While many all the people think that the mixing of the separate audio tracks is the final step, a recording must be mastered well in order to sound efficient. CD mastering is the last chance for creative input when creating a compact disc.  After a disc is mastered, it could be printed, reproduced, and sold.

The process of mastering a CD includes several steps.  The first step is putting the songs, called tracks at this point, in order.  Next, the volume is leveled for all of the songs.  The length of instant between songs is also adjusted, and any editing on the intros and ends of the songs (such as fades and crossfades, etc