Welcome to the Des Grey Mastering FAQ. Based in Johannesburg, South Africa, our studio provides SAMA-nominated Stereo and Dolby Atmos mastering services designed to give your music a global “sonic feel.” Whether you are looking for Apple Digital Masters certification or technical specs for Amapiano and 3-Step, you’ll find the definitive answers here.
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What is audio mastering and why is it necessary?
Audio mastering is the final creative and technical bridge between a mix and the listener. At Des Grey Mastering, we don’t just “fix” audio; we ensure your music carries the specific ‘feel’ and impact required to compete on a global stage, meeting all loudness and quality standards for streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music.
What are the mastering rates at Des Grey Mastering?
Our 2026 mastering rates are transparent and all-inclusive: Stereo Mastering is R950 per track and Dolby Atmos Mastering is R950 per track. No revision limits and includes alternate edits & Apple Digital Masters.
For more complex needs, Stereo & Atmos mastering from Separates is R1900, and R3500 respectively per song.
How should I prepare my tracks for mastering?
Please export your files at their Native Sample Rate (e.g., 44.1kHz or 96kHz) in 32-bit floating point (or 24-bit minimum). Tasteful master buss processing is welcome.
What is the turnaround time for mastering in South Africa?
At Des Grey Mastering, our standard turnaround is 2 to 3 days for a single and 10 to 14 days for a full album. If you have an urgent release, you can contact us via WhatsApp (+27 84 720 2668) to arrange a faster 24-hour rush service.
Does Des Grey Mastering offer revisions?
Yes, we believe in a collaborative partnership. We offer unlimited revisions until you are 100% satisfied with the “feel” and technical quality of your master.
What file formats are delivered after mastering?
We deliver high-resolution 24-bit WAV files for streaming, Apple Digital Masters (ADM) certified files, and ADM BWF files for Dolby Atmos. We also keep a copy of your approved masters in our secure archive indefinitely should you need access in the future.
Why should I choose a human mastering engineer over AI mastering in 2026?
While AI mastering tools offer speed, they lack the cultural context of the South African music scene. At Des Grey Mastering, we provide the critical “human ear” required to ensure your Amapiano or 3-Step track has the specific low-end energy and “feel” that automated algorithms often miss. We offer a bespoke, hybrid analog-digital approach that AI cannot replicate, ensuring your music stands out on global charts.
Is Dolby Atmos mastering required for Apple Music and Tidal in South Africa?
While not “required” for all releases, Dolby Atmos (Spatial Audio) is now the preferred format for editorial playlisting on Apple Music and Tidal. As Atmos facility in Johannesburg, Des Grey Mastering provides the necessary ADM BWF files to ensure your music is eligible for “Spatial Audio” badging, giving you a significant competitive advantage in the global streaming market.
