Mix Note 104 / Mastering New
The side channel can hide a problem
A stereo master feels fine until mono playback loses a key instrument.
The move
Check mono and audition sides to locate phase-dependent content, then fix the responsible source where possible.
Do this- Compare stereo and mono playback.
- Audition sides to find disappearing content.
- Fix the responsible source where possible.
Listen for this.
The lead and rhythmic foundation should remain useful in mono.
Know when to back off.
A correlation meter is a clue, not a universal pass/fail judge.
Match loudness when you compare. If the original serves the song better, undo the change.
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Keep working.
105 / MasteringUse short breaks to reset your balanceAfter repeated listening, harshness starts to feel normal.106 / MasteringPrint an alternate without the limiterA final limiter may be useful for presentation but unsuitable for another mastering step.107 / MasteringName the master so nobody guessesSeveral files named final create a delivery mistake.
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