Mixing and Mastering are different activities and are not combined. Mixing targets getting the very best mix possible, making the right decisions to make the music it’s very best. Mastering focuses on minute refinements in the stereo mix to improve definition, perhaps increase stereo imaging, and to obtain the proper loudness targets for the final product. It is ill advised to attempt to combine these two distinct functions into a single activity. They are separate and distinct deliverables.
We can take your multi track files, mix them to your specifications, add special effects, sweeten them, and finally master them for release. If need be, additional tracks can be recorded to complete the mix and provide for the best possible outcome. AES may make some suggestions on improvements to the creations. It is ultimately the clients responsibility to decide the best course of action however.
Based on the outcome of interviewing the client, understanding their goals, likes and desires, comparing this information with reference tracks the clients are wishing to compete against, AES will prepare an initial mix to be reviewed and critiqued by the client.
The client is expected to review critically what they hear, and suggest changes that are important to the client. At this stage, a detailed list of action items will be generated and tracked. Based on this feedback, AES will then revise the mix according to the customer desires and create a new review copy for the client to review and comment on once again. At this point, fine tuning may be suggested. AES will then create the final mix for the client to approve.
Upon receipt of the formal approval, based on the contractual agreement, AES WILL EITHER (a) prepare a mastered copy for the client ready for the services to be targeted (such as streaming, CD duplication, or radio ready format) or (b) provide the master ready file set to the client prepared for them to take to a different mastering service.
The same process is used for mixing a single selection, or an entire album. Each creation is taken one at a time and fully mixed, reviewed, and prepared for mastering, then ultimately mastered.