Optimaster and higher sample rates 96kHz 24 bit dither

geoffd99 · Post by **geoffd99** » Mon May 02, 2005 5:59 am

Hi all
I have just set up my laptop via an M-Audio 1814 interface to do digital mastering off my main CW PC (Pulsar 2, Luna 2, 14 dsp SRB).

All fine at higher sample rates (get 88.2Khz).

Question is: since I will end up dithering to CD at 44.1, 16 bits, is it better to use Optimaster outputting at that rate, or master at higher rates, and then dither down in Wavelab (or whatever).

Is Optimaster better at dithering than other software? If CW has a proper mastering solution, does it actually work?

I will run some tests soon, just curious of others experiences.
Thanks

astroman · Post by **astroman** » Mon May 02, 2005 11:36 am

if 'mastering' means more impact and impression of 'regular' audience - I guess it works very well.
I'm extrapolating from an experience with our (medium quality) car radio. 1-2 years ago I noticed that the same records known from TV did sound significantly 'better' on our favourite radio station, so much that I even suspected special mixes.
Later I found out that station is on CWA's customer list for Cutmaster

Given the fact they applied a little Psycho and Optimaster to already 'finished' records (which is only my personal suspect), the result in proper applications should be pretty good - not to forget it's a very affordable solution.

cheers, Tom

geoffd99 · Post by **geoffd99** » Mon May 02, 2005 11:46 am

I have not used Psycho as I try to add bass etc in the mix. Perhaps - but is it before or after Optimaster? Before, or the levels will go up, presumably.

The mixes to 16 bit 44.1 kHz do sound great, I don't see the point of recording them at higher rates, then dithering down (as I am not going to SCD or DVD Audio etc - is that the main use of the higher rates? Or if I was going to vinyl).

Perhaps it is an Archiving or future use issue - except the drive is for LOWER quality (eg mp3) not higher.

Shayne White · Post by **Shayne White** » Mon May 02, 2005 1:06 pm

I think all effects should be BEFORE your compressor/limiter. If you drive up your levels to 0db, and then you add extra bass or treble, that will make it begin to clip. So EQs and other things should be before the compressor when you have plenty of headroom.

Shayne

wayne · Post by **wayne** » Mon May 02, 2005 8:05 pm

I use PsyQ after Optimaster, very sparingly.