Pricing is in GBP (UK)
Payment Methods: Bank Transfer or PayPal only.
Mastering Pricing
The pricing for mastering is based on the number of tracks and the format(s) being released. Rates are designed to accommodate a variety of project types.
For digital formats (download and streaming), the per-track price applies.
| Number of Tracks | Total Price | Price per Track |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Track | £75 | £75 |
| 2 Tracks | £142 | £71 |
| 3 Tracks | £198 | £66 |
| 4 Tracks | £240 | £60 |
| 5 Tracks | £265 | £53 |
| Additional Tracks | +£47 each | £47 |
Example Album Costs
| Album Type | Calculation | Total |
|---|---|---|
| 10-track (digital only) | 5 tracks £265 + 5 × £47 = £235 | £500 |
| 10-track (digital only + MP3s) | £500 + 15% MP3 = £75 | £575 |
| 10-track (digital + vinyl masters) | £500 + 30% vinyl = £150 | £650 |
| 10-track (digital + vinyl masters) + DDP CD master | £650 + £50 CD mastering | £700 |
| 10-track (digital, vinyl, CD, MP3 & high-res) | £500 + £150 vinyl + £50 CD + £75 MP3 + £75 high-res | £850 |
Additional Services
| Service | Cost / Surcharge | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Instrumentals / Edits / Alt Versions | £20 per track | |
| Vinyl / Cassette Pre-master | +30% of track rate | 24-bit production masters per side |
| High-Resolution Digital Masters | +15% of track rate | 24-bit, up to 96kHz per format |
| MP3 Masters | +15% of track rate | 320kbps with metadata |
| CD Mastering | £50 | Includes DDP set + PQ sheet PDF |
| Restoration / Editing / Misc. Services | £55/hour |
Please get in touch to discuss the specifics of the project.
Delivery Instructions for Mastering
Please follow these guidelines when preparing and submitting your audio:
- File Format
- Submit WAV or AIFF files.
- Do not send MP3s unless no other files are available (email first if this is the case).
- Clipping
- Make sure your audio is not clipping.
- Export Settings
- Export at 24-bit and keep the original sample rate of the project.
- Loudness Processing
- Do not apply loudness processing (e.g., “home mastering” plug-ins) to the final stereo output.
- Creative mix bus processing is acceptable but should be mentioned when submitting.
- Sequencing & Layering
- If your project includes fades, segues, or layered sections, provide clear notes.
- A mock-up MP3 or WAV with the intended sequence is very helpful.
- Silence Gaps
- Leave a short silence at the start and end of each file to prevent software-related glitches.
- Effect Tails
- Ensure the file includes enough space for effects (e.g., reverb, delay) to fully decay.
If you have any further questions please get in touch.
Joe Caithness Mastering – Terms and Conditions
These terms and conditions are designed to ensure that both parties are treated fairly and that a smooth, professional service is provided. By agreeing to work with Joe Caithness Mastering, you accept and acknowledge these terms.
Payment Terms
- Payment Due:
Payment is requested upon confirmation of proof audio, prior to the release of production masters.
Upfront payment may be required at the discretion of Joe Caithness Mastering.
Any payment request will be clearly communicated to the client before starting work. - Binding Quotations:
Any quotation provided via email is binding once agreed upon by both parties.
Pricing is subject to change between confirmed jobs; however, previous clients will retain their original rate as standard. - Payment Methods:
Accepted payment methods include Bank Transfer and PayPal.
Failure to make payment by the agreed-upon time may result in delays or suspension of services.
Remastering and Revisions
- Satisfaction Guarantee:
If you are not fully satisfied with the final results of the mastering service, remastering will be provided until the issue is resolved to your satisfaction, or you will not be charged.
Revisions will be handled within the original scope of the project and must be communicated promptly. - Additional Costs:
New versions of audio files provided by the client (e.g., due to changes in premasters) may incur additional costs at the discretion of Joe Caithness Mastering. Any such costs will be discussed and agreed upon in advance.
Cancellation and Discretionary Rights
- Cancellation by Client:
The client may cancel the project at any time before the release of the final masters. In such cases, no payment will be required for services rendered, provided the client communicates the cancellation before the completion of work. - Cancellation by Joe Caithness Mastering:
Joe Caithness Mastering reserves the right to cease work on any project at our discretion, especially if a resolution cannot be reached after a dispute or failure to make payments. In such cases, the client will not be charged for any incomplete work.
General Terms
Ownership of Work:
All audio files provided by the client remain the property of the client. Upon completion and full payment, the final production masters will be delivered to the client.
Confidentiality:
All client audio files and project details are kept strictly confidential and will not be shared with third parties without the client’s prior written consent, except where required by law.
Data Storage:
Joe Caithness Mastering is not responsible for long-term storage of client audio files or project data. Clients are advised to maintain their own backups of all materials.
Force Majeure:
Joe Caithness Mastering is not responsible for delays or failure to perform due to circumstances beyond reasonable control, including but not limited to technical failures, internet outages, or any other event of force majeure.