LUFS and True Peak: understand loudness before mastering

What are LUFS?

LUFS express audio loudness using a defined measurement method. They describe loudness across a measurement interval rather than only the highest peak. Before comparing readings, check whether you are looking at the whole track or a short passage.

Integrated LUFS: the measured interval as a whole

An Integrated reading covers the interval measured from start to stop. To assess a whole track, measure the whole track. A reading taken from just the chorus is not the same measurement as one taken from the complete song.

Short-term LUFS: changes across short passages

Standard Short-term measurement uses a three-second window. It helps you inspect local changes, such as the transition into a chorus. Read Waveroom's LUFS-S display separately from a whole-track Integrated result. [1]

How is True Peak different from LUFS?

LUFS describe loudness; True Peak describes peak level. Whole-track loudness and maximum peak level are different pieces of information, so consider both. [2]

In Waveroom's Predictive TP controls, Ceiling sets an output peak limit. It is not a target for the track's Integrated LUFS. Changing the ceiling alone does not tell you whether the overall loudness is where you want it.

Do I need to master to one specific LUFS number?

Check the actual requirements of your distributor or delivery destination first. Then assess dynamics, unwanted roughness and peak headroom alongside loudness. This guide does not prescribe a single target for every song.

Rather than accepting unwanted changes just to reach a number, compare the original and the result to choose an appropriate balance. For platform-specific figures, consult that platform's current official guidance.

A practical way to check your result

Distinguish whole-track analysis from the local LUFS-S reading. Next, compare the original and the master at the same point. For a closer assessment of the sound itself, try a separate comparison with playback volume manually adjusted to a similar listening level.

Check a strong vocal passage, a section with overlapping kick and bass, and the loudest chorus. After changing Fine Tune settings, check the final result rather than relying only on readings from an earlier version.