What our mastering includes
Mastering at Mushrumpmirami focuses on loudness, translation across speakers and exports for your release channel. We charge €78 per track including VAT; albums up to twelve songs can use €420. An extra revision round beyond the default is €35 — not mix stems, but an added feedback cycle.
Meike de Vries handles many mastering sessions in our suite at Weesperzijde 96. Send a mix without a limiter on the master bus; we return WAV and other formats if agreed. Mix delivery details: delivering mix stems.
Delivery files and specs
We normally deliver 24-bit WAV at your mix sample rate (usually 48 kHz). Streaming platforms often want 16-bit FLAC or WAV with loudness targets (many services expect around -14 LUFS — exact rules change per aggregator). Vinyl or broadcast may need extra sequences or DDP; we note that in the quote.
You usually assign ISRC codes at your distributor; we can embed codes in filenames if you supply them. Always keep a local copy: we archive for 6 months, then delete unless extended in writing.
Two layers: master vs composition
Dutch practice often separates the phonogram (the recording/master) from the musical work (melody and lyrics). Whoever organises and pays for the recording typically holds neighbouring rights on that recording, administered via Sena when music plays in shops or hospitality.
Writers keep copyright and often join BUMA/Stemra for broadcast royalties. Mastering does not change that split; it only refines sound. If your band shares income, agree splits before release day.
What the quote and terms cover
Our terms and conditions and your project quote state which files you receive and when ownership transfers — usually after full payment. Until then we may withhold final masters as described in the delivery articles.
Sessions we record follow our producer agreement; you receive the usage rights quoted, not automatic exclusivity unless bought. Samples or covers are your clearance duty — we do not master to bypass copyright.
Revisions and QC
We include 2 mastering revision rounds within reasonable scope: slightly brighter, slightly tighter bass, and similar tweaks. A full remix belongs in mixing, not a mastering revision. Extra rounds may be billed at €35.
Listen on headphones and speakers you trust; phones and cars are not references, but useful for translation checks. Send bundled feedback with timestamps. Replies usually within 1 business day.
Release in the Netherlands and EU
Distributors often ask for EAN/UPC on albums and ISRC per track. Through a Dutch aggregator, check whether you must register multiple performers with Sena when music plays commercially. Podcasts and spoken word follow other rules — see podcast recording.
Privacy on delivery: if masters contain personal data (recognisable voice), our privacy policy applies. Business labels may need a data processing agreement when we process guest vocalists on your behalf.
Working with mix and recording
Chains work best when each step knows what the next expects. After band recording or vocal recording we mix if booked; mastering follows. Budget sketch: band days €750, mix €185, master €78 — also band recording budget.
For complex deals (sync, advertising, exclusivity) consult an entertainment lawyer. We can align technical deliverables and timing via contact or 020 737 1846.
Release checklist
- Mix delivered without a master limiter.
- Revision notes within agreed rounds.
- Internal split agreement signed.
- ISRC/EAN arranged with distributor.
- Backup downloaded before 6-month archive ends.
Mastering prepares your track for the world — clear agreements avoid re-rendering later. Unsure? Email [email protected] before you distribute.
