Levels
Peak and average level
Two sounds with the same peak level can sound very different.
Peak level measures the highest points; average level (RMS) measures energy over time. The ear follows the average: at equal peaks, the denser sound seems louder.
That is the principle of compression and limiting in mastering: reduce the gap between peak and average to gain perceived level.
The game compares sounds at equal peak or equal average: learn to feel which is denser.
Listen for
- Density: a "full" sound versus an "airy" one.
- Peaks standing out on a lightly compressed sound.
The classic mistake
Confusing loud with good: a denser master is louder, not necessarily better.
Put it into practice
Peak or RMS? · Discovery
Peak or RMS?The lesson is complete when the level is passed (35/50).