How will AI affect mastering engineers? #AI #mastering #podcast

Introduction

In the evolving landscape of music production, artificial intelligence (AI) technology is slowly making its way into the toolbox of mastering engineers. While the advent of these AI-based plugins might seem like a threat to the profession, a deeper dive reveals that they can serve as valuable assistants rather than replacements.

AI Technology and Mastering

One interesting use case of AI technology in mastering is the Master Assistant in iZotope's Ozone. While it's not entirely AI, it is a feature that offers considerable assistance. Often, the settings proposed by the Master Assistant might not be spot-on, yet they give useful hints. For instance, if a particular setting is suggested, it might prompt the engineer to ponder why it's working that way. This subsequently sparks a chain of thoughts, leading to adjustments or changes in other plugins that might ultimately solve the problem.

This assistance is similar to having an assistant who guides you by pointing out potential solutions, which you can then refine to fit the mix better. It’s important to remember that AI provides suggestions, but the final artistic and technical decisions rest with the engineer.

Reliance on AI

The discourse around blindly relying on AI is quite polarized. Some people might choose to depend entirely on AI-based mastering solutions, which is comparable to blindly relying on any other suite of plugins. However, using such AI tools without understanding their functionality is like buying a complete suite of plugins that a renowned engineer uses and expecting to sound exactly like them. The mastery lies in understanding the practical application of those tools.

Just as with traditional plugins, AI tools require a deep understanding to leverage their full potential. Otherwise, the results will be generic and might lack the unique touch that a seasoned engineer imparts.

Conclusion

Summing up, AI can be a supportive tool in an engineer’s arsenal, providing valuable insights and suggestions. However, the emphasis should always be on understanding the tools at one's disposal and using them creatively. AI might give you a starting point, but the final touch comes from the nuanced skills of a mastering engineer.

Keywords

AI Technology
Mastering Engineer
Master Assistant
iZotope Ozone
Plugin Suite
Practical Application
Music Production

FAQ

Q: How does AI technology help mastering engineers? A: AI technology, like the Master Assistant in iZotope's Ozone, provides valuable suggestions and hints, helping engineers refine their mixes by pointing out potential solutions.

Q: Can AI replace mastering engineers? A: No, AI serves as an assistant providing guidance, but the final artistic and technical decisions rest with the mastering engineer.

Q: Is it advisable to rely solely on AI for mastering? A: Relying entirely on AI is not advisable, similar to blindly relying on any plugin suite. Understanding the practical application of these tools is crucial for unique and high-quality results.

Q: What is the role of mastering engineers with the advent of AI technology? A: The role of mastering engineers remains critical, as they bring nuanced skills and a creative touch to the final mix that AI alone cannot provide.