Mastering

I have a couple questions.
we produce dj drops, stingers, sweepers and so on.  I would like to get everyones feelings on MASTERING the final wave.  What process do you use and which plugins are best?  We have Wave Platinum, Izotope 3 and others.  We usually use the izotope 3 setting called MIX MASTER but, clients are saying that the wave has alot of low end in them when we send them over.

If someone could help with this that would be great.

Thanks

In one very real sense, the answer to your question is gloriously simple - unless all of your drops sound identical, you can't possibly use a single preset to achieve the sound that your clients want... presets don't create an 'absolute' sound, only a relative one - and if the components of your mix are relatively different, you'll end up with relatively different results. You have to treat each mix as an individual entity with its own characteristics. Presets are only a starting point.

And if you are having these sorts of difficulties, can I ask you what speakers you are monitoring on?

We are using the KPH Studio Monitors.  They are powered.

I use whatever is necessary - but no more.

There is no simple substitute for listening on good monitors in a good environment and choosing the right processing from experience. Don't do anything to the bass end unless you are absolutely sure that your monitors and room are accurate - one of the most common problems I have to fix is too much low bass because whoever mixed the material couldn't hear what was really happening down there.

Cheers

James.

I am not putting any bass at all

I am not putting any bass at all

Possibly it is in the material already but can't be heard on your monitors. Try looking at the Spectral View in Audition's editor and comparing one of your recordings with something that you know to sound good.

Cheers

James.

If you are hearing too much low end after running through Ozone ... then go to the EQ section in Ozone AND DROP THE LOW FREQUNCIES DOWN!  It's pretty simple, the EQ section is already active in that preset, so it's a very simple click and drag.  Speaking of which, presets should only be used as suggested starting points.  Don't collapse in fear at the thought of having to actually adjust something!

Since you have the option, try plaing with Waves C4 multiband limter instead of Ozone.  It's a little simpler to use, but doesn't give you near as many options and choices.

Lastly, that's a pretty heavy hammer to be mastering with.  Don't forget that your radio clients are going to be running it through their broadcast chain, which will consist of several layers of compressors and limiters.  It shouldn't leave your shop sounding compressed to the gills.  Leave a little space for the clients to squash it to death.

Thanks Craig.  I appreciate your help.