Re: Mastering
on the PC, I've got so many VSTs I'll just go through several until I find a fit, often just using free things like the classic compressor and limiter, Electri-Q, G clipper, G multi. sometimes I nail it, sometimes I fail miserably. I still don't have the hang of how much clipping to allow.
I have a few snagged programs that I won't mention - I usually feel a bit guilty for using them or telling other people that's what I used if I didn't pay for it. Hopefully all of what's mentioned here are things people actually bought.
on the mac, for my next recording, I'll probably just use what's stock in Logic Express (which is legit) to eq, compress, and limit.