"The Hideout Studio has the whole package. Recording with the coolest gear and microphones, mixing by Lucas Illanes’ finely tuned ears, and mastering by Jacob Nørgaard, who masters at world-class level. On top of that you can get great-looking live session videos that are top notch. Huge recommendation from us!"
Rasmus Trinderup - ROYA - Baum Guitars Artist - Ballosh - Theresa REX (translated from Danish)
Online mastering from DKK 550, or in our recording studio in Aalborg
The last step before distribution: mastering in a professional recording studio.
Mastering: the last step before distribution
At The Hideout Studio we offer professional mastering in-house, done by our Berklee and HOFA trained mastering engineer, Jacob Nørgaard. We are known for our mixing and recording, and now you can get the same quality and expertise in the final, decisive stage of your music production.
What is mastering, and what can mastering in a professional recording studio do?
Mastering is the last, but crucial, stage before your music is ready for distribution. This is where your mix is refined and balanced so it sounds its best on every playback system and platform, from online/streaming to CD and vinyl. The process includes adjusting frequency balance, dynamics and stereo image to create a professional and coherent sound.
Sound tailored to you
Jacob Nørgaard works closely with you to understand your vision and your musical goals. That way we make sure the details of your mix are kept, and that the end result is exactly what you had in mind. We believe in dialogue, feedback and sparring, because working together is how we get the sound just right.
Your music, your expression
The purpose of mastering is to take the music to its final level, so you can present it as well as possible in a competitive market. At The Hideout Studio we take pride in keeping the unique character of your music while improving the overall impression.
Want to know more?
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Read about our approach and equipment in the studio
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Discover the flexibility of online mastering
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Ready to take your project further? Contact us for a no-obligation chat
Whether you are polishing a new album or have a single track that needs to sound right on every platform, you are in good hands with Jacob Nørgaard and The Hideout Studio. Let's take your music to the next level together. It deserves it.
Our recording studio in Aalborg: 3 reasons to record with us
Where the word mastering comes from
Mastering, in an audio context, is the process where the music or audio is made ready for distribution.
The word itself comes from the vinyl process, where a "master" was used: the disc that was pressed into the vinyl, so every copy was made from this master.
I was lucky enough to study under legends such as Jonathan Wyner during my time at Berklee. He was a huge inspiration, as were other teachers of mine, including Jesper Siddelmann, whom I studied under at the Jutland Academy of Music (Det Jyske Musikkonservatorium).
Like me, Jonathan Wyner pays close attention to the original mix, since the mix has already been approved by a happy client. If the artist or band is happy with the mix, why change it drastically?
You can expect an extra pair of ears, industry experience, and a track that is ready for distribution. I will always try to add as much as possible to YOUR music without making my own sound too obvious.
Mixing or mastering: what is the difference?
In short: in mixing you put the individual tracks together, in mastering you optimise the sum of the tracks. If you need the full answer, and what the two cost, I have written it up in detail here.
How much does mastering cost?
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Album master (min. 6 tracks): DKK 400 per track
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Single master: DKK 550
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EP master (min. 6 tracks): DKK 450 per track
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DDP file (CD): DKK 250 including ISRC codes
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Vinyl master: DKK 500 for a separate vinyl master, if your album has already been mastered with us.
What can you expect from mastering?
I was lucky enough to study under legends such as Jonathan Wyner during my time at Berklee. He was a huge inspiration, as were other teachers of mine, including Jesper Siddelmann, whom I studied under at the Jutland Academy of Music (Det Jyske Musikkonservatorium).
Like me, Jonathan Wyner pays close attention to the original mix, since the mix has already been approved by a happy client. If the artist or band is happy with the mix, why change it drastically?
You can expect an extra pair of ears, industry experience, and a track that is ready for distribution. I will always try to add as much as possible to YOUR music without making my own sound too obvious.
Online master: ready for a competitive streaming market
CD: DDP
Ready for pressing, in safe hands
Vinyl master: vinyl is back in a big way!
Streaming-optimised mastering
One main master will often be enough, at a competitive level but still with a feel for dynamics. As my teacher at Berklee said:
"With great power comes great responsibility Jacob"
- Jonathan Wyner - Berklee College of Music
The dying mastering discipline: DDP master
Once you have hired a recording studio and recorded , and then had your music mixed, you are ready for mastering, and this is where some artists will want to have a CD made!
Most CDs are sent to the pressing plant as a digital file called a DDP file. The DDP file contains all the audio, information about the gaps between tracks, and codes such as ISRC and possibly UPC/EAN.
A DDP file can also contain CD-Text, which describes the album title, the individual song titles and the artist name.
CD-Text is only shown on some CD players and generally cannot be read by computers. We advise against using special characters, such as Æ, Ø and Å, in CD-Text.
We work closely with TEWA, so if you need a partner for pressing CDs, they are a competent and reliable choice.
A memento of your recording: get a CD pressed
CDs in a digital age? Yes, it might sound old-fashioned, but believe it or not, CDs are far from dead! At The Hideout Studio we still believe in the magic of physical music, and even though streaming and downloads dominate today, there is still an audience that loves the feeling of a good old CD in their hand. So let's dive into how CDs can play an important role for you as a musician, in a fun, cheeky and slightly nostalgic way!
Physical souvenirs from the recording studio for your fans
Think about it: who doesn't love taking something physical home from a gig? A CD is much more than just a piece of plastic that came to life in a recording studio. It is a souvenir, a reminder of a night full of good music, sweaty stages and great vibes, carefully worked on, mixed and mastered. When fans go home with a CD, they take part of the experience with them. And let's be honest: who doesn't love flicking through a nicely designed album cover and reading the lyrics while the music plays? It is a completely different experience from just pressing “play” on a digital player. Let your audience feel some of the magic from the recording in the recording studio.
Record a CD: exclusive content, only on CD!
Want to give your fans something they can't get anywhere else? Here is a pro tip: add bonus material to your CD! We are talking behind-the-scenes videos, remix stems, acoustic versions or even a few great live recordings that can't be found anywhere else. That is exactly the kind of thing that gets collectors and hardcore fans cheering. If they know they can get something exclusive on your CD, they are more likely to take it home.
CDs are not just for nostalgics: get a CD master
Okay, we know streaming is the big hit and that many people carry their music collection in their pocket. But here is the thing: not everyone has said goodbye to CDs. In fact, there are still plenty of drivers out there with CD players in their cars, and it is not only the ones listening to ‘80s hits! CDs are still popular with certain groups, and many adults still prefer the reliability and quality a physical CD can offer. For them, CDs are not just music. They are a real medium that doesn't depend on Wi-Fi or streaming services.
Boost your sales with CDs
When we talk about CDs, we are also talking about branding. Your CD design can be a statement, an extension of your music. Have you thought about using great cover art or a unique packaging design that really makes your release stand out? There is nothing like a well-made CD package that screams “WOW!” to your fans. And yes, you can still sell them at gigs, in merch shops and even online. Many fans love getting something tangible from their favourite artists.
The last word: why CDs still matter
CDs may not be the main way people listen to music today, but they still have an important role to play. From nostalgics and collectors to the hardcore fans who simply MUST have everything from their favourite artist, CDs are a great addition to your digital release. They are a chance to give your fans something extra, something personal, and something that lasts.
So if you are wondering whether CDs are still relevant, the answer is YES! Here at The Hideout Studio we are ready to help you make your CD releases something special. From pressing to design, we have you covered. Let's create something your fans will love!
Vinyl is back!
There are no specific guidelines for mixing for vinyl, but there are three factors that can affect the quality of the cut:
1) It is recommended that the sub bass is mono compatible in the mix itself.
Use, for example, Voxengo´SPAN to check this beforehand.
2) High-frequency energy must be kept under control, also at the mixing stage.
The rest can be handled during mastering.
On a 12" 33⅓ LP it is recommended to keep the playing time under 20 minutes per side. Up to 22 minutes can be acceptable, but a longer playing time will reduce the sound quality of the whole side, not only the part that goes beyond the recommended length.
The last track or tracks on each side of a record will always have reduced quality, because the sound quality drops the closer you get to the small inner grooves.
Vinyl Mastering: Possibly the Ultimate Format for Your Music!
Are you an artist thinking about releasing your music on vinyl? Then read on! Vinyl is more than just a nostalgic medium. It is a real listening experience that can give your music new life and bring it closer to your fans.
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Many music lovers prefer vinyl. The analogue format reproduces music in a way that can feel more alive and engaging than digital audio, some claim....
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No limits from the loudness war: in the digital world there is a tendency to master music as loud as possible to stand out on streaming services. Vinyl, on the other hand, is not bound by the digital "loudness war", which gives you the freedom to create a more dynamic and nuanced sound.
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A physical connection to your music: in an age of digital streaming, vinyl is a physical product that gives your fans a tangible connection to your music. They can hold the record in their hands, admire the cover art and experience the music as a whole.
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A collector's item: vinyl records have become collector's items, especially limited editions and special editions. This can increase the value of your music and build hype around your release.
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A deeper listening experience: listening to vinyl takes an active effort: finding the record, putting it on the turntable and getting absorbed in the music. This ritual can lead to a more focused and intense listening experience.
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Vinyl can be a relatively expensive way to distribute your music: expect between DKK 150 and 250 per pressed record.
In short, vinyl is the perfect format for artists who want to present their music in its purest form and give their fans a unique and engaging listening experience!
Contact us today to hear more about how we can help you release your music on vinyl.
Vinyl is back, but not as before
The continued and surprising return of vinyl album sales in the USA carries on in the digital age. According to the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), 41.3 million EPs/LPs were sold in the USA in 2021, more than 45 times as many as in 2006, when the vinyl comeback began.
Mastering FAQ
Mastering FAQ
Below you will find answers to some of the most common questions about mastering. If you have more questions, you are always welcome to contact us for a more in-depth chat about your project.
1. What is mastering?
Mastering is the last stage of music production, where a finished mix is refined and optimised so it sounds professional and consistent on every playback system, from streaming services and radio to CD and vinyl. During mastering, frequencies, dynamics and stereo image are adjusted to create a balanced and competitive sound.
2. Why is mastering necessary?
Mastering makes sure your music has a consistent level and tone, which is key to making it stand out in a good way. It gives a final lift in quality, so your tracks are presented as well as possible on every platform. Without mastering, your music risks lacking that crucial professional finish.
3. Why is a good mix fundamental?
A solid mix is the basis for successful mastering. Mastering can improve a lot, but it cannot save a mix with major balance problems or too much compression. The more work you put into your mix, the better the end result. So make sure levels, effects and panning are the way you want them before you send files for mastering.
4. How do I prepare my files for mastering?
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Export your mixes in high resolution (24-bit or 32-bit float, 44.1 kHz or higher).
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Avoid limiting or heavy compression on the master bus (ideally leave 3-6 dB of headroom).
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Feel free to include reference tracks or notes about specific wishes, so the mastering engineer can work from your vision.
5. Can I master my music myself?
You can try mastering your own music with the right tools and experience, but a fresh and experienced pair of ears will often give a better and more objective assessment of your sound. A professional mastering engineer can catch details you might miss, and has the necessary equipment and acoustically optimised listening conditions.
6. What are the benefits of a separate vinyl master?
A vinyl master takes the format's physical limits and possibilities into account. Vinyl has a different frequency response and dynamic range from digital formats, and that often requires an adapted mastering process. With a dedicated vinyl master you make sure the sound is used to the full and avoid distortion or frequency problems that can occur on vinyl. An album master costs DKK 400 per track with a minimum of 6 tracks, an EP master DKK 450 per track, and a single DKK 550. A DDP file for CD is DKK 250, and a separate vinyl master DKK 500. If we both mix and master, the price is DKK 3,550 per song.
7. How much does mastering cost?
The price depends on the size of the project, the number of tracks and any special requests (for example both a digital and a vinyl master). Many studios offer package deals for EPs or albums as well as a fixed price per track for singles. Contact us for a tailored quote that matches your needs.
8. What are ISRC codes, and do I need them?
ISRC (International Standard Recording Code) is a unique code that identifies your recordings. It is especially useful if you want to track how your songs are used across streaming services, radio and other platforms. If you are planning an official release, we recommend including ISRC codes in the master file.
9. What is a DDP image?
DDP (Disc Description Protocol) is a file standard for CD production. A DDP image contains all the information needed to manufacture a CD: track splits, ISRC codes, CD-Text and so on. If you want a physical release, DDP is preferable to a burned reference CD because it is more reliable and less prone to errors.
Do you have more questions, or want to hear more about how we can help polish your project? Contact us. We are ready for a no-obligation conversation about your musical vision.
Mastering: loudness!
The arrangement is the foundation of a mix: get feedback before mastering.
Get professional feedback on the arrangement, from recording to finished master.
(anyone can slam a wave file into a limiter, but is that actually smart?)
1. The arrangement: the foundation for a full and clear sound
A well-structured arrangement can do wonders for your music. The better we spread the instruments across different frequency ranges, the easier it is to create space and air in the production.
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Avoid overlap in the same frequency range: fewer elements in the same register (for example two instruments that both dominate the midrange) give a more balanced sound, so each track can stand out clearly.
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Planning at the writing stage: already while you compose and arrange, we can make sure together that every part of the track has its own space. That gives us a better starting point for a professional sound in the later stages.
My recommendation: consider whether too many instruments are competing for the same space. By trimming or redistributing tracks, we create an arrangement that is both powerful and clear, which ultimately gives a louder, more dynamic experience.
2. Mixing: control over every detail before mastering
When the arrangement is solid, the mixing process becomes easier to manage. But mixing still takes care and collaboration, so we make sure every instrument and vocal track comes through as well as possible.
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Dynamic balance: we adjust volume and use compression so key elements (such as vocals, drums and bass) always sit at the right level. That way the music doesn't “sway” too much in intensity.
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Creative choices: if a passage sounds cluttered, we can decide together to turn down or remove some tracks. That leaves room for the most important elements to stand out more sharply.
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Sonic coherence: the goal is to bring all the sound sources together so the song feels consistent and well balanced. Then we can turn up the volume without the sound becoming flat or distorted.
My recommendation: want to read more about how we approach mixing at The Hideout? Visit our page on Mixing, where you will find more details about the process, equipment and collaboration.
3. Mastering: the final polish
Mastering is often seen as “the magic touch”, but in reality it is a process that is mainly about overall balance and coherence.
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RMS vs. peak: we keep an eye on both the average level (RMS) and the highest peaks. To keep the dynamics, there has to be some room between the two, otherwise we risk distortion.
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Polishing rather than repairing: a mastering engineer can remove unwanted energy and optimise the overall sound, but we cannot change individual details to the same extent as in the mix. That is why a good mix is crucial.
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Shared vision: the clearer we are about the style and sound you want, the more precise the mastering process can be. It is about finding the ideal combination of “high output” and preserved dynamics.
My recommendation: consider our Online Mastering service if you want a flexible option with the same high quality. You can also read more about our physical studio and equipment on the Our Studio page.
4. A balanced approach to loudness in mastering
It is tempting to push the music as loud as possible, but remember that “loudness” is not just a matter of raising the volume.
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Music before meters: good arrangements and well-considered mix decisions create a sense of “bigger sound” on their own.
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Dynamics are your friend: if everything is maxed out, we lose contrast and nuance. When we keep room for both quiet and powerful sections, we can create a more gripping and lively listening experience.
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The whole experience: think about the listener's entire journey. Is there room for both calm and explosive moments? That kind of variation can actually make the music feel louder and more engaging overall.
My recommendation: let's focus together on how the arrangement and mix fit best, before we worry about reaching maximum level. That often gives a better and more competitive result in the end.
Conclusion
Loudness is not only about peak limiters and compression; it is the result of well-thought-out collaboration from the first sketch to the final finish in mastering. When we prioritise a well-considered arrangement, a well-balanced mixing stage and a polishing master, we get a sound that is powerful, pleasant to listen to and keeps its full dynamics.
Do you have questions or want to discuss your project? Contact us for a no-obligation chat. Together we can make sure your music keeps its unique character, however loud we decide to go.