Mastering Start To Finish - Step By Step Mastering Guide

In this video, I turned the camera on while mastering a mix to show you the steps I took to make it loud, clear and ready for release.
My main objectives were to enhance the mix and increase the cohesion of the layers.
💻 Check Out My Mastering Plugin: • Reviver Plugin Walkthr...
►The song is "All My Fault ft.NEZZY" Listen to the final master here on KZbin: • Clo Sur ft. NEZZY - Al...
0:00 - Intro and Remix Contest
0:45 - Equipment
1:10 - First listen
2:10 - Creating Headroom
5:00 - Compression
8:00 - EQ
10:00 - Controlling Sibilance
11:35 - The Chain
12:30 - Limiting
14:00 - Before and After (Loudness Matched)
15:30 - Before and After (No Loudness Matching)
16:10 - Conclusion
💻 Check Out My Mastering Plugin: • Reviver Plugin Walkthr...
🌍 My Website / Contact / Hire me - michaelwynneaudio.com
🎧 Become a member of this channel: / @inthemix
🎧 Patreon (Exclusive benefits): / inthemix
🎧 My Sound Banks / Preset Packs - inthemix.store
📱 Join My Free Discord - / discord
💸 Save money on DistroKid if you sign up through my custom link - distrokid.com/vip/inthemix
►Gear I am using and more notes:
Interface: Lynx Hilo
Headphones: Beyerdynamic DT 900 PROX
Speakers: PSI A23-M
DAW: FL Studio 20 (all daws can do this, free or paid)
Plugins: You can use any EQ and limiter. I chose the Youlean Loudness meter (free), Acustica Ivory 5, Fabfilter Pro Q3 and Pro L2.

[@inthemix]

Take part in the Remix Contest here: discord.com/invite/inthemix All the details are over on my Discord server. There are thousands of dollars worth of prizes to be won!

[@kbkareem1510]

HOW TO MASTER ACID PRO 8 AND CAN U HELP ME

[@erisedym4519]

Hey Michael, I have a problem. The Captcha won't let me through, I made like 20 and I still can't do it. Normally there are no problem with Captchas.

[@t0xcn253]

Very insightful and kept things straightforward, you are a gifted educator my guy

[@inthemix]

@@lacyjoyce I host them on Discord (an app most musicians use) to ensure it’s safe and I can verify the entries without the need for mailing lists. It’s as simple as joining our community and downloading the files right away. The rules and information are also dar easier to show and update on Discord and it provides a great community space where thousands of us can interact and share our work in progress.

[@inthemix]

@@erisedym4519 Which captcha?

[@GeoMusic99]

I became a musician almost overnight with your help. I'm learning so much with your help. This channel is godsent.

[@MatthewManney]

Seriously same. I feel so incredibly blessed

[@lordberly]

I record mosty hard rock and metal song, this channel is still one of my fave mixing tips on youtube 👌

[@SepehrYavari]

Bruh those lamps take the room's vibe to a whole new level and i LOVE it!!

[@waynech370]

First time got the fl studio demo I looked at it and just thought "so now what? 😕" luckily your beginners tutorial popped up on KZbin. Had fl studio nearly 2 years now and before that I was using mtv music generator on ps2-3. So I was amazed how good this daw actually is. I still have a lot to learn and your videos have been a massive help to me. Thanks for your knowledge and helpful tips for amatures like myself 👍

[@reread2549]

Thank you so much. I’m truly amazed how well you unmasked the recording. I would’ve been too uncomfortable to master such a hot mix. I would probably asked for mix corrections before attempting to master it, But you truly did A great job with just a few simple tools. Kudos

[@ForTheForsaken]

The pro Q 3 is a thing of beauty. I really love the threshold visibly leaving a line at it's peak so you know where to place it. I also love being able to compare channels to see where the frequencies are clashing

[@sancessounds]

Absolutely love these kind of style videos and walkthroughs. Please don't STOP!

[@wethem.records]

I must say , Thank you for your amazing Tutorials. Some might say they are long or too complex but that's the nieche of a bedroom audio engineer. You make Mastering easy to understand and also on a level where it really is a professional work. Without you I wouldn't be able to make countless songs on such a level as now. Thank you from WhoDemBoyZ Slovakia.

[@inthemix]

Thanks! I’m glad the format works for you. It is a tough situation when you have to produce, mix and master your own music!

[@sirdaveandre]

Might be I said this before : your channel is one of the best ones at music production topics. You're straight to the point and detailed same time. Easy to understand for both new and advanced people. AND : no or very few ( if at all? ) sponsored contents. Which is important to the people when it comes to decisions if they should buy A or B. They want an honest opinion and not "Everything is good" which you see on quite some channels out there. thx for the good work you put into it !

[@MattFlanc]

Great video! It's amazing to see you genuinely enjoying this process, and the smile when things work out made me smile too

[@anthonymetcalf660]

Been a while since I checked out your channel, like over a month. But it seems like you’re going strong and you represent a niche in the KZbin world. Not better or worse than others, but different. Kinda calming.

[@jade3866]

I followed these steps and it helped my track sound so clean. Thank for posting such amazing content. You’re my favorite channel

[@jasonbensonmusic]

Yesir!! Thank You, thank You!! Its awesome to see how comfortable You've become over the years. Much respect and appreciation bro☀️➕

[@t0xcn253]

Man this is exactly what I needed for the project I'm working on, bang on timing brother!

[@raffy3d]

Big fan of your work and thank you so much for the education, Michael! I just recently joined the server as well. Top notch content as always!

[@manpreetsingh-bs2sn]

Hi Michael, thank you for another great Video. I have seen other Mix / Master Videos as well ( appreciate their work too ) however, only in this channel I can see the content with transparency & straight to the point. :)

[@fdemar]

Great video! I like your technique of explaining a parameter, illustrating it's effect then doing an A/B. Very helpful in understanding the use and application of various tools in the studio. Your adult approach is much appreciated.

[@ventosiouskid8251]

Literally i was watching his old videos and i swear this one poped out 😮❤️

[@trillntrilln]

Been looking at ur other master videos but glad this came out cause I'm mastering my song & it's good to pick n choose ! Thanks for the info

[@mehmetabdullah250]

You make these things so understandable, thank you for these tutorials.

[@Dragan_Drazic]

Simply priceless your tips and clear explanations. Thank you so much Michael.

[@ludovicrambaud]

Great production from NEZZY ⚡️

[@emiel333]

Great mastering walkthrough, Michael!

[@ZeicoMusic]

thank you Micheal. Best from Poland!

[@ebonx7907]

You've got yourself a new subscriber. Keep those amazing tutorial coming.

[@flintyLOL]

What an amazing video! Thank you so much for sharing this.

[@pratyaysarkar7905]

I learn a lot from your videos... thanks a lot for putting these out here! 😌🤘🏽

[@mugencaesar]

Not many channels that are as educational as this one 💯

[@cdney8285]

I do love these mastering start to finish videos

[@kohli_virat]

Cleared so much confusions in a single video

[@mohammadsiraj7750]

My Teacher just uploaded!! Thank you teacher!!!

[@aLeg3ndaryGamer97]

I've spent the last 8 years of my life making some the deepest darkest songs ever in history and I have to make my own beats to the songs and I wouldn't be able to do it without your help so thanks

[@martianhaze9750]

lol i got a whole solo 12 track project to master on my own ,your timing is impeccable🙂

[@EricOwusuAnkomah]

So happy to see you again

[@inthemix]

Thanks Eric!

[@BennyParcher]

This song brings some serious feelings up bro

[@Gokshata]

Def gonna try to use some of these tips next time I master! Thank you!

[@AarohShankarMusic]

Thank you for this!❤️

[@dochdodava]

I've been with him at 0 subscriber how he. Build his studio in the village now u are bigger and true always to his teaching... Thanks brother

[@eliipatochhawng8366]

Your my inspiration... God bless you

[@JostSchwider]

Yeah, you're back! 👍 - _also_ for the YT algo! 😊

[@css172]

Michael always with the best tutorials!

[@gphiproductions]

Very nice! Thanks for sharing! 👍🏽

[@PeteOnTheBeat]

After watching this I went straight to Ableton to master a beat. I made the beat on the MPC and even "mastered" there. So, I turned off every mastering plugin and tried to do what you did. And yeah,mine came out trash :D But thanks you! Subbed!

[@bhargavdobhal5327]

Thank You Bro🙌🙌Very Helpful Video🔥🔥.

[@youngkizzi9944]

Insane!

[@trv503]

Another Home run Mike!!! I'll need that TDR....

[@TheShapooriReserve]

Wow, those Acustica mastering vsts look legit!

[@evert-janvanbarele]

I was just watching your 2018 video on mastering from start to finish when this video shows up. The Universe is funny sometimes.

[@SabineJames]

A lot to learn there! thank you!

[@seanbeco5133]

Hi Michael good evening from Cameroon (west Africa ) and thanks so much for the great work you are doing ❤️❤️❤️ .your tutorials are always carrying the full details such that anyone can understand perfectly after watching . thanks once more

[@inthemix]

Good evening from Scotland, Sean! Thanks for the kind words, I'm happy to be helping :)

[@hardcorenation]

🇨🇲

[@nezzymusic]

i think I will use some tips for my next mastering ahah⚡

[@McDaniel237]

Thanks to you am getting there

[@Creed3394]

Thank you so much for your tutorials. Am hoping that one day you will make a video on how to master a song only with Fabfilter plugins. Sorry that it might sound like a video that should be sponsored but am just saying. Am really grateful for your videos and how you explain every bits and pieces. Perfect.

[@envik5474]

Thanks for all the tipps about music and mastering. i have learned so much of all you videos and im eagor to participate in that challange thanks so much for your contnent i really learn a lot

[@envik5474]

As promissed i uploaded something maybe some of you like it

[@manasiangal1405]

Wow what a nice topic to master an already loud mix! Always love the start to finish videos! Thanks for the amazing content, Michael! ❤

[@inthemix]

Thanks. It was an interesting approach and I thought it could be helpful for people who like to mix loud (which is quite popular to be honest!)

[@agamaz5650]

if you think this is a loud mix I envy you hahaha

[@francescocuffari2859]

@@inthemix Can you make a tutorial on how to master a song with the free Toneboosters v3 Bundle, please?

[@keneznonwar6290]

i cant wait for the contest :D

[@inthemix]

It's started 15 minutes ago, I hope you take part!

[@kritikaworld4165]

Great bro..

[@ClydieCatinggan]

Thanks so much sir..i learned a lot from your videos..im a beginner

[@Alliarti]

Good job broo! 👏🏻👏🏻🤗🤗

[@nobodys2358]

I like how this good liking vampire also pretty good at mixing and mastering.

[@FrankowwYT]

Wow that’s the final unmasking a mix masterclass

[@Keroser1983]

AMAZING! Definitely to the point. Next time we can do a more challenging, not well mixed song :)) Cheers mate

[@TzoHill]

Thanks Mate!

[@albertorobinson7611]

Greetings and thanks, cheers

[@George-mn5rt]

thank you for update

[@BE-wl9js]

Brilliant

[@nicolasmichaud8872]

Hey - first of all I have to say that this channel is amazing, and a constant source of useful information and inspiration. Thanks you! How do you embed the ISRC code in your masters? And do you embed anything else for you clients?

[@ceemor3404]

Cute doggy in the background preparing you a comfy seat 😁

[@inthemix]

Solo is the best :)

[@aeyabeats]

You’re just amazing. Tried this on my new beats on my channel

[@vidar8634]

I LOVE DOGS and your videos, thank you so much

[@TurnedUpYokula-HiddenTrapStar]

you work hard thank you

[@iamaviistix]

nice lessons 🤟💛

[@ARBROTHERSA]

Love you sir ❤️❤️ Love from India 🇮🇳🇮🇳🇮🇳

[@EverblessJ]

great i like this mastering tip thank you

[@shorerocks]

Your videos are fantastic, and although I do this for over 15 years now, you always give me ideas. Thx. Now, the important question - you are left handed?!

[@Govindsingh98483]

Love from India 🙏

[@emadallie3721]

great vid bru

[@gmonaco99]

i love your videos

[@LeoGretz]

Hey Michael, awesome walkthru! I was wondering, is it fair to consider eq-matching to get 'closer' to the reference track?

[@malkvibez]

i like your work you are best

[@tribetek1432]

I love ur content

[@samuelemanta]

i use clipper before the limiter, it clips all the transients but you get a louder because the limiter doesn't deal with the peaks

[@mistagrafixraw]

this ivory plugin pretty good

[@RobertCorrington]

Q: Why does adding a high-pass filter at 18dB to get rid of the low rumble (~4:30) eat up almost 2dB of headroom? Given there is typically lots of energy in the lower frequencies, I thought adding the high-pass filter would actually give you a bit more head room, not eating so much. What gives?

[@DaSpecRS]

It happens due to phase changes, this video explains it in detail kzbin.info/www/bejne/m5eukpV3hramhrM

[@bullcapitalPvtLtd]

thank you so much

[@lucaslutzerler5429]

Thank you for sharing your knowledge. As Always : Top Notch! Q : 1000 + 24 dB

[@Aerons560]

Hello. Mastering and mixing.

[@sumitromandal6173]

Thnx for the video sir....hope you're doing well....huge fan from India....can you make video on using Fruity love filter? And a video on making progressive house? It would mean a lot

[@user-nq7wl4lp5d]

Dear Michael, thank you for your amazing videos! Sorry to bother you with novice questions. I have started to write songs and try to mix them. And when it came to mastering I feel rather confused and seems to do everything automatically. Your videos are really helpful. (Going back to novice questions) Could you tell me if it is necessary (or just handy) to master the mix using separate project? I work in Studio One and when the song is mixed from my point of view I just add plugins to master bus of the same project. Is it OK to do so?

[@sontranthai8040]

Thanks Michael for such an informative vid. I recall you have a studio that u constructed outside of your home. Why do you use this studio since you have bigger speakers and it might affects the other rooms in your home.

[@Darksagan]

Cool video. I have pretty much all of the acoustica audio plugins but Ivory. lol

[@ATOMICK1ONE]

Hi Michael, Where can I find the video of your studio build? Cant seem to find it anymore

[@Songwriterbehindthecurtain]

You’re an awesome 😎 KZbin channel.

[@Kille80]

Great video! It would be awesome to get you master one of my tracks to compare to own masters. Mastering is the most hardest thing to me after all other before that. I have some plugins, but none from this video except Youlean.

[@Beatsnmotivation]

Awesome mastering! But wait ur using the 900 pro x? I though you would be using the 1990 pro for more analytical work. But that’s amazing that your able to work with the 900 x

[@APerson-jf2md]

What is your take on highpass vs. shelf to lower those

[@Table-Top]

Michael - does FL studio release the file handle of an audio clip in its timeline if you click outside the FL studio window? (like Reaper)

[@MrAxelito1]

I sometimes still have difficulties hearing some of the tweaks you make (like attack and release of limiter) but nonetheless I've learned so much through your channel. I'm releasing a new song soon and I couldn't have done it without you.

[@Amaroq64]

I couldn't hear the difference at the compressor, lol.

[@AdamOctorachmadi]

same, but you can train by closing your and spam click bypass on/off until you dont know if it is on/off then go slower to guess it.. when 1 senses is turned off, other sense tend to be more powerful and focused, which in this case turn off your visual and focus on the hearing sense..

[@malthevinther2029]

A good way to learn that is to experiment with extremes. Try pulling the threshold all the way down, attack/release really short or long and just try pushing all the compressor really hard. It actually improves your ability to listen for subtleties because it gives you an idea of what to listen for. It's also a good way to hear how different compressors treat the audio signal differently.

[@mace7754]

Vote with your dollars and support this man if he's helped you. Anything is better than nothing! Remember those who help you and always pay it forward! You will go far in no matter what you do by living that way! God bless ya and I hope your new track is a banger!

[@g_aware_nerd]

TY

[@VersatBeats]

Bought your serum presets which are decent as I've just started making beats.. Bit of a strange one but what mouse do you use?