EBU R128 is a technical recommendation introduced in 2010 from the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) that sets out a standardized method for measuring and controlling loudness in audio content. This recommendation is widely used in the broadcasting industry and has become an international standard for audio loudness.
The EBU R128 recommendation uses the loudness unit LU (loudness unit) and sets a target loudness level of -23 LUFS (loudness units relative to full scale) for all audio content. This ensures that all audio content is broadcast at a consistent volume, preventing sudden loudness changes that can be jarring to listeners.
One of the key technical features is the use of a loudness meter, which measures the loudness of audio content in real-time. This allows broadcasters to adjust the loudness of their audio content to meet the -23 LUFS target, ensuring that it is consistent across all programming.
Another important technical feature is the use of true-peak level measurement. This ensures that the audio content does not exceed a certain peak level, preventing distortion and clipping that can occur when audio is too loud.
Implementing EBU R128 in audio production and broadcasting has many benefits. For example, it ensures that audio content is consistent and easy to listen to, reducing listener fatigue and improving overall listening experience. Additionally, it helps to prevent hearing damage by avoiding excessively loud audio content.
Overall, EBU R128 is a widely accepted and valuable recommendation that ensures a good listening experience for the audience and the safety of their hearing. It is important for broadcasters, audio engineers and content creators to adopt and implement this standard in their work.
What is LUFS?
LUFS (Loudness Units relative to Full Scale) is a measurement unit to measure the loudness of audio content. It is a relative measurement, meaning that it takes into account the full dynamic range of the audio, from the quietest to the loudest parts. The target loudness level set out in the EBU R128 recommendation is -23 LUFS, which means that all audio content should be measured at this level for consistency.
LUFS is a more accurate and reliable measurement of loudness than traditional measurement units such as dBFS (Decibels relative to Full Scale) because it takes into account the way the human ear perceives loudness. It is based on the loudness level that is perceived by the human ear and not just the absolute level of the audio signal.
In simple terms, LUFS is a loudness measurement that takes into account the perceived loudness of the audio by humans, and not just the absolute level of the audio signal. It is used in EBU R128 to ensure that all audio content is broadcast at a consistent volume, improving the listening experience for the audience.