Release Formats Descriptions
Depending on how you plan to release your project this will determine what masters you will need and, in some cases, how the mastering is done.
CD/Digital Distribution
Replicated or Duplicated discs either through a manufacturer or DIY or distribution through aggregators (TuneCore, CD Baby, etc...) to stores like iTunes, Amazon Music, Spotify, Pandora, etc...
Masters are delivered via DDP image with an included DDP player application that runs on Mac or PC both. From this player, several formats can be exported including WAV files, MP3 files, and burn CD's.
Vinyl
Old-school analog physical product. Additional charges apply.
Apple Digital Masters
Special masters for the special iTunes store. Additional charges apply.
MP3
MP3 files sold/given directly to fans from something like a website or other non-aggregated source. MP3 files are exportable from the DDP master included with most mastering projects, but if you need ready-to-release files with all the metadata included click this option. Additional charges apply.
Radio
AM or FM radio broadcast.
Archive
Not planning on distribution or sale and just need a hard copy that will stand the test of time.