For those unfamiliar with the term mastering, it refers to the 'final polish' of a cd (balancing sound, removing pops, bringing up levels, adding fades, etc.).
Essentially, making the cd sound great from sound system
to sound system, and worthy of being played on the radio. It also makes the cd ready for duplication. Completely ready, since duplicators do nothing but duplicate.
The following claims are stated on Extreme Mastering's home page:
Friendly, experienced staff
Fast turnaround times
Unlimited revisions
Unrivalled support
I sent my unmastered EP album to them as well as an order form and the money (125 DOLLARS) online. Their website claims that all e-mails should receive a response within 24 hours. I waited over three days and didn't receive an e-mail.
I e-mailed them asking when I'd receive my masters. No reply.
After a couple days I was fed up and sent an angry e-mail. Finally, I received a reply and quickly too:
"wow, you should know that it takes 5 days to complete your order and then another 4 to 5 to ship it back.
Didn't you understand that before you placed an order?"
I waited another well over 5 days and sent another e-mail. Then more e-mails. No replies.
It's been over two weeks.
I simply accept that they scammed me.
On my end, it requires me to have another company remaster the cd, cancel cd release shows, delay duplication and distribution, etc.
I wonder how many hundreds of indie musicians have been duped, and are in the same position as I am...
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