What stem mastering is
Instead of one stereo file, you send your mix as a handful of grouped stems: for example drums, bass, music, vocals and FX. I master them together, so I can fix a problem in one part without touching the rest.
When to choose stems over stereo
When a vocal won't sit, the low end is muddy, or the kick and bass fight, and a stereo master would mean compromising everything else to fix it.
If you're happy with your mix as it is, stereo mastering is usually all you need. Not sure? The free sample includes a 15 minute call to talk it through.
How to prepare your stems
Export 5 to 10 stems that add up to your full mix, all the same length and starting at the same point so they line up. Send a 16, 24 or 32-bit WAV or AIFF, ideally at the sample rate of your original session. Leave around -3 to -6 dB of headroom, and turn off any limiting on the master bus.
Turnaround and revisions
Most projects are delivered within 2 to 3 business days, with rush options if you're on a deadline. Each track includes 2 rounds of revisions within 7 days of your first master.
Questions
How many stems should I send?
5 to 10. Group them by role, like drums, bass, music, vocals and FX, so they add up to your full mix.
Is stem mastering better than stereo mastering?
It's more surgical, not automatically better. Choose stems when part of the mix needs targeted work; choose stereo when the mix is where you want it.
