Mastering for distribution
From mixed stereo to release-ready: level, spectrum and metadata tuned for streaming and download, with structured space for your feedback.
Mastering is the last listening pass before music goes to platforms. At Mormonyra in Amsterdam we work from a dedicated mastering setup on calibrated monitors—not the same speakers you mixed on—so we hear what distributors and listeners actually receive.
You supply a stereo mix (or a short batch for an EP/album). We adjust loudness, stereo image and detail, deliver upload formats and help align metadata via our release checklist. Pricing is per track or album package; rates include VAT and up to 2 revision rounds.
Process
- 01
Delivery
Upload WAV or AIFF without a limiter on the master bus, with headroom. Note target platforms and any reference tracks.
- 02
Analysis
We measure loudness, spectrum and phase, compare with your references and confirm the mix is technically ready to master.
- 03
Master pass
EQ, dynamics and limiting are applied; album songs are matched for spacing and level relative to each other.
- 04
Revision and export
You receive masters and alternatives if agreed. Up to 2 rounds of feedback are included; then final files and DDP on request.
Why mastering is separate
Mixing balances instruments; mastering places the whole in context against other releases. A mix that shines at home may feel thin or wide on a phone speaker. Mastering addresses that with fresh ears and a controlled room.
No mix yet? Start with mix production or ask about mixing material from live ensemble recording before mastering—each step has its own schedule.
Technical requirements for your mix
Deliver 24-bit WAV or AIFF, preferably 48 kHz (44.1 kHz is fine for CD-style workflows). Leave at least 3 dB headroom on the stereo bus—no brickwall limiter or maximizer on the export. Dither only if you changed bit depth yourself.
- File name: artist – title – mix.wav
- No clipping in the mix file
- State if the track targets vinyl (different low-end rules)
- For albums: track order and crossfade notes in a text file
If the mix has technical issues (distortion, extreme out-of-phase bass), we flag them before starting. Fixing in the mix stage is outside mastering; we can suggest a short mix consult.
Workflow in the mastering suite
Joris Meijer and the team listen on nearfields with analogue inserts where it helps. Measurements (LUFS, true peak, correlation) support decisions, not replace ears. Streaming platforms normalise; we aim for healthy loudness without pumping.
Albums are matched across titles: gaps, relative loudness and tone. Instrumentals or clean edits are separate files at the track rate unless delivered with the album order.
Delivery formats
By default you receive:
- 24-bit WAV for distribution (48 kHz)
- 16-bit WAV with dither for legacy upload
- 320 kbps MP3 preview for a quick phone check
On request we create a DDP image for CD pressing or MFiT-compatible files—state that when ordering. Vinyl-oriented masters (longer grooves, gentler bass) are discussed case by case; the base rate covers digital-first releases.
| Platform | Guidance |
|---|---|
| Spotify / Deezer | Around −14 LUFS integrated, true peak below −1 dBTP |
| Apple Music | Similar; we check for over-compression after normalisation |
| Download (Bandcamp etc.) | Slightly more headroom if you want to avoid loudness wars |
Revisions and feedback
Mastering includes 2 revision rounds after the first master delivery. One round means bundled notes in a single email for one track or the whole album. Specific notes (“vocals slightly brighter in the chorus”) beat vague comparisons to other artists.
Extra rounds or a full remaster after major mix changes are billed separately. Re-uploading a new mix after mastering counts as a new project unless it is a minor export fix.
Metadata and release
We do not operate your distributor account, but we can prepare filenames and ISRC fields if you supply codes. Mastering metadata for release lists what to gather upfront (UPC, credits, explicit flag).
Copyright and licences remain your responsibility; see terms and conditions and disclaimer. Mormonyra B.V. keeps project files 24 months for re-download.
Rates and invoicing
Per track is €72 incl. 21% VAT (net €59.50). An album up to twelve tracks is €545 incl. VAT—better value than twelve singles. Tracks beyond twelve are charged at the per-track rate.
Business clients receive invoices with 14-day payment terms after delivery; consumers pay upfront or on delivery by agreement. A 30% deposit applies to larger album orders. Request a quote via contact—reply within 2 working days.
Not included
Mixing, stem editing, vocal tuning, sample clearance, artwork, social clips, on-site vinyl cutting and CD duplication are outside mastering. If you use our mix production, we schedule mastering separately so fresh ears stay involved.
Spotify for Artists claims, playlist pitching and marketing are not part of the service—we deliver technically suitable files.
Typical turnaround
Single: first master usually within five working days of complete delivery. Albums: allow one to two weeks depending on track count and revisions. Rush is sometimes possible at extra cost if the calendar allows—ask via 020 808 4193.
Office and studio hours: Monday–Friday 09:30–18:30, Saturday by appointment. Closed on Sunday.. Files are sent digitally; hand delivery on drive by appointment at Haarlemmerweg 178.
Included
- Critical listening on calibrated monitors
- Loudness and true-peak check for streaming
- EQ and dynamics for release-ready sound
- Album-level matching up to 12 tracks
- 2 revision rounds per order
- WAV and MP3 preview export
- 24-month archive
FAQ
Does my mix need to be finished?
Yes. Mastering assumes a completed stereo mix. Small balance tweaks may happen in mastering; structural changes belong in mix production.
Do you master stems?
Standard work is on stereo mixes. Stem mastering or Atmos is outside this rate—describe the project and we see if we can schedule or refer you.
How do I send files?
Via a secure upload link after confirmation. Avoid compressed MP3 as source unless it is all you have—we align expectations first.
What if I only need one revision?
You may use fewer rounds; 2 is the included maximum. Unused rounds are not refunded, but we do not force extra passes.
Do you supply ISRC codes?
No—you obtain ISRCs from your label or distributor. We can embed codes you provide following our metadata guide.
Can mastering happen the same week as my mix?
Sometimes, if the mix is truly final and the calendar has space. Better to leave a few days between mix sign-off and mastering so you can listen to the first master with fresh ears.
Other services
Vocal recording
Lead, doubles and ad-libs in an iso booth with an engineer, cue mix and room for multiple takes.
€95per hour
Live ensemble recording
Drums, bass, keys and guitars together in the live room; iso room for amps and space for overdubs.
€125per hour (engineer included)
Mix production
From multitrack to stereo mix; on site or from delivered session files with a clear track list.
€185per track (offline)
Podcast and dialogue recording
Two to four speakers on table or broadcast mics, basic editing and delivery as WAV or MP3.
€78per hour
Recording in Amsterdam?
Tell us about your session
Briefly describe your project and dates: within 2 working days you receive a slot proposal and a written quote, no obligation.