How do you update and organize your reference track library?

1 Choose relevant tracks

The first step is to choose reference tracks that are relevant to your genre, style, and target audience. You want to compare your master to songs that have a similar vibe, mood, and energy, as well as a similar production level and market appeal. You can use reference tracks from different artists, labels, or eras, as long as they fit your vision and goals. You can also use your own previous masters as reference tracks, especially if you want to maintain a consistent sound across your projects.

2 Update regularly

The second step is to update your reference track library regularly. You don't want to rely on outdated or overused tracks that may not reflect the current trends, standards, or expectations of your listeners. You want to keep your ears fresh and your skills sharp by exposing yourself to new and diverse sounds and influences. You can update your reference track library by following the charts, playlists, blogs, podcasts, or magazines that cover your genre or niche. You can also ask your clients, colleagues, or friends for recommendations or feedback on your reference tracks.

3 Organize logically

The third step is to organize your reference track library logically. You don't want to waste time or energy searching for the right track among hundreds or thousands of files. You want to have a clear and easy way to access and sort your reference tracks according to your needs and preferences. You can organize your reference track library by using folders, labels, tags, ratings, or playlists. You can also use software tools or apps that help you manage and analyze your reference tracks, such as Magic AB, Reference 4, or Metric AB.

4 Compare critically

The fourth step is to compare your master to your reference tracks critically. You don't want to blindly copy or match your reference tracks, as that may compromise your originality, creativity, or artistic vision. You want to use your reference tracks as a source of inspiration, guidance, and feedback, not as a template or a rule. You can compare your master to your reference tracks by using a reliable and accurate monitoring system, such as headphones, speakers, or meters. You can also use software tools or apps that help you visualize and measure the differences and similarities between your master and your reference tracks, such as Ozone 9, Mastering The Mix, or FabFilter Pro-Q 3.

5 Learn continuously

The fifth step is to learn from your reference tracks continuously. You don't want to use your reference tracks as a crutch or a shortcut, as that may limit your growth, development, or improvement as an audio mastering engineer. You want to use your reference tracks as a learning opportunity, as a way to expand your knowledge, skills, and experience in audio mastering. You can learn from your reference tracks by listening attentively, critically, and analytically to their sonic characteristics, such as frequency balance, dynamic range, stereo width, loudness, tone, color, texture, or emotion. You can also learn from your reference tracks by experimenting with different techniques, settings, or plugins that help you achieve or enhance those characteristics in your own master.

6 Review periodically

The sixth step is to review your reference track library periodically. You don't want to stick to the same reference tracks forever, as that may make your master sound stale, boring, or outdated. You want to keep your reference track library fresh, relevant, and diverse, as that will help you keep up with the changing demands, tastes, and preferences of your listeners. You can review your reference track library by deleting or replacing the tracks that no longer serve your purpose, goals, or standards. You can also review your reference track library by adding or updating the tracks that reflect your current or desired sound quality, style, or level.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?