Stem-mastering involves sending out groups - drums, guitars, vocals, synths - separately for outboard processing. This allows for much more control than conventional mastering from a stereo file. However, conventional mastering is A-OK if you're happy with your mix. GEAR LIST
Preamps:
(2) WSW 811402; '60s germanium, they make 2D into 3D... witchcraft
(1) WSW 811403, silicon
(2) BBC Audix D-Seri
es, ex World Service; '90s, crystal clear yet warm
EQ:
(1) War Rooms 'Total Victory' custom-built stereo Pultec (both EQP1A and MEQ5)
(6) BBC Audix D-Series; '90s, crystal clear yet warm, stereo
Compression:
(1) Thermionic Culture Phoenix vari-mu
(2) BBC Audix D-Series; stereo, '90s VCA-based, similar to SSL buss
(1) Urei 1176LN Revision D (original)
Plugins: mainly Acustica
Conversion by Prism, monitoring by Living Voice, own-design solid silver cabling for mastering, Van Damme/Sommer for outboard, fully acoustically-treated room by GIK Acoustics
Various synths for replacing software tracks, inc. Roland Jupiter 4, Roland SH-5, Moog Grandmother
Suhr reactive load box for reamping guitars using custom recreations of a Hiwatt DR103, a Trainwreck Express, or a Fender Champ
Various tape and analogue echo units, guitar pedals, mics, guitars, and percussion. And a couple of VST plugins for those who like their mixes loud
