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Separation Mastering

What is Separation Mastering? Separation Mastering is a much more versatile approach to professional audio mastering. Instead of a single stereo file, the mix is separated into a small number of audio files, usually 2-4, but still maintaining all balances and processing of the mix. These files are then used together at the mastering stage to allow a larger degree of control for the engineer. E.g. Vocals, Drums, Other. In this example equalization on the vocal will not force resulting unwanted equalization on any other part of the recording, a trade off in traditional stereo mastering. How is this different to mixing? Separation Mastering, as with traditional mastering, occurs once the mix has been completed. With mixing each individual channel is processed from it’s rawest form whereas separations include all of the processed channels from the completed mix channel grouped together into a small number of separation files, usually a maximum of 4. Advantages of Separation Mastering: More clarity as the dynamics and musical integrity of your mix can be maintained to a much greater degree, even when very high levels are required. With traditional stereo mastering there is a greater offset between level and dynamics. Less Mixing Worries at the mixing stage, as contentious issues can become additional separations, cutting studio time by eliminating the need for alternate mixes and leaving the decision to the experienced mastering engineer in an ideal acoustic environment. More Flexibility to make refinements to the balance and presence of important elements such as drums and vocals in isolation. How To Create Separations: 1. Create a new folder on your hard drive named according to the songname. 2. Record your 24 bit stereo mix as normal. Name this file songname.wav. 3. Mute all parts of your song except those for the current separation you are trying to create. Include all related processing to the included parts. Without altering any fader positions, automation or balances in your mix w

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