Please submit your music in .WAV format and 24 bit. The sample rate should be whichever was used for the mix, usually 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz. If you have any questions or concerns about the file format, feel free to contact me and I'll be happy to help.

For mastering inquiries, please email: BensenCarterMastering@gmail.com If you prefer to be contacted by phone, please email first to schedule a call.

The truth is, mastering is not a one-size-fits-all process. Each song requires a personalized approach to bring out its full potential. AI mastering, on the other hand, relies on pre-programmed algorithms that treat every song the same, resulting in a generic sound that won't help your music stand out in a crowded market. When you choose Bensen Carter Mastering, you're not just getting technical expertise, you're getting a creative partner who's dedicated to making your music as impactful and emotionally resonant as possible.

Because when you work with me, you're getting someone who truly cares about bringing out the best in your music. I don't just do one quick pass and call it a day. I spend hours listening to your tracks on different playback systems, making careful adjustments to ensure every last drop of musicality is captured. I won't stop until I've achieved a result that I'm truly proud of.

One of the most important things you can provide are reference tracks. These can be links to other songs or artists that have a similar sound or vibe to what you're going for. Having these reference tracks allows me to get a better understanding of your musical preferences and can serve as a guide for the mastering process. Additionally, if you already have IRSC codes for your tracks, you can provide those in advance and I can embed them in the .WAV file metadata on request. However, most of the time this isn't necessary since these codes are generated by music distribution sites like CD Baby and DistroKid after you upload your tracks. Lastly, if you need masters for alternate versions of your tracks (such as instrumental, a cappella, radio edit, or censored versions), please don't hesitate to reach out and we can discuss the details.

Getting started is easy! Just shoot me an email and we'll get the ball rolling. If you prefer, we can chat over the phone to discuss your project in more detail. You can submit your music via Dropbox, WeTransfer, Google Drive links, or any other file sharing service you prefer. Check out the next question for details on which file formats are accepted.

Stem mastering is a technique where individual "stems" or groups of audio tracks, such as drums, bass, vocals, and so on, are exported separately from the mixdown. This allows for more precise control over each element in the mix during mastering. Yes, I do offer stem mastering services, and I highly recommend it for complex mixes or if you're looking for a more customized mastering approach. It's important to note that stem mastering is not a substitute for proper mixing, but rather a tool to help achieve the best possible master. Please contact me to discuss your project and determine if stem mastering is right for you.

Absolutely! We're thrilled to offer a referral program that not only rewards you, but your friends as well. For each friend you refer who books and pays for a mastering service, you'll receive a whopping 10% discount on your next project. And to sweeten the deal, your friend will also receive a 10% discount on their first project with us. We believe in the power of word-of-mouth, and we want to show our appreciation for your support. By taking advantage of our referral program, you not only save money, but you also help us grow our business. To redeem this discount, simply mention it when you contact me about your project. But that's not all - we also offer bundle discounts for projects with 5 or more songs. Don't let this opportunity slip away - contact us today and mention our referral program to start saving on your next mastering project.

The turnaround time can vary depending on the project and my schedule at the time. However, for most projects, I can usually have the mastered tracks ready within a week or so. If you have a specific deadline or need the tracks sooner, please let me know and I will do my best to accommodate your needs.

When it comes to mastering equipment, I believe that the end result is what matters most. While some may romanticize the nostalgic qualities of analog gear, I prefer to work "in-the-box" with modern digital tools that offer unparalleled precision and transparency. With these tools, I'm able to achieve loud, transparent, and musical masters that help your music stand out in any listening environment. And I can do this while still adding the warmth and richness that analog equipment is known for, but with a greater level of precision.

Yes, I do! While mastering is my primary focus, I've gained a lot of experience in mixing over the past few years and have found a real passion for it. With my expertise in both areas, I can take your music to the next level by ensuring that it sounds polished and professional from start to finish. I understand that every artist and project is unique, which is why I approach each mixing project with a fresh perspective and a commitment to creating a sound that's tailored to your vision. Whether you're a singer-songwriter looking to create a stripped-down acoustic sound or a full band seeking to capture the energy of your live performances, I can help you achieve a perfect balance. While I'm still working on adding a dedicated mixing section to my website, I encourage you to contact me for a consultation to discuss your project and learn more about my mixing services. Trust me, you won't regret it - with my help, your music will stand out and capture the attention of listeners and industry professionals alike.

I absolutely love working on all types of music! Though I have become known for my work in the alternative indie genre, I am always excited to take on new challenges and explore new sounds. Whether it's hip hop, metal, country, or anything in between, I am confident in my ability to elevate your music to the next level. So please don't hesitate to reach out, no matter what kind of music you make!

Yes, I do provide mastering for vinyl! You can refer to my price list for more details about this service, as there is a modest add-on charge. By default, the masters I send are optimized for CDs and online streaming services, and typically, no changes are required for cassette tapes.