At UnitedMasters, we offer the option to Master tracks before submitting them. Artists can now also preview mastered tracks before deciding whether or not to purchase mastering for the release, ensuring you are satisfied with the quality before purchase and distribution!

Mastering can only be added during the upload phase of your release, so it is important to decide early on.

Please note that mastering previews are currently only available on our iOS mobile application.

This article will help explain our new experience flow and answer any questions you may have related to our mastering services!

Mastering is a critical step in music production. It ensures that uploaded tracks are polished and ready for release on streaming platforms, giving artists control over final sound quality.

Preview Generation

After uploading a track and clicking next, the mastering job will automatically start, and you will be updated on the progress (e.g., from "Mastering Task Pending" to "Mastering Task Completed").

If there are any failures during the mastering process, you'll be notified, and can attempt to generate the preview again.

You can also save a draft with a mastered preview for up to 24 hours. If you return to the draft after this timeframe, the preview will need to be re-generated.

Preview Comparison

Once ready, you can listen to a 30-second preview of both the original and mastered versions of the track to compare quality before deciding on a purchase. The 30-second preview will start at the same timestamp for a true A/B comparison.

• You will see various messages updating you on the status of the mastering job such as:

  • “…readying track for mastering…” (0%)

  • “…listening to track…” (25%)

  • “…analyzing track audio…” (50%)

  • “…applying mastering optimizations…” (75%)

  • “...completed…” (100%)

Purchase Options

You can toggle between the original and mastered tracks. If you're happy with the mastered version, you can purchase it directly for $4.99 per track.

Once you purchase the mastered version, it will be locked for distribution, and you cannot switch back to the original audio for that release. If you would prefer to submit the track with original audio for distribution, you would need to create a new release with that track.

Once the release is approved, you can no longer add mastering, so make sure to include it during the initial upload phase if desired.

FAQs

Why can't I preview my mastered track?

Ensure that your track has fully uploaded and the mastering process is completed. You will be updated on the status as the preview is generated.

How long can I access the preview?

Previews will remain available on a draft submission for 24 hours. If you access the draft after this timeframe, the previews will be re-generated.

Can I download my mastered tracks?

Yes! You can download all your mastered tracks after purchase and distribution.

• Navigate to the "Music" section of the UnitedMasters iOS app.

• Select the release.

• Tap on "MASTERED" under the track.

• Tap on "Download Master".

When can I purchase mastering services?

Mastering services can only be added during the upload phase of your release. Ensure to include this step before final approval of your track.