Mastering

Mastering can be a slightly confusing process, particularly for those new to the concept. To help you out, we've provided a simple and brief run down.

Mastering: the basic's

What is mastering?

'Mastering', also known as 'authoring', is the process where your data is assembled and structured so that it can be transferred onto a master disc in such a way that we can then make further accurate copies from it. It is a vital stage, and is basically the process of burning or transferring recorded audio and visual data in its final and finished format.

Why?

Mastering simply ensures that your work is reproduced to the highest possible standard, whether it's audio, visual, software, or a combination. We aim to give you the very best quality of play, with perfect clarity, providing you with a crystal clear, unblemished playback experience.

If you want to learn more about the mastering process, or there is something that you don't understand, please don't hesitate to contact us. Our team have been doing this for years and would love to pass on their knowledge to you.

Mastering: our services

We offer mastering services to suit every project and every budget. We are a very experienced team that are more than happy to advise and guide you through the whole mastering process.

Video authoring

We offer clients a range of options for video authoring. What we need from you is:

• your video footage supplied in a useable format (DigiBeta, DV-Cam, Mini DV-Cam, uncompressed video, DVD pre-encoded)


• a specification with information about what menu or feature options you wish to include

Please note that Blu-ray formats tend to differ and are a little more complex. We also offer additional add-ons for Blu-ray, so if this is the medium you wish to use then please get in touch and we can talk you through the process.

Data only authoring

We can work with data only discs too. For example we can:

• build automatic loops and re-run features


• provide passwords


• make data compatible with either Apple or Microsoft

Mastering can be a complex process. So we thought it would be useful to list some of the things that are important to remember and consider when starting this process. But don't worry, our team at Media Hut can help you through every one of these stages. We do this work every day, and will look after all the technical aspects to provide you with the best possible finished product.

• Encoding: depending on what your content is made up of, for example, audio or video, you will need to think about encoding. Do you want some branded scrolls through the menu? Or looped footage to sit behind the menu screens?


• Compatibility: you will need to assess whether all your file sizes and formats are compatible.


• Formatting: don't forget that you will need to send your material to us in the same format that you're looking to get it replicated or duplicated onto. So, if you want your content replicated onto CD, then send it us on a CDR.


• Digit codes: if your content is on CD and audio only it may be worth considering sourcing a unique ISRC 12 digit code. These ISRC codes (International Standard Recording Code) help identify your work and will be unique to your project. They are easy to apply for and once done, we can embed them against you work. Visit the website www.ifpi.org for more information.

Any queries related to any of these stages, or anything else for that matter, please get in touch and we will be able to offer advice and assistance.

Download detailed mastering guidelines for CD

Download detailed mastering guidelines for DVD