Why I don't master with Bandlab

Bandlab mastering

 Bandlab has an option to master your music, but is it really mastering? What is mastering?

The purpose of mastering is to balance the sonic elements of a stereo mix and optimize playback across all systems and media formats. Traditionally, mastering is done using tools like equalization, compression, limiting and stereo enhancement.

Mastering is the final polish that turns a finished mix into a release that’s ready for listeners to experience on all devices—from tiny iPhone speakers to massive dance club sound systems.

The term itself comes from the idea of a master copy. All copies or duplications of the audio come from the master. The mastering process ensures that those copies can be optimally played back whether they end up on streaming services, CDs or a vinyl record. 

In addition to that, mastering helps keep an album sounding consistent and cohesive between tracks.

Ultimately, mastering creates the ideal presentation of your audio for release.

This means the use of a lot of tools because there is no standard song to master. The four standards in Bandlab suggest otherwise. That's why I master myself. each song has other characteristics and another mastering. Sure, you can get good results in Bandlab mastering, but is it always what you want? AI is also programmed and has it's limits in intelligence.

There are a lot of video's on Youtube to help you learn about mastering. Search for them when you are interested. Also Brainworks has a nice tool if you work in a DAW, bx_masterdesk classic. It's a free tool and it helps you great in mastering when you have a good mix, and of course you have!

So, look at mastering and try it! In the end the results become better then the standard web mastering tools. If you are happy with the Bandlab way of mastering use it! It is easy!

Mastering or tone control?