ABLETON FOR MUSIC PRODUCERS AND AUDIO ENGINEERS
Course 36: Mastering 201

Welcome to the final course! This is a real milestone and a moment to celebrate your achievements. As an electronic music producer, mastering is an essential step in your production process. In this course, you will learn how to take your music to the next level and create a professional sound.

Previous courses have given you an introduction to quick mastering, but now it’s time to take things up a notch. You’ll take a closer look into the art of mastering and discover new techniques that will make your music stand out. Mastering is a crucial aspect of music production that requires elite skills. Not only does it refer to finalizing recordings for proper distribution, but it also involves being the last person to listen to the music and make any necessary changes prior to release.

The term “the buck stops here” perfectly sums up the role of the mastering engineer since it is their last opportunity to make any sonic changes. With this great responsibility comes the need for expert knowledge and an ear for detail. Without mastering, music may not have the same impact on listeners, which is why it is an essential part of the industry.

You’ll learn more about Levels, EQ, Compression, and A/B Comparisons and then use the Limiter to fine-tune the listening levels. Multiband Dynamics, Intermediate Mastering Chain, sequencing playlists, and dither are other aspects you’ll cover in this final course. You’ll also get a refresher on how to master tracks for different compressions and platforms your music will be heard.

And that’s it! Whew! You did it! Congratulations–now it’s time to take what you’ve learned and make your way in the music industry. Keep all of the resources you’ve gathered over the past months as a handy guide to help you through creative blocks or when you just get stumped. We can’t wait to see you make a name for yourself.