Level Matching
Definition
The practice of ensuring two audio signals are at the same perceived loudness before comparing them. Critical in A/B comparisons, plugin evaluation, and any context where a level difference could skew judgment.
In Simple Terms
Making two sounds the same volume before comparing them. Without this, the louder one always wins, your brain is wired to prefer louder. It's the most important rule of any A/B comparison.
In Practice
Before A/B comparing two mastering chains, the engineer adjusts both to the same integrated LUFS value, ensuring that any perceived quality difference is tonal or dynamic, not simply a loudness difference.
Common Confusion
The louder of two otherwise identical signals will almost always be perceived as better. Level matching eliminates this psychoacoustic bias and is non-negotiable for objective evaluation.
Sources & Verification
- Toole, F. E.. Sound Reproduction (3rd ed., level matching in evaluation)Routledge, 2017
- ITU-R BS.1116-3. Methods for the subjective assessment of small impairments in audio systemsInternational Telecommunication Union, 2015
Last verified: 2026-05-05