From mix to master
Mastering assumes creative choices are set in the mix. Avoid sending heavily limited mixes where transients are already crushed; that limits what we can adjust without audible artefacts.
We do not fix missing bass or vocal balance — that belongs in mixing or a new mix pass. We do optimise the whole for distribution: clicks, DC offset and unwanted sub are handled before loudness work.
For singles we usually deliver one master plus a separate instrumental if you supplied it. Albums are sequenced with gaps and level transitions you approve.
Streaming, download and CD
Streaming services normalise playback; we aim for common integrated loudness around −14 LUFS for stereo without claiming every service stays identical. True peak stays conservative to avoid clipping after encoding.
See streaming loudness targets for context. For download-style releases we can leave slightly more dynamics — state your preference when ordering.
CD masters sometimes need slightly different peak settings than streaming-only; name the medium on the contact form.
Vinyl master
Vinyl needs a different master than digital: careful bass mono, tamer highs and shorter side length. Rate: €165 incl. VAT per vinyl side (€136.36 excl.).
We deliver WAV suited to your pressing plant; DDP rarely applies to vinyl. Agree track order and side split early — changes after approval may bill as a new side.
Album packages
Up to twelve tracks on one album: €420 incl. VAT (€347.11 excl.) when delivered as one project with a clear track list. Standalone singles stay €105 each.
| Product | Incl. VAT | Excl. VAT |
|---|---|---|
| Per track | €105 | €86.78 |
| Album (≤ 12 tracks) | €420 | €347.11 |
| Vinyl per side | €165 | €136.36 |
More than twelve tracks or multiple formats at once: custom quote via [email protected].
Revisions and limits
You get 2 revision rounds after the first master — for example slightly less sibilance or half a dB lower loudness. Bundle changes per round. Uploading a new mix after mastering counts as a new project.
We do not master mp3 sources as final sources. Use 24-bit WAV at the project sample rate. More on scope: FAQ and terms and conditions.
Who masters
Jasper Meijer masters in the dedicated suite with full-range monitoring. Thijs Bakker sometimes joins on album sequencing. Team details on about us; studio in Oud-West since 2020.
Attended mastering is limited by appointment during Mon–Fri 9:30–18:30, Sat 12–16 (by appointment) — default workflow is offline with listening links.
Reference masters from other artists are fine as direction, not as an exact loudness target; we never clone another title meter-for-meter.
Delivery formats
- Stereo 24-bit WAV for digital release.
- DDP for CD when you order that medium — request explicitly.
- Vinyl-ready WAV per side at vinyl rate.
- Short PDF or email with LUFS, true peak and file names.
Files via secure link; keep your own backups. Natickpixelhub B.V. archives 18 months per privacy policy.
Chain with recording and mix
Typical path: vocal recording → mixing → mastering. Skipping mastering on a rough mix is a deliberate demo choice. Podcasts and voice-over have different goals; see podcast recording and voice-over.
The studio is on Kinkerstraat in Oud-West, within walking distance of Erasmuspark. Trams 7 and 17 serve the Kinkerstraat stop; from there it is about a three-minute walk. You can use the bike racks along Kinkerstraat. For busy release weeks, book mastering at least two weeks before street date. Quotes answered within 2 business days.
Included
- Mastering from supplied stereo mix
- 2 revision rounds on mastering feedback
- Short measurement report (LUFS / true peak)
- WAV masters for digital
- Sequence and gaps for album package
- Archive 18 months
- Technical mix check before processing
