glossary
Loudness matching keeps louder from automatically feeling better.
Loudness matching means adjusting two signals so they feel equally loud before you compare them. It is essential when checking whether a processor improved the sound or only raised the level.
A small gain increase can make an EQ, compressor, or saturator seem more exciting even when the tone or dynamics did not actually improve.
When you bypass a plugin, compare at matched loudness. Use output gain, makeup gain, or a trim stage so the processed and unprocessed versions sit at a similar perceived level.
Short-term loudness and RMS readings can help, but the final decision should combine meter evidence with listening.
Loudness matching is especially useful on mix bus compression, limiting, and saturation because those moves often add level while changing density.
Meter Core keeps loudness and peak readings visible so A/B checks stay grounded instead of being fooled by gain.