Audio levels for web

[debbiel57086435]

Is there an industry standard for audio levels in web videos? Any preferences or opinions on -6dB with peaks to -3dB range vs. -12dB with peaks to -9dB?

I know this is a tough topic, thank you in advance for your input!

[Qengineering]

I use the Loudness Radar to analyze the full duration and shoot for -16 LUFS for web

(seems to be a 'generally' accepted method)

Adobe Premiere Pro CC: Modify Essential Sound Panel Settings | Larry Jordan

[premieregal]

Hi Debbie - The  audio level industry standard for web video is between -6dB and -12dB.

[Meg The Dog]

Can you please link to where this is specification is established as a standard, and what orginization is the standard setter for web audio specifications?

thanks

MtD

[Meg The Dog]

It is interesting to note that neither YouTube:

Recommended upload encoding settings - YouTube Help​

or Vimeo:

Compression Guidelines on Vimeo

specify audio gain ranges.

MtD

[debbiel57086435]

Thank you all for your input! premieregal - is there a link to where this standard is documented?? Thanks!

[premieregal]

Hi Debbie - This guidance is provided as part of my online course author kit at pluralsight.com which you need a login to access. But this is what it notes: "Remember, the majority of your audio peaks should hit between -6dB and 12dB. However, it is normal for a few peaks to raise above -6dB and a few to dip below -12dB."

[shooternz]

Any preferences or opinions on -6dB with peaks to -3dB range vs. -12dB with peaks to -9dB?

I prefer both options (or thereabouts) and I think both are safe.

The higher output I use for music video or more dynamic visual pieces.  The lower for more restrained pieces such as an interview.

Thing is I use compression and dynamics  for punch as well as the level. 

Hope this helps in this mine field.

[Jim_Simon]

I think -6 is way too loud.  -12 is a reasonable level.