Mastering

Who this mastering service is for

Independent artists releasing a single or EP, producers who mix themselves but want a second pair of ears, and labels that need a coherent sound across several tracks — those are the most common jobs in our room. Since 2019 we have worked from Overtoom 574 with local acts from Oud-West and with projects delivered entirely online.

Mastering does not replace a solid mix. If structural balance issues remain, we will say openly whether a revision in mixing makes more sense first. That way mastering is not used as a band-aid.

What to send us

Supply one stereo mix per song, without a master-bus limiter squashing dynamics, preferably 24 bit and 48 kHz (other sample rates can be discussed). State the exact length, any crossfades between EP tracks, and whether you need an instrumental or TV mix.

• Mix file via secure link or agreed media
• Short note: genre, loudness direction, release platform
• Reference tracks that match feel, not necessarily level
• Contact for questions: email or phone

Our article mastering and your rights explains crediting and file rights in practice.

Listening and references

In the control room we use 2 calibrated nearfield pairs plus a full-range set for the final check. References play at the same level as your mix so comparison stays fair. We watch midrange, sibilance, sub build-up and how kick and bass work on smaller speakers.

If your mix already sits close to commercial loudness, we take a lighter approach. If there is room for more impact, we discuss that explicitly — mastering is not an automatic “louder” button.

Formats and technical delivery

By default we deliver PCM WAV for digital release. On request we create DDPI or other formats your aggregator requires, as long as the source mix allows it. For vinyl we discuss side length, bass mono compatibility and any higher sample rate the plant asks for.

If your mix is not ready yet, see mix delivery formats for how to prepare files.

Turnaround and revisions

A single track is usually scheduled within a few business days after we receive a complete mix and brief. EPs and albums get a joint timeline so loudness and tone match across the project. We respond to questions within 2 business days.

The price includes 2 revision rounds based on your written feedback on the delivered master. Extra rounds or changed scope (for example additional versions per song) are billed hourly or per item under our terms. Once approved, the master is final for release.

What standard mastering does not cover

Stem mastering, restoration of old tape material, heavy declicking, remixes or re-mixing are not part of standard mastering. Creating DDP for physical pressing, MFiT packages or filling multilingual metadata is also outside the base rate — we can quote it separately.

If you are on a tight deadline, say so via contact. We check availability within Monday–Friday 10:00–22:00, Saturday 11:00–18:00. Closed on Sundays and public holidays. but do not promise same-day service without prior agreement.

Pricing and payment

All listed amounts are consumer prices including 21% VAT. Business invoicing is available with payment terms under our terms (14 days for B2B where applicable). Studio listening sessions may require a 30% deposit; pure file-based mastering is often invoiced per job.

See the full overview on services or request a written quote via contact. Cancelling a booked listening session is free up to 7 days ahead, as set out in our terms.

Archive and next steps

We keep project files and masters for 24 months on our systems, then delete them unless you arrange an extension. Always download and store your own copy.

After mastering you usually upload to a distributor; we do not handle distribution, but we can advise on album sequencing. Common questions are in FAQ. To visit the studio: Tram 1 or 7: stop Overtoom (towards the city centre). Walk about three minutes west along Overtoom; the entrance is on street level beside the large windows. From Amsterdam Zuid station: metro 52 or tram 1 towards the centre, exit at Overtoom. On-street paid parking only; no private car park..

Included

• Technical analysis of your stereo mix
• Mastering on calibrated monitors in the control room
• Reference comparison against your brief
• 2 revision rounds on written feedback
• WAV export for the agreed release target
• Short note on anomalies or recommendations
• 24 months archive on studio storage