How can I determine best output level using SF?

  • Thread starter Thread starter zip
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zip

zip

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I've mixed a CD boot using SoundForge and it sounds as good as I think I can get it. When I compare the signal level in SF (the pictorial wave) it appears to be higher than when I dump the studio version (same song) into SF and look at it...

When I burn the boot to a CD and play it back through my home stereo it doesn't sound distorted but I want to be sure I get the mix right before I dump it off my hard drive. The space demands of a two + hour show is killing me.

Is there a good method of checking the output level in SF to optimize it so I KNOW it's not distorting? If so - and I need to cut it back some what's the best way to do it??

Thanks

zip
 
You could normalise it in soundforge. (SF option).

cheers
John
 
Thanks John...

But normalize to what level? I would assume around -3dB?? I really don't want to normalize too far down because I want to maintain the increases / decreases in concert volume...or is this not a concern with normalization??

zip
 
I use SF XP and regularly normalize to 0.0 dB.
I just listen to the playback and if it clips I back off.
By back off I mean undo and then do the normalization over.
But I don't back off more than 1 dB; generally 0.1 dB.
If you're more than 3 dB off of 0 during tracking you might consider retracking- especially since this is a dub and not a live deal. During live tracking at clubs I generally get max levels around -1.0 dB. Easy if the performers cooperate.
Impossible if they won't!
 
Cool!! I'll start at 0dB and work down if needed. This was a Dream Theater concert so I didn't have any say!!

Thanks

zip
 
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