Learn
about what makes
good audio mastering
At Aucourant Media Services, good mastering is the convergence of technical precision, critical listening, and artistic judgment—a process that transforms a finished mix into a polished, commercially viable final product. Inspired by the meticulous approach of acclaimed mastering engineer Thomas “Plec” Johansson, we prioritize both subjective musicality and objective technical accuracy in every project.
Mastering is not simply about loudness or volume maximization. Instead, it requires careful optimization of the full frequency spectrum, dynamic range, stereo imaging, and transient response to ensure the music translates flawlessly across all playback environments—from high-end monitoring systems to modest Bluetooth speakers.
One of the key challenges mastering engineers face, as Plec highlights, is addressing issues caused by inadequate monitoring during mixing. Low-end and midrange frequency imbalances or masking can easily go unnoticed in small or untreated mix rooms. Our workflow emphasizes high-resolution, neutral monitoring, alongside Weiss Engineering’s renowned hardware—such as the EQ-1 equalizer and DS-1 compressors—known for their transparent, precise control and subtle harmonic enhancement (“mojo”) that adds warmth and character without compromising clarity.
We employ a hybrid mastering chain, combining the best of analog gear and digital processing to fine-tune your audio. This approach allows us to:
- Sculpt low-end tightness without muddiness
- Preserve transient impact and clarity in midrange instruments
- Control harshness or sibilance through surgical equalization
- Shape stereo width and depth for immersive spatial definition
- Tailor compression attack and release for musical dynamics and punch
Mastering is also about adaptation to delivery formats. Whether your music is destined for streaming platforms with loudness normalization, compact disc replication, or vinyl pressing, we adjust loudness targets, dynamic range, and phase coherence accordingly. This ensures your master sounds consistent and natural everywhere, retaining its emotional intensity even on limited playback devices like mono Bluetooth speakers.
While we specialize in genres that demand nuance and complexity—such as ambient, electroacoustic, electronic, instrumental, and cinematic music—our mastering expertise extends to all musical styles. From EDM, IDM, and hip-hop to acoustic and classical projects, we bring the same level of care, precision, and artistic sensitivity to every genre and format.
Ultimately, good mastering respects the original mix while enhancing its strengths and resolving its weaknesses—delivering a sonically balanced, emotionally compelling, and technically flawless master ready for commercial release. At Aucourant Media Services, that’s our commitment to your sound.