17 Mastering

This chapter explains the “mastering function” which allows you to use the internal CD-RW drive (option) of the AW4416 to create an audio CD.

About mastering

By installing a CD-RW drive in the AW4416 (or connecting an external CD-RW drive to the SCSI connector), you can write the audio data of the stereo track (included in each song) onto CD-R/RW media in CD-DA format. This function is called “mastering.” The CD-R/RW media to which the data is written can be played back on the internal CD-RW drive or on conventional CD players in the same way as an audio CD.

Some CD players and CD-ROM drives which do not support CD-R/RW may be unable to play back audio data that was written on CD-R/RW media.

Stereo tracks that can be mastered

To master a song, you will select the desired stereo track from the stereo track included in each song on the internal hard disk, and write it to a track on the CD- R/RW media. However, only stereo tracks (more than four seconds) from songs recorded as 16 bit/24 bit and a 44.1 kHz sampling frequency can be mastered.

Mastering cannot be performed from the stereo track of a song whose sam- pling frequency is 48 kHz.

When mastering is performed from a 24 bit/44.1 kHz stereo track, the lower 8 bits will be discarded when the data is written, converting it into 16 bit/ 44.1 kHz format.

— Operation Guide 255

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Yamaha AW4416 manual Mastering, About mastering, Stereo tracks that can be mastered

AW4416 specifications

The Yamaha AW4416 is a digital audio workstation that revolutionized music production by combining powerful recording, mixing, and editing capabilities in a compact format. Introduced in the early 2000s, the AW4416 was designed to cater to musicians, producers, and engineers seeking a versatile and intuitive solution for their audio projects.

At its core, the AW4416 features 16 balanced XLR/TRS input channels, allowing professional-grade recording of vocals and instruments. Each channel is equipped with high-quality preamps, ensuring clean amplification of audio signals. The unit supports 24-bit audio resolution, which provides a dynamic range and clarity that is essential for high-fidelity recordings.

One of the standout technologies of the AW4416 is its onboard effects processing. The workstation includes a variety of studio-quality effects, such as reverb, delay, and modulation, which can be applied during tracking or mixing without the need for external equipment. This feature enables users to sculpt their sound creatively and efficiently within the device itself.

The AW4416 is powered by a user-friendly interface that combines physical controls with a graphical display. This layout allows for easy navigation and operation, making it accessible for both novice users and seasoned professionals. The large LCD screen provides a clear view of track information, parameters, and settings, enhancing the overall workflow.

Connectivity is another highlight of the AW4416. The device includes MIDI I/O, allowing users to integrate external MIDI instruments and controllers effortlessly. Additionally, the workstation features ADAT optical output, enabling multi-channel digital audio transfer to external devices or recording systems, enhancing its versatility in various studio environments.

With its onboard 40GB hard drive, the AW4416 provides ample storage for recording sessions, samples, and projects. It also includes CD-RW capabilities, making it straightforward to burn mixes and demos directly from the workstation.

In summary, the Yamaha AW4416 combines robust audio capabilities with intuitive operation and advanced features. Its combination of high-quality input channels, onboard effects, extensive connectivity options, and user-friendly interface makes it an enduring choice for those in the music production field. Whether for live recordings, studio sessions, or songwriting, the AW4416 remains a reliable and effective tool for capturing and crafting audio.