Mixing for releases and demos
From rough multitrack to a coherent mix: balance, space and dynamics for streaming, vinyl prep or broadcast — with clear rules on stems and revisions.
Mixing at Labsterra suits artists and producers who already have recordings but want a second pair of ears and a controlled listening room. In our 18 m² control room we work on monitors and headphones with analog and digital processing so each element has a place without the mix leaning on a single trick.
You supply structured stems or a session export; we agree references, loudness targets and deadline before we start. Unsure about exports or budget? Read exchanging stems and mixing budget guide. After the mix you can book mastering or master yourself — we deliver mixdowns ready for that step.
Process
- 01
Brief and quote
Send track list, stems or session, references and target date. We confirm rate (per track or EP) and revision policy.
- 02
Technical check
We verify sample rate, headroom, clipping and naming. Missing or misaligned files get fixed first.
- 03
Mix and feedback
First mix version within the agreed window; you listen on your systems and bundle notes into one round where possible.
- 04
Revision and export
Up to 2 revision rounds from your notes; then final stereo mix and optional instrumental or stem bounces.
When to hire a mix engineer
Home setups are capable, but room, monitors and time limit how honest a DIY mix sounds. Sending tracks to a recording studio in Amsterdam helps when low end, vocal level or drum transients stall you — or when you want a fresh pass before release.
We mix singles, EPs and album cuts recorded anywhere — including our vocal sessions or band tracking, plus fully remote projects. Spoken podcast content is out of scope here; start with podcast recording instead.
What to deliver
Send stemmed WAV files (24-bit recommended) with clear names: drums (split if needed), bass, keys, guitars, vocals, FX. Avoid limiters or heavy compression on every stem — headroom helps us shape the mix. Note BPM, key and any tempo changes.
Include two or three reference tracks close to your target balance or vibe, plus short notes (e.g. dry rap vocal, wide chorus guitars). Exporting from Logic, Ableton or Pro Tools? Our stems guide covers common pitfalls.
Approach and taste
We start with gain staging and panning, then EQ and dynamics per group, then effects and automation. Vocals lead the story; instruments should not mask each other in the midrange.
References set direction, not a clone — every source sounds different. If you want deliberately lo-fi or aggressive tone, say so at intake. Otherwise we aim for translation on earbuds, car systems and studio monitors.
Revisions and comms
Each mix job includes 2 revision rounds after the first delivery. Bundle changes clearly (timecode or section, louder/quieter/drier). Small tweaks in one batch count together; a full creative pivot may need extra time and cost — we flag that early.
We answer questions within 2 business days during the project. Rush delivery is sometimes possible for a surcharge; ask via contact or 020 244 18 06.
Delivery formats
You receive a stereo WAV mixdown (24-bit / 48 kHz by default) and optional MP3 for quick reference. On request we supply an instrumental, TV mix without lead vocal, or stem bounces from the mix bus — within agreed limits.
Mix files are stored 24 months on our servers; download and back up locally. See privacy policy for how we handle your audio. For commercial release we recommend mastering for final loudness and album sequencing.
Rates incl. VAT
Listed prices are consumer rates including 21% VAT.
| Package | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Per track | €185 | Single song, 2 revision rounds included |
| EP up to 5 tracks | €780 | Five songs with consistent sound across the project |
Net: €152.89 per track, €644.63 for the EP bundle. More than five tracks or special formats: custom quote. Business clients: 14-day terms available. 30% deposit on confirmation; cancellation in terms and conditions.
Not included
Recording missing instruments, heavy editing (whole-session time-stretch, drum replacement), mastering, artwork, distribution and marketing sit outside Mixing. No chart guarantees — we deliver balance to your brief.
Need recordings first? See services or vocal recording. Rights and splits in bands: rights in band recording.
Turnaround and visits
Default turnaround depends on queue and track complexity; intake gives a realistic date. EPs are scheduled as blocks when possible so EQ and dynamics stay coherent across songs.
Studio hours for drop-off or listening: Tuesday–Friday 10:00–20:00, Saturday 11:00–18:00. Closed Monday and Sunday.. Address: Czaar Peterstraat 213, 1018 PL Amsterdam. Tram 10 stops at Czaar Peterstraat; it is about a three-minute walk to number 213. From Oostplein metro (lines 51, 53 and 54) allow roughly ten minutes on foot along Czaar Peterstraat.
Included
- Technical stem and sync check
- Stereo mixdown WAV (24-bit / 48 kHz default)
- 2 revision rounds after first version
- Reference MP3 on request
- Consistent naming and export folder
- Mix project archive for 24 months
- Short notes when choices are deliberate (e.g. dry vocal)
FAQ
Can I send a DAW session instead of stems?
Sometimes, if versions and plugins match. Stemmed WAVs are usually safer; follow our stems guide. When unsure, send both and state sample rate.
How loud will the mix be?
Mixing focuses on balance and headroom for mastering. We avoid brickwall limiting on the mix bus unless you explicitly want a ‘finished’ sound for social clips — scoped separately.
What counts as a revision round?
One bundled list of changes after a version. Scattered messages over weeks may count as a new round; 2 rounds are included per track or EP package.
English or Dutch feedback?
Either language works; our team is bilingual. Dutch terms remain legally authoritative in terms.
Can I attend the mix?
Attended mixes are possible at studio hourly rate on top of the track fee. Many clients work async via links — often faster for revisions.
Other services
- 01
Vocal recording
Isolated booth, engineer support and backline for vocals and spoken word.
€95 · per hour - 02
Mastering
Final polish for streaming, vinyl and broadcast with controlled loudness.
€68 · per track - 03
Band recording
Live room for drums, guitars and keys with multiple iso booths.
€125 · per hour (studio) - 04
Podcast recording
Table setup for two to four voices, basic edit and export.
€88 · per hour
Recording in Amsterdam?
Plan your next session
Tell us what you want to capture: we reply within 2 working days with a slot proposal and a written quote, no obligation.