A master recording is an original recording, from which copies may be made.

When recording on to magnetic tape, the original tape is known as the master tape.

A multitrack recording master tape or disk, on which productions are developed (or captured, in a live session) for later mixing, is known as the multitrack master, while the tape or disk holding a mix (mono, stereo, or Surround) is called a mixed master.

It is standard practice to make a copy of a master recording, known as a safety copy, in case the master is lost or damaged.

CD mastering

Compact Discs allow mastering in both audio and data formats, and also allow for remixing of the content.

A master disc may also be referred to as a Gold Master, this originated as companies created the final master molds for the CD replication equipment. The gold color foil on the CD master is where the term "gold master" comes from.

Optical disc authoring