Why does mastering require even smaller EQ adjustments than mixing?
AMastering software has lower resolution than mixing plugins
BEvery change affects the complete program mix simultaneously — a 3 dB boost at 100 Hz affects the kick, bass, and everything else at once
CMastering is done at quieter listening levels where EQ has less effect
DStreaming platforms correct EQ automatically
In mastering, EQ moves affect the entire mix. A 3 dB boost designed to add weight to the kick drum will also add muddiness to everything else in that frequency range. Subtlety and precision are essential.
Question 2 True / False
True or false: Mid-side (M/S) processing in mastering allows independent EQ and compression of the center and stereo width of a mix.
TTrue
FFalse
Answer: True
M/S processing encodes the stereo signal into mid (L+R, mono sum) and side (L-R, stereo difference) components. Processing mid and side independently allows tightening the low-end center, adding air to the sides, or widening the image without affecting the mono compatibility.
Question 3 Short Answer
What is the difference between a brickwall limiter and a standard compressor in the mastering context?
Think about your answer, then reveal below.
Model answer: A brickwall limiter uses an extremely high ratio (often infinity:1) with a very fast attack to prevent any signal from exceeding a set ceiling (typically -0.3 to -1 dBTP). It acts as a hard stop on peaks. A compressor uses lower ratios to control dynamics over longer timescales with more audible character.
In mastering, the limiter is the last processor in the chain. Its job is to prevent true peak levels from exceeding streaming delivery specifications while adding as little distortion and coloration as possible.
Question 4 Multiple Choice
A mastering engineer receives a mix that sounds great in the studio but is overly bright on consumer earbuds. What is the most likely cause and approach?
AThe mix engineer used too much reverb — nothing can be done at mastering
BThe mastering studio monitors have a different frequency response than consumer earbuds; reference the mix on multiple playback systems before mastering
CThe DAC in consumer earbuds adds distortion; increase limiting at mastering
DConsumer earbuds are too bright — a high-frequency boost at mastering will compensate
Brightness perception differences across playback systems reflect the mix translation problem. Mastering engineers check mixes on multiple systems (reference monitors, headphones, consumer earbuds, laptop speakers) before applying corrective EQ, and always reference commercial releases at matched loudness.