The correct spelling for the action of "over mastering" is /oʊvər ˈmæstərɪŋ/. The first syllable is pronounced as "oh-vuh-r", with a long "o" and a schwa sound in the second syllable. The second syllable is "mas-tuh-ring", with a short "a" sound and a stressed "i" sound. Over mastering refers to excessive control or domination of a situation or person. Correct spelling of this word is important to convey the intended meaning accurately.
Over mastering refers to the process of excessively or disproportionately enhancing and manipulating the audio levels, dynamics, and frequency response of a recorded track during the mastering stage. Mastering is the final step in the music production process where the mixdown is polished and optimized for distribution across different media platforms.
When a track is over mastered, it can result in a number of undesirable outcomes. One of the main issues is the loss of dynamic range, where the difference between the loudest and softest parts of the music becomes minimized, resulting in a compressed and flat sound. Over mastering can also lead to distortion, clipping, and excessive compression, which can affect the overall clarity and balance of the music.
The main cause of over mastering is the pursuit of increased loudness, as a louder track often appears more impressive and competitive in the modern music industry. However, over doing this can sacrifice the natural dynamic range and lead to a harsh and fatiguing listening experience.
To avoid over mastering, it is crucial for audio engineers to have a balanced approach. This involves considering the unique characteristics of each individual track and genre, and making subtle adjustments to enhance the sound without compromising its integrity. A well-mastered track maintains a proper balance between loudness, dynamics, and clarity, ensuring that it sounds polished and professional across various playback systems.
The term "over mastering" is derived from the combination of two separate words: "over" and "mastering". Let's break down their etymology:
1. "Over": This word originated from Old English "ofor" or "ofer", which means "above", "across", or "beyond". It evolved from the Proto-Germanic root "*uber" and is related to the Gothic "ufr" and Old Norse "yfir". The word "over" has been in use since the late 14th century, and its meaning has remained relatively consistent over time.
2. "Mastering": This word is derived from the verb "to master", which dates back to the Middle English period. It comes from the Old English "mægsterian" or "macian", meaning "to have power or control over" or "to become skilled at".