| I don't necessarily think that "most" people charge by the track, though it is becoming more common, especially with internet mastering. However, hourly plus parts is still the rule for many commercial mastering facilities, especially if it's an attended session.
I do offer a per-song estimate that works well for the typical job, but I let clients know that ultimately it's hourly plus parts. This way, if they need a bunch of extra discs, master versions, skits between the songs, experimentation with signal chains etc., they know the hourly billing is in effect. It can also work in the client's favor if things are quick and easy. Some jobs come in below the per-track estimate. |