If you're looking for the best software for mastering music, I’ve been down that road countless times. As an independent artist who produces, mixes, and masters my own songs, I've tested a ton of plugins and mastering chains. Some tools promise the world but fall flat, while others become absolute essentials in your workflow.
Today, I want to break down the best mastering software I use regularly, the plugins that actually make a difference, especially when you’re finalizing a track for Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, or clients. You can find my full list of tools on my Music Software & Plugins page, but here are the mastering essentials I trust the most.
1. Ozone 12 – The Best All-Around Mastering Suite
If I had to choose only one software for mastering music, it would be iZotope Ozone 12. This is hands-down the most complete and intuitive mastering suite I’ve used.
The AI-assisted workflows get better every year, and Ozone 12 takes it to another level. I still like to tweak manually, but the starting point it gives you is insanely accurate. From the Maximizer to the Dynamic EQ, Vintage Compressor, and Exciter modules, it’s everything you need in one place.
When I want a polished, modern, streaming-ready sound, Ozone 12 is the plugin I reach for first and usually the one I finish with.
2. Abbey Road Mastering Chain – My Go-To for Warm, Analog Texture
If you want that rich, classic, analog-inspired finish, the Abbey Road Mastering Chain hits a vibe that few digital tools can match.
I use it when I'm going for a smoother, more musical sound, especially on rock, singer-songwriter tracks, or anything that needs warmth instead of harsh, clinical brightness. The EQ curves feel musical, not surgical, and the saturation options add a subtle body that can glue a mix together beautifully.
Whenever I'm mastering something that needs vintage character, this is where I start.
3. Brainworx Masterdesk – Fast, Clean, and Ridiculously Effective
Some days, you don’t want to build a full chain. You want to drop in one plugin and get results fast. That’s Brainworx Masterdesk.
I love this plugin because:
- It’s extremely fast
- It keeps your mix balanced
- It prevents over-processing
- It sounds professional even with minimal tweaking
I use Masterdesk when I need a quick, reliable master for demos, alternate versions, or even final releases when the mix already sounds great. It’s basically a “don’t screw it up” mastering tool and it works.
Which Software Should You Start With?
If you're new to mastering or trying to simplify your workflow:
- Start with Ozone 12 if you want the most control, features, and modern sound.
- Use Brainworx Masterdesk if you want something intuitive and fast.
- Try Abbey Road if you want an analog-style, warmer master.
You really can’t go wrong with any of these, and each one has its place depending on the song.
See Everything I Use
These are just a few of the essentials in my mastering toolbox. If you want to see every plugin, instrument, and piece of software I use for mixing and mastering, check out my Music Software & Plugins page. I keep it updated with everything in my studio.