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R128 standard and latest recommendation r128s4

The R128 standard provides recommendations for measuring and controlling loudness levels in media production and broadcasting. The aim is to ensure consistency of loudness levels between different programs, channels and devices to provide a more enjoyable listening experience. 

The recommendations are based on the LUFS measurement standard, which provides a more accurate measure of perceived loudness. To implement the R128 standard, sound engineers must use LUFS-compliant measurement tools to maintain a consistent loudness level throughout the program, typically around -23 LUFS for stereo programs. 

The recommendations also include guidelines for maximum True Peak levels and Loudness Range (LRA). True Peak levels measure the highest level of a signal and should be kept below -1 dBTP to avoid distortion. LRA measures the difference between the loud and quiet parts of a program, and must be controlled to maintain a consistent listening experience. 

At the start of November, the EBU released the latest supplement to their R128 specification, to solve sound level problems in cinematic content. R128 s4 requests that the "loudness-to-dialog ratio" of cinematic content be reduced to no greater than 5 LU. 

Great news: AudioTools Server already includes everything you need to be R128 s4 compliant. With the ability to directly target the difference between the dialog loudness and the overall loudness, Advanced Loudness Adaptation is the perfect tool for delivering R128 s4-compliant audio.

Discover our solutions to help you apply these recommendations!