Loudness Range (LRA)
Definition
A statistical measurement of the variation in loudness over the duration of a program, expressed in LU (Loudness Units). LRA indicates how dynamic a piece of audio is — a high LRA means wide variation between quiet and loud moments; a low LRA means consistent, compressed density.
In Simple Terms
A number that tells you how dynamic your track is — the gap between the quietest and loudest parts. A heavily compressed pop track might have an LRA of 5 LU. A cinematic orchestral piece might have 20 LU. There's no wrong number — it depends on the genre and intent.
In Practice
A mastering engineer checks the LRA of a finished master. At 4 LU, the track has very little dynamic variation — appropriate for an aggressive EDM release. A folk ballad at the same LRA would sound lifeless and over-compressed.