
EVERYTHING YOUR MUSIC CAN BE.
Give your sound the competitive edge with personalized mastering.

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Know that your fans will hear your songs the way you intended.
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Be confident that your music is optimized for distribution.
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Don't let automated mastering services squash the life out of your recordings.
Industry-Recognized Mastering
It's humbling to know that music I've mastered has been streamed over 50 million times and featured in shows and movies on Netflix and Amazon Prime. I'm grateful to have played a part in these projects and work with such talented artists.




MUSIC THAT MOVES
Mastering is about music. Period.
Believe it or not, it's actually good news that millions of so-called "AI-mastered" songs are uploaded every day. Why? Because that makes it much easier for you to stand above the rest.
You don't have to let lifeless automated mastering tools squash the soul out of your mixes. I was a musician long before I was a mastering engineer so I know what it takes to trust someone with your work. I also know the value in working with someone who will tailor every decision to your vision.
What I do is simple: I aim to make your fans' heads move 10% more when your music plays. Oh, and I'll take care of the technical stuff too.

Prices
Note: Prices are in Canadian dollars and do not include any applicable taxes.
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Standard mastering: $200/song
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Bundle discount (5 or more songs): $175/song
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Stem Mastering: additional $50/song
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Vinyl Mastering: additional $20/song
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Revisions: first revision is free, then $20/song/revision
MAPL compliant
Owned and operated in Canada, always.

Contact
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What file format should I submit my music in for mastering?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.
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What is your email address?For mastering inquiries, please email: BensenCarterMastering@gmail.com If you prefer to be contacted by phone, please email first to schedule a call.
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What about online AI mastering services?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.
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Why should you choose Bensen Carter Mastering?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.
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What else do I need to provide besides the audio files for mastering?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.
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How do I get started with Bensen Carter Mastering?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.
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What is stem mastering, and do you offer it as a service?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.
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Do you offer any promotions or discounts on your mastering services?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.
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What is the typical turnaround time for mastering projects?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.
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What equipment do you use?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.
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Do you offer mixing services as well?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.
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Which genres do you master?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!
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Do you provide mastering for vinyl, CD, or cassette tapes?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.
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A Little LightHalloween is over It tricked me into November I don’t know who they were But they dressed up as my brothers All at once it crept away It treated me to ghouls in grey Hollow pumpkins all decayed It visits me but never stays I can’t believe it’s Christmas Eve I never got a chance to grieve You tried to find a little light In me for the longest night Oh you lit me up real bright Mmm New year new me The old me turned thirty I feel okay surprisingly I can burn the loose debris The wolf I knew was not let free It bit the hand and cut the lead Dyed the snow with dripping teeth Then turned away and let me bleed Oh how I’ve been since Halloween And I can’t believe it’s Christmas Eve I never got a chance to grieve You tried to find a little light In me for the longest night Oh you lit me up real bright Yeah we found a little light Mmm
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Children of the Ash Treechildren of the ash tree children of the elm crafted by the spinning sister at the helm here I am a man in the world alone seeking for a war field worthy of my bones little boats like horses floating round and round in eternal water parting with no sound my imagination pulling me along when my chest is silent might I hear a song just another boy king clawing at the sun mad with disillusion while the thread is spun kneeling under promise shoulder under sword bare the crown of living heavy it is worn
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Gloom Cigarsmaple leaves wipers brush them off my car things from here never seem to make it far I packed some clothes and my second hand guitar that smells of strangers’ gloom cigars getting lost on the roads to Montréal before the snow gets here before another year when the last summer air is plated under copper layers I’ll be there before another year before another year yearbook quotes are all that’s written in this town and waitress notes 'cause prom queens tend to lose their crowns wobbly pops and weekend highs for college clowns you leave or light some gloom cigars getting lost on the roads to Montréal before the snow gets here before another year when the last summer air is plated under copper layers I’ll be there before another year before another year I will follow you to no bad end all roads lead to October eventually I will follow you to no bad end all roads lead to October eventually I will follow you to no bad end all roads lead to October eventually
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Cariboublue eyes ice tides beige sea tame sky I row through snow let’s go home caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou moss beds we lay heart beats with earth caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou caribou starshine lights bridge your eyes to mine
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SomedayGolden clouds over Mexico You and I, someday we will go Feeling young by the ocean glow I can hear it and I know that you can too A fire by the folding waves I can see us in our golden days Chances that we’re glad we took The final pages in our favourite book Someday when my ashes blow away You can let me go Someday we will learn to die When you feel the wind You’ll know somebody loved you Someday when the world has passed I’m going to learn to fly Light up the morning sky Someday under the quarter moon In the heat of June You’ll know somebody loved you Silver hills under clouds of snow You and I, what we used to know Feeling old by the woodfire smoke I can hear it and I know that you can to An echo of an ancient cave I can see us in our younger days Chances that we never took The first pages in our favourite book Someday when my ashes blow away You can let me go Someday we will learn to die When you feel the wind You’ll know somebody loved you Someday when the world has passed I’m going to learn to fly Light up the morning sky Someday under the quarter moon In the heat of June You’ll know somebody loved you Someday when my ashes blow away You can let me go Someday we will learn to die When you feel the wind You’ll know somebody loved you Someday when the world has passed I’m going to learn to fly Light up the morning sky Someday under the quarter moon In the heat of June You’ll know somebody loved you You’ll know somebody loved you You’ll know somebody loved you You’ll know somebody loved you