Regarding Wavelab and Protools

[majormusic]

In reference to Wavelab Mastering, and Protools Mastering.

When you're using Wavelab, when you "dither" and convert a file into RedBook standards using Wavelab, is it using the hardware by any chance? Or is it converting via the software (wavelab) itself.

Thanks.

[Cellotron]

Originally Posted by majormusic

In reference to Wavelab Mastering, and Protools Mastering.

When you're using Wavelab, when you "dither" and convert a file into RedBook standards using Wavelab, is it using the hardware by any chance? Or is it converting via the software (wavelab) itself.

Thanks.

Wavelab is a native program - it does not use outboard DSP for its processes. Dither added is via software. Imho there is absolutely no reason whatsoever to use external hardware for adding dither, as there are a number of excellent to very good algorithms (MBit+, POW-R, Sonoris, Waves IDR) all readily available as software.

Best regards,
Steve Berson

[majormusic]

Do you think something mastered in WaveLab (by a good engineer) can be differentiated with a master done in ProTools HD (also with a good engineer)?

[24-96 Mastering]

Originally Posted by majormusic

Do you think something mastered in WaveLab (by a good engineer) can be differentiated with a master done in ProTools HD (also with a good engineer)?

Are you asking about audio quality? If so, I don't think so. It's floating point vs. fixed point and in a typical mastering, I believe it will not make a difference that's even close to being audible.

Contrary to folks working in music creation and post, you'll find that most MEs aren't that keen on ProTools. That's usually dow to work flow: ProTools certainly isn't designed for mastering. That said, some MEs use ProTools as their main DAW and are very happy with it.

[Cellotron]

While you can certainly do processing in ProTools you simply can not create CD Audio masters with it because it does not allow PQ or other TOC subcode creation or editing or disc burning within its program. This is why it is not considered a "mastering" program per se.

Best regards,
Steve Berson

[majormusic]

Thanks Cello and 24-96 how long have you guys been mastering for?
I was wondering if I could ask you guys what kind of set up you guys use? Do you guys know about Wavelab?

[Cellotron]

Originally Posted by majormusic

Thanks Cello and 24-96 how long have you guys been mastering for?

16 years.

I was wondering if I could ask you guys what kind of set up you guys use?

You can see my full equipment list at TSM Mastering Equipment

Do you guys know about Wavelab?

Only slightly. I use another PC native DAW system (SAWStudio) for my main mastering application.

Best regards,
Steve Berson

[24-96 Mastering]

Originally Posted by majormusic

Thanks Cello and 24-96 how long have you guys been mastering for?

Mastering full time since 2002.

I was wondering if I could ask you guys what kind of set up you guys use?

Full list on 24-96 MASTERING

New equipment not on the list yet: Sontec MEP-250C & Avalon AD2077.

Do you guys know about Wavelab?

Yes, I've been using Wavelab as my main DAW for a couple of years, as secondary DAW before that (since ca. 1998).

[Jerry Tubb]

Originally Posted by 24-96 Mastering

you'll find that most MEs aren't that keen on ProTools. That's usually dow to work flow: ProTools certainly isn't designed for mastering. That said, some MEs use ProTools as their main DAW and are very happy with it.

Yes you will find Pro Tools in many mastering rooms being used as a source playback machine. Works great for stems as well.
Folks can even bring their ITB mix sessions, an iLok, and tweak mixes during mastering.

But like you noted PT won't cut parts. There was some serious talk/rumors about it a few years ago, but never materialized.

Pro Tools > Sonic Studio is a great combination for many of us.

Cheers - JT