The EBU has published updates of its core loudness publications. The updates take into account the experiences gained over the past 5 years of loudness measurement and normalization. Here is a summary of the main changes.

Simplified commercials handling

The main EBU Loudness Recommendation (EBU R 128) has NOT changed, but the supplement dealing with short-form content has been simplified. In the previous version users could use either a max. momentary or a max. short-term loudness measurement as a parameter to characterise and control the level of commercials, promos, etc. In the new version only the short-term measurement is specified. The EBU anticipates that reducing the options, will help simplify content exchange and reduce costs in daily operations.

More tests for Loudness meters

The 'EBU Mode' Loudness Metering specification (EBU Tech 3341) has been updated with new minimum compliance requirements, and various clarifications. The complementary EBU Loudness Test Set has been extended with 15 new test signals, which help implementers to check if equipment measures Short-term and Momentary Loudness, as well as True Peak levels correctly.

Higher LRA calculation accuracy

The Loudness Range specification (EBU Tech 3342) now specifies that the minimum block overlap between consecutive analysis windows is 2.9 seconds (i.e. ≥10 Hz sampling of the loudness level). This new value fits well with the requirements for the Integrated Loudness and Short-term measurements.

Fresh production guidance

Probably the most practical of all EBU Loudness publications are the updated Production Guidelines (EBU Tech 3343) edited by PLOUD chairman and Tonmeister Florian Camerer (ORF). The guide is both a tutorial on loudness metering & normalization and a reference for experienced sound engineers. Start here!

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