Finalizing
Finalizing is the process of preparing the recording(s) to be written to CD or other digital media and is also known as Mastering*. The mixes of all the recorded tracks are put into the order in which they will appear on the CD and processing is applied to bring up the levels and make sure all the tracks are balanced and work together. The band or artist is usually present for this process and it at this point that you will hear the final version of your recording as it will sound on CD.
With the finalizing complete, you will receive your copy or copies of the recording and will be ready to take the next steps in moving beyond the recording studio.
*The difference between Finalizing and Mastering is that Mastering is performed at a studio designed specifically for that purpose while Finalizing is performed in a control room such as the Revolution Recording Studio.