Panning Law
Definition
The mathematical rule that determines how a DAW adjusts the signal level when a sound is panned between left and right channels. Without adjustment, panning to center would make a mono signal appear louder than a fully panned signal due to phase summation. Most DAWs apply a -3 dB or -6 dB center attenuation to compensate.
In Simple Terms
A behind-the-scenes setting in your DAW that keeps the volume consistent when you pan sounds. If your centered sounds seem louder than your panned ones, this setting might need adjusting-check your DAW preferences.
In Practice
When a mix sounds louder in the center than the sides at equal settings, the panning law may need to be checked. Different DAWs use different defaults (-3 dB is common in Pro Tools; -6 dB in some others), which can cause balance issues when a session is moved between systems.
Common Confusion
Panning law is transparent in normal use but becomes critically important when comparing mixes across DAWs or when summing mono sources in a stereo bus.
Sources & Verification
- Bartlett, B.. Practical Recording Techniques (7th ed., chapter on panning laws)Routledge, 2016
- Rumsey, F.. Spatial AudioFocal Press, 2001
Last verified: 2026-05-05