Vinyl Mastering at Mastersound
Vinyl mastering can be considered a two-step process.
Step 1.
During mastering for digital release the sound is enhanced and most of these enhancements can be used for the vinyl master too. The same spacing between songs, fades, edits and other processes are copied for each master format. I spend a great deal of extra time and care on masters used specifically for vinyl. Just like the digital versions, vinyl masters are mastered predominantly in the analogue domain.
Additional tweaks, changes and restrictions are then applied to the original mastering settings, tailored specifically for vinyl.
Maintaining highest quality practice is standard at Mastersound. Vinyl masters are mastered from scratch. I go back to the start for each master format, playing only the original mix, making appropriate changes for each individual song without cutting corners for the sake of speed and convenience. This is done for a fraction of the digital mastering cost. Hence the benefit of mastering for vinyl and digital releases at the same time with me is a package deal.
Step 2.
Eventually the vinyl-cutting engineer will have one final level setting across the entire program, aimed at achieving the best possible transfer. We aim to help by supplying the most consistent master possible, as there will be no stopping or tweaking between tracks once the final transfer begins.
Mixing for Vinyl
Due to the nature of vinyl, certain considerations during mixing should be considered.
Digital formats will handle pretty much whatever we give them. Vinyl is a little more delicate. There are occasions when a mix wont take to vinyl specs very well and will require alterations during mastering to help. Phasing issues, sibilant vocals and excessive top end are the main culprits. If they can be kept in check during mixing, it would likely have a better final result as compared to taming them purely during the mastering stage. If the digital release prefers extra top end or bottom end that is fine as I will take care of any problems as best as possible. At the very least, out of phase program should be considered during mixing. If out of phase effects are required for the digital version perhaps consider doing two mixes… one for vinyl.
In any case, the mix will be altered in various degrees during vinyl mastering and done at Mastersound will act as a safety net for each individual song. Heavy bass/sub instruments panned left and right will also be dealt with in mastering, thus the character of these will surely change. Sibilance is often a big offender. De-essing during mastering is not ideal but often necessary to minimise distortion on vinyl. It is especially damaging when the snare requires top end to be left as is.
MAXIMUM DURATION PER SIDE IS BEST KEPT AT 24 MINUTES IF POSSIBLE.
It’s OK to sneak passed this length, however the overall quality will start to progressively go downhill pretty fast. It’s not uncommon to leave a song or 2 off for vinyl release to fit this length. Supplying separate mixes with sections edited out or releasing 4 sided (double vinyl) for highest quality is also an option.
Checking test pressings before committing to the final run is always recommended.