Levels and Loudness Metering (RMS, LUFS and True Peak)

By request! This tutorial explains and demonstrates RMS, LUFS and True Peak metering in your mixing / mastering sessions. Which one should you use? Answers and tips in the video...

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[papa_da_engineer]

I do have a question. If I was to release music it will probably be through distrokid, because they upload music to all the stores at once, would there be 1 target to aim for in terms of lufs?

[stevewoodyt]

I just started back with music production after a 10 year break. It’s almost like I’m starting over. Everything has changed so much. This video is 5 years old and I’m trying to learn from it.

[masond]

Your RMS after after the limiter has changed everything for me. I can finally settle on a mix that isn't perfect and be somewhat satisfied. This one of the most important mixing videos I've ever came across. I wish more mixers were as honest as you. Thank you, thank you and thank you. Devine is what your are dude. Peace!

[msjordanshannon]

This is a great explanation. Thank you for delivering quality content Sean! It's so helpful. I've been an active viewer for a while now. Maybe like 5 years. And I return these videos frequently to help my grow my engineering skills. You are appreciated!

[jeramiahrossnz]

for those on the quest for the perfect signal, this is the total bonus unlockables, cheers!

[Russlld]

1:32 LUFS ( Loudness Unit Full Scale)

4:17 Loudness standard- Streaming platform

[SpikedGrin]

YOOO deadass thank you for explaining the difference between RMS and LUFS so clearly and detailed too in this video. Watched a lot videos about the two and never could wrap my head around it.

[MarkBrathwaite]

Your mastering tutorial with LPX plugins is one of my favourites. Thank you Sean.

[Closedeyewilly]

Came back because I forget everything 😅

[lotharofthe]

Loudness is perceived. Very enlightening. Just the way that feeling warm or cool is arbitrary based on the relativity of our senses. Good lecture fam!

[eLLBdotmusic]

For clarification @ 8:40 the -11.1 is fair or should it keep going to -14? I understand but I don't understand the numbering. Is -11.1 lower or Louder then -14. Thanks for sharing

[vasanthakumarl]

Great! You are explained very understandable manner.

I am new to audio editing. I have a spec for loudness/peak. How to achieve this.
Loudness Guidelines:

All audio work must meet the following requirements
1. The targeted loudness should be -16 LUFS
2. Short form programming (Less than 60 sec) shouldn't exceed -14 LUFS
3. The True Peak Level shouldn't exceed -3 dB TP to prevent clipping when using lossy encoders
All measurements should be taken for the whole program

[ShantaSmith]

Great way to explain, never knew about the integrated levels!!

[Vikdttcjnnklgyhvcdgklm]

I always use three loudness meters: RMS (usually for low frequencies, bass notes), LUFS_short for control mix with&without vocal, calibrated K12. And sometimes VU meter.

[von_Apa]

Going back and learning a lot from last years videos! And as always - it's so inspiring! Thank's Sean!

[gloriserve]

Really helpful and down to earth video. Great delivery and explanation of LUFS in comparison to true peak and RMS.

[longnose]

Great vid thanks. Still not sure I understand what should I look for or what number to target the RMS for (when producing and mixing, not for mastering if it makes any sense)

[QuietEdgeBeats]

Thank you so much for the needed tips bro, because I see a lot of youtube beats at -5 for LUFS and it hurts my ears lol.

[omnijack]

Just popped by to say your explanation was ...

*Waggles eyebrows*

Divine.

And severely informative. Thank you.

[teashea]

well done - good presentation style - articulate