mastering in cubase

[daveblue222]

as i don't have a mastering program i am being tempted to master in cubase by inserting e.q and compression plugins to the stereo out channel.

does anybody else do this? can decent results be achieved? if not which is the best mastering software on the market for its price (limited funds) ?

thanks

 

[MikeNovy]

does anybody else do this? can decent results be achieved? if not which is the best mastering software on the market for its price (limited funds) ?

Actually it is not a matter of a "real" mastering tool, but a matter of how you
can use such tools.

Example:
The best vintage, tube mastering compressor will destroy your music, if
you cannot handle the tool itself.

So if you are looking for mastering tools, have a look into the dynamic section
of your Cubase plug ins. There is a multiband compressor and a lot of other
things, which will help you to finalize your mix.

Though I use outboard equipment for mastering, I would say
that achieving good results in Cubase is also possible.


Best wishes,
Mike

------------------------------------------------
http://the-composers-approach.com/volume1.php
http://projectmike.the-composers-approach.com

 

[nzausrec]

Without having mastered anything, as in making a full CD myself, I reckon that it is more possible to collate all those songs as you'vemade them and listened with close ears to them giving them similar levels then burning it, than it is to throw the songs into a seperate program like Wavelab then re-level everything (cause that's gonna take away some of the dynamics isn't it, if not color it differently?)
I guess the Wavelab stuff throws hidden serial numbers or stuff on your tracks ... I don't know, as I said I've never done it - just my thinking.

 

[LemonTree]

Do you have cubase 5?

There is a mastering template that opens with the multiband comp, stereo enhancer and the maximizer plug.

I don't use them myself as I have the UAD precission bundle that do a decent enough job. As for mastering your own mixes...that's a whole other story and there's plenty threads on that subject.

Mastering is a good way of completely destroying a mix if you don't understand the concept and the tools you have at hand.

 

[Waltz Mastering]

as i don't have a mastering program i am being tempted to master in cubase by inserting e.q and compression plugins to the stereo out channel.

This is a bit of a misconception. but putting plugs or outboard on the stereo outs of your mix is not mastering.

It's sorta like trying to wax your car while it's being washed...icing a cake while it's still baking, etc..

Mixing and mastering are two separate processes.

.