Metadata (Audio)
Definition
Data embedded within an audio file that describes the content but is not the audio signal itself — including title, artist, album, loudness measurements, spatial positioning data, codec information, and technical specifications. Essential for streaming platform delivery, Dolby Atmos rendering, and music distribution.
In Simple Terms
Hidden information inside your audio files — song title, artist name, loudness data, and in Atmos files, the 3D position of every sound. Streaming platforms use metadata to display your track correctly and apply the right loudness normalization. Get it wrong and your music shows up as "Unknown Artist."
In Practice
A Dolby Atmos ADM BWF file contains spatial metadata describing the position, size, and movement of each audio object. A standard WAV file for streaming includes ID3-equivalent metadata for title, artist, and ISRC code.
Dolby Atmos Context
In Dolby Atmos, metadata is not optional — it is the mix. The spatial coordinates, binaural render mode settings, and object definitions are all stored as metadata within the ADM BWF container. Without valid metadata, the renderer cannot reproduce the mix.