How to Get Louder Masters

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Step 1: Make the mix is as loud as you can get it from the start.

   A quiet/unbalanced mix will be difficult to make loud
2. 2

   Step 2: Use multiple stages of processing.

   Using multiple stages of processing can result in more natural results that will allow you to get a louder master.
   
   These are explained below. , This applies gain reduction to the very low levels as well as the peaks. , Multiband compression can be used to treat the frequency bands separately and give a more natural result.
   
   Try experimenting to see what works best with this process, and make sure to practise, practise, practise! Parallel compression is a great way to bring the levels up without affecting the transients.
   
   This means you can get louder without it sounding as squashed. , Limiting is a process that is usually overdone.
   
   Try experimenting with release settings to minimise 'pumping' and try not to overdo this process.
   
   Saturation/excitation/distortion.
   
   Used in small amounts these processes can achieve louder sounds.
   
   They are a little more friendly towards transients than compression but can make a mix sound harsh if overdone.
   
   Clipping.
   
   This is something that's usually taught to be avoided (and for good reason) however, used in small amounts (usually just around half a db) this can get you just a little more gain than you would have got otherwise. , Using a combination of the above, learning how they interact with each other and practising will take you a long way in getting louder, better sounding masters.
   
   Good luck!
3. 3

   Step 3: Start small with low ratio compression.

4. 4

   Step 4: Know what type of compression to use for your purposes.

5. 5

   Step 5: Don't overdo any of the processes.

6. 6

   Step 6: Mix them all together.

Detailed Guide

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