Mastering music is an evolving process that requires constant refinement. In 2025, I'm implementing new rules based on my experience and the latest research in digital processing. These changes will help me enhance audio quality, improve efficiency, and deliver the best results for clients. Here are my five key mastering rules for 2025:
1. Rethinking Oversampling
For most of 2024, I regularly used oversampling in plugins. However, I started noticing a subtle loss of low-end punch—especially in sub-bass frequencies—whenever I engaged oversampling. Even though FFT plots didn’t reveal significant issues, my ears did.
Key Takeaways:
Oversampling can alter the transient response, sometimes in ways that traditional analysis tools don’t capture.
Oversampling introduces linear phase filters that modify sample points and potentially smear transients.
I now avoid oversampling unless absolutely necessary, such as when distortion above Nyquist causes aliasing.
When I do oversample, I ensure minimal phase filtering to prevent unwanted transient smearing.
2. Optimizing True Peak Limiting
Previously, I placed a true peak limiter after my main limiter, following a workflow I adopted from beta testing Ozone 10 and 11. However, a recent comment prompted me to re-evaluate whether this setup truly made a difference.
Findings:
True peak limiters behave differently depending on placement.
If placed before a main limiter, true peak limiting affects gain reduction calculations and alters the limiter’s behavior.
I now ensure the true peak limiter is a separate module after my main limiter, so I maintain control over gain staging and transient preservation.
Instead of blindly following previous techniques, I test and verify each method for its actual sonic benefits.
3. Embracing AI for Rebalancing
Clients' expectations have increased significantly, with many requesting detailed adjustments to individual elements in a mix. While in the past, mastering engineers would simply ask for a remix, AI now allows us to address specific issues without going back to the mix engineer.
Why AI Stem Splitting?
Using AI tools like RX 10/11 for stem separation enables fine-tuned adjustments without affecting the entire mix.
Instead of broad EQ changes, I can make micro-adjustments to elements like vocals, snares, or bass.
This approach allows me to meet client demands efficiently while preserving the integrity of the mix.
4. Only Using Linear Phase EQ for Mid-Side Processing
Mid-side EQ is a crucial tool in mastering, but improper handling can lead to unintended stereo imaging artifacts. Through recent testing, I confirmed that non-linear phase EQ alters phase relationships in the mid-side matrix, shifting elements unpredictably within the stereo field.
Solution:
I strictly use linear phase EQ for mid-side adjustments to maintain accurate stereo imaging.
This prevents unwanted phase shifts that can cause elements to move or collapse within the stereo field.
By keeping EQ processing transparent, I ensure that mix integrity remains intact.
5. Filtering Before Clipping
For much of last year, I clipped first in the mastering chain to control peaks before dynamic processing. However, I discovered that placing filters after a clipper shifts peak values, negating the intended peak control.
New Approach:
All filtering and EQ adjustments happen before clipping to avoid unexpected peak shifts.
Clipping is applied as a final peak control measure, ensuring consistent loudness handling.
This adjustment results in more predictable gain staging and peak consistency.
Conclusion for new Mastering Rules 2025
These five mastering rules for 2025 represent refinements based on experience, testing, and research. By rethinking oversampling, optimizing true peak limiting, embracing AI, using linear phase EQ for mid-side processing, and filtering before clipping, I aim to achieve cleaner, more controlled, and more musical masters.
Mastering is about continual learning and adaptation. If you’re serious about leveling up your mastering skills, consider testing these techniques and seeing how they impact your workflow.
Want to take your productions to the next level? Explore my Mixing & Mastering Services to get professional results, or dive deeper with one-on-one Electronic Music Production Coaching tailored to your needs.
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