Mastering · 3 Plugins

Logic Pro Master Chain

The final stage. Output protection and final loudness management — not tone shaping. The master chain is minimal by design.

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Quick Answer

Keep the master chain minimal. Tone decisions belong earlier. The master chain protects peaks and sets the final output level.

Signal Flow

Chain Order

Tape→
Limiting→
True Peak Control

The master chain is the final stage. Its job is output protection and final loudness management, not tone shaping. Keep it short and purposeful.

Plugin Stack

Every Plugin, Every Setting

UADx Ampex ATR-102
Universal Audio · Tape Machine
Step 1 — Tape

Final tape cohesion at the very end of the chain.

Settings

Gentle tape smoothing, minimal flux.

Stock Alternative — Logic Tape Delay

Very low mix, tape mode.

Logic Pro Adaptive Limiter
Apple · Limiter
Step 2 — Limiting

Final output limiting and LUFS targeting.

Settings

Out ceiling −0.3 dBTP, gain set to achieve target LUFS.

Stock Alternative — Logic Adaptive Limiter

Out ceiling −0.3 dBTP.

FabFilter Pro-L2
FabFilter · True Peak Limiter
Step 3 — True Peak

True peak safety protection on the final output.

Settings

True peak −0.3 dBTP, unity gain, safety mode.

Stock Alternative — Logic Adaptive Limiter

Backup true peak ceiling.

System Logic

Why This Chain Works

  • Minimal chain at this stage means less coloring of the final output.

  • True peak protection before digital delivery is essential.

Avoid These

Common Mistakes

  • Using the master chain to achieve tone goals.

  • Overlimiting to hit streaming loudness targets.