Been messing with Ozone's Maximizer a bunch lately, and honestly - IRC IV Modern is just _it_ for me. Like, every time I try something else, I keep [coming back](https://static.mgx.me/images/2025/baboon.jpg) to this one. Note to future self: - IRC IV Modern = default starting point - It just handles **my** mixdowns better - Doesn't do that weird pumping thing with kick drums - Vocals stay clear even when pushing it - Actually sounds MORE aggressive when I need it to?? (but clean) - Stop watching those "ultimate mastering chain" YouTube videos. This works. Stick to it. - -0.8 ceiling for stuff going to streaming, and don't forget to watch the gain reduction meter. Random thought: It's wild how it only squashes the parts that need squashing. My old settings were basically crushing everything, no wonder stuff sounded weird sometimes.