The Difference Between Peak, True Peak, LUFS, and RMS

How Do You Measure Loudness?

How loud is your song? The answer depends on what you mean by “loudness”:

• Maximum volume levels
• Average loudness across the entire track
• Average loudness of a specific section
• Perceived loudness

Each measurement is designed to measure a specific characteristic of the signal, making it crucial to understand the different types.

Point in Time vs. Integrated (Average) Reading

Two primary categories exist:

1. Point in Time: Measures signal level at a specific moment (Peak and True Peak)
2. Integrated: Measures average signal level over time (LUFS and RMS)

Peak and True Peak tell you the volume at a specific point in time. LUFS and RMS tell you the average loudness over a specified time.

Peak and True Peak

Peak represents the maximum level a signal reaches. The key requirement: keep your master peak at or below 0.0 dB, though individual tracks may exceed this.

True Peak is a more accurate peak measurement at a detailed level, measuring the same maximum point but with greater precision.

RMS and LUFS

RMS (Root Mean Square) measures average loudness using signal power calculations.

LUFS (Loudness Units Full Scale) measures average loudness based on human perception of sound. This is the industry standard because it reflects how listeners actually perceive volume.

The Loudness Wars

Streaming platforms resolved loudness competition by implementing maximum LUFS limits. Services automatically reduce tracks exceeding their thresholds, eliminating the incentive for excessive loudness.

Platform LUFS Limits

Platform	LUFS Target
Spotify	-14 LUFS
Apple Music	-16 LUFS
YouTube	-13 LUFS
Tidal	-14 LUFS

Best Metering Plugins

1. Youlean Loudness Meter 2 — free option
2. ADPTR AUDIO Metric AB — referencing tool
3. Waves WLM Plus Loudness Meter
4. FabFilter Pro-L — limiter with metering
5. LEVELS by Mastering in the Mix