Black and white portrait of a man with a mustache, looking away, with a soft, blurred background.

Tom Dickau is a cologne-based producer, mixing and mastering engineer.

With years of experience as a producer and audio engineer, Tom brings expert mixing & mastering to artists seeking a professional, polished sound. His journey began with a deep passion for hip-hop, which continues to shape his unique sonic approach. As the founder of Loveless Youth, Tom has developed a distinct musical vision, blending genres with technical precision and creative flair.

Tom’s expertise ensures that every track carries warmth, depth, and energy—crafted with clarity and impact. Whether you need a mix that breathes or a master that translates across all systems, Tom’s methodical approach will bring out the best in your music.

FAQ

    • Mixing is the process of balancing and blending individual tracks (vocals, instruments, effects) to create a polished, cohesive song. It involves adjusting levels, EQ, compression, reverb, and other effects.

    • Mastering is the final step, where the mixed track is optimized for loudness, clarity, and consistency across all playback systems (streaming platforms, speakers, headphones, etc.). It ensures your song sounds professional and competitive.

    • If you have individual instrument and vocal tracks that need balance and processing, you need mixing.

    • If you already have a finished mix and just need it enhanced for release, you need mastering.

    • If you're unsure, send me your track, and I can recommend what’s best for your project.

    • Export each track (vocals, instruments, drums, effects, etc.) as separate WAV or AIFF files in the highest quality (at least 24-bit, 44.1kHz or higher).

    • Make sure all tracks start at the same timestamp (so they align properly).

    • Remove any unnecessary effects (like limiters or heavy compression) unless they are crucial to the sound.

    • Label each file clearly (e.g., “Lead Vocal.wav,” “Kick Drum.wav,” “Guitar.wav”).

    • Put all stems into a ZIP folder and upload them via WeTransfer, Google Drive, or Dropbox.

    • Export your final mix as a WAV or AIFF file at 24-bit or 32-bit, 44.1kHz or higher.

    • Remove any master bus limiters or compressors unless they are part of the creative sound.

    • Make sure your mix has headroom (the loudest peak should be around -6dB).

    • Avoid clipping or distortion.

    • Send reference tracks if you have a specific sound in mind.

    • Mixing: Typically 3-5 business days per song, depending on complexity.

    • Mastering: Usually 1-2 business days per song.

    • Rush orders may be available for an extra fee.

  • Yes! I offer two free revisions for both mixing and mastering to ensure you’re happy with the final product. Additional revisions may come with a small fee.

    • Yes, I offer bundle deals for EPs, albums, and multiple-song projects. Contact me for details.

    • I accept PayPal, bank transfers, and other digital payment options. Details will be provided upon booking.