Mastering

Learn what crest factor means in mixing and mastering, how to measure compression, and how to compare track dynamics more accurately.

In this video, I showcased the TEOTE plug-in by Voxango and explained why I think it's useful. I showed how I use it to reduce and push frequencies on my drum bus and how you can change the profile and bands. I also explained the dynamic section, with the FX knob and Mastering button, as well as the low cut and high cut, room dip and boost threshold. Finally, I shared my experience using the plug-in on drums and the master bus, and why I think it is great for rougher estimations or matchings.

In this video, I attempted to replicate the Newfangled Audio's Elevate plugin using Bitwig Studio by creating a similar mastering setup with a filter bank, compressor, and clipper. I utilized impulse responses for band splitting, which helped maintain CPU efficiency, and included modular options for compression and limiting to tailor the audio to personal taste. The project file is available for download in the description for viewers to try and provide feedback.

In this video, I provide updates to my Hard Clip and Auto Level presets, both of which are now available for free download with new features like LED clipping indicators and improved functionality. I've introduced options such as different clipping modes, band splitting, and a stereo link feature, while addressing phase shift issues and incorporating spectral-based solutions. Additionally, for the Auto Level preset, I added features such as an amount knob and stereo link, and I shared an experimental Auto Level Plus version for quick mastering solutions.

In this video, I talk about the DSEQ3 by TB Pro Audio, a dynamic spectral equalizer. I explain how the pre-filter helps to filter out low frequencies, and how the analyzer catches what’s above the threshold line and reduces it with the compressor. I also explain how the selectivity works, as well as the slope and the over sampling. I demonstrate how this can be used in mastering, and how it can be used creatively for sound design. Finally, I recommend trying out the demo version available on the website.

In this video, I demonstrate my workflow for gain staging a track. I start by going to the settings and changing the default new track volume to 0dB. I then select all of the tracks and set them to 0dB in the inspector. I then group the tracks together into meaningful subgroups like drums, bass, and music. I then gain stage all of the tracks, starting with the kick, by using the peak limiter to bring the volume up to the ceiling of the threshold. I then apply different gain staging methods, like limiters and clippers, to the different subgroups. Finally, I bring all of the subgroups together into an "all" group, which is my master chain, and use a track reference track to compare my track to.

In this video, I create a new track from scratch in Bitwig Studio 6 beta, showcasing the new automation improvements and demonstrating my workflow for building sounds, melodies, and drums step by step. I experiment with vocals, synths, and various effects to craft an atmospheric vibe, while balancing and mixing each element live as the track evolves. The project is left unfinished, focusing on creative exploration rather than perfection, and the session will be available for download on my Patreon.

Polarity MD is a newly released, completely free multiband dynamics plugin featuring four-band OTT-style compression with both upward and downward compression, as well as clippers on each band and the input and output. Compatible with all major platforms and plugin formats, it has a user-friendly, web-based interface and is designed to make tracks louder and more controlled with minimal setup. The plugin is currently in beta, available for download, and the developer welcomes feedback and suggestions to improve its performance and features.

In this video, I talk about three new plugins by Sonoble that just came out today: Pure Verb, Pure Comp, and Pure Limit. These are smaller versions of their bigger plugins, which have fewer controls. These plugins are perfect for creative people who want to dial in a few parameters and move on. I demonstrate how to use each plugin and offer some tips along the way. These plugins are a great addition to any mixing or mastering workflow, especially for those who want to simplify the process. If you're interested, check out the links in the description to try them out for yourself.

In this video, I discuss the EQ Three by TP Pro audio, emphasizing that it is often overlooked due to the lack of advertisements or sponsored videos. I demonstrate various ways to use the EQ, such as as a track spacer or a spectral gate. Additionally, I explain how it can be utilized as a "magic cue" or an analyzer for comparing frequency distributions between tracks.

In this video, I showed what the new Smart EQ 3 plug-in from Sonible from Austria can do. I tested it out on my own track called Craft and went through how to use it for drums, bass, and the master. I showed how to apply different profiles and manual EQ, as well as how to use the grouping feature to make sure the tracks work well together. I also mentioned that Smart EQ 3 is aware of the context EQing and prioritizes certain things over others. Lastly, I suggested that users try out the trial version to get a feel for the plug-in, and if they like it, to purchase it.

Today I compared three spectral compressors, DSEQ3, Spectral Compressor, and Spectraft, explaining my preferences, typical use cases, and cautioning against overuse due to their potential to strip music of its character. I prefer DSEQ3 for its smart AI features, custom threshold curves, and affordability, but use Spectral Compressor mostly for spectral sidechaining and find Spectraft to be the most versatile, albeit pricey. Ultimately, I advise subtlety with these tools, emphasizing that a well-balanced mix done at the track level always sounds better than heavily processing the master.

In this video, I discussed creating an arrangement and mixing on an 8 bar loop from my previous video. I identified a few issues I wanted to address, such as the drone playing all the time, the lack of modulation on the pad, and the fact that the vocals play all the time. To solve these issues, I suggested grouping all the tracks together, cloning the first block, and creating different versions of the loop. I also discussed gain staging, using a peak limiter, and adding a bit of saturation to the kick drum. Finally, I demonstrated how to use a sampler to add a rim shot to the clap.

The Melda MMatcher EQ plugin is a powerful tool for achieving consistent frequency balance across tracks by allowing you to create and use custom reference curves, including separate processing for mid and side channels. It excels at quickly identifying mix issues and ensuring a uniform sound, especially when working with albums or EPs. The plugin can be applied not just on masters but also on individual buses like drums or bass, and you can create more reliable reference curves by averaging multiple tracks, with advanced features for fine-tuning and analyzing by stem if desired.

In this video, I discussed why it's important to balance your frequencies before going into a limiter or clipper. I showed how to do this easily by using a tilt setting, or by using a VST plugin like Ozone 8 and using the Matching EQ feature. I also showed a method of using multiple band pass filters with a reference level tool to reach the same goal. Finally, I discussed the importance of not overdoing the brightness as it can lead to an overly sharp mix.

Music production is best learned through hands-on experience, making mistakes, and developing your own taste, rather than relying on paid courses, tutorials, or expensive gear, which often give you the illusion of knowledge without real understanding. Focusing too much on harmony theory, mixing, mastering, or specific genres early on distracts from what matters most: regularly finishing tracks and learning from each attempt. Ultimately, the process should be about making music you enjoy, not seeking validation or following fixed rules, because true growth comes from persistence and personal exploration.

In this video, I introduce a tool I created in Bitwig called Tonal Balancer, which automatically balances the tonal distribution of a track by using noise sources and EQ to match levels across frequency bands. I demonstrate how to use features like the target knob, custom curves, and rise/fall settings to adjust how the EQ adapts to changes in the audio signal. The preset, available for free on my GitHub, is not yet finished, as I plan to implement a threshold feature to prevent unwanted amplification of quiet parts.

Polarity MD is a powerful, free multi-band dynamics plugin featuring four bands with downward and upward compressors, a clipper, and a range of global controls, now updated with oversampling, linear phase crossovers, normalization, and improved output matching features. This version offers expanded compatibility with various Linux distributions and enhancements like soloing bands, accessibility improvements, and resizable interface with saved window states. Users are invited to test the latest Beta 9, report bugs or requests, and enjoy a robust mastering tool without registration or cost.