What are the technical specifications and limitations for mastering on SoundCloud?

Mastering on SoundCloud is currently limited to songs and does not support DJ Mixes or Podcasts. If you're working with these types of audio, you might need normalization instead of mastering.

What should I consider regarding copyright when using the mastering feature?

For your content to be eligible for mastering, you must own 100% of the rights to all parts of that content. After mastering, your track is scanned by our content ID system for any content that has been delivered by rights-holders for copyright protection. If a match is detected, your content will be blocked. This means mastering content created by someone else could result in that track being removed from your account. To avoid these blocks, ensure that you only master sounds you’ve created yourself. You can read more about copyright considerations here.

What file formats and track lengths are supported for mastering on SoundCloud?

SoundCloud accepts more audio formats than any other platform, but mastering is currently limited to WAV (16 and 24-bit), FLAC, and MP3 formats with a maximum sample rate of 88200hz. For the highest fidelity masters, it’s recommended to upload in a lossless format. Please note that .AIFF files uploaded directly from programs like Garageband or Logic Pro are not currently supported. You should export your tracks in another format, such as .WAV, for them to work properly.

Additionally, mastering is limited to tracks under 10 minutes in length. If you're working on a longer piece, such as an orchestral track or an extended jam session, you can drop us a note with details about what you're trying to achieve, and we might be able to consider it.

FAQs: Common Issues with Mastering on SoundCloud

1. Why is my track blocked after mastering?

Your track may be blocked if it contains content that matches material protected by copyright. SoundCloud's content ID system scans all mastered tracks to ensure they comply with copyright regulations. If a match is found with content delivered by rights-holders for protection, your track will be blocked. To avoid this, make sure you own 100% of the rights to all parts of the content you are mastering.

2. What file formats are supported for mastering on SoundCloud?

Mastering on SoundCloud currently supports WAV (16 and 24 bit), FLAC, and MP3 formats with a maximum sample rate of 88200hz. For the best results, it’s recommended to upload your track in a lossless format. Please note that .AIFF files, such as those exported directly from Garageband or Logic Pro, are not supported. You should export these files as .WAV or another supported format.

3. Can I master a track that is longer than 10 minutes?

No, currently mastering is limited to tracks under 10 minutes in length. If you have a track that exceeds this length, such as a long orchestral piece or an extended jam session, you can reach out to SoundCloud with details about your project, and they may consider it for mastering.

4. Why can’t I master my DJ mixes or podcasts?

Mastering SoundCloud is currently limited to songs and does not support DJ mixes or podcasts. These types of audio content may require normalization instead of mastering. SoundCloud may expand these capabilities in the future, but for now, the focus is on song mastering.

5. How do I avoid my track getting blocked after mastering?

To avoid your track being blocked, ensure that you have created all the content yourself or have explicit permission from the rightsholder to use it. If your track includes content that you do not own the rights to, it’s at risk of being blocked by SoundCloud’s content ID system.

6. What should I do if I receive a message that my track is blocked after mastering?

If your track is blocked after mastering, it’s likely due to a copyright issue. Review the content to ensure that you own the rights to all parts of the track. If you believe the track was incorrectly blocked, you can file a dispute with SoundCloud’s Copyright Team, providing detailed information about your rights to the content.

7. What are the steps to follow if my track is misidentified and blocked?

If your track is misidentified by the content ID system and blocked, you can file a dispute through the SoundCloud platform. Be sure to include detailed information about your ownership or rights to the track, so the Copyright Team can accurately assess and resolve the issue.

8. Can I use mastering for collaborative projects?

Yes, but you must ensure that you have the rights to all the content used in the track, including any contributions from collaborators. Without proper rights, the track could be blocked during the mastering process.