A wider stereo image
Neumann analog summing opens up the soundstage with a naturalness digital math can't reproduce.
Services · Stem mastering
Your separated tracks, summed in analog.
The work starts from your stems — kick, bass, drums, synths, vocals, FX. Summing happens on a Neumann analog summing mixer, renowned for its precision, stereo width and unique musicality. Your mix then runs through a selected chain of analog inserts that bring character and warmth.
Maselec MLA-3Why analog summing?
€160 / trackNeumann summing + analog inserts
When a DAW adds tracks together, summing is a calculation: precise, but with no physical behavior. An analog summing mixer genuinely adds the signals in an electrical circuit — stereo width, depth, the Neumann's subtle harmonic saturation, transients that breathe differently. The resulting mix is denser, more alive. Between summing and output, it then runs through the studio's inserts: Fairman TMC and Maselec MLA-3 compression, GML and Manley Massive Passive EQ, tube processing.
Cohesion and density
The elements of your mix bind together — more depth, density and movement.
Tailor-made flexibility
Working from stems allows individual adjustments to each element before the final treatment.
How to prepare your stems
- 01Format: WAV or AIFF, 24-bit or 32-bit float, at the project's native sample rate
- 02Typically 6 to 12 stems — kick, bass, drums, synths, vocals, FX — following the logic of your mix
- 03All stems start at bar 1 and run the full length of the track
- 04No processing on the master bus (no compressor or limiter)
- 05Headroom: -6 dBFS on the sum, -12 dBFS recommended on individual stems
- 06Include a reference bounce of your mix for comparison
Unsure how to split your stems? Send me your session structure through the contact form— I'll reply before you send the files.
Frequently asked questions
How is stem mastering different from stereo mastering?
Stereo mastering starts from your mix already bounced into a single file. Stem mastering starts from your separated tracks and re-sums the mix on a Neumann analog summing mixer before processing: more substance, more room to work.
How many stems should I provide?
Typically 6 to 12, depending on the architecture of your mix. Too few limits the benefit over stereo mastering; beyond about fifteen, the session gets heavier without clear gain.
Does stem mastering replace mixing?
No. It works on a mix that is already built, balanced and approved. If the mix isn't finished, finish the mixing first.
What is the turnaround?
Two to three business days in general — the session takes more preparation than stereo, the exact deadline is confirmed on the quote.
Does the rate also apply to EPs and albums?
Stem mastering is billed at €160 per track. For a longer format in stems, get in touch for an adapted quote.
Does your mix deserve analog summing?
Describe your project — number of tracks, number of stems, deadline. Quote within one business day.