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exercise 07

Loudness matching

Match the loudness of two different tracks by ear.

setup
D01
1
DIFFICULTY
Styles

Cross-program loudness using K-weighted LUFS - the same metric Spotify, Apple Music, and broadcasters use.

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What this trains

Loudness matching ear training

Loudness matching helps you compare processing choices fairly. These rounds train cross-program level judgment so louder does not automatically sound better.

Training focus

  • Loudness matching
  • Level judgment
  • Cross-program comparison

Listen for

  • Whether two different tracks feel equally loud
  • How density and brightness affect loudness perception
  • When level bias makes one version feel better before it is actually better

Exercise FAQ

Why is loudness matching important?

Louder often feels better. Matching loudness makes it easier to judge EQ, compression, saturation, and mastering moves fairly.

What does LUFS mean here?

LUFS is a loudness measurement that weights sound closer to how humans perceive level. The exercise uses it as a reference while you train by ear.

Is this mastering practice?

It helps with mastering, but it is also useful during mixing whenever you compare two sounds or two processing chains.