The best mix level before mastering is generally considered to be -6 dB FS (full scale). This leaves enough headroom for the mastering engineer to work with without clipping the signal. However, the ideal mix level can vary depending on the genre of music and the desired sound.
Here are some tips for setting the mix level before mastering:
- Use a peak meter. A peak meter is a tool that shows you the highest level of the signal. Set the mix level so that the peaks are around -6 dB FS.
- Listen to your mix in different environments. Play your mix back on headphones, in a car, and on a speaker system to make sure that the mix level is consistent in different environments.
- Compare your mix to other reference mixes. Listen to other mixes in your genre and compare the mix level to your own mix. This can help you to get a better idea of what a good mix level is for your genre.
Once you have set the mix level, you can export the mix as a high-quality audio file, such as a WAV or AIFF file. Then, you can send the mix file to a mastering engineer for mastering.
Here are some additional tips for getting a good mix level before mastering:
- Avoid clipping. Clipping occurs when the signal level exceeds 0 dB FS. Clipping can cause the signal to distort and sound harsh.
- Leave enough headroom. Headroom is the space between the highest level of the signal and 0 dB FS. Leaving enough headroom gives the mastering engineer room to work with without clipping the signal.
- Don’t try to make the mix too loud. It is important to avoid trying to make the mix too loud before mastering. The mastering engineer can make the mix loud without sacrificing sound quality.
By following these tips, you can set the mix level before mastering in a way that gives the mastering engineer the best possible chance to create a great-sounding master.
