El Stray / Independent mastering engineer / London
Studio &approach.
Mastering, vinyl preparation, stems, and mix support handled directly from first note to final delivery.
A musical point of view
Listencarefully.
El Stray is a mix and mastering engineer based in London, working with independent artists and labels.
Underground, dance and indie records are at the heart of the work. You speak directly with the engineer handling your music, from the first listening link through to delivery.
Equipment & acoustics
The listeningchain.
Mastering decisions often happen in the difficult places: sub weight, low-mid density, vocal edge, harshness, limiter stress, and whether the record still carries itself outside the studio.
Monitoring & reference
A differentview.
The monitors, conversion, headphones and room work together. Each gives a different view of the record, so small decisions can be checked with confidence.
- Dutch & Dutch 8c
- Full-range studio monitors
- ADAM Audio S-Series
- Additional monitoring reference options
- Focal Clear Professional
- Headphones for detail and stereo checks
Conversion & amplification
Detail.
- Prism Sound
- Conversion in the listening chain
- Topping A70 Pro
- Headphone amplifier
Room & support
The room.
An acoustically treated space, built around the listening chain.
- ISO Acoustics
- Isolation
- GIK Acoustics
- Acoustic treatment
- Cutswift Carpentry
- Custom acoustic panels
- Custom Design
- Mass-loaded speaker stands with inert resonance damping fill
Workstations
AppleStudio workstations
Direct to the engineer
Let's talkabout the record.
Send a private link and a few notes. We can talk through what the music needs.
Talk through your release Explore the servicesA few useful answers
Before
you send.
Which service fits my release?
If the mix is already there, stereo mastering keeps things simple. If it needs a little more help, stems, vinyl preparation, or mix support are there for that reason. Send the current mix and a few notes if you are unsure.
How long does it take?
Usually around five working days, workload and project size permitting. If the release has a fixed deadline, mention that before the work begins. Express work depends on availability.
How do I send the files?
After checkout, send files and notes by transfer link. Dropbox, WeTransfer or Google Drive are suitable. Include references, release plans and anything you feel unsure about.
Can we talk before I book?
Yes. Questions go straight to the person working on the record. A private listening link and a few notes are enough to start the conversation.