Stereo R L levels

[Chris Hillman]

When mastering, how important is it that my R and L levels are matching all the time? For example, is there is a part in a song where the R guitar doesn't play, should I compensate somehow for the higher level on the Left side, or does it even matter?

 

[Disposable]

I think if there is a major change in volume you should fix it. but remember there are times when ONLY the R or L side is going.
How do you think it sounds? Use your ears. If it sounds good... I'd leave it

 

[Seanmorse79]

I agree with that. Trust your ears, not your eyes. Take a look at the L/R levels of a Beatles song - they're all over the place because of the way they mixed. But, as I recall their stuff sounded pretty good - they even sold a few records