FAQs

❓How do I submit my mix for mastering? You can submit your mix using Dropbox or WeTransfer. If you’re unfamiliar with the process, we’re happy to guide you through it via a quick video call. Include any reference tracks or special instructions to ensure we align with your vision for the final master.

❓How long does it take to master my track? We know you’re eager to release your music! Most clients receive their masters in just a few days. Our process is efficient but doesn’t compromise on quality. We work fast without rushing, ensuring you get a top-tier master on your timeline.

❓How does your London Institute of Banking and Finance CeMAP qualification help me as a songwriter/producer/mixing engineer? Rich has two decades of financial services, customer service and marketing experience. He has interviewed over 15000 members of public face to face when working in retail banking. His mission is to use that knowledge to write you two free music business blogs a week to help you better understand banking, mortgages, business loans (got an eye on a sweet looking SSL desk?), Companies House, credit cards, credit scoring etc....all vital bits of info either you'd have to pay a broker for or have to sit for hours in a bank. Very very useful info if you're a freelancer especially!

❓Can you master all types of music? Absolutely! We master across all genres, from rock and electronic to classical and hip-hop. No matter your style, we’ll ensure your track sounds flawless. Our expertise spans a wide range of music styles, giving your music the professional finish it deserves.

❓How can you help me trouble shoot any technical, production issues etc? A Rich will introduce you to Produce Mix, Fix and Conquer which is a 4000 Pro Audio Engineer and Producer network on Facebook he created back in 2020. Come hang out with dozens of Grammy Winning and Multi-Platinum selling pros to up your skill set and get answers to studio questions. It's free as well! 🤝

❓Should I keep my mix buss processing on? If you’ve mixed into your buss processing from the start, leave it on! However, if it was added later, it’s best to send two versions. This flexibility ensures we can use the version that produces the best master, making sure your track shines.

❓How much headroom should I leave on my mix? As long as your track isn’t clipping and peaks below 0dBFS, you're set. Focus on keeping your mix clean and clear with some headroom left. Just like the pros, leaving that space ensures your track is perfectly ready for mastering.

❓Can I request revisions? Yes, we offer unlimited revisions to make sure your final master is exactly how you want it. We’re committed to your satisfaction, and our goal is to build a long-term relationship where you feel confident coming back for future projects.

❓What sample rate should I use to deliver my mix? Send us your track at its native resolution to maintain the highest quality. Whether your session is at 44.1kHz or 96kHz, we’ll work with it as-is. Just like the pros, keeping your mix at its original sample rate ensures no quality is lost.

❓Is all your mastering done 'in the box'? Yes! At Rich Steve Beck Audio, we use the most advanced digital tools available. Many top artists prefer in-the-box mastering for its precision and flexibility, and we employ the same techniques used for major-label releases.

❓What file format should I send for mastering? For the best results, send a 32-bit floating-point .WAV file at the sample rate of your session. This is the industry standard, ensuring that you receive a high-quality master ready for any platform or release.

❓Can I send you reference tracks to help guide the mastering? Absolutely! Reference tracks help us understand your sonic goals and align with your vision. Many successful artists use this approach to achieve their desired sound, and it ensures we’re on the same page.

❓Why is mastering essential for your music? Mastering is the final step that transforms your mix into a professional, industry-ready track. Whether for streaming, CDs, or vinyl, mastering ensures your music meets the highest standards and sounds its best on every platform.

❓What is the cost of your mastering service? We’re offering a limited-time deal—your first professional master for just £1! It’s a risk-free opportunity to experience the care and detail we put into every track. Once you hear the results, you’ll see why artists trust us with their music. Until the end of 2024 we are also offering to master your second track for £35 and if it's an EP or album mastering bulk order then you get a further discount brining the price to £30 a master (e.g. 10 track album would be £300).

❓How should I prepare my mix to make the mastering process smooth and successful? Send us a clean, polished mix with no unwanted noises, ensuring your track is balanced and clear. The cleaner your mix, the more professional the final master will sound.