Mastered my wife's first album about 3 years ago after not being happy with what the studio produced. I did a so-so job for a frist attempt (end result was better than the studio - their assesment), but when I listen to it now - erk.
About to attempt the second album, but this time I would appreciate the help and advice of those more experienced than I.
Info like, where do I start - image, compress, eq etc. Is there any particular order of process that is better than another. Any other advice and hints would also be very much appreciated.

Sights

I'm going to try and not sound "zen" about it, but it's not easy -

The ear adjusts to change very quickly - It's not a time for experimentation. You do what the mix tells you to do. You use the chain that will get the mix from point "A" to point "B" in your head.

YES there is a particular chain you should use - Which you should know after hearing the mix. YES there are particular settings you should use - Which you should know by hearing the mix. YES there is a particular order - Which you should know by hearing the mix.

The point is to listen, evaluate, do. If you know your tools and you know what you're listening for, the mix will tell you the chain and the rough settings. But you need to have a fairly clear goal in mind before you start assembling that chain - or else, you're experimenting again. Your ears will adjust, it'll sound "normal" and three years later, "Erk."

quote:

I'm going to try and not sound "zen" about it, but it's not easy

That's ok master...er..John, you can sound as zen as you like.
I appreciate the goss. It might sound Zen but it also sounds right. I was looking for a testbook process that the "pro's" follow, but the more I contemplate your comments, the more it sounds like what the textbook should say. It's our music, and we know how we want it to sound; so I will start some serious music meditation and see what images appear.

Thanks John and regards

Grasshopper...er...Sights

There's the rub - The only "textbook" process is to listen - objectively (which is where 99% of the self-mastering problems come in) - and do what the mix tells you to do.

Starting out with a lack of objectivity almost inevitably leads to second-guessing your own mixes.