Mastering: where to actually start

Mastering should start with the song, not the limiter. Before touching the master chain, the important question is whether the mix already communicates what it should.

Listen before processing

Listen through the whole song and write down what you actually hear. Is the vocal stable? Is the low end controlled? Does the chorus lift? Are there technical noises or rough edits?

Check translation

Play the mix on headphones, monitors, a phone, a car system, and small speakers if possible. You are not looking for perfection everywhere. You are checking whether the core of the song survives.

Leave headroom

Do not export a clipped mix. A clean stereo file with sensible headroom gives mastering room to work. The exact peak number is less important than avoiding distortion and heavy limiting on the mix bus unless it is intentional.

Send context

Useful mastering notes include references, release format, desired feel, and any concern you already hear. Clear context helps the final decisions land closer to the actual goal.