Why loudness is not «as loud as possible»
Streaming services adjust volume toward an average loudness level (usually quoted in LUFS). An heavily compressed track often sounds smaller after normalisation than a more dynamic master on the same platform. Our mastering focuses on translation: it must work on phone speakers, cars and headphones.
Mastering at Micracoriva is €78 per track, €335 for an EP up to five tracks, €98 for stem master per track — incl. 21% VAT. The mix needs headroom; see deliver stems for mix if the mix is still open.
Guide numbers (not chart promises)
| Platform type | Integrated loudness | True peak (guide) |
|---|---|---|
| Spotify / Deezer / YouTube Music | About −14 LUFS integrated | ≤ −1 dBTP |
| Apple Music | About −16 LUFS | ≤ −1 dBTP |
| Download / Bandcamp (no norm) | Taste-led, often more dynamic | Safe headroom |
Numbers change occasionally; we check current specs at release. Your single may master slightly hotter or cooler if it fits the genre — we discuss references in intake via contact.
Integrated, short-term and momentary
LUFS measures average perceived loudness over the song (integrated). Short-term and momentary readings help transitions: a breakdown can sit lower without the chorus feeling weak after platform gain.
If your mix is already brickwall-limited, mastering has little room. Better: mix without a limiter on the master bus, 3–6 dB headroom. Mixing is €225 per track with 2 revision rounds — use those for level before master.
True peak and clipping
Inter-sample peaks can exceed 0 dBFS after lossy encoding (AAC, Ogg). We keep true peak (dBTP) conservative, often around −1 dBTP for streaming. Hotter is not always louder after platform gain.
Vinyl or CD has different needs; mention physical manufacturing upfront — we tighten HF and bass mono compatibility. Digital-only? We usually deliver 24-bit WAV and optionally high-quality mp3/AAC for promo by agreement.
Album vs standalone singles
EPs and albums are mastered as one sequence where possible: relative loudness between tracks stays coherent so listeners are not riding volume. Standalone singles can be slightly more assertive than a ballad on the same album — context matters.
For five tracks the EP master package (€335) is often better value than five separate track masters. Bands that recorded here: band studio budget helps line up recording and post costs.
Listening and revisions
We send a preview (streaming link or download) before final files. Feedback works best when specific: «more presence 2–5 kHz», «slightly shorter kick», not just «louder». 2 mastering revision rounds are included where quoted; major remixes return to mixing.
Archive: we keep masters within 12 months project retention — see privacy policy. You supply ISRC/UPC to your distributor; we do not register releases on your behalf.
Netherlands release context
Many Amsterdam acts release via distributor platforms or Buma/Stemra-affiliated labels. Loudness rules come from the platform, not from the collecting society. Metadata at upload should be accurate — wrong titles or explicit flags are not LUFS issues but they affect professional presentation.
Podcast and speech sit outside this music-master flow; for talk recording see podcast and interview recording. Vocals only: vocal and speech recording and vocal prep.
Getting started
Send your mix (not mp3 unless agreed) via contact or [email protected] with target release date. List platforms and reference tracks. We usually schedule mastering after 1 business day reply; busy holiday periods need early planning.
Hours Monday to Friday 10:00–20:00, Saturday 11:00–18:00. Closed Sunday. By appointment only. at Goudsbloemstraat 73 in the Jordaan. Call 020 737 0284. Terms and liability: terms and conditions and disclaimer. Back to overview: guides.
