The first session of the mastering process is often referred to as the EQ session. In this session we'll address all of the processes that are traditionally known as 'pre-mastering.' This includes developing a consistent, musically focused approach to tone, dynamics, and loudness for your project. After the mixes are processed, we'll construct a program sequence, including track order and spacing.
At the end of the EQ session we'll generate a reference CD. This reference allows you to experience the project in your own playback environment and time frame. For projects intended for Internet streaming, we can also deliver an online reference through our Web site.
Sometimes clients decide to make changes to the master or the sequence, like switching song order or using a different version of a mix. Those sessions will be booked as soon as possible, and will also generate a reference CD.
Once a reference CD is approved, we'll author a Red Book CD master for replication. This master will include PQ subcodes, CD-Text (if requested) and ISRC codes (if provided). We quality-check every Red Book CD master that we author to ensure error-free, flawless performance during replication.
Clients are welcome at all sessions, but if you can't attend, or you don't want to attend, that's fine too. As long as we have good session notes for your project, we can deliver the same quality results from across the country. We'll set up an account on our FTP server, or arrange delivery using Fed Ex.
Quotes, Rates, and BookingOur hourly rate is $75. Most 50 to 60 minute album projects take about 5 to 7 hours, but every project is different. Please contact us to discuss your project. Shipping and courier charges are billed as used.
We recommend booking your session about two weeks ahead, but we'll always do our best to work in last minute bookings. We never book sessions that we can't complete by the given deadline, so if we book it, you can relax.
For more information about booking your mastering project, you can email booking@anthemmastering.com, or call Rob at 651.335.8076.
Billing and Payment MethodsAfter you have approved your reference CD, we'll deliver an invoice that includes all applicable rates and fees. After the balance is paid we'll deliver your Red Book CD master by Fed Ex or you can pick it up. You can pay with a personal or corporate check payable to Anthem Mastering, or follow the link to use our PayPal account.
Source mixes can be provided in any of the following ways:
- Bring your files with you to your session, or drop them off at the studio.
- Log in to our FTP server to upload your mix files and session notes;
- Ship us any durable removable medium like Orange Book CD-ROM or DVD-ROM
For mixes delivered on tape, please email or call first. Do not ship tapes or hard-drives that are not backed up.
No matter what delivery method you choose, be sure to include complete session notes for your project, including:
- Information about the mix files (file name, sample rate, bit depth, etc.);
- Information about which mix versions to use, whether there are mix reductions included, etc.;
- Program order with any additional notes on spacing and transitions;
- CD-Text information; and
- ISRC numbers (see below).
Feel free to use this handy PDF file for your session notes. You can email the completed form back to us before your session. If you have any questions about what to provide or how to provide it, check out Anthem Mastering's Recommendations for Creating and Delivering Mix Master Files.
ISRC and UPC/EANThe International Standard Recording Code (ISRC) is issued by the RIAA as a tool for catalog administration and royalty collection. If you provide ISRC numbers, we can include this information in the meta-data of your Red Book CD master. For more information on obtaining ISRC numbers prior to your mastering session (it takes about a week), check out this page.
Universal Product Codes (UPC/EAN), are often referred to as 'the barcode.' Including your UPC numbers in the metadata of your CD master will simplify how those codes are implemented. For more information on obtaining UPC numbers prior to your mastering session, check with your CD replicator.
CD-Text and Gracenote CDDBCD-Text is an Interactive Text Transmission System (ITTS) that was extended to the Red Book CD-DA standard in 1996. Using CD-Text, information like Artist Name, Album Title, and Song Name is stored in the Lead-In of Red Book CD’s. CD players and CD-ROM drives that support CD-Text can display that information during playback.
CD-Text does not supply any meta-data to digital media applications like iTunes or Winamp. Rather, these types of applications use one or more online databases like the Gracenote CDDB to access a much more detailed set of track-specific meta-data.
Regardless of the choice to use CD-Text or not, CD database information must be submitted separately. Submitting to the Gracenote CDDB is as simple as inserting the CD into your computer, manually entering the information into the appropriate fields in iTunes, and choosing ‘Submit CD Track Names’ from the Advanced menu. For more information, visit Gracenote's FAQ