The Mastering Show

The Mastering Show Podcast

with Ian Shepherd and Jon Tidey

The Mastering Show #108 - Why I was wrong about Loudness Range

I used to say that the Loudness Range (LRA) measurement wasn't really useful when mastering - but recently I changed my mind. In this episode I explain why, and how loudness range is actually something you might want to pay attention to, as well.

Topics include:

  • What is the Loudness Range ?
  • How is it different to Dynamic Range ?
  • What even IS Dynamic Range, anyway ?
  • Why did I say that LRA wasn't helpful ?
  • How I changed my mind, and why
  • How LRA could be useful for you

Links

TMS #90 - Inter-sample peaks and True Peak limiting - the devilish details

TMS #73 - Are you having a LUF ?

TMS # 60 - The loudness technique you need to start using TODAY

See the dynamics of your audio at a glance – with Dynameter

Hear the advantage of "Top of LRA" loudness matching with Loudness Penalty Studio

2 comments on “The Mastering Show #108 - Why I was wrong about Loudness Range”

  1. Hi Ian, Great Topic and a lot of food for thoughts. Understanding the nitty -gritty of the LRA is key for a good analysis along the mastering process as well as to support the decision-making process what to do next when working with audio or comparing tracks. In addition to that, from the first time I started using the Loudness Penalty Studio in combination with the Dynameter, my whole process has improved. Thank you for The Mastering Show #108.Any idea if streaming platforms are considering the adoption of Top LRA as a parameter?

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Copyright © 2026 · Mastering Media (Production Advice) Ltd