Q: What are ISRC codes?

A: ISRC stands for International Standard Recording Code, and identifies the country of origin, the copyright owner, the year, and additional information specified by the copyright owner. This code is different for each track on an album and is used to track streaming and radio airplay.

Some distributors will assign ISRCs for you. Alternatively, we can assign ISRCs for your songs, or you can apply for an ISRC account with the RIAA.

Q: What formats do you work from?

A: We typically work from:

• .WAV + .AIFF audio files, including Dolby Atmos ADM BWF files
• DAW session files
• DDP Disc Image
• Red Book format (16-bit, 44.1 kHz) CD
• DSD
• 1/4 inch analog tape
• 1/2 inch analog tape
• 1 inch analog tape
• 2 inch analog tape

If your material exists in a format not listed, please inquire to confirm compatibility.

Q: What formats can you deliver?

A: We can usually create whatever you need to get the job done. We commonly work with the following formats for delivery:

• .WAV (including Apple Digital Master/Mastered for iTunes files)
• DDP Disc Image
• PMCD
• Dolby Atmos ADM BWF files
• 360RA

Q: Can I use a compressor across the master bus in mixing, or should I leave that process until the mastering stage? What about normalization?

A: We don’t advise specifically “leaving anything to the mastering stage”. We recommend that you create the mix that sounds best to your ears, and we will take it from there. If mixing with compression on your bus gives you the best sounding mix, then we recommend that you do so. If mixing without bus compression gives you the best sounding mix, then we recommend you do that instead.

The most important takeaway is to deliver us a full-resolution file which includes all of the processing on your final approved mix. There is rarely a benefit to removing processing that was listened through while working on and/or approving the mix.

If you mix without processing at the end of your chain, and add one only when sending out references, it can sometimes be useful to include an additional mix version which excludes the limiter. If you do this, please also include a screenshot of your limiter settings.

Q: Should I fade-in and fade-out my mixes before bringing them to be mastered?

A: This is entirely up to you. We often apply fades during the editing process. If you apply fade-ins and fade-outs during mixing, we generally leave those fades intact. Do note however, it is sometimes difficult to modify an existing fade. If you choose to apply your own fades, we recommend that you also provide an additional version without the fades.

Q: What about track sequence and spacing?

A: We address track sequence and spacing between songs as one of the last processes in mastering. We can leave sequence and spacing intact, or easily make any changes, depending upon the client’s wishes. In an unattended session, spacing can be approved with an uploaded reference.

Q: What is HDCD?

A: HDCD stands for High Definition Compatible Digital. HDCD is a method of digitally encoding audio to retain the detail, dynamic range, and timbre of the original higher resolution signal for playback in any digital format. In addition, HDCD-equipped players can decode the HDCD signal to yield 20 or 24 bits from the 16 bits on the disc, resulting in even greater dynamic range.