If you can't find the information you are looking for on this page, please feel free to call us at 210.789.4653 or you can email us at info@studio66sa.com and we will be happy to assist you.
What is mastering?
Mastering, or audio mastering, is the final step in the recording process before a record goes off for CD duplication. In mastering, songs are optimized for level, EQ, clarity, low end punch and overall consistency. In addition, songs are arranged in the final album order along with proper spacing and fades etc. For a "technical" definition, click here.
Why use Studio 66 Mastering?
With over 20 years of music & recording studio experience, we not only take an audio engineer's perspective on each project, but a musician's perspective as well. We know that every individual session requires a personal and unique approach based on the style and musical preference of the artist. In other words, we aren't going to master a Country music record the same way we would master a Heavy Rock record.
How much does Studio 66 charge?
- $100.00 per song
- $250.00 3 - 5 song package
- $500.00 full length record (6 - 12 songs)
- 13+ add an additional $50.00 per song
see our Rates/Info page for more details
What audio formats are accepted?
Physical Media: If you're going to mail your project in
- Mac or PC CD-ROM (preferred)
- Mac or PC DVD-ROM (preferred)
- Audio CD
- Audio DAT
Audio Files: 16 - 24 bit sample rate (24 bit is preferred) 44.1 - 192khz
- WAV - Windows WAVE
- AIF - Audio Interchange File
- SD2 - Sound Designer II
- MP3 - MPEG-1 Audio Layer 3 (we will accept mp3s but strongly recommend using a higher quality format)
see our Rates/Info page for more details
How do I submit my audio files?
You can submit your songs to us over the internet or by mail. For internet delivery, you may upload them to our FTP server or use Dropbox.com, a free web based service for storing & sharing large files. For hard copy mail delivery, just mail it to us at:
302 E Nakoma St.
San Antonio, TX 78216
see our Rates/Info page for more details
How do I get started?
Initially, we have each client answer a few questions so we can learn a little bit about the project. This is just so we have some basic knowledge before we get into the specific details and aspects of an individual session.
see our Getting Started page for more details
How long does the mastering take?
5-10 business days is our typical turn around time. We also offer 24 & 48 hour express packages for an additional charge.
see our Rates/Info page for more details
What will I receive?
- Two Red-Book Specification Gold master CDs ready for duplication
- MP3 master CD
- ISRC codes embedded (if needed)
- UPC/EAN code embedded (if needed)
- Insert master track log - the PQ codes required for replication
- Internet delivery of the mastered WAV or AIF files via our FTP server (upon request)
see our Rates/Info page for more details
What are ISRC codes?
The International Standard Recording Code (ISRC) is a unique international identifier for tracks on sound and music-video recordings. Comprised of a 12 character alpha-numeric code, the ISRC functions as a digital “fingerprint” for each track. Unlike a Universal Product Code (UPC) the ISRC is tied to the track and not the CD as a UPC code is. Uses of the ISRC include royalty collection and tracking from digital download services such as iTunes.
When we master your CD, we will (if needed) add the ISRC codes for each of your songs. This information will be burned as part of your CD. For more information on ISRC codes, please visit www.usisrc.org
What forms of payment are accepted?
- Personal or business check, money order or cashier's check - Please be aware when paying by check or money order, all funds must clear our account before we can deliver the finished master. This could add 3-14 days to the process so please plan accordingly. Personal & business checks will not be accepted for the 24-48 hour turn around orders.
- Credit card - If paying by credit card, please use our paypal option on the getting started page.