Mixing & Mastering — Boston's North Shore
I'm Dereck Blackburn — mixing and mastering engineer with 25 years of professional experience and a deep commitment to making records that last. I work with artists who care deeply about their music and want a collaborator who does too.
Tell me about your project"Dereck is a rare mix of top-tier quality engineer and openly generous with his time; feedback is honest, culturally sensitive, and always pushes the music forward."
— Kevin Kline, Valleyheart
What I Do
A mix is where everything comes together — or doesn't. I start by listening to your vision, then build a mix that serves the song, not my ego. Analog/digital hybrid. No templates. Every session from scratch.
Inquire about mixingMastering isn't just loudness — it's the final act of clarity. I listen critically to tone, dynamics, and translation, then make precise, purposeful decisions. Delivered for streaming, vinyl, sync, and radio.
Inquire about masteringSometimes you need someone who can help you see your work clearly. Direct, one-on-one sessions for artists, producers, and engineers. Grounded in real experience, not theory.
Inquire about consultingAbout
"I don't believe in a house sound. I believe in the sound you are after."
I've spent the better part of 25 years in studios — as an engineer, mixer, mastering engineer, and producer. I've worked across genres, budgets, and timelines, from intimate solo recordings to nationally recognized releases.
My career has taken me through some of the most respected studios in the country. Those experiences shaped how I hear music — and how I think about the relationship between artist and engineer. What separates a good record from a great one is rarely gear or software. It's judgment. It's listening. It's knowing when to push and when to get out of the way.
I take a limited number of projects at a time — by design. When I'm on your record, I'm on your record.
What Artists Say
"Dereck keeps sessions fun yet disciplined, listens deeply to 'vibe'-level feedback, and makes my band feel like his top priority from tracking to final master."
— Mary Dumont (Roser)
"Dereck is my personal mastering engineer. I appreciate his fast turnarounds, hassle-free revisions, and genuine enthusiasm for my music."
— Kiara Oliver
"Dereck is the most responsive pro I've met; his mastering took our album to the next level and I'd hire him again instantly."
— Wyn Doran (Wyn and the White Light)
The High Pass Podcast
Conversations with engineers, producers, and artists about the work — how it gets made, what it takes, and why it matters. Hosted by Dereck Blackburn.
Listen to the podcastLatest Episode
The Craft of the Quiet Mix
On restraint, dynamics, and why less still wins.
Recent
Building a Client Relationship That Lasts
Trust, feedback, and keeping sessions on track.
Recent
Analog vs. Digital: An Honest Conversation
Not a debate — a nuanced look at what each does well.