#193: I Asked a Pro If You Really Need a Mastering Engineer - And If You Can DIY (feat. Mike Marsh)

Music Production and Mixing Tips for Beginner Producers and Artists | Inside The Mix

Acclaimed mastering engineer Mike Marsh demystifies the final stage of music production in this insightful episode. With a career spanning over three decades, working with artists like Björk, The Chemical Brothers, and Depeche Mode, Mike offers unparalleled expertise on what music mastering is and why it's important.

He addresses the common misconception of the "fix it in mastering" mindset, explaining that mastering cannot correct issues that should have been resolved during mixing. This highlights the critical difference between mixing and mastering in music.

Mike shares practical music mastering tips for independent artists, emphasising the importance of understanding your listening environment over relying solely on expensive equipment. He notes that some of the best mixes he's received came from modest home studios, underscoring that quality results are achievable without high-end gear.

The discussion also covers common mastering mistakes to avoid, such as over-compression and neglecting proper monitoring. Mike weighs in on the debate: Do you need a mastering engineer or can you DIY? He suggests that while self-mastering is possible, a professional's fresh perspective often enhances the final product.

Whether you're a seasoned producer or just starting, this episode provides valuable insights to elevate your music's final polish.

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1. Introduction to Inside The Mix (00:00:00)

2. What Is Music Mastering and Why Is It Important? (00:02:05)

3. Common Mastering Mistakes and Studio Monitoring Issues (00:05:54)

4. Debunking the "Fix It in Mastering" Myth (00:11:12)

5. Music Mastering Tips: Why Less Is More in Mixing (00:17:35)

6. Difference Between Mixing and Mastering in Music (00:22:19)

7. AI Mastering vs. Mastering Engineer: What You Need to Know (00:32:43)

8. How to Become a Mastering Engineer: Mike Marsh's Advice (00:39:26)