BOOT CAMP: Music Mastering

General Course Information

Mastering is the art of optimizing final mixes for media and creating a competitive final product. This course utilizes WaveBurner software in conjunction with Logic and Audio Units plug-ins. Source material in the form of mono or stereo left/right audio is processed utilizing equalization, compression, noise reduction and spatial imaging to improve the sonic quality. A master audio recording is then created for use in duplication and replication of digital and analog media. This form of audio post-production also encompasses track fade in/out, spacing between songs, album sequence or assembly, volume leveling, M/S processing and effects. The students will be active participants in the session utilizing practical exercises as well as instructor-demonstrated procedures.

THEORY

Introduction to the concept of mastering
Production pipelines
Approaches to mastering
Mastering concepts for different music styles
Overview of compression and EQ
Creating media for final delivery

PRACTICAL

Software (Peak, IK Multimedia software, WaveBurner)
Hardware (Focusrite Red, Neve Genesys, SSL AWS)

PREREQUISITES

There are no academic requirements to participate in this program.
Participant must be 16 years or over.
Participants are not required to bring any equipment.

Your Instructor

Instructors for the Bootcamps are local industry professionals with experience in teaching small groups. Given the intense professional nature of these indviduals, the specific instructor for each class may not be determined until the week prior to the Bootcamp. Each and every one of our instructors has been selected becuase of their expertise in the field and the fun in which they deliver the material.

Location

SAE Institute of Technology
450 Bryant Street
San Francisco, CA 94107

Sunday, September 19th, 2010 10 AM-5 PM

What is mastering and why do I need it?
Mastering monitors
Formats and mastering styles: Vinyl, analog, digital.
Equalization, compression, spatial imaging and noise reduction
How does the multi-track mix affect mastering?
How does overall multi-track mix compression affect the mastering process?

Creating better mixes for mastering
How much can mastering do to fix a weak mix?
Album sequencing
Track fades and spacing
CD-R requirements (Red Book Standard)
ISRC codes (International Standard Recording Code)
Digital metering, calibration, gain structure, dithering and M/S processing
Printing the mastered mix

What’s Provided

Snacks and beverages will be provided during the day.

Student Responsibilities:

Arriving to class 15 minutes early in order to prepare for the day. Cancellations: Enrolled students may cancel up to 72 hours before the event.

Registration Process

We recommend registering for this course as early as possible. You will receive an email confirmation with course details. All places are awarded on a first-come-first-served basis.

Fees

$50 Registration Fee
$250 Tuition due prior to class start.
$300 Total Fee

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