• Songs
  • Help with mastering an old instrumental - 2 new versions mastered by Batsbrew (6/11)
2016/06/06 16:29:21
Lynn
Here's an instrumental that I wrote in the mid 90's.  I was still somewhat new to MIDI programming, and I wrote this for the experience.  It was sequenced on an Alesis MMT-8 sequencer, using a Korm M1 synth, a Roland MT-32 sound module, a Yamaha FB-01 sound module, and an Alesis HR-15 drum machine.  Admittedly, some of the sounds are dated, and since this is a stereo file, I can't replace any of the instruments.
 
I'm looking for advice on how to master this using the latest tools in Platinum (including the latest versions of the LP EQ and multiband compressor), as well as all the VST's that come with the latest version of Splat.  I thank you all in advance for any suggestions that can bring this to life.
 
It's call Springbreak, and can be found here: https://soundcloud.com/lynn-wilson-4/springbreak-1
 
Edit: 6-9
I changed the width of the track and tried a different EQ curve to tone down the sharper edges, as per your suggestions.
 
6-11: Here are two versions mastered by Batsbrew.
#1: http://www.soundclick.com/player/single_player.cfm?songid=13394912&q=hi
#2: http://www.soundclick.com...ngid=13394913&q=hi
2016/06/06 16:35:06
jamesyoyo
Great fun track as always Lynn. I always look forward to your stuff.
 
The stereo field is way too wide and there is nothing in the middle to focus on. Try using some of the stereo tools (Channel tools etc) to bring the sides in.
2016/06/06 20:00:11
Lynn
Doh (sound of hand slapping head)!  That seems so obvious, now.  It'll be the starting point on the next pass.  James, it's always good to hear from you.  Thanks for your time.
2016/06/06 20:45:20
ABeautifulVirus
wow haven't been here in so long and as soon as i log in the first song i come to is yours Lynn and you never fail to deliver. i actually love anything redolent of the 80s/90s so very cool that this is from the vaults. i do that from time to time. 
 
i'm all Logic/iZotope here so not sure what to say exactly pertaining to your DAW - i think you can narrow the stereo image in the middle some in terms of mastering. it also seemed bright almost to the point of shrill when at high volume (on DT 770 headphones) wondering if you could make it tad warmer a bit and file the EQ sharp points down on the keyboard noodling so to speak? I dunno; my ears are also a bit shot out from mixing so I might be off here too
 
it's a nice musical tapestry with a lot of MIDI powered 80s/90s nostalgia. could be playing in a hotel down here in Boca Raton. good luck with final mix down 
 
- Daren T
2016/06/06 21:09:32
MarkusClinus
Lynn, this is a great track - so many cool sounds on it. Your playing is great and the mix on this is so clear. Very nice.
2016/06/07 18:06:38
Lynn
Daren, it's good to hear from you.  I agree that it's on the bright side.  What if I did a cut @ 2k?  I'm already planning on narrowing the stereo field.  I wish that I could replace the slap bass, but in the day, it was popular and able to cut through the mix.  Nearly everything was mixed without EQ treatment through an old Tascam Model 5 mixer.  I'll try out some various EQ curves that are available in my Izotope EQ.  Thanks for contributing.
 
Mark, thank you so much for your kind words and time.  It's always a pleasure.
2016/06/08 06:36:43
thepogue
well sorry I'll not be helpful in the mixing end...but I can tell you this is a great lil number...kinda had a Steely Dan feel at times and oddly enough I dont know why...maybe the progression. Of course James is right...have seen anything spread that wide since...ah...since...
 
never mind....cool song ;)
2016/06/08 14:30:40
Lynn
Tom, thanks for the kind words.  Yeah, I'm going to narrow that stereo field.  There once was a time when WIDE was the rage.  That should give you an idea how old this song is.
 
I'm still hoping for an idea where to start on the EQ curve.  I know some frequencies need to be cut from this, but where do I start?
2016/06/08 14:46:58
batsbrew
eq curves.....
 
so personal, it's hard to make suggestions...
if you want, send me a 24 bit file, and i'll try a curve on it, just for fun.
dropbox, link.
 
 
wide still is the rage, 
again, personal choices, and if you want it wide, leave it wide.
 
can it work BETTER brought in?!
yea, probably!
heheh
 
 
2016/06/09 14:37:00
Lynn
I made a few changes to reflect your suggestions.  I narrowed the stereo field and used a different EQ curve to tone down the sharper edges.  Hope this helps.  Thanks to all.
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