How Studying Serban Ghenea's Mixes Made Me a Better Mastering Engineer
“Because I’d analyzed bus compression in Serban’s mixes, I could hear what the problem was and knew how to fix it. I applied the techniques I’d learned, and the compression improved the track, enhancing its movement. The result was a punchier track with a harder-hitting groove. Additionally, I could reduce the overall level reaching my limiter while still maintaining loudness.”
How Reverse-Engineering a Bob Ludwig Master Changed My Compression Game
“Ludwig’s approach to my student project was a demonstration of his character. The attention he gave to my amateur mix—the same care he’d bring to a major release—was admirable. Even though he wasn’t getting paid for this master, and it was for a project that was way beneath him, he still put in the effort. It’s a standard worth aspiring to.”
Limiter Selection: The Most Important Step in Mastering Music
“Going through these various options also dialled in the perfect colour and tone for the record using only limiters. This meant I needed minimal EQ to get the tonal balance right. The less EQ you can get away with, the better—less phase shift and less transient distortion.”