question about volume level of mastering

[saikit_2003]

i am now using Protools LE 6.4
i got some question about plug-ins on protools LE 6.4 for mastering
what kind of plug-ins are important for mastering???
i always got a question mark when i want to know how loud the track is....
i want some plug-in like a meter....
can anyone tell me the name of the plug-in??? is that free or how much does it cost????
the last question......does any free plug-in which can work on protools LE??
i am using Mac tho..!!!

 

[bennychico11]

you might try the T-Racks EQ that was included with PT (I think it came with 6.4 too)
http://elementalaudio.com/ has a free metering plugin that you can strap on a master fader. Maxim comes with PT which is a volume maximizer plugin.

http://www.cycling74.com/products/dlpluggo.html
there is about 12 free plugins there. make sure you get the Max/MSP runtime software with it.

Izotope has a Vinyl plugin.
there are some others out there but I don't remember any links off the top of my head. There aren't a lot of free RTAS plugins available on the web.

 

[Chris Shaeffer]

Here's your free meter plug:
http://www.elementalaudio.com/products/inspector/index.html

Check out the rest of their products for examples of mastering plugs. I don't know anything about them, but they are the right category of plugs. Also check out the rest of the T-RackS bundle and look at the Waves stuff. That's give you a sense of what's out there at a range of prices.

Then play with what you have and figure out what you want to augment it with from there.

If you are mastering your own stuff, I have a few observations that I've put together over the years:

1) Go back and fix it in your mix, if you can. You'll learn tons about mixing while attempting to master your mixs. For example, if you find yourself trying to clear up some mid-range fudge while mastering, go back and clear it up in your mix. Home-brew mastering is a great way to discover the weaknesses in your mixes.

2) If you're planning on selling your product, have it professionally mastered. Believe me, its worth the money in return for the faith that your product is going to translate well no matter what its played on.

3) If its a demo or some other not-for-(much)-sale project and you are going to master it yourself... go easy. Anything more than a light touch is far more likely to hurt than help.

Take care,
Chris