To ensure the best possible result, it’s important that your Dolby Atmos files are properly prepared before sending them for mastering. Please follow the guidelines below:

 

 

1. Stereo Reference Mix ( WAV )

• Provide your final stereo master in WAV format

• This is used as a reference for balance, effects, panning, and overall dynamics

 

2. Stems – From the Final Stereo Mix Session

• Export each individual element (e.g. kick, snare, lead vocal, backing vocals, synths, FX) exactly as it sounds in your final stereo mix

• Include all effects, automation, levels, and panning used in the stereo version

• The stems must match the stereo mix 1:1 when summed – in timing, level, tone, and spatial placement

• Use the exact same session that generated the stereo master – no changes or adjustments afterwards

 

3. Synchronization and Length

• All stems must start at bar 1, beat 1 – even if some are silent at the beginning

• Ensure that all tracks are perfectly aligned and have the exact same duration as the stereo mix

• Do not add or remove any audio content compared to the stereo version

 

4. Tempo and Song Structure

• Provide the tempo (BPM) of the project

• Include a brief description of the song structure (e.g. intro, verse, chorus)

• Optionally, include a text file with project notes or instructions

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5. Loudness and Headroom

• Avoid any mastering-style processing (limiters, maximizers) on stems

• Leave headroom on each stem (ideally around -6 dBFS peak)

• The stereo reference should follow normal mastering standards, but the stems should remain unprocessed

 

6. File Naming

• Name each stem clearly:
  Kick.wav, Snare_Top.wav, LeadVocal.wav

• Avoid spaces and special characters – use underscores if needed

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7. Folder Structure and Compression

• Place all files in a single folder

• Compress the folder into a .zip or .rar archive before upload

 

 

If you have any questions or need help preparing your Dolby Atmos session, feel free to get in touch.