Prepare Your Master for CD Baby
Create the release source first, then deliver it with the correct metadata and file settings.
Technical requirements
What CD Baby requires
Choose the destination in the mastering console before you render.
Upload. Shape. Preview.
Upload
Drop your finished WAV, MP3, FLAC, M4A, AIFF, OGG, or AAC file up to 200 MB.
Shape
Choose the genre, destination, and loudness profile for the song.
Preview
Hear Original against Mastered. Membership is requested only when you download.
What we do for your CD Baby release
Separate audio approval from delivery
Mastering decides how the song sounds. Distribution handles where it goes. Complete the A/B check before starting the release submission.
Choose CD Baby as the destination
The canonical mastering flow includes 8 release destinations, 8 genre choices, and 3 loudness profiles. The main uploader accepts audio files up to 200 MB.
Compare first, export when approved
Upload, configure, process, and switch between Original and Mastered before joining. An active €4.99/month membership unlocks WAV and MP3 download and export.
CD Baby in depth
Your release starts with the submitted audio
CD Baby sends music to multiple stores and services. Use its current delivery specifications, confirm the metadata separately, and submit a master you have already checked for balance, clipping, and translation.
Questions about mastering for CD Baby
Does CD Baby master my music for me?
CD Baby is a distribution service and its available add-ons can change. Prepare a finished master and review the current release options before submitting.
What file should I prepare for CD Baby?
Use CD Baby's current audio specification and submit a clean lossless master when that specification supports it.
How long does MixMasterAI processing take?
Processing time depends on track length, source format, device performance, and current service conditions. The interface shows progress while the master is created.
Can I try the master before joining?
Yes. Upload, settings, processing, and A/B comparison come first. An account with active €4.99/month membership is required only when you choose WAV or MP3 download or export.