Mixing and Mastering
The definitive stage where a recording becomes music. We enhance the clarity, balance, and power of your tracks to ensure your work sounds competitive on any playback system, from headphones to large club arrays.
Mixing and mastering are distinct yet complementary processes that define the sonic identity of a project. While mixing focuses on the individual balance of every instrument and vocal within a song, mastering is the final stage of optimization. It ensures that the volume and equalization are coherent across an entire album or single, preparing it for digital or physical distribution.
At Sticketzyra, we approach post-production with a blend of technical precision and artistic intuition. We do not apply generic formulas; instead, we analyze the emotional intent of the composition to highlight key elements. Using an acoustically treated environment in the heart of Valencia, we ensure that every frequency decision is precise and transparent, avoiding unwanted colorations that could compromise audio compatibility.
Our 4-Step Workflow
- Analysis and Organization: We review the received files, verify stem synchronization, and analyze the song structure to define the sonic goals.
- Balance and Processing: We execute the mix by adjusting levels, panning, corrective equalization, and compression to create space for every element.
- Polishing and Mastering: We apply final bus processing, limiting, and loudness optimization (LUFS) according to the intended destination of the work.
- Review and Delivery: We send a preliminary version for adjustments. Once approved, we deliver the final files in the agreed formats.
Who are these services designed for?
Our post-production services are oriented toward a wide range of creators. This includes independent musicians and bands who have recorded their tracks at home or in our studio and require a professional finish, as well as producers seeking an external technical perspective to finalize their compositions. We also work with soundtrack composers and content creators who require their audio to have a consistent and clean sonic impact.
If you feel that your recordings sound "flat," that instruments are clashing, or that the final volume is significantly lower than the songs you hear on Spotify or Apple Music, professional mixing and mastering is the necessary solution to bridge the gap between a demo and a commercial product.
How we develop the mixing session
The process begins with detailed communication. We do not mix blindly; we request musical references (links to published songs that possess the sound you wish to achieve). This allows us to understand if you are seeking an organic, vintage sound or something modern, compressed, and aggressive. During the mix, we focus on the sonic hierarchy: deciding which element should lead at any given moment and how spatial effects (reverbs and delays) can add depth without cluttering the mix.
Mastering, for its part, acts as the "seal of quality." In this phase, we ensure the track has no problematic frequencies that could cause distortion on small systems and that the dynamics are appropriate for the musical genre. This entire process is carried out under strict monitoring standards in our Valencia studio.
Required preparation for the client
To guarantee maximum quality and avoid delays, it is fundamental that the client prepares the material as follows:
- Stem/Multitrack Files: Files must be delivered in WAV or AIFF format, without time-stretch effects and preferably without destructive processing.
- Consolidation: All tracks must start exactly at second zero of the project to avoid alignment issues.
- Clear Nomenclature: Each file should be named correctly (e.g., "Kick_Drum.wav", "Lead_Vocal.wav") to streamline the workflow.
- Sonic Reference: Send one or two links to published songs that represent the sought-after sonic ideal.
Deliverables and final results
Upon completion, the client receives a package of optimized files ready for use. We do not simply deliver a file; we provide a complete technical solution including:
- Final Master: High-resolution WAV file (typically 24-bit / 44.1kHz or higher) optimized for digital platforms.
- MP3 Version: High-quality compressed file (320kbps) for quick previews.
- Mix Stems: Upon request, we can deliver mixed instrument groups (drums, vocals, instruments) for future remix needs or live sound.
- Technical Documentation: Information on the achieved loudness levels (LUFS) to ensure correct upload to distributors.
Delivery times and deadlines
Processing time varies based on project complexity and the number of tracks. For a standard single, the delivery time for the first mix version is usually 7 to 14 calendar days. Mastering is a faster process, generally completed within 3 to 5 days after the mix is approved.
It is important to note that deadlines begin once all necessary material is received and the corresponding deposit is paid. Any requests for additional changes outside the included rounds may extend the final delivery date.
What is NOT included in the service
To avoid misunderstandings, we clarify that mixing and mastering do not include the following:
- Recording new takes: If we detect that a vocal take is technically unsalvageable during mixing, the client must schedule a new recording session (separate service).
- Deep audio editing: Exhaustive cleaning of background noise or detailed melodic pitch correction for every phrase is considered a pre-mix editing service.
- Composition or Arrangements: We do not modify the musical structure or add new instruments during the mixing phase.
Price calculation and Taxes
Our rates are based on project complexity (track count) and the type of service. The prices indicated in our table include the 21% VAT applicable in Spain. For B2B clients (companies or registered freelancers), we provide an invoice breaking down the taxable base and the corresponding tax.
The final cost is determined by whether only mastering of a pre-mixed track is required or the full process from multitracks. Please remember that, according to our terms of service, a prior deposit is required to begin work.
Service details: What exactly is included?
- Corrective and creative equalization of every track.
- Dynamic compression for peak control and sonic cohesion.
- Depth management through professional reverbs and delays.
- Volume and pan automation to give movement to the song.
- Final limiting to achieve competitive volume levels.
- Phase control and mono compatibility.
- Up to 3 rounds of revisions included to ensure total satisfaction.
| Service | Price incl. VAT (21%) | Price excl. VAT | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full Mix | 250 € | 206.61 € | per track |
| Final Mastering | 80 € | 66.12 € | per track |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I send tracks recorded at home?
Yes, provided the files have a minimum technical quality (no digital clipping or excessive noise). The quality of the mix depends heavily on the quality of the original source.
What happens if I am not satisfied with the first version?
We include up to 3 rounds of revisions. You can request specific changes in levels, equalization, or effects, and we will implement them to reach the desired sound.
What is the difference between mixing and mastering?
Mixing is the individual work with each track to make them fit together. Mastering is the final process on the already mixed file to optimize general loudness and compatibility.
In what format should I deliver my files?
We prefer uncompressed WAV or AIFF files, with a minimum resolution of 24 bits and a sampling rate of 44.1 kHz or higher.
To delve deeper into the legal aspects of your work, we recommend reading our guide on master rights and mixing options. If you wish to explore other recording services, you can visit our full services catalog.
We are ready to give your music the finish it deserves. To request a personalized quote or book a date, you can contact us via our contact page or by calling +34 96 334 02 68.