TCM Mastering - FAQ's
Q. Why can't I master my music myself?
A. Professional mastering brings a fresh set of experienced ears to your project. Without professional mastering, your music will probably sound a bit dull and mastering will make your songs stand out in the market place. Professional mastering will enhance the overall equalisation and dynamic range of the sound
Q. Can you master any kind of music genre?
A. We have worked with just about every genre of music available across the board, so we are highly experienced at bringing out the best in all types of music. Don't forget that if you have any special requirements, you can tell us about them when you order. If you would like to call us click here
Q. Should I give you the track with compression and limiting already done?
A. No. If you send us a compressed and limited track, the process is irriversable leaving very little headroom available to work with. We would prefer that you send an uncompressed final mix. Don't worry, your master will be loud when we have finished. To See our do's and don'ts section click here.
Q. What type of files do you work with?
A. We accept any of the following audio file formats: WAV, AIF, SD2. Please don't send us MP3 files as they are a compressed, substandard quality and not suitable for high end mastering.
Q. How long will it take to upload my tracks?
A. This will all depend on the number of tracks and the type of internet connection you have along with the time of day you upload, but if you have a fast broadband connection, it should not take too long.
Q. What sampling frequencies do you work with?
A. We can work with audio files with a sampling frequency of 44.1kHz or higher and a bit rate of 16 or 24 bit. (Our ProTools will not accept 32 bit files)
Q. If I have a slow internet connection, can I send you a CD or DAT tape instead?
A. Yes, no problem. Simply go through the ordering process as usual on our website, select the number of tracks to be mastered and press the Buy Now button. After payment, you will be re-directed to the site and instead of pressing the 'Upload' button, press the 'By Post' button and fill in the attached form. The form will give you the address to send it to along with your address information and requirements. Simply print out a copy of the form and send it with your CD or DAT tape.
Q. How will I know when I can download my finished masters?
A. We will send you an email with a link to download your mastered tracks.
Q. How long will my mastering take?
A. We will endeavour to master and have your tracks ready for download within two or three working days depending on current workload.
Q. What if I need my finished masters back by a certain date?
A. Because we understand that some clients, record and production companies work to tight schedules, why not take advantage of our pre-paid, scheduled option by pre-booking studio time in our diary. This way we can ensure that your finished master is ready for you on a specified date. To pre book studio time, call us and book the dates in advance and then pay and upload your tracks in the usual way via our website. Of course you also have the option to send us your mixes by post.
Q. Can I order extra CD copies?
A. Yes, we can replicate extra reference CD's. Please call for details.
Q. What Is A CD Production Master and why is it more expensive?
A. A CD production master is not the same as a normal CD. It is encoded with all your ISRC codes and the CD is created in real time. The CD is then played back in it's entirety in real time to make sure there are no errors. The Production Master CD is used to make the glass master for mass production.