Software to do mastering with?

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coolsoundman

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what software, other than sonar, is there to use for mastering? I've read some of you guys use sound forge, is there any other program that does a good job? and why do you guys disagree on using sonar?
 
Samplitude or Saw Studio for bewt mix engine.

But the software you use for mastering is the least significant thing.

Its your ability speakers/room, effects processing that play the most important role.
 
coolsoundman said:
what software, other than sonar, is there to use for mastering? I've read some of you guys use sound forge, is there any other program that does a good job? and why do you guys disagree on using sonar?
You can get a Blue Bear or Massive Master, but I think they only come in hardware versions
 
Some might think the last post was loaded up with sarchasm but it's solid advice.

The pros have already spent the money and learned the trade. They know what they're doing. Unless you're wanting to pound it out and eventually open your own mastering house, the investment in time and equipment really won't pay off. Heck, it probably won't pay off anyways.

Software alone won't do it. You're gonna invest a bundle in the room...we're not talking egg crate and foam on the walls...we're talking serious construction. Then there's the signal chain and monitors and then an education and lots and lots of experience.

BTW...SONAR isn't a mastering application. Check out Massive's website and look at his equipment list. Not beating you down...just handing over a reality check.
 
dont be put off, you can get great results from software alone if you know what you are doing.
 
coolsoundman said:
what software, other than sonar, is there to use for mastering?
Ummm, the exact same software and hardware that's used for tracking and mixing.

There is no difference between the tools one can use for one phase of the production and what can be used for another. The editors remain the same, as do the EQs, the compressors, the verbs, etc.

It's the *process* that's different.

There is no such thing as "mastering software". That just a packaging gimick right up there with the term "studio monitor".

G.
 
I suppose "technically" that anything considered to be "CD Mastering Software" should have the capabilities to do extensive and frame accurate PQ editing with compliancy to RedBook Audio CD specifications.

Samplitude, CD Architect, WaveLab...
 
Sequoia is the best I have used.

Samplitude comes in 2nd, then SAW. Its a matter of what interface you like best..

Wl5 was nice when I was doing stereo recordings.

he tools one can use for one phase of the production and what can be used for another

well not necessarily...some have the ability to do PQ edits, burn DDP discs, precise crossfades...DVD-A and CDR burning...those arent the same.
 
BigRay said:
well not necessarily...some have the ability to do PQ edits, burn DDP discs, precise crossfades...DVD-A and CDR burning...those arent the same.
Yeah, I agree with that part of it on paper, but I'll bet my next paycheck that this is not what this guy is asking, and that he's never even heard of PQ editing.

I hope I'm wrong about that, but I wouldn't bet against the percentages that the question is using the poor man's definition of "mastering" as "sonically polishing the mixdown" and has little to do with the actual part of the pro premastering process involved with prepping an album of songs for glass.

G.
 
If you are just doing this for fun, and want to learn, do it yourself. If you want pro results, and aren't a pro, hire one.

If you tracked well, and can make a good mix...you are on your way. Then, just read, and ask questions. Most software will allow you to get good results, if you are capable.
 
Massive Master said:
I suppose "technically" that anything considered to be "CD Mastering Software" should have the capabilities to do extensive and frame accurate PQ editing with compliancy to RedBook Audio CD specifications.

Samplitude, CD Architect, WaveLab...

What he said :confused:
 
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