Im thinking of trying to Track and mix in My studio but get mastered elsewhere for a particular project coming up.
How do i Prepare my Stereo Files for this and should i not put any masterout Inserts on Cubase for this type of Job.
Has anyone had any experience with this.
-24bit wav or aiff files burned as data on a CD-R or DVD-R.
-Do not compress or limit the master buss for loudness...only for tone or control. Shaving off a few db is common, but don't get too heavy handed.
-Stay away from stereo imaging plugins on the master buss. As an effect on individual tracks can be fine, but the mastering engineer will make it as wide as you want.
-Leave space at the beginning and end of each track. Communicate song order, and any special fade ins/outs that need to be made. Communicate what you think are the strengths and weakness of each mix. Communicate how you want the songs to transition. Communication is key.
-Don't mix too hot! Loudness is achieved by the mastering engineer. Don't let your peak levels go beyond -6dbfs maximum on the master fader. Quieter than that is even better. Limiting headroom is limiting the options of the mastering engineer. Plus, there are people out there that say a digital mix benefits from lower tracking/mixing levels.
Here are some thoughts on that.
-For the most flexibility provide "stem mixes" of your songs which is basically bouncing down stereo groups of drums, guitars, bass, and vocals separately so they can be processed individually if need be. It also avoids any drastic surgery that may need to be made which can impact your mix as a whole otherwise.
The big thing as the mix engineer is to focus on balance and musicality. Size and volume come later.
