Ever played an audio file that was too quiet, then switched to another that was way too loud? Constantly adjusting the volume is frustrating. That’s where audio normalization comes in. But what does it actually do?
Our simple guide breaks it down and explains the two main types of audio normalization. By the end, you will know which method is best for your needs.
What Is Audio Normalization?
Audio normalization adjusts the overall volume of a recording. It increases or decreases the gain so the file reaches a target loudness level. Instead of adjusting specific parts, normalization applies the same change to the entire track. This means dialogue, background noise, and other sounds get louder or quieter together.
The goal? To keep audio at a steady volume, so listeners don’t have to keep adjusting it.
What Is a Sample?
In digital audio, a sample is a small piece of recorded sound. When a microphone picks up audio, it converts the sound into digital data by capturing tiny fragments—called samples—every second.
A sample rate of 48 kHz means the system records 48,000 sound fragments per second. This process ensures the digital file accurately represents the original sound wave. Since normalization applies the same adjustment to all samples, it increases or decreases the volume evenly across the entire audio file.
Types of Audio Normalization
There are two main types:
Peak Normalization
Peak normalization adjusts the volume based on the loudest part of the audio. It finds the highest peak in the waveform and raises or lowers everything else to match a set target.
For example, if the loudest peak is at -5 dB and you set the target to -1.5 dB, the software increases the volume by 3.5 dB. The same adjustment applies to the entire track. This method is quick and simple, keeping the audio’s natural dynamics intact.
Limitations of Peak Normalization
Peak normalization only adjusts volume based on the loudest peak. It doesn’t account for how humans perceive loudness.
For example, a file with one sudden loud sound might be normalized less than a file with continuous noise at the same peak level. As a result, two audio files can have identical peak levels but still sound very different in loudness. That’s why loudness normalization is often the better choice.
Loudness Normalization
Loudness normalization adjusts volume based on perceived loudness instead of just peak levels. It calculates the average loudness of a track and adjusts it accordingly.
This method follows industry standards like EBU R128 and ITU-R BS.1770. These standards measure how human ears perceive sound, ensuring a more balanced audio experience. Unlike peak normalization, it prevents quiet sections from being too quiet and loud sections from being overpowering.
How Loudness Is Measured?
Loudness normalization uses LUFS (Loudness Units Full Scale), a measurement that reflects perceived loudness. The method ensures audio remains consistent, regardless of variations in volume.
For example, if a file has an average LUFS of -19, it means that’s the perceived loudness level across the entire track. Unlike RMS (Root Mean Square), which drops significantly during silent sections, LUFS remains stable, making it more reliable for balancing volume.
Which Normalization Method Should You Use?
- Peak Normalization – Best for quick volume adjustments but doesn’t ensure consistent loudness.
- Loudness Normalization (EBU R128, ITU-R BS.1770) – Ideal for professional audio, keeping volume stable across different platforms.
How to Normalize Audio Online?
The easiest way to normalize audio is with Online Convert’s audio conversion tools—no downloads or installations required!
Simply upload your file, then head to Optional Settings and select Normalize Audio. Choose from Automatic, REBU, RMS, or PEAK normalization methods to get the perfect audio balance. Once processed, download your adjusted file in seconds!
Alternatively, use Audio2Edit’s Normalize Audio tool.
In Conclusion
Audio normalization ensures a smooth listening experience. While peak normalization adjusts volume based on the loudest sound, it doesn’t always result in consistent loudness. Loudness normalization, however, accounts for human perception, making it the better choice for podcasts, videos, and streaming.
Choosing the right method guarantees clear, balanced, and professional-quality audio—without constant volume adjustments. Try it today and improve your audio with ease!