For deeper control
Online Stem Mastering With a Mastering Engineer
Stem mastering is best when your song is close but the final master needs more control than a stereo file allows, such as lifting vocals, tightening low end, controlling drums, or improving width without asking for a full mix revision.
Direct Answer
Stem mastering is the deeper-control option. Current public pricing is loaded from the admin-managed pricing system on the homepage and during project creation, so the static page does not freeze a number that can change.
Best For
- Songs that need final balance help without a full remix
- Dense productions where drums, bass, vocals, or music stems need separate control
- Artists who want more surgical mastering decisions
What stem mastering solves
Stem mastering allows final decisions across grouped elements, such as drums, bass, vocals, and music. That extra separation can improve punch, vocal presence, width, and low-end control.
What to send
Send consolidated stereo stems that all start at the same timestamp and sum back to the approved mix. Keep effects that define the sound and avoid clipping on each stem.
When not to use it
If the production needs detailed editing, tuning, arrangement changes, or a full mix balance rebuild, stem mastering is not a substitute for mixing.
Deliverables
- Release-ready full-resolution WAV master
- Reference MP3 for quick listening
- Notes if the stems reveal a mix issue that should be fixed first
Questions
How many stems should I send?
Grouped stems work best: drums, bass, vocals, instruments, effects, and any other major section that needs independent mastering control.
Does stem mastering replace mixing?
No. It gives more control than stereo mastering, but it is still mastering. The arrangement, editing, and core mix decisions should already be approved.
Should my stems include bus processing?
Keep processing that is essential to the production. If you are unsure about mix-bus limiting or loudness processing, send notes with the upload.