for Data Projects...
For a CD-ROM project, we provide numerous services for creating a final master before the project enters the replication/duplication phase. These services include:- file replacement & updating
- compilation of Mac/PC hybrid discs
- creation of Enhanced audio CDs
- front end html-based GUI index design
How much does it cost?
As each project is unique, there are no flat fees for these services. Instead, we bill for these services at our regular hourly pre-mastering rate. The cost also includes delivering a copy of the final master to you for approval.
IMPORTANT
If you intend to include third party software, shareware or freeware, such as Adobe Acrobat Reader or Quicktime on your CD-ROM, there are strict guidelines for procedures we must follow to verify that you are doing so legally. Please see our anti-piracy page for more details. |
for Audio Projects...
What is audio pre-mastering?
Audio pre-mastering refers to processing and enhancing your mixed audio tracks into their final sonic version, editing and compiling those tracks in the sequence they will appear on your finished product, and in general, cleaning everything up before your project enters the replication/duplication phase.
In this critical stage, your songs are put into their final order, wholesale edits are accomplished, fades can be created, and P & Q subcoding is added. More important however, is the opportunity to add overall EQ, dynamics processing, or effects. These measures can drastically improve many recordings by adding that 'sonic polish' that virtually oozes from national releases.
Our tracks sounded great in the studio - is this necessary?
No, but this is your last chance to verify that your music will be sonically 'on par' with other recordings. Ever hear a difference between tracks getting regular airplay and tracks on the local 'homegrown' show?
The difference is in the pre-mastering. Maybe your songs do sound great and don't need any tweaking... but wouldn't you feel better if that was confirmed by a pair of independent professional ears?
Once upon a time...
In the old days, pre-mastering and editing were very tedious and time-consuming affairs accomplished by physically splicing tape together and routing the audio through various outboard signal processors. By nature, these were techniques reserved for top artists who could afford the high price.
With the advent of digital audio and the digital audio workstation, the playing field has been leveled. Affordable, non-linear, non-destructive digital manipulation now fits in the budget of the independent musician.
How much does audio pre-mastering cost?
As each project is unique, there are no flat fees for these services. Instead, we bill for these services at our regular hourly pre-mastering rate. For budgeting purposes, most projects incur a total pre-mastering charge equal to 2 to 5 times the actual total running length of the audio. This cost also includes delivering a copy of the final PMCD to you for approval.
Enhanced CD & CD-Text formats
In addition to finalizing your audio, we can compile audio with standard computer data on a single disc (an Enhanced CD), and add title, artist and composer text information for readability on text-enabled CD players (CD-Text format).
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