The course begins with a discussion of acoustics, monitoring, and the digital audio “nuts and bolts” particular to the mastering process. You’ll learn how to make a proper assessment of what needs to be done to a piece of music to fulfill the artist’s vision and expectation, and engage in a step-by-step process of optimization, using equalizers and compressors, to reach that vision.

You’ll learn the specific tools used to modify, enhance, and correct the sound of a recording. Topics include applying signal processing to enhance audio material, noise reduction techniques, advanced editing techniques such as album sequencing and manual gain riding, the importance of quality control, and disc / electronic delivery preparation. You’ll also delves into other popular techniques in the field of audio mastering, including enhancing the stereo field of a master, and cutting edge filtering and fading techniques.

Throughout the course you’ll study examples of effective mastering techniques and engage in step-by-step exercises that allow you to apply these techniques. You’ll work with Izotope’s RX and Ozone plug-ins, which you will use in conjunction with your DAW.

Audio Mastering Techniques will equip you with a professional level understanding of the day-to-day mastering process, which will enable you to create a level matched, hi-fidelity, error free, and duplication-ready master with associated documentation.

By the end of the course, you will be able to:

• Apply appropriate signal processing to enhance audio material
• Use advanced editing, noise reduction, and album sequencing techniques
• Understand quality control and how to ensure the quality of a master
• Implement the red book standard for CD preparation
• Prepare material for electronic delivery formats such as MP3 and AAC
• Provide proper documentation to finalize the mastering job

Berklee Online and iZotope have come together to offer an educational discount on Ozone and RX software. Once you enroll in the course, you will be able to purchase software at the discounted price through the Required Course Materials link on your My Home page. Early enrollment is encouraged to ensure software delivery prior to the start of the course.

Syllabus

Lesson 1 Monitoring

Lesson 2 Digital Audio, Metering, and Volume

Lesson 3 Monitoring Functions, A/B Listening, and the Processing Chain

Lesson 4 Equalization, Part 1

Lesson 5 Equalization, Part 2

Lesson 6 Dynamics Processing, Part 1

Lesson 7 Dynamics Processing, Part 2

Lesson 8 Removal of Noise and Artifacts 

Lesson 9 Advanced Editing Techniques

Lesson 10 Bits, Dither, and SR Conversion

Lesson 11 QC, PQ Coding, CD Replication, and Data Integrity