When preparing music to be mastered, take steps that can help improve the end result. Music recorded at a 24-bit 96kHz resolution will be more accurately reproduced once mastered than the audio CD standard of 16-bit 44.1kHz. Subtle details will be easier to bring out at a higher resolution as well. WAV files offer more compatibility than other file options. If you must use a compressed format such as MP3 or AAC, choose a data rate of 256 Kbps or higher. Leave the right amount of headroom in your mix to avoid distortion. The higher the sample rate, the more headroom you should leave.
Avoid distortion and a muddy sound by not overdoing the amount of processing. Apply effects in the order that makes the most sense for the sound you want to bring out. Try to create a balance in sound. Over-compressed tracks sound less natural, so use multi-band compressors to adjust and compress only the frequencies that need it. If reverb is needed, apply it sparingly to avoid muddiness. EQ, or equalize, the signal being sent to the reverb for tighter control of the frequency.
For a more natural sound, choose a high-end mastering EQ or compressor instead of plug-ins. Analog equipment will allow you to capture more nuance than digital equipment and add warmth to the signal. Genres such as pop, rock, country and rap benefit more from analog mastering than digital-based genres like electronica and dance. Rent analog two-track machines from studios for final mixdown.
Boosting only the high frequencies of high-pitched instruments and low frequencies of lower-pitched instruments results in an unnatural sound. You can boost frequencies up to 20 decibels while maintaining their tone and presence, by using high-end, custom-built mastering gear. When mastering vocals, or whichever instrument is carrying the melody, louder is better. Vocals that are mixed too quietly in the mix can get lost in an abundance of high frequencies. Emphasize all of the frequencies of the voice, not just the highs, for a full and more realistic sound.