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The success of the compact disc came as a direct result of its versatility, ease of use
and reliability. Unlike its vinyl predecessor, the CD can be used not only as a music
medium but also to store data, images, computer games and video.The complexity of the
format and versatility offered by various CD configurations requires very high level of
technical and artistic expertise in order to achieve the desired results at any stage of
Compact Disc development.
The mastering engineer can be an arbiter, architect, or "sound doctor" since
CD mastering is the crucial and final aspect of CD development prior to actual pressing and
production. All artistic and technical judgements made at this stage become embodied on
the finished CD. The basic CD mastering process takes on average 8-12 hours if the CD was
well recorded and no additional processing requirements are specified. However it is not
unusual that more time may be required depending on the condition of the original
recording, a client's specifications and other custom requirements.
CD MASTERING - TECHNICAL EXPERTISE
The 2 main Modes and 10 different CD sub-formats such as CD-Audio, CD-ROM, CD-ROM
XA, CD-I, CD-G&CD-Text, CD-Extra, Photo-CD, Video-CD, CD-i Bridge, PC-Games/Data,
create a technical jungle when it comes to standards, features and restrictions offered by
each format. The terminology, technology and breadth and depth of knowledge in this field
can only be grasped by highly trained technical stuff. In addition to degrees in
Electrical Engineering and Computer Science our expert engineers have extensive experience
in mastering, recording as well as background in music and/or arts.
EXPERIENCE
The experience, skill and a sympathetic understanding are critical elements of
mastering process. Unique nature of the discipline combining both the Art and Science
requires a great deal of experience in order to identify and complement the needs of each
project. After hundreds of releases and thousands of ours spent in the studio our staff
are expertly trained to enhance the artistic aspects of a project, compensate its
technical shortcomings and supplement and expand its sonic impact.
CREATIVE SOLUTIONS
Exceptional hearing gift and technical expertise have to be supported by creativity and
artistic intuition. In order to achieve the maximum impact on the listener, certain
creative elements of psycho-acoustics principles, psychology, use of proprietary
techniques, and knowledge of the music market have to be applied in the context of the
intended audience - all while recognizing the goals set by the producer and the record
label.
ART of CD MASTERING
The artistic aspect of CD mastering comes from a need to understand the nature of the musical
work and the character of the style and genre. Sometimes Baroque embellishments are needed
and sometimes modesty and artistic taste are called for. No one recipe can be derived. The
ability to interpret the creative vision of the artist and the talent to enhance it with
sonic glitter and luster cannot be taught in school. Only the most gifted individuals with
a great deal of artistic skill, technical knowledge and sensibility can master this
complex art.
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