How do I use Mastering by Reference?

  • Updated

Mastering is a form of audio post-production to correct mix balance problems and enhance sound characteristics. Our Artificial Intelligence algorithm takes the input and reference track provided by the user and provides a fully mastered track with the same characteristics as the reference track.

Prepare your tracks before uploading them

  • Make sure the input and reference files are of the highest possible quality, at a balanced volume, and not high-pitched ones
  • Your input track should be complete. Never use cut tracks
  • Avoid using data processing on the master bus (e.g., limiters, maximizers, equalizers, etc.)
  • Avoid using mono tracks. To make the most of stereo widening, use stereo mixes

Access your Moises account on the Web or Desktop App, click on "Mastering" and then click on "New Master"

Mastering new master button.png

Choose the best reference track

  • Give preference to files in WAV format. Uploading compressed files such as MP3 may work, but they will not reach their full potential
  • For best results, choose a reference track with the same tone, genre, and style as your input track
  • Also, choose a reference track with a similar instrument setup and comparable mix for optimal results

Mastering Reference Track.png

Premium subscribers:

To export your mastered track, click on the icon to export the reference track to ensure access:

Reference track export.png

If you try to click on "Export All," you will not be able to export your file.

Optional and advanced features

  • Limiter on: This is the default setting, so if you leave it selected, the result is ready with the iLUFS level at -14. To customize the volume level and bit depth, click "Preferences" and make the adjustments you want.
  • Limiter off: Turn this feature off if you want to use your own limiting/compacting tools. Use this setting to have more control over the dynamics of your music. Result: the output will not include the Limiter. 

⚠️ When using loud reference files, especially EDM (Electronic Dance Music), the final output may sound flat. 

  • Normalization: To set normalization, you will have to disable the Limiter. Unless you set 32 as the bit resolution, disabling it may result in clipped audio.

⚠️ Use the WAV output in your audio editor and DAW to finish mastering.

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