Measure the final mix
Measure the complete episode after editing. A short loud passage does not represent the integrated loudness of the whole file. Include the same intro, interview and ending that listeners will hear.
- Export a copy of the finished mix.
- Open the LUFS meter and read integrated loudness and peaks.
- Normalize only if the result needs adjustment.
- Measure the normalized file again and listen to the loudest passages.
LUFS is not a peak reading
Integrated LUFS estimates perceived loudness over time using frequency weighting and gating. dBFS measures stored sample amplitudes. A file can have loud peaks and still sound quiet overall.
Choose the target required by your distributor or project. SoundHalo’s normalizer defaults to -16 LUFS and also offers -14, -19 and -23 LUFS. These are workflow choices rather than universal publishing requirements. Do not assume every platform wants the same level.
Do not repair clipping with a volume change
Turning a clipped waveform down makes it quieter but leaves the clipped shape intact. Record with headroom and avoid excessive gain during editing. The local meter estimates true peak; use a calibrated meter when final delivery must meet a technical specification.