In this week’s podcast, Julian is joined by mastering engineers Katie Tavini and Mike Thorne to discuss mastering. In a time when everyone has access to tools similar to those used by mastering engineers, what can a mastering engineer bring to a project?
Katie Tavini
Katie Tavini is a Mancunian mastering engineer, now based in Brighton, whose credits include Emeli Sandé, Arlo Parks and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. Since starting in 2014, the growing range of Katie's discography is testament to her versatility as an engineer. She is at home with everything from the heaviest metal to the lushest orchestral works and everything in between.
Mike Thorne
Mike Thorne has been playing, recording and mixing music professionally for over 23 years. He works out of his studio, Rimshot, in the UK and is one third of production company Brik Hit House, Mike has worked as a mastering engineer for artists including The Brand New Heavies, KT Tunstall and Procol Harum.
Arturia
Arturia has a wide selection of software effects, including 3 Compressors, 3 Filters, 3 Preamps, and 3 Delays You'll Actually Use. The latest release, 3 Delays You'll Actually Use, includes Delay TAPE-201, Delay MEMORY BRIGADE, and the unique and experimental Delay ETERNITY. A bundle of selected effects, called the AudioFuse Creative Suite, is included with all AudioFuse audio interfaces. Visit arturia dot com to find out more on the Effects You'll Actually Use.
Talking Points
Rather than start with the inevitable “what is mastering” question. Let’s start by asking how can you as mastering engineers help your clients? What is it that your clients are paying for?
Anyone producing music has access to similar tools to your’s. Why not master your own material?
We’re going to need to talk about monitoring. Why can you trust your monitoring?
What questions should someone ask a mastering engineer before working with them?
Which would you prefer, an attended session or an unattended session with good comms with the client? Why?
Do you have any experience of automated mastering services? Any comment?
Has your approach changed to accommodate Loudness standards and streaming?
Is there a particular learning resource you’d direct someone wanting to get into mastering to?
Do you use hardware? Why?
Source Elements
The Production Expert Podcast is made possible using ‘Source-Connect Now' from Source Elements, the free way to record high quality audio over the internet. Need to record an interview, or a podcast like this one, remotely? With 'Source-Connect Now', you can. Using a Chrome browser, you'll get ISDN equivalent quality audio, without the need to install any additional software. Register for your free account at the special page on the Source Elements website
Find Of The Week
Julian - Having a pair of monitors behind you in your studio
Katie - The Psychology Of Analogue
Mike - Time Guru iOS?Android App
RSPE Audio Solutions
RSPE Audio Solutions design, sell and install professional audio and video equipment. Their team are available by phone, live chat, or email to receive and process orders. They have everything you need to build or upgrade your home studio to ensure you can continue to work from home. If there is anything they can do to help, reach out or shop online at RSPEaudio.com