From 2004-2012 I was the senior audio engineer at IT Conversations. The audio production for the network was handled by a few volunteers that in most cases had previous experience producing audio for both broadcast and the web.
One of the things that we strived to achieve was consistent distribution loudness throughout the entire network. This included equal, average (perceived) loudness for submitted content management audio components as well as distributed Podcasts. This approach was essential, and it freed listeners from having to constantly adjust playback volume while listening to our distributed programs.
Loudness inconsistency in broadcast was for many years a major problem. As a result the U.S. government implemented The CALM Act resulting in regulation of distribution loudness. U.S. Broadcasters must now comply with the ATSC A/85 specifications, and European Broadcasters must comply with EBU R128 specifications.
Bottom line is the days of reaching for your remote to attenuate playback volume between programs and loud adverts are finally passing.
Unfortunately the problem of inconsistent distribution loudness persists in the Podcasting Community. I've written about this extensively on my site. Check out the example that I referenced in the July 13, 2014 article "No Free Pass for Podcasts."
And so I ask:
- Are you aware that a standard PPM Meter (Peak, dBFS meter) is not capable of measuring perceived/average loudness (aka Program or Integrated Loudness)? It's designed to monitor Peak Audio Levels and to avoid overload. This has nothing to do with perception. Two programs with the same exact Peak Ceiling don't necessarily match perceptually. In other words - one program may be much louder than the other.
- Do you strive as an independent producer to distribute your Podcast with a consistent Program Loudness target and suitable Peak Ceiling from program to program?
- If you run a "network" of Podcasts - are all programs processed to specific set of targets in order to maintain consistency?
- Are you aware that the distribution of clipped audio in Podcasting is widespread?
- Do you know how to use a Loudness Meter?
- Are you aware of the broadcast standards, and how they are not suitable for internet/mobile audio distribution for various reasons.
- Do you know there are recommended best practices for Podcast Audio distribution?
Let's get into it ...
-paul.
International Association of Internet Broadcasters - IAIB
News Updates
- October 2, 2013:
- Bambuser Adds Restrictions To Free Streaming
Bookmarks