Mastering on iPad: Logic Pro vs. GarageBand

Over the last few episodes, we’ve explored how to create professional, studio-quality recordings entirely on the iPad—comparing GarageBand and Logic Pro every step of the way. We’ve covered normalizing, leveling, arranging, automating, and mixing.

Now it’s time for the last piece of the puzzle: Mastering.

This is the stage where your track goes from “pretty good” to radio-ready.

What We’ll Cover

In this episode, I’ll show you:

• Two different ways to master in Logic Pro — using the AI Mastering Assistant or building a full manual chain

• GarageBand’s mastering workflow (and how to work around its limitations)

• How to use compressors, EQs, exciters, expanders, stereo spreaders, and multipressors to polish your mix

• Why mastering is technically “optional” but makes all the difference in your finished sound

• How to move a project from GarageBand into Logic Pro for final mastering

We’ll take the raw mix from earlier videos and finish it together — mistakes, surprises, and all — so you can see what the mastering process really feels like in real time.

Mastering in Logic Pro for iPad

Logic Pro gives you two solid options:

1. Mastering Assistant – A quick, AI-powered tool that sets basic levels and EQ. It’s great for rough demos or quick releases.

2. Manual Mastering Chains – For full control, I’ll show you how to stack processors like compressors, EQs, exciters, expanders, and stereo spreaders to create a polished, professional sound.

The manual route takes more time, but the results speak for themselves.

Mastering in GarageBand for iPad

GarageBand doesn’t have a dedicated mastering workflow, but that doesn’t mean you’re stuck. With some creative routing and plugin use, you can still:

• Apply basic EQ and compression

• Control loudness levels

• Export tracks for final polish in Logic Pro

It’s limited compared to Logic, but still a great way to learn the fundamentals.

Using Both Together

One of the best workflows I’ve found is to start a project in GarageBand (for its simplicity and portability) and then finish it in Logic Pro (for deep mixing and mastering tools). The transition is seamless, and you get the best of both worlds.

TL;DR

Mastering on iPad is not just possible—it’s powerful.

• Logic Pro gives you pro-level chains and an AI Mastering Assistant.

• GarageBand is limited but workable, especially for learning.

• Combining both apps can streamline your workflow.

• Mastering might be optional, but it’s what makes your tracks stand out.

By the end of this series, you’ll know how to take an iPad production from a raw idea to a polished, release-ready track.

Final Thoughts

This series has covered every step of the iPad production process: normalizing, leveling, arranging, automating, mixing, and now mastering.

Whether you’re using GarageBand, Logic Pro, or both, the tools are all here to make professional-quality music from anywhere.

💬 Don’t forget to like, share, comment, and subscribe. I’d love to hear your questions and ideas for future episodes as I keep building this channel.

And as always: may your gear be light, your latency low, and your dogs quiet while you track vocals. 🐕🎤