Complete your DJ mix by having it remastered to meet professional standards. By having a commercially competitive DJ mix compilation there is no better way to secure pro performances. A few benefits of remastering include increased punch, clarity, and loudness over the entire mix while preserving proper dynamics to insure a pleasurable listening experience without fatigue. Any inconsistent levels during mixes and between tracks are corrected to insure optimal playback. Live DJ mix recordings especially benefit from the remastering process. When creating compressed audio files (mp3, etc.) for online distribution and promotion a remastered DJ mix set will stand out far above the rest.
Two packages are available for remastering your DJ compilation:
The first option is all digital processing and includes manual micro/macrodynamic correction, consistent levels across mix, digital EQ/compression (only if necessary; see philosophy below), and digital limiting.
The second option combines the digital processing package with high quality outboard analog EQ and compression through a pro A/D/A converter to achieve maximum fidelity.
Do you have an old mix on tape that you would like to preserve digitally? Do you have a live mix that suffered degradation during recording? Both of these situations can be addressed during the remastering process with no added cost. In most cases even a highly damaged recording can be brought back to life and preserved.
Philosophy
The goal of the remastering process is to represent the original tracks faithfully while fully preparing the compilation
for the digital medium (CD/mp3/ogg, etc.). The best way to accomplish this task is manual micro/macrodynamic correction.
Microdynamic correction refers to correcting a change in balance after a cut or a twist of an EQ knob that went too far among other issues. Macrodynamic
correction refers to levels of an entire track or tracks in relation to the entire compilation. This process is time consuming and often takes over 4
hours for each compilation and is definitely artistic as if done correctly the listener will not realize any alterations
are taking place at all. This process does not alter the EQ balance of the recording. I rarely utilize digital EQ or
compression. These tools are reserved for major problems. Problems that can almost always be solved by recording the
compilation a second time (unless it is a live set).
In regard to the analog processing package I first go through the whole compilation to correct micro/macrodynamics manually. I then pass the recording through an outboard analog signal chain starting with the Manley Massive Passive EQ essentially at a neutral EQ setting just to capture the character of the EQ and tube output stage. This creates a phase coherent image between tracks on the compilation; instead of sounding like a mix direct from turntables to source it creates an "air/depth" to the recording while minimally altering the EQ balance. Following the Massive Passive is the Cranesong STC-8 compressor. A subtle amount of compression is utilized at this stage to achieve the final dynamics of the compilation (constant average RMS located between -12db to -14db depending on the material).
All processing is conducted from/to 32bit float/96khz resolution files. Even if you recorded your set via a stock SoundBlaster audio interface after digital/analog processing you will recognize an enhanced image/warmth to the recording. I am using the LynxTwo A/D/A which is a pro converter with great specs.
Equipment Highlights:
Monitors:
All prices in US dollars
Cost (digital remastering):
Cost (analog/digital remastering):
Contact: michael[at]egregious.net -- Mike Leahy
Location: San Francisco, CA, USA
On receipt of the DJ mix compilation I will review it for any defects that could be solved with another take at recording (when the project permits). If I find any adverse problems I will inform the sender about possible solutions. Poor recordings certainly can be fixed, but following the recording tips below will insure I receive a well recorded mix that can be taken to a truly professional level.
Credits:
Example of a live set remastered:
Questions:
Q: How long does it take to remaster a DJ compilation?
A: On average, it takes about four hours to digitally remaster a 74 minute DJ compilation. This depends on the amount
of manual micro/macrodynamic correction necesary and can take much longer.
Q: What formats do you accept for remastering?
A: 16-bit DAT at 44.1khz or 48khz sampling rate; Red Book CD audio; CDR of wave (.wav) or AIFF at 16-bit, 24-bit, 32-bit float; cassette tape
Recording tips (gain staging!):
