Introduction
With 1Take v1.3.0, we introduced a powerful Recording Analysis System that automatically evaluates your recordings using professional broadcast standards. But what do all these numbers mean? And how can you use them to improve your recordings?
The Science Behind Audio Analysis
ITU-R BS.1770-4: The Broadcast Standard
1Take's analysis engine is built on ITU-R BS.1770-4, the international standard used by broadcast networks worldwide. The same measurement algorithm used by Netflix, Apple Music, Spotify, and mastering engineers.
Understanding Each Metric
1. Peak Level (dBFS)
The absolute maximum sample value in your recording.
- 0 dBFS = Digital maximum (clipping)
- -6 to -12 dBFS = Ideal for most recordings
- Below -20 dBFS = Too quiet, noise may be an issue
2. RMS Level (dBFS)
Root Mean Square—the "average" loudness over time. More representative of perceived volume than peak.
3. Crest Factor (dB)
The difference between Peak and RMS. Measures how "dynamic" your audio is.
- 3-6 dB = Heavily compressed (broadcast, podcasts)
- 8-14 dB = Moderate dynamics (pop, rock)
- 14-20 dB = Very dynamic (classical, live jazz)
4. LUFS (Loudness Units Full Scale)
The modern standard for measuring perceived loudness. 1Take measures three types:
- Momentary LUFS (400ms window) - Shows loudness right now
- Short-term LUFS (3 second window) - Smoothed loudness over recent seconds
- Integrated LUFS (entire recording) - Most important: target -14 LUFS for Spotify/YouTube/Apple Music
5. True Peak (dBTP)
The actual peak level when audio is converted to analog. 1Take uses 4x oversampling to detect inter-sample peaks.
Using Analysis Results to Improve
Recording Too Quiet?
Symptoms: Integrated LUFS below -24, Peak below -18 dBFS. Solutions: Increase Input Trim, move closer to sound source.
Recording Too Loud / Clipping?
Symptoms: CLIP markers in recording, True Peak above -1 dBTP. Solutions: Reduce Input Trim, move away from sound source.
Dynamics Too Crushed?
Symptoms: Crest Factor below 6 dB. Solutions: Use Studio preset instead of Studio+ or Live, reduce compressor ratio.