stems (up to 8) :
KICK / DRUMS / BASS / MELO / VOX / SFXs / FXreturns

It will allow your technician to have more room for changes on specific elements without affecting the whole track, it’s also a good way to do more transparently an eventual volume balance adjustment…

Since it’s an additional step with deeper processing, it implies an extra fee.

We mostly work with WAV format.
Audio files are usually processed at 96000 Hz sample rate.

We will deliver both the Hi-res master in 96kHz and distribution ready masters either in 44.1 or 48kHz following your requirements.

We recommend sending files to work on in their original format either :
– Formats : .wav | .aifc (uncompressed format)
– Sample Rates : 44100 | 48000 Hz (native project sample rate)
– Bit Depths : 32-bit (float) | 24-bit — Not recommended : 16-bit

We can export in :
– Formats : .wav | .aifc | .flac | .ogg | .mp3 | .caf | DDP | Image
– Sample Rates : 44100 | 48000 | 88200 | 96000
– Bit Depths : 24-bit | 16-bit
Also possible but not recommended : 8-bit
If it’s gonna be used in audio sessions again : 32-bit (float)

Up/Down-nsampling when needed with RX7 SRC.
Dither when needed with iZotope Mbit+ OR Fabfilter Pro L-2 – Optimized – 100%.

Contact us  if you have any question !

Once your order is approved, files & information are well sent you should receive your delivery :

1 Track Mastering – 24 Hours
EP Mastering (2 to 4 Songs) – 2 Days
Album Mastering (10 to 15 Songs) – 1 Week

Notes :

Indicated turnarounds are safely estimated and you will usually receive your delivery earlier !

Turnarounds may be delayed if agreed between you and your technician in order’s ticket. 

We do offer discounts for bigger projects, contact us with your project details to know more.
Turnarounds details will be joined along the quote.

Although rarely needed, sure !
(Except for Audio Restauration/Forensics – No revisions)

For mastering 1 revision per track is included.

For mixdown or all inclusive, 2 revisions per track are included.

If the revision(s) are used and you’re still not satisfied, additional revision will be charged an extra 25 CAD / hour.