Mastering
The last step before your mix reaches listeners: controlled loudness, translation on speakers and headphones, and files platforms and pressing plants can accept.
Mastering is not a magic fix for a weak mix; it is the stage where level, spectrum and dynamics align for every listening context. At Obligerpath in Amsterdam we work offline on your final stereo mix, or on stems when you want more control during the finishing pass.
Our mastering suite shares the control room with the rest of the studio, so you benefit from the same acoustics and monitoring we use for recording and mixing every day. Unsure about mix level or headroom? Read our LUFS guide or send your mix for a quick check via contact.
Process
- 01
Brief
You send references, platform targets (streaming, vinyl, sync) and any ISRC notes. We confirm format and deadline within 2 working days.
- 02
Analysis
We measure loudness, spectrum and phase, compare with your references and note what we will adjust in the master.
- 03
Mastering
Offline mastering on our chain; for stem mastering you may attend with up to 6 people in the suite.
- 04
Delivery
You receive files via a secure link; revisions follow our terms and conditions within the agreed window.
Who this service is for
Mastering suits artists, producers and labels who already have a mix and want a neutral final pass. Singles heading to Spotify and Apple Music, EPs up to six tracks, and projects that need a vinyl master fit our standard offering. Bands that tracked in our live room and booked mixing here can chain mastering without changing engineers.
Working entirely in the box at home? Supply a stereo WAV; we do not need your DAW project unless you book stem mastering. We master spoken-word only when it is music or heavily produced audio — plain speech is better handled through podcast recording.
Listening and measurements
We use fixed monitor positions and regular calibration. For streaming we follow common loudness targets; exact numbers and exceptions are in our LUFS article, so you know what to expect from your mix upfront. Vinyl mastering needs extra care for bass mono, sibilance and side length — discuss that at intake.
During attended stem mastering we compare versions on speakers and headphones; you can use up to 2 revision rounds included in the price before extra time is billed. The same applies offline: small tweaks after the first delivery count as revision, not a full re-master.
What to deliver
Send a stereo mix as WAV, 24 bit, preferably 48 kHz (other sample rates by agreement). Mark clear start and end points; avoid a limiter on the mix bus unless that is your deliberate aesthetic — say so in the brief. Include tempo, key and any fades we must keep.
- File name: artist — title — mix v1
- Reference track(s) as separate links, not embedded in the file
- Contact person and billing details for Obligerpath B.V.
Unsure about headroom? Email a short clip to [email protected] or call 020 737 0842.
Formats and file delivery
By default we deliver:
- Streaming master: WAV 24/48 with metadata-friendly length
- Download master: WAV 24/48, optional hi-res by agreement
- Vinyl master: separate side A/B files after length approval
We can add MP3 or AAC for previews; commercial distribution remains your responsibility. Files stay on our server for 12 months — download in time and keep local copies. Our privacy policy explains how we secure upload links.
Stem mastering and attended sessions
The €145 rate covers a two-hour attended session in the mastering suite: ideal when you deliver stems or want to switch between versions live. Book via the contact form; a 30% deposit confirms the slot. Free cancellation up to 7 days ahead; later see the cancellation rules.
Up to 6 people in the control room keeps sessions focused; larger groups by arrangement. Opening hours: Monday–Friday 10:00–22:00, Saturday 11:00–18:00, Sunday closed..
Rates, VAT and payment
| Product | Price |
|---|---|
| Single track | €78 |
| EP up to six tracks | €265 |
| Stem master (2 h attended) | €145 |
Net rates for business clients on request: €64.46 per track with payment within 14 days. Prices on this page include VAT; see also services overview. Multiple tracks at once? The EP rate applies when all titles arrive in one order.
Turnaround
Offline mastering is usually scheduled within three to five working days after complete delivery and a confirmed quote. Rush is sometimes possible at extra cost when the calendar allows — ask us. Stem mastering follows your appointment within Mon–Fri 10–22, Sat 11–18.
We respond to new requests within 2 working days. Holiday closures are announced on the site; your delivery date appears on the order confirmation.
What is not included
Mixing, editing, tuning or re-exporting stems from your DAW is outside Mastering. We do not upload to aggregators, supply artwork or give legal advice on samples — use your own advisers. Heavy repair work (clipping, noise) may cost extra hours; we flag that before starting.
Revisions beyond 2 rounds or after you approve the final master are billed hourly per terms.
Practical details
Obligerpath B.V. is based at Overtoom 141, 1054 HG Amsterdam. We are at Overtoom 141, a short walk from the Overtoom stop (GVB tram 1 and 7). From Amsterdam Centraal, allow about twenty minutes on tram 1 towards Osdorp. There is on-street paid parking and bicycle racks; the entrance is at street level beside the large front windows. Minimum age for clients: 16. Questions on rights and use are in terms and conditions and disclaimer.
Combining mastering with mixing? Use the same contact and project name so Lars van den Berg or another engineer recognises the chain. General questions: FAQ.
Included
- Offline mastering on studio monitors
- Up to 2 revision rounds per track
- WAV delivery for streaming and download
- LUFS and peak check against agreed target
- Secure download link for 12 months
- Short written notes on first delivery
- Vinyl master on request (supplement by agreement)
FAQ
Should my mix already be limited?
Preferably not: leave headroom on the bus. If your sound relies on a limiter, say so when you upload. See LUFS levels for guidance.
How many tracks qualify for the EP rate?
Up to six tracks in one order at €265. More tracks or separate singles are €78 each unless we agree a package.
Can I attend the mastering session?
Yes, via the stem master rate €145 for two hours of attended work. Offline mastering is unattended; you still receive listening files.
Do you supply DDP for pressing?
On request we deliver DDP after vinyl masters are approved. Discuss side length and gaps at intake.
What if I want changes after approval?
After you sign off the final master, further changes are new work. Before sign-off, within 2 rounds we adjust small points at no extra charge.
Other services
Vocal recording
Isolated booth, engineer and backline for vocals and spoken word.
€95 · per hour
Mixing
Balance, space and dynamics for singles, EPs and albums.
€185 · per track
Podcast recording
Table setup for two to four voices, including basic edit prep.
€88 · per hour
Band recording
Live room for drums, bass and amps with multiple iso booths.
€115 · per hour
Recording in Amsterdam?
Talk through your next session
Tell us what you want to capture: we reply within 2 working days with a slot proposal and written quote, no obligation.