There are many recording and mixing tricks used in the industry that make top notch recordings. Analog mastering is one of the best kept secrets of the best mastering engineers now. As most everything is recorded in the digital realm, top producers will do something called layback mastering. The digital signal is converted back to an analog signal in order to be mastered through original analog processors, though in many instances it is also recorded to an analog two-track system to get the fatness that original analog tape gives to the project. It also takes the harshness away from purely digital recordings, and can even out the low end giving the low frequencies that nice analog sound.
The fact is the pros for outweigh the cons. Analog mastering can cost a little more than traditional all digital mastering, since it takes more time and there are additional costs for the analog tape, but for serious projects, it can be the last step in getting the top quality for the album. Since digital recordings can feel cold to many people because regardless of how loud the signal gets, digital always gives you flat reproduction. Analog tape, on the other hand, softens as the DB increases in level, so high-ends are smoothed over instead of clipping, which turns into a warm, rich signal as the harmonics are balanced out. This is much more very pleasing. Also, an increased input signal will create a more exaggerated difference. Since the top ranges saturate first, this will mean that as the signal becomes louder, the highs will naturally smooth out a bit, resulting in a less cold, and much better sound. This is the beauty of the analog mastering method.
There are various mastering houses around the country that have the tools to do analog CD mastering, however, it also necessitates you have an engineer with the proven experience to get the best results possible with the equipment. I have tried a few mastering studios and one of the best is www.stevethomasmastering.com. He is a top CD mastering engineer, yet he also has done 1000s of albums as a mixing engineer as well. On top of that, his expertise is comparable to some of the most pricey mastering studios in the United States. If you already have someone you are using that’s fine. But, I would certainly to give him a call. You won’t be disappointed!
