IK's Lurssen Mastering Console provides a complete emulation of the entire mastering processing chain used by world-renowned mastering engineers Gavin Lurssen and Reuben Cohen and their team. This includes tube equalizers, solid-state equalizers, limiters, de-essers, and solid-state compressors.
Lurssen is powerful and straightforward, effectively getting the job done. However, without a clear understanding of its functions beyond what the name conveys, it can be a bit confusing. Let these 10 tips from our friends at AudioPlugin Deals serve as your guide to operating Lurssen Mastering Console correctly.
1. Start with Presets
Begin with Lurssen's genre-specific presets to get a feel for the mastering process and understand how different settings affect your music overall.
2. Tweak Input Drive
Adjust the input drive to control the intensity of the effect on your mix. Aim for a clean, enhanced sound without causing distortion.
3. Experiment with the 'Push' Knob
Use the 'Push' knob to subtly increase all EQ bands simultaneously for overall tonal balance.
4. Monitor with VU Meters
Keep an eye on the VU meters to ensure levels are consistent and dynamic yet controlled.
5. Fine Tune with EQ
Address specific areas in your mix needing attention with fixed frequency EQ adjustments to enhance clarity and balance.
6. Use Compression Wisely
Apply compression to act as glue and add a little punch, but avoid over-compressing and flattening dynamics.
7. Mono Mix Compatibility
Check your master in mono to ensure balance and that no elements are lost when stereo fields are summed into mono.
8. A/B Compare
Regularly switch between bypassed and processed signals to objectively assess the impact of your mastering.
9. Don't Overdo It
Remember that mastering is about subtle enhancements. Avoid drastic changes that could harm the mix's quality.
10. Keep Practicing
Continuously master tracks to improve your skills. Take notes on what works and what doesn't for each track you master.
Find Lurssen Mastering Console at AudioPlugin Deals here.
Lurssen Mastering Console models and recreates the interactions between the individual processors in its chain down to the actual gear hookup schematics themselves. This approach effectively gives you access to decades worth of knowledge in the form of workflow secrets, special techniques, signal chains and technical know-how.
Lurssen Mastering Console
$/€149.99