Discovering Mastering Audio

What you need to know about this course

This course gives students an understanding of the process of mastering an audio production. Students get prepped with audio theory and practical classes to clearly define the differences between a completed audio project and a final master project for commercial distribution. The course covers basic and intermediate level techniques to successfully produce a mastered audio project.

Who is it for

Creatives and audiophiles who are experienced in recording and mixing process of audio production and would like to gain a better understanding of the mastering process.

What is Mastering

Definition
History
Mastering vs duplication (pre-mastering vs mass production)

Mastering Process

Acoustics of the mastering room
Equalizers in mastering
Dynamics in mastering
ADC /DAC
SRC and dither
Mastering DAW’s
Audio restoration (noise reduction/removal, de-clicking)
Mastering consoles
Analogue and digital merge
Monitoring for mastering

Mastering Workflow

Home Mastering

Using computer native processing

Professional mastering

Mastering console
Analogue processing
System digital clock (sync)
Dedicated DAC and ADC
Speaker monitor control
Pitch and capture
Use of mastering DAW
PQ codes, fades, track markers, CD text, ISRC

Critical Listening

Examples of mastering thru the decades
Loudness wars

Practical demonstration

Mastering a single track by using home and professional approach
Mastering a compilation of tracks
Delivery

Software Package

Wave Burner

Qualification

SAE Discovering Mastering Audio Certificate

Entry Requirements

There are no academic requirements to participate in this programme. The student needs to be a minimum of 17 years of age upon commencement of the course.