Basically, What is Mastering And How Important Is It?

[1 M.I.C]

So Ive been looking around at some studios to record at in my area, (I rap just fyi) and some offer mastering in the package, some you have to pay for it, and some dont have it at all..

Now im wondering how important is mastering and what exactly are they doing when they "master" a track. i dont need too many specifics but just generally speaking, what is it?

Im wondering because i could record at a home studio, very basic, for free, or i could spend 25 bucks an hour to record at a home studio, a more advanced one, that offers mastering or i could put out like 40 bucks an hour for a "pro" studio that offers mastering..

so assuming all could produce the same leval of quality before masting, id like to know how important it is so i can get a better idea on which one to choose.

[1 M.I.C]

no one ?

[brandondrury]

Now im wondering how important is mastering and what exactly are they doing when they "master" a track

I'm holding off on this one because I'll be posting my interview with one of the top mastering dudes in the country, Eric Conn, in hopefully the next couple of days.

Brandon

[Charlie_M]

Great. Looking forward to reading that.

[brandondrury]

Understanding Audio Mastering: An Interview With Eric Conn