Inter-sample peaks mean that the audio with a peak of 0dBFS might distort in the analogue realm.
The output channel within the mixer of DAWs uses a Peak Sample meter. This type of meter is not accurate enough to display what we actually hear through our speakers →
An analogue to digital conversion takes place when our audio goes from being a digital file (WAV MP3 AAC) to sound waves coming through our monitors. During this conversion, the sample blocks go through a reconstructing filtering process that gives us our sounding end result.
However, when the sample blocks are hitting close to 0 dBFS (zero on the output meter) The reconstruction process can induce a small amount of clipping.
Loudness range = Dynamics of your audio, or difference between the average “soft” and average “hard” parts (excluding extremes). Similar to RMS, but based on the LUFS scale which is optimized for human perception.
LUFS = Loudness units relative to Full Scale. This is a loudness standard designed to enable normalization of audio levels. Loudness Units (or LU) is an additional unit. It describes loudness without direct absolute reference and therefore describes loudness level differences. For instance, the difference between -23 LUFS and -18 LUFS is 5 LU.
LU = Loudness units. 1LU → 1dBFS
The default integrated LUFS threshold for mixing is -16 and -9 for mastering. Change the integrated LUFS mastering target to -16 for streaming.
Podcasts, mobile media –16 LUFS
Broadcast television –23 LUFS
dBFS – Decibels relative to Full Scale. This scale is used for amplitude levels in digital systems (e.g. your DAW). 0 dB FS is the maximum level. The scale refers to the amplitude of a signal compared with the maximum which a device can handle before clipping occurs.
dBTP – dB True Peak. The scale is actually dBFS, but measured with a true peak meter. dBTP refers to the peak amplitude of a signal compared with the maximum which a device can handle before clipping occurs. In digital systems, 0 dBTP would equal the highest level (number) the processor is capable of representing. Measured values are always negative or zero, since they are less than or equal to full-scale.
True Peak – A maximum absolute level of the signal waveform. It measures the peak levels of samples and intersample peaks.
RMS – Root mean square. The average power of your audio signal, and close to what your ears perceive as the loudness of your audio.
Mastering Pluging Chain (basic form):
Gain - setting up the loudness.
EQ - small clinical adjustments.
Compressor - consider using a multi-band compressor (dynamic Phase). Look for a low threshold, a long attack, and a short release.
Level Matching using a True metering device - First, adjusting the volumes whilst comparing two or more audio sources giving them an equal loudness. Second, level match with the original mix.
