Topic
True peak is the highest level a digital audio waveform reaches once it is rebuilt as a continuous signal, including peaks that fall between samples. It is measured with the ITU-R BS.1770 method and shown in dBTP; Spotify asks for masters at or below -1 dBTP.
Workflows
Automated mastering services and assistants analyse your mix, compare it with a target, and set EQ, compression and a limiter to close the gap. This guide explains that loop step by step, what the measurements underneath it are, and the limits you should know before you trust the result. Standards and manuals checked on 25 Oct 2026.
Workflows
Stem mastering means sending a mastering engineer a handful of submixes instead of one stereo file, so they can fix balance problems the mix left behind. This guide explains how it differs from stereo mastering, when it actually helps, how to print stems that sum back to your mix, and why we think it is usually a sign the mix is not finished. Sources checked on 25 Oct 2026.
Workflows
A limiter is a very fast, very hard compressor that stops your track going over a ceiling. True peak is the level your audio reaches between the samples, after it is turned back into a waveform or encoded to a lossy format. This guide explains both in plain terms, shows how to set a limiter step by step, and explains why a -1 dBTP ceiling is the safe default, using the ITU, EBU and Spotify specs read on 25 Oct 2026.
Workflows
Mastering at home is less about secret plugins and more about a short, repeatable chain, honest listening and a few numbers you check at the end. This guide walks through preparing the mix, the four moves most masters need, loudness and true peak, and the export settings, using Spotify and the ITU loudness standard as sources, read on 25 Oct 2026.
Workflows
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