When your song is finally mixed and ready to face the world, the next step is mastering — the stage that transforms your track from “pretty good” to radio-ready. But one of the most common questions musicians ask is: how much does professional music mastering actually cost in Australia?
The answer can vary quite a bit depending on where you go and what kind of service you’re after. Let’s break down what affects mastering prices, why they can differ between studios, and what you should expect when budgeting for your next release.
What Is Mastering and Why It Matters
Mastering is the final step in the music production process — the stage that ensures your song sounds balanced, polished, and consistent across every playback system. A mastering engineer doesn’t just “make it louder.” They bring cohesion, clarity, and professional tone to your track, ensuring it sits comfortably next to commercial releases.
At Moreish Studios, we often describe mastering as the “final coat of paint” on your music. It’s what gives your mix the strength and identity to stand out, especially on streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music.
Typical Mastering Prices in Australia
On average, professional mastering in Australia costs between $80 and $200 per song — but that range depends heavily on the studio, the engineer’s experience, and the complexity of the music.
Here’s a basic breakdown of typical mastering costs:
| Service Type | Average Cost (AUD) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Single Song Mastering | $80 – $200 | Standard stereo mastering of one song. |
| EP (4–6 Tracks) | $300 – $800 | Discounted rate for grouped tracks; consistency across all songs. |
| Full Album (10–12 Tracks) | $700 – $1,500+ | Includes sequencing, metadata, and tonal balance across the whole record. |
| Stem Mastering | $150 – $300 per track | More detailed mastering from grouped stems, giving greater control. |
Why the Price Differences Exist
There’s a reason why one studio might charge $80 per track and another $200. It’s not just about reputation — it’s about the combination of experience, expertise, and equipment (what we like to call the “3 E’s”).
- Experience: A seasoned mastering engineer can identify subtle issues that an automated system or less experienced engineer might miss.
- Expertise: Great mastering requires deep knowledge of audio dynamics, EQ curves, and translation across playback systems.
- Equipment: High-end monitoring, converters, and acoustic treatment — all of which are significant investments that contribute directly to the result.
At Moreish Studios, we use industry-standard analog and digital mastering tools to make sure your mix translates beautifully on every system, from phones to festival sound systems.
How to Save Money on Mastering Without Compromising Quality
If you’re looking to keep costs manageable, there are a few smart ways to approach mastering without losing professional results:
- Bundle your services. If you’re already mixing or recording with us, adding mastering to your package can save hundreds compared to hiring a separate engineer.
- Prepare your mix well. Clean, balanced mixes need less correction, meaning faster turnaround and lower costs.
- Master multiple tracks at once. Albums and EPs benefit from bulk rates and tonal consistency across all songs.
Our advice: think of mastering as an investment. It’s the final step that makes your song release-ready and ensures it holds up on every streaming platform and device.
The True Value of Professional Mastering
Many artists underestimate the importance of a professional master until they compare it to an unmastered version. Mastering isn’t just about volume — it’s about giving your music emotional weight and depth.
If you’ve put months of time and passion into your music, it deserves to be presented at its best. That’s what professional mastering delivers — clarity, consistency, and competitive edge.
To learn more or request a mastering quote tailored to your project, visit our Music Mastering page.
Quick Budget Scenarios
| Project Type | Mastering Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Independent Single (1 Track) | $100 – $150 | Ideal for indie artists testing the waters. |
| EP (5 Tracks) | $400 – $600 | Usually includes minor revisions and sequencing. |
| Full Album (10 Tracks) | $900 – $1,200 | Great value for cohesive projects and consistent sound. |
Final Thoughts
So, how much does professional music mastering cost in Australia? It depends on your goals — but expect to pay somewhere between $80 and $200 per song for a professional finish that brings out the full potential of your mix.
Whether you’re releasing your debut single or a full-length album, investing in mastering ensures your music gets the attention it deserves.
If you’re ready to elevate your sound, get in touch with Moreish Studios today for a quote — and let’s make your next release shine.