In the realm of mastering, ‘loudness’ is a term that might baffle the uninitiated, but it’s crucial to the overall impact and resonance of a track. Quite simply, loudness refers to how loud a track sounds to the listener, but there’s more to it than just cranking up the volume knob.
Loudness is quantified in units known as LUFS (Loudness Units relative to Full Scale), LKFS (Loudness, K-weighted, relative to Full Scale), or RMS (Root Mean Square). Each of these units presents a standardised method to measure a track’s loudness, helping you compare it against other tracks or ensuring it meets the specific loudness requirements of certain platforms or formats.
Each of these measures — LUFS, LKFS, and RMS — have their unique uses. You’ll usually find LUFS and LKFS measurements being applied for television, radio, and streaming platforms, given their focus on relative loudness. On the other hand, RMS is often the tool of choice for music production and mastering because it considers the average loudness of a track.
So, when you’re working on mastering a track, it’s essential to keep a keen ear out for its loudness. You want to ensure that it’s not only consistent with other tracks within the same genre but also fits the loudness standards of the platform or format where it will be released. A loudness meter can be a handy tool here, allowing you to measure the track’s loudness in LUFS, LKFS, or RMS, and subsequently adjust the track’s dynamics and levels to achieve the desired loudness.
In a nutshell, loudness is a pivotal element in mastering, one that demands your understanding and control to ensure that your track delivers the intended impact. By cleverly utilising tools like loudness meters, you’ll be able to create consistent, professional-grade mixes that are primed and ready for release. Loudness in mastering isn’t about making tracks as loud as possible; it’s about striking that perfect balance that delights the listener’s ear.
