mastering technique

[Joejoe]

are there any techniques in mastering..i know its pretty much compression and eq..if my intruments are eqed pretty well in the mix should i fine them down more or wait tillmastering to shape the sound..is there anything that should be required to polish the mix..doyouhave to put reverb after every song to polish it or its optional..imusing a pc (digital) recorder..i invested in plug-ins i have reverb eq 20band etc..can i pull off mastering with these tools..i have sevaral stereo's aswell.
when will i know the product sounds finished..should i compare to other records..wisely appreciate the info..thanx

 

[drstawl]

Even the big mastering gurus; if they're worth their salt they won't apply ANY effects without a definite reason to do so. Reverb in particular! Their main job is to really listen to the track they're working on, not just to apply some magical formula to increase perceived loudness.

 

[Joejoe]

im using a drum machine which i lay my guitars bass etc adjust the eq to the drums.then when im done i add my effects and get my blended mix..im satisfied..im now learning mastering so if you have any links or anything that can fill my brain i appreciate that to..what would i be listening for when im mastering?how will i know its finally complete..

 

[bvaleria]

The DR is right.... the only technique to mastering is LISTENING! The art in mastering is knowing if and/or when and what to process.... check out http://www.digido.com for mastering info by the master (Bob Katz).

Bruce Valeriani
Blue Bear Sound