First, read this:
HERE'S SOME INFO ABOUT THE OPTIONS AVAILABLE.
Alternate mixes: In general it's a smart idea to have your mix engineer print at least instrumental versions of your songs in addition to the main mixes. Many TV and movie placements require instrumentals, and having them mastered at the same time as your main mixes will add only a very minimal additional expense vs. going back to them at a later date.
IT'S IMPORTANT TO NOTE THAT ALTERNATE VERSIONS REQUIRE SEPARATE FILES FROM THE MIX ENGINEER. I CANNOT CREATE AN INSTRUMENTAL FROM THE STANDARD MIX.
Delivery Formats: Standard digital delivery of cd quality 16-bit 44.1khz wav files, and 24-bit 48khz 'Hi-Res' wav files are both included with mastering. 16/44.1 wav is the most ubiquitous and widely accepted uncompressed audio format. 24/48 wav is simply a higher resolution file. Typically 24/96 files are preferable for uploading to streaming services when possible. Since not all services accept 24/48 files, we include both.
DDP: If you plan to have your album pressed to compact disc, DDP is without a doubt the smartest way to submit your files (provided your pressing plant of choice accepts them). DDP images include not only your music, but precise information about the spacing, naming, and order of your songs.
Apple Digital Masters: If your songs are headed for Apple Music you may elect to have me deliver a separate set of files that conform to Apples iTunes + standard. This high resolution master will yield a superior result as compared to uploading standard wav files. I can also preview the encoded audio and make subtle changes to compensate if needed.
Vinyl Premasters: Having a set of masters created specifically for vinyl cutting will preemptively address some of the physical limitations of the vinyl medium, as well as give the cutting engineer an ideal master for cutting a great sounding record. Vinyl pre-masters also include a cue sheet, which is incredibly helpful for the cutting and manufacturing process.
Directional Info: This might be the most helpful of all the information you can give me. These are your songs, so how do you envision them? Dynamic? Loud? Warm? Bright? What are some records that inspire you? What are a few songs you'd like me to listen to and get the vibe of before I start working on your music?
Track Order / Sequencing Notes:
IF YOU HAVE MULTIPLE TRACKS THAT WILL BE ON THE SAME RELEASE NOW IS THE TIME TO DECIDE ON A TRACK ORDER.
Additionally, if some of the tracks overlap or have specific spacing please submit this info now as it affects the mastering process.