Loudness and Peaks Measure Different Things
Digital peak meters show sample amplitude relative to full scale, not electrical voltage or perceived loudness. Two clips with similar peaks can sound very different in level because their duration, spectrum, and dynamics differ.
LUFS and LKFS describe loudness measured using the ITU-R BS.1770 algorithm. It uses frequency weighting and channel weighting; integrated measurements summarize a program, while short-term and momentary readings describe smaller time windows. No single meter reading replaces listening.
How YouTube and Streaming Platforms Normalize Loudness
Streaming services may adjust playback gain to reduce loudness differences between programs. The behavior can depend on the platform, player, settings, and content. Normalization is a playback adjustment, not a repair for clipping, excessive compression, or poor dialogue balance.
Around -14 LUFS integrated is a commonly used comparison point for online video, not a universal delivery requirement or a guarantee of playback level. Follow the destination's published specification when one exists, retain suitable dynamics, and check a test upload on the devices your audience uses.
Recommended Target Levels for Video Mixes
Balance the elements in context rather than assigning the same LUFS value to every isolated clip:
• Dialogue: Establish a comfortable, intelligible reference level and control distracting changes between takes. Check it at a modest listening volume.
• Ambience: Raise a rain or room-tone bed until the setting reads, then reduce it if it masks speech. Its level depends on the scene and spectrum.
• Effects: Compare close-up actions with their apparent distance. Let dramatic moments contrast with quieter material while leaving headroom at the master output.
Free Metering Tools for Creators
Check whether your editor includes integrated loudness and true-peak meters before adding software. If using a plugin, verify its format and host compatibility. Reset an integrated meter before measuring the intended program, and use short-term readings when examining a particular passage.