Mastering Plugs - Chain Order

[thewitt]

Before I ask, let me say; \"I know this is subjective\"

I'm just looking for opinions

What order should the precision mastering suite be in?
Comp - EQ - Limit?

EQ - Comp - Limit?

Other?

TIA

 

[saemskin]

I disagree with your use of the word \"mastering\" here, that's the subjective part.

Objectively speaking, it's a better idea to EQ after compression as the compressor could possibly eliminate some of the work the EQ is doing.
IMO--- compress->EQ->limit

For additional subjectivity, you should remove the limiter from your \"mastering\" chain altogether if you have intentions of a professional ever mastering your projects.

 

[thewitt]

Thanks snotty

Disagree or not, the 'mastering' subjectivity comes from UA itself:
The Precision Limiter is a colorless, transparent mastering limiter
The Precision Multiband is a specialized mastering tool
The Precision Equalizer is modeled on the behavior of real-world analog mastering filters

These are tools I have experienced 'professionals' using on projects.

I'm just looking to see how others would use them so I can learn and later NOT remove the limiter... Get it?

 

[Akis]

Calm down, mate, he just expressed his opinion in a much more polite way than you replied to him.

 

[saemskin]

The Precision Limiter is a colorless, transparent mastering limiter

this is also untrue, not subjectively speaking either. Look for the thread...

I've no response to the emotional upheaval you've displayed. There's music to be made. Listen or dont, I care not.

 

[thewitt]

Can anyone just offer an opinion on the order which they should be inserted?

 

[cAPSLOCK]

People have. I think it is safe to say that comp before EQ is the most likely choice if you only have one EQ. But as usual it depends. Say you have something that has some heavy bass, and a compressor that is going to get hit hard by that first. You might EQ first, then compress (and maybe do your real eq next) in this case.

For what it's worth, this is my usual order of things on tracks too.

There are some guys who are primarily MEs here... maybe one of them will wade in.

 

[demonsp]

EQ then Dynamics then Limit.

EQ first 'coz it will boost or cut frequencies resulting in db changes THEN you can control Dynamics (be it compression, gating, expanding) THEN Limit to ensure maximum playback output without digital clipping.

Simple answer. No ruffled feathers.

Enjoy!

 

[thewitt]

Thanks

Interesting approach. I was thinking the other way. Dynamics first, then eq to get more bottom. Ie: The multi comp might squish any gain I give it.

That's why I need help.

 

[demonsp]

Ie: The multi comp might squish any gain I give it.

Not if set properly. You decide how much \"squish\" takes place.



...then again, if the material requires it. You're right.
Listen to the material and then decide.