Best Export Settings for Mixing and Mastering (WAV, Sample Rate, Bit Depth)
Export from the native session rate
Avoid unnecessary sample rate conversion between stages. Convert only when a delivery target requires it.
Consistent rates reduce surprises and processing artifacts.
Bit depth and headroom guidance
Use 24-bit for mix and stem exports in most workflows. It offers practical dynamic precision.
Leave headroom before mastering so dynamics processing has room to work cleanly.
File format best practices
Use WAV for production and mastering stages; use lossy formats for preview sharing only.
Name files clearly with version labels and date to avoid confusion.
Final QC before delivery
Check fades, starts, and silence tails. Small export mistakes can break a release timeline.
Audit metadata and loudness consistency before sending to distribution.
FAQ
Should I dither during mix export?
Usually reserve dithering for final bit-depth reduction at delivery stage.
Is 48 kHz always better than 44.1 kHz?
Not always. Consistency with your production pipeline matters more.
Can I master from MP3?
Not recommended. Use lossless exports for mastering quality.
Why do my exports sound different?
Check playback normalization, plugin oversampling, and offline render settings.