Lesson 13: Mixing and mastering

Objective: Students will learn the basics of mastering a track and how it differs from mixing. Materials: Computers with internet access, Soundation accounts, speakers, and headphones.

Activities:

1. 1
   Review of mixing principles (10 mins):

   • A quick recap of mixing techniques covered in previous lessons.
2. 2
   Introduction to mastering (15 mins):

   • Explain what mastering is and how it finalizes a track.
   • Demonstrate basic mastering techniques in Soundation, including EQ, compression, and limiting.
3. 3
   Mastering exercise (25 mins):

   • Students take a mixed project and apply basic mastering techniques.
4. 4
   Discussion (10 mins):

   • Compare the mixed and mastered versions of student projects and discuss the differences.

Assignment:

Master a final track, focusing on making it sound polished and ready for distribution.

Tips:

• Volume meter: Use the volume meter on the channels to measure the loudness. Switch between Peak and RMS by right-clicking on a channel and going to the Volume meter.