FAQs
Do you have questions? We have answers.
What is mastering? Why do we need it?
Mastering is the critical last step to make your music sound its best on any platform—whether it’s streaming, radio, headphones, or through club speakers. It’s not just about loudness; it’s about making your track dynamic and engaging.
A great master brings out the best in your mix, giving it depth, balance, and energy so it stands out and connects with listeners.
We come to every project with fresh ears and years of experience. We bring our trained listening and technical skill to your tracks, making sure your music is ready for the world.
What does it cost?
Email studio@chrisathensmasters.com with details about your project, and we’ll provide a quote based on your needs.
I am not 100% happy with my mix, will mastering rescue my mix?
Mastering can bring out the best in your mix by enhancing what you love and minimizing what you don’t—but it’s not a magic fix.
Before sending your track to be mastered, take the time to make sure every element sounds the way you want it to. A solid mix is the foundation of a great master, and getting it right will save you time, money, and frustration in the long run.
Can I include instructions, references, and/or notes?
Yes! The more details you share, the faster we can get your audio where you want it. Written notes, reference mixes (files preferred over streaming links), and timing/spacing guides for multi-song projects are all helpful.
Please label your mixes clearly, and for an EP or album, include the track list and sequence.
Which format is best for me to send my mixes?
For stereo mastering, submit stereo interleaved WAV or AIFF files at 44.1kHz/24-bit or higher (up to 192kHz/32-bit). This ensures compatibility with most formats we offer.
Avoid compressed formats like MP3 or M4A, as they limit audio quality. We don’t need the full Pro Tools session—just the final mix.
Do you accept tape/physical media sources?
Right now, we’re only accepting digital file submissions.
What is the ideal level to submit my digital files?
Your mix should have at least 5–6dB of RMS headroom, though more is always better.
Should I submit mixes with or without master bus processing?
If master bus processing is contributing to the balance and color of your approved mix without brickwall limiting the levels with no headroom, then in most cases, we can work with the audio. If you are unsure, you are welcome to print versions with and without compression and have your engineer pick which one is most suitable for mastering.
What do I get back from mastering?
You'll receive a download link to review your master—be sure to listen on different systems. Once you approve it, we’ll print any additional versions and formats in your order.
Remember, any changes after final formats are printed will incur extra charges, so make sure you're 100% happy with your master before requesting them.
What are ISRC codes?
The ISRC is a unique alphanumeric code that acts as a digital fingerprint for your music. It stays with a recording no matter who owns it and is key for royalty collection, administration, and anti-piracy protection.
If you're signed to a label, they usually provide ISRCs. Independent artists need to get a registrant code from:
Some distributors can also provide ISRCs.
Not all clients need ISRCs—if you do, let us know when ordering your production master.
What are Apple Digital Masters (Formerly MFiT)?
Apple Digital Masters (formerly Mastered for iTunes) are 24-bit masters optimized for the best playback across Apple’s ecosystem, whether streamed or downloaded. While the Mastered for iTunes tools are still used, all releases now carry the Apple Digital Masters badge.
These masters require extra time to create, so additional fees apply.
What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept credit/debit cards, Venmo, PayPal, and Apple Pay through PayPal (availability may vary by location). A service fee applies to PayPal payments.
We also accept Wire and ACH bank transfers with no processing fee on our end, but your bank may charge its own fees. You’ll see your payment options at checkout.