For the Love of Music: Loudness Normalization

Wild theories about level normalization "destroying sound" continue to reappear, as if decades of loudness normalization efforts have been for nothing. This article hopes to set the facts straight regarding loudness concepts, standards, and implementation. Loudness normalization not only tremendously improves the listening experience for consumers, but it is also an element in control of sound exposure and prevention of hearing loss.

audioXpress March 2022 features an extensive Market Update report on the latest audio test and measurement tools. Matt Taylor explains the possibilities of REST for automated test and measurement, and Joe Begin (Audio Precision) addresses testing multichannel MEMS microphone arrays. The KEF KC62 subwoofer is reviewed by Oliver Masciarotte and measured by Kent Peterson, and Ben Chen explains how to use the Sfera Labs' Exo Sense Pi module as a sound meter. Download or read online now.

G-Audio, a next generation audio technology company dedicated to enhancing the listening experience for Extended-Reality (XR) and streaming media, launched its Sol Loudness SDK for streaming services, adding to its existing Sol SDK spatial audio rendering for 360° video. This new software solution smooths variations in loudness and provides continuity of perceived sound levels for OTT video and music streaming platforms, allowing platforms to provide a better audio experience for its subscribers.